How to Mix Business and Pleasure: As You Pack for That Business Trip This Summer
- Deon Cecile
- Jun 22
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 22
As the warm breeze of summer beckons, so does the roar of an airplane’s engine.
Destination?
Oh, shucks, it’s a business trip!
Not to despair. For centuries, women (and more so men) have found ways to weave fun, relaxation, and self-care into their tight business trips. Jet-setting across the globe is not just a routine part of their careers but an opportunity for growth, connection, and adventure. This balancing act is not just a challenge, but an art form. So, as you prepare to jet off on your next business trip, it's essential to embrace the opportunity to mix business with pleasure.
Below, we'll explore how to blend work and leisure as you pack your bags and embark on your summer sojourn. From essential preparations to indulgent self-care rituals, discover how to make the most of your business trips this summer, or any other season.
Buckle up, let’s go!
Things To Know Before Your Trip
1. Plan ahead: Research the destination, including cultural norms and local customs. Planning ensures a smooth journey and allows for seamless transitions between work and leisure.
2. Stay connected: Ensure you have backup chargers for your devices. This keeps you in touch with colleagues and loved ones while prioritizing self-care.
3. Health and safety first: Paramount, especially in unfamiliar environments; pack necessary medications and learn about destination healthcare options.
4. Dress the part: Pack versatile clothing for business meetings and leisure activities. Dressing the part allows you to exude confidence and professionalism while embracing the spirit of summer. You can’t go wrong with solid colors like blacks and whites (which you can easily mix and match). Throw in a few pieces of light yellows, greens, and blues to embrace that summer feel.
5. Keep informed: Keep abreast of travel advisories and updates; things can change quickly, and you want to remain adaptable throughout your journey.
6. Financial preparedness: Carry a mix of payment options, including cash and cards, and notify your bank of your travel plans; this provides peace of mind and flexibility. The worst thing to happen is your credit card declining when you swipe it for dinner. Yikes!
7. Network: Reach out to colleagues or contacts in the area for recommendations and support, and try to forge meaningful connections in new locales.
Safety Tips
1. Choose reputable and secure accommodation to ensure peace of mind and a restful night's sleep. When in doubt, walk with a portable door lock.
2. Be vigilant of your surroundings; it’s the key to staying safe in unfamiliar environments. Avoid risky areas, especially at night.
3. Safeguard important documents and valuables against loss or theft. Use the hotel safe or travel with your portable safe.
4. Share your itinerary with a trusted contact for added security and peace of mind. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services. Avoid hitchhiking.
5. Prioritize transportation to ensure smooth and secure travel between destinations.
6. Be prepared. Always have emergency contact information on you and know how to access local emergency services. Emergency preparedness empowers you to handle unexpected situations with confidence and composure.
7. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, trust your intuition (or your gut - like granny used to say) and seek assistance or remove yourself from the situation.
Incorporating Self-Care and Fun
1. Downtime between meetings allows for relaxation and exploration, enhancing productivity and enjoyment.
2. Culinary experiences tantalize the taste buds and offer a glimpse into the local culture.
3. Wellness activities rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit, fostering a sense of balance and well-being.
4. Cultural excursions enrich the travel experience and provide opportunities for personal growth.
5. Outdoor adventures embrace the spirit of summer (or another season), inviting you to bask in the beauty of nature.
6. Personal enrichment activities nourish the soul and spark creativity, fostering growth and self-discovery.
7. Solo exploration allows for moments of introspection and empowerment, enriching the travel experience.
Must-Have Travel Items
1. Travel-sized toiletries simplify packing and ensure you have everything you need handy.
2. A universal adapter ensures you stay connected no matter where your travels take you.
3. Portable wrinkle release spray or steamer keeps your wardrobe looking fresh and polished.
4. A versatile scarf or shawl adds style and functionality to your travel ensemble.
5. Noise-canceling headphones provide a sanctuary of peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of travel.
6. A travel journal or planner keeps you organized, allowing you to capture memories along the way.
7. A portable power bank ensures your devices stay charged, keeping you connected and prepared throughout your journey.
Conclusion
Remember that the journey is as much about the job and destination as it is about experiences. By seamlessly blending business with pleasure, you can elevate your travel experience to new heights and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, attend your meetings, then embrace the adventure and fun – a celebration of possibilities and discoveries.
If you missed the last blog post, read it here
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Welcome to Penned Inspiration - where we're "Writing Your Stories and Mine, One Letter at a Time."
Hi, I am Deon Cecile, a Jamaican Writer, Blogger, and Aspiring Author. I've dedicated this corner of the digital world to celebrating Women Over 40, Wellness, Lifestyle, Organizing, Decluttering, and the Extraordinary in the Everyday. Here, wellness isn't about perfection – it's about progress. Lifestyle isn't about keeping up – it's about showing up authentically. Every story, every insight, every moment of vulnerability shared here serves one purpose: to remind you that you are exactly where you need to be, with everything you need to flourish, and you are not alone.
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Very useful tips Deon. Thank you👍