Take a local workcation — the short working holiday you never knew you needed

A workcation or a “woliday” is exactly what it sounds like — working while on vacation. After the pandemic hitting and living through multiple lockdowns, we all know the ins and outs of our homes and, thankfully, with the world slowly becoming similar to what “normal” used to be, vacations are happening more frequently. A working holiday is a vacation that allows you to work remotely while integrating a few leisurely activities that let you unwind, relax and be more productive.

You’ll see increases in the below when you step away from your desk: 

• Motivation
• Productivity
• Creativity
• Inspiration
• Overall wellbeing

How does having a meeting while on the beach sound? Imagine sending emails while in a cosy cottage up the north coast of KZN. Picture doing your weekly reports while overlooking the ocean, sipping a piña colada on a rooftop. In essence, a workcation is taking a break from your usual place of work, but not from the work itself. Think of it as work away from work.

Plan the perfect working holiday

The keys to a good workcation destination

Vacations are usually filled with travels from one place to another every few days, but a workcation requires a little more stability to stay productive. This time is meant to refresh and reinvigorate you, not drain you even more from, moving around every two days. 

Make sure there is good signal in the area you’ll be in to connect with your colleagues and clients during your working holiday.

Look out for a comfy space to work from in the accommodation you choose. This can either be a patio table and chair outside to enjoy the sun or a coffee shop spot nearby. Moving around from the dining table to an inviting sofa also works for some. 

Find supermarkets, coffee shops, and such nearby your stay, before you leave for your trip. Travelling far and wide for basic items can waste perfectly good relaxation time. 

Check for an equipped kitchen if you like to cook, or good restaurants nearby to get your nourishment in. 

Okay, so what’s your workcation vibe?

Combine business and pleasure and take your laptop on a trip. Going on a working holiday doesn’t have to break the week. Have an extended weekend away or book a family apartment for a week or two. Plugin at the braai area and get the best of both worlds. Here are our top picks for embarking on the vacationing trend of the year.

Balance family and work

Trade your office chair for a seat amongst nature — experience The Bridge in St Lucia for a relaxing workcation. This is a great family holiday spot, with three bedrooms, a functional kitchen and a breakfast nook to enjoy some quiet work time in the mornings. The children can stay entertained with TV time and then venture out as a family in the afternoons to discover where Harry, our resident hippo, enjoys spending time. 

From walking your way around nature to sightseeing on a cruise, there is plenty of action to be had in St Lucia. Read here for some more ideas. 

The working couple

Get away from the hustle and bustle and plan a holiday to one of South Africa's hottest destinations. Mossel Bay is a city worth exploring, and it could be an amazing opportunity to get work done while seeing the country — laptop in tow. Book a spot at Vista Bonita to experience the workcation of your dreams. This apartment is home to two lounges, perfect for a couple to work in their respective spaces during the day and relax at night. If you and your other half are feeling more social, hit the town and find amazing hidden treasures all around. 

There is a new gym that the health-conscious couple can enjoy, 24 hours a day, so there’s no need to worry about when you can fit in a workout. If you are more of an outdoor athlete, check out some of the hiking trails around the area. After a successful day of workcationing, wind down on the rooftop braai area and watch the sun go down. 

The beach getaway

If you and your family or even a few close friends want to enjoy the warm breeze of the ocean, then put the Waterberg apartment at the top of your list. Get away from the office air conditioning and breathe in tropical air when you stay at this three-bedroom, two-bathroom, relaxing accommodation. The kitchen is kitted out with everything you need to enjoy delicious homecooked meals while on holiday. Take short work breaks down to the pool or escape down to the beach for an afternoon stroll. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try surfing — you can hire boards down at the beach and even get some tips from the experts, themselves.

Ah, a workcation sounds like a breath of fresh air from the usual office surroundings or your work-from-home situation. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today to book your holiday.