Our global team has been on the road this year (of course), incorporating both work and play (aka business and leisure) into our adventures. Here’s our end-of-year recap!
What was your favorite Bleisure Living trip this year?
Matt: “My February trip to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park! I could be extremely productive from my hotel room, stayed in a Yurt, and went on a fantastic e-bike tour.”
Nancy: “Wow! So many memorable moments! Although Las Vegas is not my fave city, I was invited to the Fat Brands Summit as a guest. I got to be the Lois Lane of food and experiences. I also chaired my first conference in Chicago and followed it up by seeing Larry David’s show. And, of course, any trip to see family is the best (although I try not to work too hard when I’m with the kids and grandkids.”
What was the balance of work and play and how did you pull that off?
Matt: “The word that comes to mind is optimization. Relocating and accepting a promotion in London opened my doors to a new world of Bleisure Living opportunities. I’ve rediscovered my love for being on the go (I wrote this while sitting on a plane to Madeira) and making the most of every minute.”
Nancy: “I work for myself, so I don’t have to be on anyone else’s clock. I tend to wake up super-early wherever I am and get my work out of the way so I can enjoy the L (as in Leisure).”
Your favorite new travel hacks or gadgets?
Matt: “Book one-way flights! Plans change (mine did this year more than ever) and having only to change one part of the booking makes things so much easier than when it’s connected to the return flight.”
Nancy: “Like Matt, I’m a one-way flight booker. I also invested in a tiny ring light, a portable laptop stand, and a travel mic, so I can podcast wherever I am! And, of course, I’m obsessed with my packing cubes and I just bought new shoe bags.”
Your favorite go-to snack on the road?
Matt: “Ginger ale! Specifically, Fever Tree if I can get it. Whether it’s a placebo or really helpful, after a bumpy flight or hard car ride a little stomach soother goes a long way!”
Nancy: “I’ve added a healthy breakfast treat to my repertoire. I used to just pack ONE protein bars. But I discovered Legendary protein pastries. They are like Pop-Tarts for adults. They pack flat and I don’t have to blow my budget on hotel breakfasts. I’m sure I’ll discover more treats at the Fancy Food Show (see below)!”
Any cool trips planned for 2025?
Matt: “Starting in February, I’ll be relaxing in sunny Miami and then taking a Celebrity Bohemian cruise with friends. I’ll also be partaking in the first weekend of Oktoberfest in Munich!”
Nancy: “I’m moving later next year, but I’ll just schedule my travel around that. I already have media passes to two food shows (Las Vegas AGAIN) and I plan to do my usual “writer’s retreat” in East Hampton. I’m thinking of treating myself to a tropical adventure for my birthday. And a cousin is getting married near the California beaches, so family celebrations are always a great excuse for travel!”
