Six tips to find the perfect workcation destination.
Johannesburg, 25 April – Are workcations the perfect balance between work and play, or just another way to blur the boundaries between the two?
As remote work continues to gain momentum, the idea of combining work and leisure into one trip has become increasingly popular. But before you pack your bags and head to Bangkok, Lisbon, or Budapest for your next workcation, it’s important to consider the factors that will make your trip both productive and enjoyable.
According to experts, workcations are a way to integrate work and play, rather than balancing the two against each other. They say work-life integration is a more realistic concept to achieve than work-life balance. Opting to work from a cabin for a week means you’re deciding how, where and when you want to incorporate your leisure time into your work, rather than trying to keep the two realms separate.
“Working from a new location can definitely offer a fresh perspective and a change of scenery, but it’s important to remember that workcations should complement paid time off, rather than replacing it,” says Guy Stehlik, CEO and founder of BON Hotels. “In a recent survey by Expedia, 61% of respondents said they didn’t consider workcations to be proper holidays, so it’s essential to make sure you have time to disconnect and enjoy the destination.”
When choosing a workcation destination, there are a few important things to consider.
Stehlik shares his top tips:
- Manage expectations and set strong boundaries
Make sure everyone (family and work) knows when you are available to them and stick to that schedule.
- Go local
Our current exchange rate can make overseas travel prohibitive for locals. Luckily, South Africa has many diverse and beautiful holiday spots. Staying in the same time zone also means you won’t miss virtual meetings and you can maximise your downtime.
- Make the right choice: bush or city?
The type of holiday that makes the best workcation largely depends on personal preferences and the nature of the work that needs to be done.
For those who prefer a quieter, more natural setting, a workcation in the bush could be ideal. It is a place where you can be surrounded by nature and wildlife, which can help to reduce stress and improve focus. The quiet and peaceful setting can also be conducive to creativity and problem-solving. Bucklers Africa Lodge by BON Hotels, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga makes for the perfect workcation because of its unique blend of natural beauty, luxury amenities, and kid-friendly activities.
On the other hand, for those who thrive in a bustling city environment, a workcation in a vibrant urban centre like Cape Town or Johannesburg could be the perfect fit. The Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel by BON Hotels in Cape Town, for example, offers a unique rooftop airstream trailer park and easy access to the city’s many attractions. City workcations can provide a lot of energy and stimulation for those who find inspiration in the hustle and bustle of urban life.
- Keep the kids entertained
If you are a parent, it is important to consider the needs of your children when planning a workcation. While you may be able to work remotely, your children will still need entertainment and activities to keep them occupied. And let’s face it: if your kids are entertained and occupied, you are more likely to be able to focus on your work without distractions. The Protea Hotel Durbanville in the Cape Winelands, for example, offers a tranquil setting surrounded by vineyards. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery can provide the perfect backdrop for focused work, while the many kids’ activities, including arts and crafts at Art Jamming and tobogganing at Cool Runnings, will keep the kids happy.
- Include work-free days
It is vital to include work-free days into your workcation, so you have time to experience the destination fully and relax. South Africa’s long weekends are a great opportunity to extend a planned break because the public holidays enable you to take less leave.
- Splurge on the right amenities
Where you stay can make or break your workcation. Strong, reliable Wi-Fi is essential, as is having a defined workspace where you won’t be disturbed, so consider hotels that offer suites with work desks or co-working spaces.
Ultimately, the best type of workcation is one that offers a good balance of work and leisure, and meets the specific needs and preferences of the individual or family. Factors to consider when choosing the best workcation destination include access to reliable internet, comfortable and well-equipped accommodation, family-friendly activities and attractions, and the overall vibe and atmosphere of the location.
ENDS
About BON Hotels
Founded in 2013 by hotelier and businessman, Guy Stehlik and his management team with a collective 127 years in hospitality, BON Hotels is a South African based hotel company that manages, markets, administrates and owns hotels, lodges and resorts throughout Southern Africa, as well as West and East Africa –a fast-growing, exciting and leading African hotel group.
BON Hotels has been providing hotels, resorts and lodges with their renowned management, marketing and administration systems, their acclaimed blueprints and business plans to ensure their full potential in South Africa, DRC, Namibia, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana and Ethiopia. While hotel, lodge or resort owners may indeed have a vision for their properties, the BON Group has the foresight and experience in operating under tricky African conditions, whilst managing expectations for the owner in terms of budgets, marketing and other planning that goes into the running of a hospitality business.
Driven by the ethos of “Good people. Good thinking. Good feeling”, BON Hotels believes in creating loyalty among their guests, suppliers, hotel owners and stakeholders, by bringing a relevant and owner-focused approach to every aspect of hotel administration, management and marketing.
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