Why it’s time to embark on a workation

Fancy answering work emails and taking Zoom calls near a stunning Sydney beach, or perhaps from a heritage building in Paris’ famous Champs-Élysées district? Derived from the words “work” and “vacation”, workations are surging in popularity post-pandemic thanks to the rise of remote and flexible working. In a recent survey, 94% of respondents said they plan to embark on a workation in 2022 and beyond. In addition, Google Trends data shows that the term “workation” has been trending upwards worldwide since October 2020.

What is a workation?

Unlike “bleisure”, which typically involves tacking on a few vacation days to the beginning or end of your business trip to relax and sightsee, a workation entails travelling somewhere else while still performing your usual work-related tasks – essentially, you’re on the clock for the duration of your stay. Plus, workations can range from a few days to several weeks or even months, depending on the flexibility of your role. In fact, some countries have recently started offering “digital nomad visas” ideal for those seeking a long-term workation. For instance, Spain’s visa will be initially valid for a year and is renewable for up to five years.

The benefits of a workation

While a workation isn’t quite as relaxing as a traditional vacation, the change of scenery it offers can help you combat stress, improve your focus and enhance your overall well-being. Plus, you’ll still have the opportunity to unwind and explore your new surroundings during breaks or after hours.

In a survey of more than 1,000 American employees, 86% of respondents agree or strongly agree that a workation boosts their productivity, while 81% say they have become more creative at work after taking a workation. What’s more, 83% agree or strongly agree that a workation helps them cope with burnout, and nearly 69% say they’re less likely to quit their job after going on a workation. Separately, a Booking.com survey of 20,000 travellers from 28 different countries showed that 37% of global travellers have considered booking a destination trip for work.

Clearly, a workation can provide a much-needed mental reset, enabling you to eventually return to your regular nine-to-five with renewed vigour and purpose. As a bonus, you’ll get to immerse yourself in the wonders of a new destination, without using up your precious annual leave days!

Where to stay during a workation

If you’re thinking of embarking on a workation, consider making your base at a Frasers Hospitality serviced apartment. With over 120 luxurious properties in more than 70 cities, the world is truly your office. You can also take advantage of our value-for-money “Long Stay” offers at selected properties – including Fraser Suites Perth, Fraser Suites Hamburg (above) and Fraser Suites Geneva – which entitles you to preferential rates for bookings of seven nights or more. 

In addition, our serviced apartments are specially designed for extended stays, with carefully thought-out details that ensure you’ll hardly miss the comforts of home – or the conveniences of the office. For starters, there’s a wide range of accommodation types to choose from, from cosy studios to spacious three-bedroom apartments and even opulent penthouses. Larger residences feature well-equipped kitchens (including a microwave oven, a dishwasher and even a stovetop), so you can easily whip up your favourite meals. 

You’ll enjoy regular housekeeping services, as well as round-the-clock concierge and security for maximum peace of mind. Plus, fitness facilities such as state-of-the-art gyms and swimming pools (available at select properties) allow you to maintain your exercise routine no matter where you are in the world. 

When it’s time to log on, complimentary, speedy Wi-Fi means you’ll always stay connected (no freezing during conference calls), and proper in-room desks make for a comfortable working experience (when you’re not answering emails from a sun lounger by the pool, that is). What’s more, many of our Fraser Suites properties such as Fraser Suites Sukhumvit and Fraser Suites Queens Gate, London have fully-equipped business centres. 

Once you’ve finished for the day, put away your laptop and take some time to explore your new locale. Frasers Hospitality properties are located in city centres or in prestigious districts that are close to major attractions, making it a breeze to get around and enjoy all that your destination has to offer. After all, as the name suggests, what’s a workation without some downtime?