Business trips are bittersweet.
Its still possible to make some time for pleasure, though.
You dont want to waste your precious, limited time with unexpected surprises.
Before you go, look up all the fun things to do in that city.
Or,I want to see some really cool ruins in Rome.
you’re free to also bookmark info and save it offline.
Frommersis also a great resource to find things to do in a limited amount of time.
Of course, expect most of these spots to be touristy.
Or, better yet, get their expert recommendations from the start.
Dont take a stab at cram everything in, either.
If youre traveling for business, you dont want to feel stressed on your down time.
Make the most of it by keeping your leisure schedule light.
This way, you’re able to actually enjoy exploring without feeling rushed and crunched for time.
Itll probably be on your own dime, but hey, you still got over there for free.
I sort of did this on a recent work-related trip to North Carolina.
This way, I could visit my parents for lunch.
CleverLayoverandSkipplaggedare solid tools for finding these hidden cities, butGoogle Flights will do the trick, too.
If you want to search for all of them, select Any Connection.
Consider your work obligations, the attractions you want to see, thenbook your lodging accordingly.
More free time for fun!
For example, our own editor-in-chief, Alan Henry, plans his work trips to New York this way.
In most cities, those districts are pretty empty and lifeless at night and on the weekends.
Consider booking your hotel in a livelier part of town.
Meanwhile, you might fit in a show or some sights.
It also helps to set some clear boundaries for your schedule.
Let your clients or colleagues know the meeting has a deadline.
And you dont have to be a jerk about it.
You could simply ask, Are you free for breakfast from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m?
Pleasure comes secondary during a business trip, but creating boundaries helps protect your limited free time.
Illustration by: Sam Woolley
