Business trips can be unbearably dull. You’re away from your friends and family, staying in a strange location and basically spending your time travelling between business rooms and your hotel room. You may spend most of your time in meetings before heading back to the airport as soon as you can. If you do this a lot, it can start to get a little depressing. Far from those exciting first few trips away, you find you are homesick and dread your next business trip.
But, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can fit some fun into your trips, even if you are short on time. Here’s a look at how to make the most of your time away.
Photo from here.
Treat Yourself
One way to make a business trip more appealing is by rewarding yourself. Travelling is a pain, and you deserve a treat. Think about what you like to do when you go away on a family holiday. You could buy yourself a new book or even a Kindle for the journey or invest in a new swimsuit and spend some time in the hotel pool or spa.
Stay in a Great Location
While you may have a budget for hotel rooms, that doesn’t mean you need to stay in a boring place. Think about your location carefully. You might want to stay close to the airport, such as Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport. This could give you a little extra time when you arrive to explore or relax.
Get Outside
Even if you are tied to a very tight scheduled, you could walk to your meetings instead of taking a cab. This at least lets you see some of the area and spend a little time soaking in the culture.
Another great option is getting up early and going for a run around the local area. This lets you see some of the sites as well as helping you start the day on a high.
Eat Well
Even when you are away on business, you need to eat. It can be tempting to eat in your hotel to save time. But, why? Food is a huge part of the culture of a location and a great chance to try some different things while you are away. Before leaving home scout out some of the best restaurants in the area and book yourself a table so that you’ve got something to look forward to.
Suggest Different Meeting Locations
Some meetings have to take place in specific locations. But, others can go elsewhere. Suggest meeting in local restaurants or outdoor locations. Those you are meeting might relish the chance to show off the sites if they are in a must see location.
Add a Day
If at all possible add a day to the start or end of your trip. Use this day well. Look online before you go and plan the best ways to spend your time so that you can fit in as much as you can.
Business trips can be great fun. Just remember to make the most of it.
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