The best bleisure hotels in the world 2023 & 2024

Bleisure travel is when you mix business and leisure into one awesome trip. Picture this: you're travelling for work, attending meetings, sealing deals, and being all professional. But instead of rushing back home as soon as your work is done, you extend your stay and squeeze in some fun and relaxation. That's where the "bleisure" magic happens!

Bleisure travel allows you to make the most of your business trips by adding a dash of pleasure. You get to explore new cities, soak in the local culture, and indulge in exciting experiences that these destinations have to offer. So, why limit yourself to just boardrooms and hotel rooms when you can venture out and really enjoy the moment? What’s more, you can also fly your family out to enjoy your business trip with you, creating the perfect workation. It's a great opportunity to mix business networking with sightseeing, relaxation, and creating unforgettable memories.
 

Bleisure travel isn’t a new trend, however it certainly is gaining popularity. According to Savvy Sleeper, corporate travellers spend 22 days on average travelling for work annually with the average business trip lasting 3.8 days. That’s a lot of short trips, with potentially a lot of flight time.

In 2022, a US survey found that 89% of participants wanted to include some leisure time on their next corporate trip, and in a separate survey by jet charter company Stratos, 56% of UK business trips turn into bleisure travel.

But what about bleisure statistics that may benefit you as a company head. Apparently, 79% of business travellers volunteer more frequently for corporate work trips if they have the opportunity to extend and enjoy some vacation time. So no more forcing employees to travel overseas for work, with the bleisure travel trend you may see a lot more volunteers for international conferences and board meetings.

It goes without saying that many city hotels – we would go as far to say most – offer work facilities within the room. Whether this is fast WiFi, a desk and comfortable chair, and even coffee for that much-needed caffeine hit, you’ll have everything you need for last-minute meeting prep, checking your calendar and replying to your emails. For more corporate hotel workspaces, make sure you’re booking resorts with business facilities such as meeting spaces and private dining rooms. Or, for larger conferences, event spaces for hire such as ballrooms. Location is also key. Depending on the reason for travel, choose to stay near the airport, close by a conference centre or in the middle of town with great transport links. 

Where to stay: Malakiya Villas
Recently renovated and nestled within the Madinat Jumeirah complex, Malakiya Villas are the perfect blend of ultimate privacy and villa home comforts but with all the amenities you could wish for from a hotel. Ranging from two bedrooms to two floors, these villas boast private butler service, return transfers from Dubai International Airport, a personal plunge pool and access to a private beach. Sleeping up to eight guests, and well-equipped for children of all ages, these villas are a fantastic option for a workation. Oh, and let’s not forget the complimentary tickets to Wild Wadi Waterpark for all guests. Located on Jumeirah Beach, Malakiya Villas is just a 20-minute drive from Downtown Dubai and 25-minute transfer from Dubai International Airport.
 

Where to stay: Corinthia London
Our much-loved capital is bursting with corporate stays, but one of our top picks for a business-leisure getaway is Corinthia London. Situated a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Leicester Square, you’re close to theatre land and an array of bars and restaurants for post-meeting fun with your significant other. Alternatively, stay within the hotel and enjoy Kerridge’s Bar & Grill. The following morning, truly unwind with one of the best spas in London and its array of ESPA treatments. It goes without saying that Corinthia London has excellent transport links as well as outstanding meeting and event spaces.
 

Where to stay: Hôtel Ritz Paris
Paris bleisure tourism has gained popularity for couples, and it’s easy to understand why. There’s so much to see and do, so if your company brings you to the city of love we highly recommend cramming all your meetings into a morning or two, leaving you the afternoon to explore. Boasting an astounding roster of a-list clientele including couturier Coco Chanel, literary figures Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway as well as royalty – King Edward VII was apparently a big fan – you’ll be staying amongst the greats at Hôtel Ritz Paris. Located in central Paris, overlooking the Place Vendôme you’re close by many famous Parisian fashion boutiques including Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Celine. After all that retail therapy, enjoy soothing massage therapy at Ritz Club & Spa followed by delicious cuisine and an aperitif at one of the five bars and restaurants located within the hotel. Oh, and if you want a less formal business meeting spot, Bar Hemingway is a top choice.

 

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi
Say hello to a boutique hideaway tucked away in the middle of downtown Tokyo. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi is within the heart of the business district, perfect for business pitstops and centrally located to discover all that the Japanese capital has to offer. With just 57 rooms, it’s small enough for much needed peace, but can still easily accommodate larger travelling parties – whether that’s a group of colleagues or your extended family (or both!). The Parisian-style bistro is led by a Michelin-distinguished guest and the dedicated concierge can plan your entire itinerary, booking a day trip to Mount Fuji, a local sushi making course and more, all around your work schedule.

Where to stay: Hyatt Centric Wall Street 
Bleisure tourism was made for New York City. The Big Apple has heaps for you to enjoy during your nine to five but, more importantly, after dark too. Hyatt Centric Wall Street is surrounded by prime lower Manhattan real estate; the city’s financial district. The spacious loft-style rooms and suites offer respite complete with walk-in rain showers, dining facilities, plenty of comfortable seating and ample workspace.
 

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal
Abu Dhabi is another top choice for a bleisure holiday. You can mix work and play on one of the many outstanding golf courses, entertain the family with the host of fun activities on Yas Island or simply catch up on some ‘me-time’ by the pool with only the glorious sunshine for company. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal is a great base for your stay. With eight dining destinations and a whoping 18 meeting spaces, you really do have the best of both worlds here.
 

Where to stay: Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur
A bleisure trip to San Francisco needs to be formed of two halves. First enjoy business in the city, where Fairmont San Francisco is an excellent base. Located in the upscale neighbourhood Nob Hill it offers excellent views of the bay, access to a wealth of buzzy restaurants and within close proximity to Fisherman’s Wharf, the Financial District and Chinatown. It’s also the filming location for Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo (1958). However, to really enjoy the leisure element to your stay, hire a car and drive two-and-a-half hours to Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur. Perched on the cliff edge, enjoy nature and a calm serenity to help you truly switch off. To aid your relaxation, visit the spa, take a guided nature walk, enjoy morning yoga or forest meditation, try falconry, or simply take a dip in one of the many scenic pools. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a few nights solo.
 

• Look out for location

• Stay and play

• Family second

• Cultural learnings

• Pick up a new skill