An extended business trip doesn't have to be all business. While a great deal of time will be required for meetings and work, opportunities will arise for exploring the area or taking in the sights. Make yourself at home during a longer trip and arrange to take advantage of the location.
Use Suites Hotels or Extended Stay Accommodations
Many hotels and motels expect guests to stay for only a night or two; instead of making hotel reservations at a traditional hotel, look at extended stay hotels. Hotels that cater to longer stays are set up for business travelers, and usually provide accommodations in the form of a suite along with a kitchen or kitchenette, a dedicated work area and sometimes a private entrance.
Corporate travelers on extended business trips can also make a hotel room feel more like home by adding personal touches, such as family photos on the night stand or dresser, playing favorite music CDs or radio stations on the stereo and lighting scented candles. In addition, if a kitchenette is available, stock the refrigerator with favorite snacks or treats, as well as beverages.
Make the Business Trip into a Travel Vacation
While visiting a new town, make the trip into a mini vacation to add pleasure to the business trip. If possible, arrange to rent a car to be able to drive around and see the sights. Visit the local markets or farmers markets for fresh produce or flowers and plants. Find out what the city has to offer, such as landmarks, historic buildings, parks and other attractions, and make an effort to visit them.
Connect with Other Business Travelers or with Locals
The best way to learn the ins and outs of a new city is to speak to the locals. Ask a friendly waiter or waitress, barista or front desk clerk where they enjoy eating lunch or dinner, or where they take out-of-town visitors.
Business travelers can meet locals or other corporate travel types by taking a meal at a cafeteria style restaurant in which strangers share large tables.
Stay Connected to Home with Internet Phone, Smart Phones
While traveling to a new city, stay in touch with family and friends at home with technology such as instant messaging, Internet phone, and email. Snap a photo at a landmark or in the hotel room and send it by email to family, and ask them to reciprocate.
Extended corporate travel can be made more pleasant by planning ahead. In addition, talk to the locals in the city about favorite restaurants or city sights and make an effort to turn the corporate travel trip into a vacation.
Related Articles:
Tips for Choosing a Business Class Hotel
Staying Connected on the Road
How to Dine Alone in a Restaurant when Traveling
Teresa Shaw - Teresa J, Shaw is a professional journalist with more than 12 years of experience. She travels for both business and pleasure several ...
Join the Conversation