Blended travel has always been in the back of the minds of people traveling for work, but more often than not, they avoided acting on this idea. Luckily, the trend has changed, and now, bleisure is a thing (although, admittedly, clunkily named).
If this is the first time you’re looking it up, here’s a definition of bleisure:
Bleisure travel (UK /ˈbleʒ.əʳ/ US /ˈbliː.ʒɚ/) is a portmanteau of "business" and "leisure", and it refers to a trend of travel that combines both business and leisure by not committing to one purpose solely.
Freepik/senivpetro
Big cities are often huge business hubs and extremely popular as locations for professional conferences, expos, and similar networking events. Other than that, they usually have a lot more to offer than just the expo hall and surrounding meeting areas. It would be such a shame to fly all the way there, and then miss out on the views and experiences these cities offer.
So, why not take the advantage of your position - if you’re already going to these events, make sure you go to ones organized in places you care to visit, and take a few days off after the work is done, to enjoy yourself (and still use the return ticket your company is paying for either way). After all, we’re all about that work-life balance.
Here are the world’s top bleisure destinations
(in our experience at least)
Singapore
If there ever was a city-state that had it all figured out, it’s Singapore.
Stunningly beautiful, this global financial center offers it all. Amazing convention venues, coworking spaces, stunning views, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Events taking place here are always gathering top names and companies from their industries, and once you’re done networking, Singapore has a little bit of everything to offer, to meet any of your desires.
Beaches? Yes. Unique experiences? Yes. Michelin-rated dining (at a fraction of the cost)? Yes.
Not to mention their world-famous Changi Airport, World Heritage Botanic Garden, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
We figure, 3 days for a conference, and then at least 5 days for the city itself = a perfect bleisure trip.
Barcelona
Freepik/wirestock
Vibrant, warm, and exciting - this city isn’t just a major economic and biotech hub of Europe, but also THE place for original leisure options.
In a city where even the convention centers are enchanting, you can’t just stay for a day or two. While you will definitely enjoy your conferences and meetings in El Born Centre, Fira Montjuic Hall, or Palau de Congressos, it will not satisfy your hunger for new experiences unless you expand it.
And whether you crave old-world heritage sites, culture and arts, entertainment, beaches, or delicious dining experiences, Barcelona is there to oblige.
In our opinion, 3 days for a conference (with a good use of siestas), and then 3 days for the main sights = a blended trip of your dreams.
Las Vegas
Renowned for its entertainment, famous as a leading commercial center, and slightly notorious for its gambling, Las Vegas is a great choice for a bleisure trip.
Events in Las Vegas are always lavish in and of their own, but not using the fact that you’re already there to soak in more of the affluent lifestyle and famous entertainment and nightlife options would be a crime.
Explore the Freemont Street, visit the Neon Museum, go on a helicopter night flight, grab an ATV tour, try your luck at one of the famous casinos, and use your chance to see a live performance from top artists who have their residencies in Las Vegas - such as Kelly Clarkson, Adele, Santana, John Legend, and many - truly - many others.
Spend 2 days at your business event, and then take 3 days to enjoy yourself = bleisure trip for the ages.
Dubai
Known for luxury shopping and ultramodern architecture, Dubai is Middle East’s premier entrepôt, a business nucleus with dreamy beaches offering opulent experiences.
It doesn’t matter if your event is being held at The Dubai International Convention and Exhibition centre, SEE Institute, Expo City, or the Polo and Equestrian Club, it will be extravagant enough to dazzle. And once you’ve networked your way through thousands upon thousands of visitors, you’ll be ready to soak in the more touristy side of the city.
Visit Burj Khalifa in time for the evening show, enjoy the aquarium, visit Ski Dubai and Jumeirah Mosque, do some shopping, experience the nightlife, and look into various fun and unusual experiences the city offers to curious travelers.
2-4 days may be just enough for your business event, and we suggest you add another 4 for the leisure part of your trip = et voila; you’ll go back to the office refreshed and with a bit of tan.
Buenos Aires
A fascinating mix of cultures makes this one of the most welcoming international destinations, as well as a political and economic hub.
And as the city itself is a hectic mix of elegance, modernism, and retro, all blending together seamlessly, blending business into leisure is that much easier.
Whether you end up at a conference at Melia, an expo at The Golden Center, or a lavish networking event at Madero, it will be easy to live it up afterward and experience all that this vibrant place has to offer.
Enjoy the rich architecture, satisfy your curious palate, explore the outstanding arts scene, and embed yourself in the warmth of the city’s friendly hosts.
Our recommendation is 2 days for a conference and 4 days for the city = win-win
We are looking forward to elevating your bleisure experience - Elite Travelers offers not only top luxury accommodations, but also flights, car rentals, wireless services, and even concierge options. Check out our offer - let’s launch your experience together.