Make the Most Out of Your Business Trip

 

If you’re traveling a lot for work, it’s worth taking the time to develop a pre-travel game plan that keeps you functioning at your best and makes the trip as efficient as possible. Here’s how we recommend you get started.

 

Choose Properties with Business-Friendly Amenities

Most travelers look for comfortable, reasonably priced accommodations with amenities such as a pool, fitness room and maybe a convenient coffee shop. Business travelers need a bit more. You may want access to meeting rooms with audiovisual equipment and WiFi, or simply a business center. WiFi in your room is also a must. You don't want to be hanging out in the lobby, having a business conversation on your cell while trying to balance your laptop. When you check into your room, use the desk to set up an office away from home so you can get right to work and be productive while on the road.

Eat a Good Breakfast and Get Some Exercise

Start your day on the right foot with a good breakfast. Pass up the tempting donuts and grab healthier options like fresh fruits and whole grains. Eating a solid breakfast will help you keep your mind on your meetings instead of a rumbling belly. If you have time, take a morning walk, run or go for dip in your hotel pool. Breaking a sweat will help you stay energized for work and play.

Take Time for Yourself

You're in a new city, so go on out and explore. Don't become a hermit, ordering takeout food and zoning out on TV shows. Read up on your destination before leaving on your trip. If your job takes you to San Antonio, Texas, see the Alamo and take a walk on the San Antonio River Walk. The former is a stroll down history lane. The latter is a scenic place to get some exercise before settling in at a riverfront coffee shop for some local food and a bit of people watching. Allow yourself some free time, even if it's just a few hours. The change in scenery is a great way to recharge those batteries.

Bring the Family to Liven Things Up

It's not that unusual these days to bring family along on a business trip, particularly if the trip lands you in a popular tourist area. If you're facing a weeklong conference in Anaheim or Orlando, both are excellent excuses to visit Disneyland or Disney World. Both locales also have dozens of attractions to keep the family entertained while you're working. Other dynamic family-friendly cities include San Francisco, Seattle and New York. Business trips to smaller cities, such as Walla Walla, Washington—with its vineyards—or Sedona, Arizona—known for its spas and natural beauty—are perfect for a little couple time. You may be in boardrooms all day, but you'll have a romantic dinner with your significant other to look forward to in the evening.

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