Business trip coming up? Why not turn it into a vacation?

A business trip can be much more than just a series of meetings or conferences. If you take the opportunity to extend your trip by a few days, you can turn it into a mini-vacation that combines business and pleasure, the best of both worlds.

Fall and spring are popular times for conventions, seminars and business events taking place all around the world – and Quebec is no exception! Extending a business trip is not always easy, either for family or budgetary reasons, but if the opportunity comes up (and your schedule and wallet allow you to do so), it can be a relatively simple way to explore a destination. Whether you choose, for example, to stick a nature getaway onto a convention in Charlevoix or tour some fine dining options after a meeting in Québec City, you’ll get to discover the province while maximizing your trip.

And if staying in town after your business trip is too much of a stretch, then maybe you can scale down and simply take advantage of breaks during the day or in the evenings to bond with your colleagues in a more casual setting and discover sights or landmarks that are worth a detour together. Grabbing a coffee while checking out a nearby attraction, getting dinner at a restaurant known to showcase local specialties, an impromptu teambuilding activity or a visit to a must-see site can make all the difference in creating lasting professional relationships and make your business trip more enjoyable.

5 good reasons to combine a business trip with a vacation in Quebec

Business or pleasure? Why not both! Assuming you’re able to fit some personal time into your work trip (and that doesn’t keep you from your responsibilities and obligations), here are 5 reasons why extending your business trip to Quebec could be a winning decision:

1. It makes your business trip something to really look forward to

On business trips, days are often filled with meetings, training sessions, discussions... All of this can cause stress and fatigue, both mental and physical. But knowing that once the meeting's over, you'll be able to enjoy pleasant activities makes it all that much more motivating and appealing!

2. It can be a chance to strengthen bonds with your colleagues

Extending a stay with some colleagues or organizing activities during your free time are great opportunities to get to know your teammates better. Away from a formal work setting, socializing over a drink or a meal or during a walk, for example, can reveal unexpected things in common and strengthen connections, both professional and personal.

3. It’s a way to prioritize wellness and favour efficiency

After a busy conference, taking a bit of time to relax makes all the difference. Whether you choose to visit a spa, take part in gentle nature activities or explore the city at your own pace, these quiet moments help recharge your batteries so that you can return to the office with increased productivity and reduced stress levels.

4. It can boost creativity

A change of scenery is an excellent way to recharge your batteries. By extending your stay a few days, you’ll give inspiration time to take root before returning to everyday life. A stroll in a new city, an enlightening cultural visit and exchanges with dynamic people can nourish your sense of creativity and infuse new ideas into your work.

5. You’ll maximize your trip

Since you're already there on business, taking a few days' vacation in the region (especially if your destination is further from your home) can turn out to be a money-saver. What's more, if you happen to extend your stay into a weekday, you may be able to take advantage of lower rates than on weekends. Spring and fall, which are generally off-peak periods, are also good times to extend your business trip at minimal cost.

Things to do to make a business trip more fun

Are you sold on the idea of extending your business trip or making the most of your free time during that trip? Here are a few ideas for adding a bit of spark to your days, either on your own or with colleagues!

Discover the local culture

Are you a fan of rock music, comedy or hockey? Check out the local calendar to enhance your stay with festivals, musem exhibitions, shows, visits to art galleries and more! You could seize the opportunity to attend concerts or events you'd otherwise miss.

Taste iconic food

Meals shared over business meetings can be a great chance to savour the local gastronomy, but why limit yourself to that? Visit local markets and gourmet stores, agritourism farms and restaurants to add a touch of spice to your stay. Getting to meet local producers is also a great way to enjoy a foray into the homegrown cuisine. Be sure to try some of the region's specialties!

Take a group tour

Looking for a fun group activity? Visits to vineyards, microbreweries or distilleries are ideal for combining discovery and socializing. Take part in tastings while learning about creative local production techniques and find products you can’t get back home (and wouldn’t that make a great souvenir!) Look into any themed guided tours that would interest your group!

Walk around in nature or in the city

After hours spent in meetings, why not take a hike to stretch your legs? It's the kind of activity that fits easily into any schedule. There are plenty of trails to explore in Quebec – in parks, cities and out in the country – so there’s bound to be some close to where you are. A walk is the chance to breathe in the fresh air and admire the inspiring scenery. Don't forget to snap a picture!

Indulge in a spa break

What better way to unwind after a busy day than a visit to the spa? Find out if the hotel or convention centre you're staying at has any relaxation facilities or services. If not, explore the Nordic spas and relaxation centres in the area. Treat yourself to a well-deserved moment of relaxation before you step back into everyday life.

Wherever you find yourself on a business trip in Quebec, you’re sure to be inspired to explore! Answer the call and turn your business trip into moments of discovery!