Turn Your Business Trip Into an Amazing Vacation
Guest Blog by Patrick Young
It’s the middle of summer, and your boss just informed you that you had to go to another conference. On one hand, you’ve gotten comfortable attending virtual events, but you’re also excited to get away. If you haven’t had a vacation since the start of the pandemic, rejoice in knowing that you can turn your business trip into an adventure with today’s tips.
Plan to do something fun.
No matter where you go, there’ll be something fun to do. If you’re visiting Florida, make a point to go fishing. Fishing is one of the top attractions throughout the state, and you can find lots of information about Florida fishing on the SpottedTail blog.
Keep your business documents safe.
Whether you’re traveling with important business papers or personal information to get across borders, keep your important documents safe. Instead of carrying paper everywhere, digitize your files by using a PDF program. This way, you can add pages to PDF files, which can be rotated, deleted, and re-ordered according to your needs, and then print them out at your hotel’s business center if you must have a hard copy.
Visit local hotspots.
Steer clear of the tourist traps, especially restaurants. Chances are, the food at these establishments tastes the same no matter where you are. Instead, stick with local establishments. If you’re traveling overseas, especially, go to diners where the locals eat. China Highlights explains that this is a great way to enjoy authentic and original cuisine that’s also fresh and in season.
Connect with others ahead of time.
Unless you plan to take your family with you, join a few online travel groups in your destination of choice. As a solo traveler, you’ll get the most out of your target destination by having one or more people to wander with you.
Come in a day early.
When you’re traveling for business, you are in an unfamiliar location, but you may have to perform familiar actions. Make a point to come in a day early so that you can settle in and, most importantly, get a good night’s sleep. The UC Health blog recommends practicing good sleep hygiene, which includes avoiding caffeine and eating a light meal instead of a heavy feast before bed. You can also call your hotel ahead of arrival and ask for extra blankets and pillows if you tend to use these at home.
Bring your personal phone.
If you typically only travel with your work device, make sure that you bring your personal phone this time, too. Then, when you are not working, you can still take great pictures and stay in touch with friends and family without the temptation to respond to work calls during your off time.
Work with a travel agent.
If you don’t have a personal assistant making your travel plans for you, call a travel agent. Town & Country explains that travel agents have exceptional insight into destinations and can help you get around. Plus, most have access to upgrades that you can’t request when booking on your own. Your agent can also get you squared away with attraction and event tickets and help you plan around your working hours.
You can’t always get out of business travel, but you can get the most out of it. The above tips, from keeping your travel documents safe to bringing your own phone, are just the beginning. With a bit of creativity and a good travel agent by your side, you can enjoy a vacation without missing a day of work.
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Patrick Young created Able USA to offer resources and advice to others with disabilities in an effort to help them navigate the various aspects of life as a person with a disability. Be sure to visit his website for more information and tips.
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