In today’s fast-paced world, the lines between work and play are becoming increasingly blurred. Enter “bleisure” travel — a growing trend where business meets leisure, allowing professionals to make the most out of their work trips by extending them for personal enjoyment. For travel agents and businesses, this shift presents a significant opportunity to cater to the evolving needs of the modern traveller. At Stuba, we’re seeing an uptick in demand for accommodations that cater to this hybrid travel style, and here’s why bleisure is here to stay.
What is Bleisure?
By combining business travel with leisure activities, often by extending a work trip by a few days or even weeks to explore the destination, it enables business travellers to take advantage of being in a new place, whether it’s for relaxation, cultural experiences, or personal exploration, all while fulfilling professional obligations. This trend is particularly popular among millennials and Gen Z professionals who prioritise work-life balance and are keen to explore the world even when working.
As a trade-only accommodation wholesaler, we are at the forefront of providing travel agents with the resources they need to cater to bleisure travellers. Our global inventory offers a wide range of options that suit the diverse needs of these modern travellers — whether it’s a luxury hotel in a city centre, a cosy boutique property near cultural hotspots, or a resort with both business and leisure amenities.
Why Bleisure is Booming
The rise of bleisure can be attributed to several factors:
- Flexible Work Environments: With the increase in remote work and flexible schedules, professionals can easily extend their stay in a city after a business meeting without disrupting their workflow.
- Work-Life Balance: Modern professionals value experiences and personal well-being. Bleisure allows them to decompress after intense business engagements and make the most of their travel opportunities.
- Cost Efficiency: Companies are increasingly supportive of bleisure travel because it can be cost-effective. Employees cover the additional leisure expenses, while the business foots the bill for the travel to and from the destination.
- Enhanced Satisfaction: Employees who are given the opportunity to explore new destinations often report higher job satisfaction and increased productivity, making bleisure an appealing option for employers.
How Bleisure is Shaping Travel Trends
As bleisure becomes more popular, the travel industry is adapting to meet the unique needs of these travellers. At Stuba, we’re seeing an increased demand for:
- Extended Stay Options: Hotels and accommodations that offer long-stay or amenities suited for both business and leisure, such as fast Wi-Fi, business centres, and on-site wellness facilities.
- Central Locations: Proximity to business hubs and tourist attractions is key. Travellers want to be close to where they need to work but also within easy reach of cultural sites, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Personalised Experiences: Travellers are looking for curated experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions, such as local tours, culinary experiences, or wellness retreats, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the destination.
The rise of bleisure is transforming the way people travel, making it more enriching and balanced. For travel agents, this trend presents a golden opportunity to offer tailored experiences that meet the evolving needs of business travellers. At Stuba, we’re committed to helping you tap into this growing market with our wide range of accommodation options designed to satisfy both the professional and personal sides of your clients’ journeys.
