Entrepreneurs, are you experiencing a bout of wanderlust? Looking for the perfect way to use those leftover vacation days? Finally saved up enough for that second honeymoon? You’re in luck! There are simple ways to extend the value of your dollar and make any trip better than you could have imagined.
Getting away can be an important part of a well-rounded self-care plan, especially for entrepreneurs. It’s a great way to reduce stress and rekindle your creativity. And with the right type of planning, you can even leave the office behind without worry. Read on if you could use a little TLC that doesn’t break the bank, and doesn’t put the brakes on business.
Plan ahead for your time away
By nature, most entrepreneurs have a lot of irons in the fire. You’re busy shaping your business, growing your customer base, developing your staff, enhancing your connections, and so forth. Being pulled in so many directions leaves little room for time off, but there are lots of little things you can do to reduce your daily responsibilities.
One such example is your annual report. It’s something the state of Missouri requires, and if you make a mistake or file late it can be costly. You can streamline your efforts by partnering with an inexpensive online service like ZenBusiness. They will set up a personalized dashboard to help you with the data compilation, ensuring your report is filed accurately and on time. With their expertise to guide you through, you’ll free up time for other important details in your life, like getting away from it all.
Take time off in the off-season
When it comes to travel for an entrepreneurs, timing can be critical. If you are willing to visit prime destinations when the rest of the tourist economy is enjoying their vacation at a different locale, Kiplinger notes you'll likely pay a lot less. Fewer crowds are always easier to deal with, too, and you may have more inspiration and opportunities for exploring beyond the usual tourist spots.
Choose a hotel with breakfast included and/or a kitchenette
Many hotels offer free continental breakfast. This may not sound like a big deal, but when you're ready to book, consider how much you can save by eating one meal a day for free instead of in a pricey restaurant. Hotel continental breakfasts have improved quite a bit over the last few years, so you can generally expect much better fare than boxed cereals, dried eggs and stale toast. And if you can book a room with a kitchenette, you can cook and store your own food at your discretion without going out and spending a fortune.
When you do venture out, be sure to travel with your own snacks that will last for the day. It's not unusual to be away from your hotel home base for the entire day, and planning accordingly with plenty of healthy snacks and refillable water bottles will help you go the extra mile.
Find fun things to do that won't cost a dime
Strolling through town, visiting stunning public parks and charming neighborhood gardens are just a few ideas for activities that won't cost you anything at all. Some city museums offer entire days that are free to the public on a weekly basis, and many city parks departments offer other exciting events like festivals, concerts in the park, and films. Most people know that even just sitting on a bench to people-watch can be highly entertaining, and you may even get to see some incredible live buskers.
Ask the locals for more info
Part of the fun of traveling to a new place is the novelty of meeting new people, especially locals who know their city well. No matter where you are in the world, asking locals about life on the cheap in their own town or city can reveal a gold mine of information. If you're sure to be courteous and respectful when making your inquiries, most people will give information freely as they love to share insider tips.
Perhaps one of the major deterrents for people who travel to new places is the cost. But with a bit of advanced planning via online shopping, a travel-savvy attitude, and an eye for a bargain on the road, you'll find that visiting new places can be easily accessible on virtually any budget. When you can save money on the trip you're planning, you'll be able to plan more memorable trips down the line. And when you return to the office, be sure to share your travels on your company website; customers love storytelling!
