The Perfect Bleisure Trip

P

erfect is a pretty strong word. I don’t use it often. But occasionally a bleisure trip is just so awesome that no other word will suffice.

I just got back from a four day trip to the DC area. I’ve been to that part of the world many times. I even lived there two summers. So what made THIS trip so wonderful? And how can my experience help YOU plan the perfect bleisure trip.

1. On-time flights and relaxing travel. Look for flight times that won’t leave you rushed and stressed. Pre-schedule your Lyft rides so you’re not time-pressed.
2. Productive business. Not always within your control, but if you have a clear
   

   Like a kid in a candy store…literally. This awesome room at the National Confectioners Association brought out my inner Wonka.

   agenda and are well-prepared, you’ll rock the conference room. Don’t over-book meetings.

3. Family. I got to spend time with both my daughters, my son-in-law, and my granddaughter.
4. Romance. My boyfriend came out to join me for part of the trip. Awwww….
5. Time-Blocked Work. You’ll never enjoy a bleisure trip if you’re feeling guilty or stressed. Allow set times throughout the day to catch up on calls, e-mails, and other business.
6. Sleep. I’ve covered this one before in The Z Factor. If you find a hotel (like the Sofitel Lafayette Square) with great beds, stick with it!
7. Rationalized Hooky Time. We spent a couple of hours at the Newseum.
   

   Walking from the hotel to the Newseum to prep for the calories I was about to consume. A Capitol moment! (Look carefully at the background.)

   Because I work in media and communications, I can convince myself that it was work-related.

8. Food. I did not have one meal or snack that wasn’t truly amazing.
   • The Red Hen lived up to its reputation. I had bid on a dinner for four at the Global Camps Africa fundraiser, and not only did I help a terrific cause, I had one of the best meals of my life. The service was awesome and the Owner/Chef stopped by to chat…a classy touch! Worth every carb and calorie. Be sure to book well in advance, however. 
   • Street food is a great option if you’re walking around a city. Food trucks and farmers markets are common now in most major cities. This one had truly amazing crepes and tacos. 
   • The Hillstone family of restaurants will forever be my bleisure pick. The Woodmont Grill is a bit of a hike from the district, but has an interesting crowd and Hillstone’s trademark live jazz. Talking to strangers at the bar always results in interesting conversations with a wide range of professionals. The Smith (another one of my reliable choices) now has an outpost in the District. 
9. Give Yourself a Decompression Day Between Trips. I have a full 48 hours in-between my business travels for laundry, the gym, errands, and even a sports game or two (not to mention the premier of Curb Your Enthusiasm). 
10. Capture the Memories. Have a story of a bleisure trip you’d like to share? Tips for other bleisure travelers about destinations, packing, products, or just your favorite travel hacks? We’re on the look-out for guest editors! Contact us if you’re interested. 

Speaking of memories, watch this site for our upcoming piece on Souvenirs That Don’t Suck! 

I captured this shot at Joe’s Souvenir Shop at 917 F Street NW. Whatever your political affiliation, you’ll find a bobble head you can stand behind. 

 

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