The Savvy Business Traveler’s Guide to Bleisure: Maximize Every Trip with Sonesta Select

As business travel rebounds to near pre-pandemic levels, professionals are once again packing their bags, not just for meetings and conferences, but also to experience the joy of discovering new places.

According to Allied Market Research, the global “bleisure” travel market—defined as “blending business and leisure”—is booming at a value of $315.3 billion and growing annually at nearly 9%.1

For today’s savvy business traveler, maximizing each trip means finding more than just a convenient place to sleep. It’s about choosing a stay that enhances productivity, supports well-being, and enables exploration.

Sonesta Select, an upscale hotel brand from America’s 8th largest hotel company, Sonesta International Hotels, set out to learn how seasoned professionals select hotels that help them work smarter and live better on the road.

What Business Travelers Want in a Hotel

After interviewing nearly 100 experienced business travelers, clear patterns emerged, and we’ve turned their insights into a guide for making the most of every work trip.

Our research showed that seasoned travelers consistently focus on four key categories:

1. Location
2. In-Room Amenities
3. Loyalty Programs
4. Hotel Facilities

Let’s dive into what matters most and how Sonesta Select helps travelers meet those needs effortlessly.

1. Location: A Launchpad for Productivity and Exploration

A hotel’s proximity to meetings, conference venues, and client offices remains a top priority.

One respondent noted: “A conveniently located base saves so much time that could be better spent getting over jet lag, keeping up with emails, or preparing for meetings.”

But it’s not all about work.

But it’s not all about work. Another traveler shared that if they’re not meeting clients, they prefer staying near museums or attractions to unwind and explore.

For bleisure travelers, convenience means quick commutes and easy access to local gems. Sonesta Select properties are strategically located near business districts and cultural hotspots, making them an ideal base for both agendas.

2. In-Room Amenities: The Ultimate Productivity Toolkit

When it comes to working on the road, the little things in a room can make a big difference.

From high-speed Wi-Fi to ergonomic desks, these features aren’t luxuries—they’re must-haves.

• Fast, reliable Wi-Fi was a dealbreaker for many surveyed. One frequent traveler put it plainly: “I often have work to finish or emails to check, so [a reliable Wi-Fi connection is] non-negotiable.”
• Functional workspaces like large desks and ergonomic seating help maintain productivity.
• Comfortable beds ensure restful sleep—a necessity for staying sharp.
• In-room coffee stations are a must-have for those early morning Zoom calls or late-night brainstorming sessions. Another respondent remarked: “Having good coffee in the room helps with productivity because you don’t have to leave your desk.”

Years of welcoming business travelers have taught us what truly supports productivity and relaxation on the road. That experience is reflected in the way Sonesta Select rooms are designed, from the layout to the lighting, creating a seamless space to work, rest, and recharge.

3. Loyalty Programs: Perks That Matter

Nearly 65% of Sonesta Select’s survey respondents said loyalty programs influence their booking decisions.

Why?

Because perks like early check-in, late checkout, and complimentary upgrades aren’t just nice extras, they enhance flexibility and comfort on tight schedules.

Sonesta Travel Pass, the brand’s award-winning loyalty program, goes a step further.

Members can earn and redeem points quickly, making it easier to turn work trips into rewarding experiences. From September 27, Sonesta Select guests can earn 3,000 Travel Pass points per stay—a fast-track to future perks with no added effort.

4. Hotel Amenities: Beyond the Room

Business travelers also highlighted the importance of convenient property features that streamline their stay:

• Fitness Centers and Pools: Wellness matters, even on the go. A quick workout or swim can make a long day of meetings feel more manageable.
• Meeting Spaces: Whether hosting clients or collaborating with teammates, access to modern meeting rooms is key.
• Business Services: On-site printing and other services help guests stay on top of tasks without scrambling for resources.
• Laundry Facilities: A small detail with big impact, laundry access is a lifesaver on longer trips.

Each Sonesta Select hotel is equipped with amenities that cater to the practical and personal needs of busy professionals, offering the tools they need to stay focused and refreshed.

Most Popular Cities for Bleisure Travel

Based on Sonesta Select’s 2023 booking trends, Miami, Boston, and Atlanta ranked among the top destinations for bleisure travelers. These cities are not only hubs for business but also rich in culture, cuisine, and entertainment—perfect for those who like to add a day or two of leisure to their itinerary.

Making Every Trip Count

Savvy business travelers understand that smart hotel choices directly impact the quality and productivity of their trips. Whether you’re closing deals or scouting new opportunities, a hotel that aligns with your professional and personal goals can elevate your travel experience.

With flexible spaces, high-touch hospitality, and ideal locations, Sonesta Select is crafted for those who take business seriously but never forget the value of a well-balanced life on the road. Each stay offers more than a room; it offers a springboard for success and a pause for pleasure.

About Sonesta Select

Sonesta Select offers affordable, spacious rooms, inviting common areas and modern amenities for travelers seeking convenience and Sonesta’s signature hospitality.

The radiant energy of the hotels’ crafted spaces and locally rooted team members shine through to fit the business customers’ lifestyles even while on the road. From a great morning cappuccino to a well-earned evening cocktail, Sonesta Select’s guests are covered so they can spread their wings to work, play, and live each day as their best selves. Business needs to be taken care of and at Sonesta Select that translates into a familiar neighborhood space that fits just right.