Making the Most of Your Work Trip
📍 Salt Lake City, Utah
📸 Carter Fish Photography
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It’s no secret that I’m always ready to travel. Just tell me the destination, and I’ll be knee-deep in research to find the best restaurants, coffee shops, and cocktail bars to visit. When I learned that my company was sending me to a conference in Salt Lake City, I was over-the-moon happy. That was even doubly true when I realized how many great spots to eat and drink can be found in Utah’s capital city. Whether you’re traveling across the country or just visiting a new town for business, here are my top tips for making the most of your work trips.
Research Ahead of Time
Regardless of how much time you have before the big trip, take some time to get to know your temporary surroundings. If you already know what hotel you’re staying at, start with what’s in the immediate vicinity. Although there may be some great options for an Uber ride away, that could burn through your limited free time. While in SLC, I had my sites on what was even a few block radius. Because I did some research ahead of time, I already knew what places I wanted to try and where to find them. Since you may not have time for museums, it may be best to focus on restaurants. After all, you need to eat.
Grab an Extra Early Flight
If it’s possible, see if you can book the earliest flight out. That way, you have all the extra time to explore. This is typically my rule of thumb for whenever I travel. I am a serial morning person and always like to hit the ground running when it comes to travel. In the same tone, it also helps to take the last flight on your way home. Depending on your work schedule, it’s probably a necessity, but it gives you one more chance to take advantage of the city you’re visiting. Just so you don’t miss your flight, that would be simply awful, don’t forget to scope out travel to and from the airport!
Pack Accordingly
Okay, maybe this isn’t the best advice from the serial over-packer, but don’t forget to have “civilian” options in your suitcase. On my latest work trip, I wore my company’s logo for the conference I was attending. While an athletic polo and my J. Crew pants were incredibly comfortable, they’re not my usual choice. As soon as I did my work duties, I was back to my typical style for cocktails and dinner. I also packed several different shoe options, one for walking around the city and another while working. A few extra pairs also came along with me, but remember, I’m an over-packer, especially when it comes to shoes!
Start Your Day Early
The chances are that your work activities won’t begin at the crack of dawn. That doesn’t mean you need to sleep in. Having an early start to the day gives you a unique opportunity to explore the new city. Go for a walk, explore the sites, and find a local coffee shop to enjoy. Something that I’ve learned more about in previous years is how to enjoy my own company. That means having dinner, a party of one, or sitting by yourself at a chic cocktail bar. Keep to yourself with a good book or chat with other visitors or locals. The possibilities are endless!
While the work of your work trip will always come first, it’s easy to make the absolute most of your travels. Have a plan, enjoy your own company, and it’s guaranteed to be a success for your career and self-care. Happy travels and enjoy your new destinations, especially as the world begins to inch even closer to normalcy.
Love from Salt Lake City,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.