In today’s evolving workplace environment, blended travel is emerging as a key trend that combines business trips with leisure elements, offering a fresh approach to team collaboration. With hybrid and remote work setups becoming mainstream, companies are now leveraging travel as a strategy to bring their teams together while providing unique employee perks.
What is Blended Travel?
Blended travel, also known as ‘bleisure’ travel, allows workers to combine work-related trips with leisure activities. For remote teams, this has proven to be a valuable tool for fostering collaboration, rekindling creativity, and increasing employee retention. For example, an organization may host a week-long team workshop at a resort, with optional leisure activities before and after official sessions. Employees then gain both professional development and personal enrichment.
Why the Trend Matters in 2025
A significant drive behind the rise of blended travel is the technological advancements in streamlining reservations and optimizing corporate budgets. Modern tools have automated complex bookings, making it easier for businesses to arrange trips that match employees’ needs. Additionally, with companies aiming to reconnect dispersed teams, these travel setups serve as hubs for brainstorming and relationship-building.
How Companies Are Implementing Blended Travel
- Shoulder Night Travel: Employees extend their business stays for leisure purposes.
- Plus-One Travel: Team members travel with their families, using work as a springboard for personal trips.
- Project Sprints: Teams gather in themed locations for immersive collaboration on high-stakes tasks.
- Remote Wellness Retreats: Combining work and wellness in scenic destinations to enhance morale.
Benefits and Challenges
Pros:
- Boosts team morale and collaboration.
- Offers unique incentives for employee retention.
- Supports hybrid work policies.
Cons:
- Can be costly for smaller companies.
- Requires careful planning to balance work and leisure.
Blended travel is shaking up the traditional approach to employee collaboration, providing a win-win scenario for companies and their teams. As organizations look for novel ways to unify remote workers, this trend could become a cornerstone of the modern workplace.
References:
- https://www.costar.com/article/2000415089/blended-travel-can-be-the-big-boost-for-all-demand-segments-in-2025
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- https://www.propublica.org
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