Looking at business travel trends for 2017 so early on the year can be risky, as the holiday season continues to be disruptive generally until February. But the ‘bleisure’ boom appears to remain well and truly underway according to Booking.com, with 2017 seeing a further upswing not only in the blurring of lines between leisure and business travel, but in the value we attach to workplace travel opportunities.
Of the 40%* of global travellers who journeyed for business last year, 46%* think they will travel even more for business in 2017. More than business suites and PowerPoint presentations, 49%* of business travellers already extend their business trips to further enjoy the destination, while three-quarters (75%*) intend to do so the same or more in the coming year.
No longer seen as lost time or a career inconvenience, business travel is increasingly appreciated as an opportunity to expand horizons, find inspiration and progress in a career. So much so that 30%* of travellers would even accept a lower paid job if it meant they could travel more for work.
*According to data collected by Booking.com with 12,781 respondents across 13 markets in September 2016. Respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have travelled at least once in 2016 and had to be planning at least one trip for 2017. All respondents had to consider themselves part of their travel decision-making process.