Gone are the days of having to clock in and out of the physical office. Thanks to technology, you can now work from anywhere in the world, provided you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection.
This location independence now allows you to extend your business trip to truly experience a destination, giving rise to the phenomenon called “bleisure” – a blend of business and leisure.
Researchers agree that bleisure is not only beneficial for the employee’s career, but it’s also good for the employer. It’s become so popular that post-pandemic trends show that in 2023 bleisure will take over traditional business travel, as we know it.
Employers have realised that embracing bleisure travel as part of their company policy is very beneficial to their bottom line and employees.
Not only does it save the employer and employee time because employees can minimise their time off from work by not having to account for additional travel time as part of their leave, but it also allows employees to focus on a healthier work-life balance which improves their mental, physical and emotional health and overall wellbeing.
This means that employees are more likely to feel more relaxed and be more productive when they return to work, plus it also decreases staff turnover in the long run.
Book a bleisure break in 2023 with Extraordinary
Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway, Welgevonden Private Game Reserve
Less than three hours from Johannesburg in the malaria-free Welgevonden Private Game Reserve you’ll find this intimate eight-room lodge that’s perfect for working couples. Perched atop a rugged landscape that’s punctuated with riverbeds and steep gorges, this five-star property offers inspiring views of the Waterberg and private terraces for work and play.
Why we love this for bleisure seekers: Days begin and end with sunrise and sunset safaris, and each suite has a private plunge pool, in-room gym bag and the chance to book a private massage.
Safari Plains, Mabula Private Game Reserve
The Greater Mabula Private Game Reserve might only be 200km from Johannesburg, but this wildlife-rich reserve feels like a world away from the bustle of city life. The air-conditioned, safari-style tented suites are set against the magnificent Waterberg Mountains, with private timber wrap-around decks for panoramic views of the savannah.
Why we love this for bleisure seekers: Complimentary wireless Internet throughout the lodge and conferencing facilities for up to 60 delegates, with team building activities such as hot air ballooning, horseback trails, quad biking, and guided bush walks.
The Cape Milner, Cape Town
In the heart of Cape Town, the stately Cape Milner inspires with views of Table Mountain through its Glass Lounge glass roof. With their large lounge area, work desk complete with an iPod docking station and laptop plug points, the spacious executive suites create a soothing home-away-from-home ambiance ideal for long-stay business travellers.
Why we love this for bleisure seekers: The four-star boutique hotel offers complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, a fully equipped business centre and four meeting facilities. The in-house gym ensures travellers can stay active during an extended trip.
Angels View, Panorama Route
What better way to be inspired by nature than with picturesque views from the Drakensberg escarpment at Angels View, with day trips around the UNESCO World Heritage Panorama Route. The family-owned property is accentuated by sweeping lounges and terraces that gaze out across Gods Window, three swimming pools, a library, spa and gym.
Why we love this for bleisure seekers: The modern hotel boasts excellent, fully equipped conferencing facilities for up to 500 delegates with a large, wooden deck outside and the 150-seater Kruger Gold Restaurant. The two breakaway rooms can accommodate up to 20 guests for smaller meetings and complimentary wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel.