By Aurelia Mbokazi

Business trips and conferences offer many of us the chance to travel, tick off bucket list destinations and gain a broader perspective of the world. They often come with perks you might not afford on your own, like flying business class, staying in five star hotels in exotic locations, and dining on meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs- much better budgeting for Burger King or McDonald’s while saving your rands for activities.

As luxurious as these all-expenses-paid trips can be, free time is often non-existent. A packed schedule keeps you so busy that there’s no chance for a simple stroll, an ice cream or a chat with the locals. Your days revolve around the conference venue and your hotel, which you only return to for sleep — leaving no time to enjoy its amenities or fit in any sightseeing.

This is often the case in the motoring industry, where you’re flown to exotic destinations, but from the moment you land, every minute is curated by your host. They dictate when you eat, shower and sleep. You visit some of the world’s most sought-after destinations but never get the chance to xplore — there’s simply no time. Motoring PRs run a tight ship, and with launches often scheduled back-to-back, even a 10-minute delay can throw the schedule off. A retired journalist once joked that he doubted the Eiffel Tower in Paris was real because, despite multiple trips to the city for car launches, he never even caught a glimpse of the iconic landmark.

As we start the new year and are still committed to our resolutions, there’s a way to approach business trips differently. Whether you’re travelling to international conferences or an overnight business trip locally, you can successfully mix business with pleasure without upsetting your host. With a little planning and communication, you can have it all. After all, mixing the two is no accident, and we’ve got a cheat sheet to help you tick all the boxes. Most importantly, always remember that successfully mixing business with pleasure is all about balance. Once you get the “business” part right, the “pleasure” will be sweeter and guilt-free. And that extended trip might leave you recharged and return with great ideas.

Plan for Playtime Early
As soon as your company says, “We’ve booked your ticket,” ask to extend your return flight. It’s much easier to adjust bookings upfront than to change them later. Offer to cover the difference should the new return cost more.

Don’t Ambush Your Employer
Let your employer know about your plans to stay on early. Be transparent and offer to take annual leave to cover your extra days. They’ll appreciate the professionalism—and you’ll avoid being the topic of Monday’s staff meeting.

Sort Your Own Stay

Once your business responsibilities are wrapped up, it’s your show. Book your own
accommodation, ground transportation and meals for the pleasure portion of the trip. Think quirky and affordable boutique hotels or cosy Airbnbs if you want a change from the conference room vibes.

Work Now, Play Later
Finish your work deadlines beforehand so you can relax guilt-free. After all, no one
wants an “urgent” email ruining a long-awaited afternoon at the museum.

Extend Your Network and Your Itinerary
Mixing business with pleasure doesn’t always mean switching off completely. Schedule a casual coffee chat with a local colleague or client after work hours. They might share hidden gems to xplore — think less touristy landmarks and more local markets or secret wine bars.

Pack for Business and Pleasure
Yes, you can rock a power suit during the day and transform into a holiday-ready traveller at night. Pack light but smart—think versatile outfits that work for meetings and museum strolls alike. And don’t forget comfy shoes. Because there’s no pleasure in blisters.

Be Budget-Savvy, Not Sneaky
Business expenses are for business; don’t sneak in a spa day on the company tab or at your host’s expense. Keep work and play expenses separate — it keeps the finance team happy and your conscience clear.

With these tips, 2025 could be your best year yet—your passport stamps and holiday glow will prove it!