Work Hard, Play Harder: the perfect bleisure destination is Portugal
You've just wrapped up a successful conference at Lisbon's Web Summit, the air still buzzing with the energy of ideas and networking. Instead of rushing back to the office, you decide to extend your stay and find yourself strolling through the Alfama district, the tantalizing aroma of peri peri chicken wafting from a nearby churrasqueira.
This is the essence of bleisure travel in Portugal – where the demands of work seamlessly intertwine with the allure of adventure, creating an unforgettable experience. Portugal, with its rich history and strategic location, offers a perfect backdrop for this growing trend. The rise of bleisure travel reflects a shift in modern work culture.
“According to recent data, 76% of all business trips now include a leisure component. ”
A symphony of experiences
Portugal's appeal for bleisure travelers is undeniable:
Thriving Business Hubs: Lisbon and Porto, with their modern infrastructure and thriving tech scenes, provide the perfect backdrop for productive meetings and conferences.
A Culinary Odyssey: From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local tascas, Portuguese cuisine is a feast for the senses. Don't miss the chance to savor fresh seafood, sample regional delicacies, and indulge in world-renowned wines.
History at Every Turn: Explore 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Sintra, with its enchanting palaces and lush gardens, or journey into the Douro Valley, where winemaking traditions have flourished for centuries.
Adventure Awaits: Hike the majestic Serra da Estrela mountains, surf the Atlantic waves, or explore hidden coves along the coast. Portugal offers a playground for every adventurer.
Making the most of your bleisure adventure
Extend Your Stay: Don't let your journey end with the conference. Add a few days to explore hidden gems, savor the Portuguese way of life, and truly unwind. Imagine trading your boardroom for a converted monastery, now a luxurious pousada, or enjoying a leisurely sunset cruise on the Douro River, sipping on a glass of port wine.
Bring Along Your Crew: Share the adventure! Bring your partner, family, or friends to experience the magic of Portugal together. Create lasting memories beyond the conference room.
Embrace the Local Vibe: Dive headfirst into Portuguese culture. Take a cooking class and learn to whip up a traditional Portuguese dish. Wander through vibrant local markets, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of the country come alive. And don't miss the chance to experience a traditional festival, a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and local traditions.
The future of bleisure travel
The bleisure travel market is booming. This exciting growth is driven by evolving work arrangements, advancements in travel technology, and a growing emphasis on employee well-being.
Maximizing Business Trips: Bleisure travel allows companies to maximize the value of business trips. By incorporating leisure time, employees can experience the destination more fully, potentially leading to stronger business relationships and a more positive overall travel experience.
A Competitive Advantage: Companies that embrace bleisure travel can attract and retain top talent by offering a more attractive and rewarding travel experience. By extending business trips, employees can explore new destinations, experience different cultures, and recharge, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and productivity. 55% of business travelers plan to take more bleisure trips specifically to improve work-life balance.
Crafting your perfect bleisure escape
Ready to turn your next business trip into an unforgettable adventure? RuaMar can help you craft the perfect bleisure itinerary.
Did you know? Within an hour of Lisbon, you can escape to the Arrábida Natural Park, hike through breathtaking scenery, and enjoy stunning coastal views.
Or how about this? In Óbidos, a charming medieval village just an hour away, you can explore cobblestone streets, visit the historic castle, and savor a glass of Ginjinha (cherry liqueur) in a quaint tavern.
We'll help you:
Seamlessly transition your itinerary from business to leisure.
Uncover hidden gems: Explore local markets, visit charming villages, and experience authentic Portuguese culture.
Create a personalized itinerary: We'll tailor your trip to your interests, whether it's exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights, or embarking on thrilling adventures.
Arrange all the logistics: From transportation and accommodation to cultural activities, we'll take care of every detail.
Experience Portuguese luxury: We can arrange exclusive experiences, such as private wine tastings, gourmet dining, and stays in luxurious pousadas or boutique hotels.
More than just a trip: a journey of discovery
Portugal invites you to experience a unique blend of history, culture, and modern innovation. Embrace the spirit of bleisure travel and unlock a deeper connection with the setting around you. As Fernando Pessoa, one of Portugal's greatest poets, eloquently stated, "Travel is the traveler. What we see isn't what we see but what we are."
