We live in an increasingly global business community, and as a result, the amount that the average person needs to travel for work is increasing all the time. Although it’s exciting to have a job which gives you the opportunity to see the world, our mindsets ensure that it can quickly become fairly mundane, and we begin to take it for granted surprisingly quickly. It doesn’t have to be that way. If we change how we see our business travels, and what we do with them, it can become exciting again. Yes, you are there to work, but there are definitely ways to make the most of your trip personally as well…
Plan Out Your Time
You have an itinerary for your business commitments, but use it as a basis to explore in your free time too. Once you have the basics mapped out, do some research to find out where is easily reachable from where you’ll be working. For instance, you travel to Ningbo, China for business, but you can get to Shanghai also in a few hours. Once you have a schedule you’ll be able to plan in some activities for you as well as for work.
Break Out Of The Routine
Many of us become inadvertently stuck in a cycle of corporate hotel, meals in our rooms and only ever seeing the inside of a hotel or airport – no wonder we think business travel is boring! Why not try staying in a serviced apartment instead? Often they are located in more residential areas away from the beaten track. You could also try hiring a bike to get around rather than relying on taxis – all you need is a maps app on your phone, some water and a pump for cycling and you have a whole new way to explore.
Make Sure You Have Downtime
Business travel can be a complete whirlwind – meetings, catching up on emails, trying to do some sightseeing. It’s important to try and factor in a little downtime or you may be too exhausted to appreciate your travels. Crossing time zones and dealing with jet lag can take a toll on your body, so try to combat it by traveling with some aromatherapy oils to help you relax and energise. You could also try using a mindfulness app if you can’t relax and get to sleep. Being well rested is crucial if you want to bring your A game at work and also enjoy your time off.
Bring Some Home Comforts
Traveling means being away from home – perhaps your partner, children and pets, and that can make you feel extremely homesick, and prevent you from getting the best from your trip. Ease the transition by making sure to pack a few home comforts in your suitcase. A lot of people find that taking their own pillowcase helps them to sleep. You could also use items such as framed personal pictures, travel candles or your own dressing gown to help you feel in a less alien environment while you’re working away.
