Out of Office: How to mix business with leisure

However, a new trend is revolutionising the way we approach business travel, allowing professionals to seamlessly blend job obligations with leisure activities. Welcome to the world of bleisure travel – where productivity meets relaxation, and work trips become unforgettable experiences.

Bleisure (a fusion of "business" and "leisure”), also known as a workation, refers to the practice of combining business and leisure travel into a single trip. In essence, this involves extending work trips to incorporate elements of relaxation and exploration, or taking advantage of your remote working policy; which is known to reduce stress, increase productivity, and foster creativity. If you’re lucky enough to have the flexibility to work from any location, whether it's a bustling city centre or a tranquil countryside retreat, taking time to step away from the office is a great way of prioritising the mind, body and soul, without missing a beat. With flexible stays becoming increasingly common, bleisure travellers have the freedom to tailor their trips according to their preferences and schedule.

Let's explore the best places for a workation in 2024…

Set against the backdrop of Cornwall's rugged coastline, The Headland provides a serene setting for a bleisure travel jaunt. Inviting guests to explore the picturesque coastal paths or venture into the charming nearby villages for a change of scenery and a fresh perspective amidst work calls and emails. The hotel welcomes children and dogs, and the spacious and family-friendly accommodations provide a peaceful environment for work and play, with interconnecting rooms or cottages available for added privacy when needed.

Need a breather? Residents have complimentary access to the child-free spa pool complex, whereby you can take a thermal journey through the hydrotherapy pool, refresh in the Cornish salt steam room, and de-stress in the Swedish sauna. You may even choose to indulge in a treatment or two, and we’d recommend the Indian Head Massage, known to reduce headaches and improve physical, mental and emotional wellness.

When it's time to dine, explore the diverse culinary options, from the casual ambience of The Terrace to the ocean-view dining at RenMor. With room service available and fully equipped kitchens in the cottages, you can enjoy gourmet meals in the comfort of your own space, perfect for a relaxed evening after a productive day.

At Park House, every detail is meticulously crafted to elevate your bleisure experience. Start your work day with an invigorating round of golf at The Oaks golf course, booked through reception, or a spirited game of tennis on the grass courts to awaken your senses and clear your mind.

Then, retreat to one of the hotel's thoughtfully equipped meeting spaces to tackle your work tasks with ease. With its high-speed internet access and business amenities, Park House caters perfectly to professionals seeking a productive yet relaxed environment. If you’re travelling as a team, the boardroom and The Barn can be hired for collaborative sessions, allowing organisations to reconnect and re-energize. With exclusive use of the house and all 23 bedrooms, you can reboot, forecast, and refresh your company culture in a tranquil setting.

After a day of hard work, savour a leisurely meal that utilises seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, or indulge in a spa treatment, knowing that everything you need is right at your fingertips. Whatever a workation means to you, you’re sure to find it here.

Discover the perfect blend of work and leisure at Ness Walk, a luxurious retreat situated along the tranquil banks of the River Ness in Inverness. The star of the show is the personalised concierge service, offering everything from arranging local transfers and reservations to recommending the best food and drink experiences in the area. You can truly focus on your tasks without worrying about the logistics of your stay, leaving you completely free to enjoy your leisure time.

If you’re feeling peckish, visit Torrish Restaurant and Bar, offering locally-inspired dishes with ingredients grown on-site, making it an ideal spot for a business lunch or a leisurely dinner after a productive day. And for those seeking a break from work, the Heavenly Afternoon Tea presents a delightful opportunity to unwind, with a selection of savoury and sweet treats paired perfectly with a glass of champagne.