The concept of ‘bleisure’—a blend of business and leisure travel—is a growing trend reshaping the landscape of the travel and hospitality industries. As more professionals extend their work trips to enjoy some leisure time, the demand for accommodations that cater to both needs has surged. If you’re considering investing in short-term rentals, understanding how the bleisure trend impacts location choice is crucial. This article explores why bleisure travel should be a key consideration when selecting your next short-term rental investment property.
What is Bleisure Travel?
Bleisure travel occurs when business travelers extend their trips for leisure activities. Often, this involves taking advantage of weekends or free time between meetings to explore a new city, attend events, or relax in a more leisurely setting. According to a 2019 study by Expedia, over 60% of business travelers added leisure days to their work trips, making bleisure a key driver of travel demand.
The Growing Demand for Bleisure-Friendly Accommodations
With remote work becoming more widespread and flexible work schedules on the rise, professionals are increasingly blending business with pleasure. As a result, they seek accommodations that offer convenience for both their work and personal lives. For short-term rental investors, this shift in traveler preferences offers new opportunities to cater to a profitable segment of the market.
Key reasons why bleisure travel is influencing the short-term rental market:
- Remote Work Flexibility: More professionals can work from anywhere, allowing them to mix business trips with vacation time, making locations with leisure attractions more appealing.
- Work-Life Balance: Professionals seek accommodations that allow them to maintain their work commitments while still enjoying downtime—leading to increased demand for properties with high-speed internet, quiet spaces for work, and easy access to leisure activities.
- Longer Stays: Business travelers who combine leisure are more likely to book longer stays, which can boost occupancy rates and rental income for property owners.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Location for Bleisure Travel
To maximize returns on your short-term rental investment, it’s important to understand which locations are likely to attract bleisure travelers. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Proximity to Business Hubs
Business travelers will be looking for locations near corporate offices, convention centers, or major events. Having your property situated near these areas increases its appeal, as bleisure travelers can easily attend meetings and then explore the local culture or relax nearby.
- City Centers: Locations in the heart of major cities or business districts are prime spots.
- Conference Locations: Areas near major convention centers or event venues tend to attract business travelers.
2. Leisure Opportunities and Local Attractions
A successful bleisure destination must offer compelling leisure activities. Think of vibrant arts and culture scenes, outdoor adventure opportunities, or renowned restaurants. Proximity to these attractions enhances the appeal of your rental, making it an ideal place for business travelers looking to unwind.
- Cultural and historical landmarks: These sites are often top attractions for leisure travelers.
- Recreational activities: Hiking, museums, and even scenic views can be strong selling points.
3. Convenience and Comfort
For bleisure travelers, convenience is key. They need a seamless transition between work and leisure. Look for properties that offer features like fast Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces, and comfortable amenities, along with proximity to restaurants, gyms, and cafes that support both work and relaxation.
- Workspace: Desk areas with good lighting and comfortable seating are essential for business travelers.
- Amenities: Offering amenities like a gym or access to concierge services can enhance your property’s appeal.
4. Accessibility and Transportation
Bleisure travelers often prefer locations with good public transportation or easy access to airports. When selecting an investment location, make sure it’s well-connected and easily accessible to professionals who want to get around easily.
- Public Transport Access: Easy access to buses, trains, or subways allows guests to navigate the city efficiently.
- Proximity to Airports: Properties close to airports are especially attractive for short stays.
Capitalizing on the Bleisure Trend
If you want to target bleisure travelers, consider adapting your short-term rental to cater to their needs. Key enhancements may include:
- High-speed Wi-Fi and tech-enabled features for business professionals.
- Promotions targeting long stays to encourage guests to extend their time in the city for leisure purposes.
- Local guides and partnerships with tour companies, restaurants, and event organizers to provide guests with a curated list of things to do during their downtime.
By aligning your short-term rental offerings with the needs of bleisure travelers, you’ll ensure that your property is competitive in an evolving market.
Maximizing Your Investment in Bleisure Locations
Investing in areas that attract bleisure travelers can help you achieve higher occupancy rates and longer stays, improving the overall ROI of your short-term rental. By understanding the needs of business professionals looking to mix work with play, you can tailor your property and marketing strategy to meet this growing demand.
