In the not-so-distant past, business travel was often seen as a whirlwind of airports, hotel lobbies, and endless meetings—with little room for anything else.

But the landscape of work has shifted dramatically. With the rise of remote and hybrid working, many professionals are seizing the opportunity to turn their business trips into something a little more enjoyable: bleisure travel—a blend of business and leisure.

This growing trend is reshaping how and where people work. It’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about making the most of the journey.

What is Bleisure Travel?

Bleisure travel refers to the practice of combining work-related trips with leisure time. This can mean extending a business trip by a few days to explore the area, bringing along a partner or family member, or even working remotely from a destination for a few days before or after meetings.

As technology has made it easier than ever to work from anywhere, professionals are no longer tethered to the office—or even their home base. The result is a rise in purposeful travel that allows for both productivity and pleasure.

Why is it Gaining Popularity?

Several key factors are driving the bleisure boom:

• Remote work flexibility: Many companies have embraced hybrid or fully remote models, giving employees more autonomy over their schedules and work locations.
• Wellbeing and work-life balance: After years of pandemic-induced stress and burnout, employees are looking for ways to prioritize personal wellbeing—without sacrificing professional goals.
• Cost-efficiency: Employees can save on personal travel expenses by piggybacking leisure days onto a work-funded trip.
• Cultural enrichment: Bleisure travel offers a chance to experience new places, cuisine, and cultures—something that’s increasingly valued in a more global, connected workforce.

UK Bleisure Hotspots

The UK is full of destinations that cater to both business needs and weekend escapes. Whether it’s a bustling city or a countryside retreat, these locations are ideal for extending your trip.

1. London

The capital remains the UK’s primary business hub, but it also offers unmatched leisure experiences. After a day of meetings in Canary Wharf, travellers can unwind with a West End show, fine dining in Soho, or a stroll through Hyde Park. With cultural institutions like the British Museum and Tate Modern, London is a bleisure destination with global appeal.

2. Manchester

As one of the fastest-growing business centres in the UK, Manchester has a strong tech, media, and finance presence. It’s home to vibrant districts like Spinningfields and the Northern Quarter, filled with independent cafés, coworking hubs, and art galleries. For leisure, visitors can explore the city’s rich music history, catch a match at Old Trafford, or escape to the Peak District just a short train ride away.

3. Bath

For those attending business events in Bristol or the South West, Bath offers a luxurious add-on to any trip. Known for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths, it’s a charming place to relax and recharge after work.

International Bleisure Destinations

Beyond the UK, international cities are making it easier for business travellers to stay a little longer.

1. Barcelona, Spain

Sun, sea, and speedy Wi-Fi make Barcelona a top-tier bleisure city. The city’s creative economy attracts tech and media professionals, while its Mediterranean beaches, Gaudí architecture, and lively tapas bars provide the ideal leisure backdrop.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has emerged as a European digital nomad hub, with a growing coworking scene and business-friendly infrastructure. Whether you’re attending a tech summit or consulting for a global client, the city’s tiled streets, pastel de nata cafés, and Atlantic views make it hard to leave.

3. Singapore

In Southeast Asia, Singapore leads the pack for bleisure appeal. A major financial and logistics centre, it offers seamless transport, luxury accommodation, and incredible cuisine. From rooftop bars in Marina Bay to day trips to Sentosa Island, there’s plenty to explore beyond the boardroom.

How Businesses are Supporting the Shift

Companies are starting to see the benefits of bleisure too. Forward-thinking employers are incorporating it into their travel policies, encouraging employees to explore sustainably and responsibly while maintaining productivity. Some are even partnering with hotels that offer coworking spaces, high-speed connectivity, and wellness-focused amenities.

Travel providers have taken notice as well. Airlines offer flexible return dates, hotels provide “workcation” packages, and travel insurers are creating plans tailored to hybrid work travellers.

Things to Consider Before You Bleisure

While bleisure travel is growing, it’s not without rules. Here are a few best practices:

• Clarify expenses: Make sure to separate business and personal costs.
• Check company policy: Some firms may have guidelines about extending trips or working remotely.
• Stay productive: If you’re mixing work and fun, set clear work hours to ensure accountability.
• Respect local culture: Bleisure still involves representing your company abroad—professionalism remains essential.

A New Way to Travel

Bleisure travel isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a reflection of how the world of work is evolving. It’s flexible, fulfilling, and future-facing. Whether you’re sealing a deal in Singapore or presenting in Newcastle, the opportunity to pause, explore, and enjoy the journey makes business travel more meaningful than ever.

So next time you pack your bags for a work trip, consider staying just a little longer. Business can wait—but that wine tasting in Lisbon or sunrise hike in the Lakes? That’s a moment you don’t want to miss.