USA 
United Kingdom
A growing number of business travellers are prioritizing blended travel - mixing work trips with personal leisure time - according to a new report from hotel group Crowne Plaza by IHG.
The hotel brand’s second white paper, Leading the Charge in Blended Travel, reveals a significant increase in professionals seeking greater flexibility, with 66% of US and UK travellers now combining business trips with leisure (so called ‘bleisure’) up from 53% in 2022.
More professionals combining work and leisure
The study, based on a YouGov survey of more than 12,000 travellers across nine countries, found that 56% of respondents see work-from-anywhere flexibility as one of the greatest benefits of remote working. Meanwhile, 67% of global travellers agreed that blended travel provides more freedom and convenience, reinforcing its shift from a trend to an established way of working.
“Flexibility in where and when people work is now a non-negotiable expectation for today’s professionals,” said Ginger Taggart, Vice President of Brand Management, Global Premium Brands, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “Blended Travel has shifted from a trend to a permanent way of life - whether it’s extending a business trip, working remotely from a dream destination, or finding inspiration on the go. We’re not just responding to it, we’re actively shaping the future of it.”
Blended travel fuels personal and professional growth
The report identifies four key trends shaping blended travel. Travellers increasingly link work trips with self-improvement, skill development, and creative inspiration, shifting from traditional travel focused on rest to experiences that enhance personal and professional well-being. Forty percent of respondents said their top motivation for blended travel was exploring new destinations.
Wellness is also a growing priority, with 35% of respondents saying blended travel helps them maintain healthier routines and reduce stress. To support this, Crowne Plaza has introduced wellness-focused experiences, such as guided running tours at Crowne Plaza Amsterdam-South and nutrient-rich breakfast smoothies at Crowne Plaza Helsinki-Hesperia.
Meanwhile, financial considerations are a key driver, with 70% of travellers saying affordable deals or amenities that cater to both business and leisure would encourage them to embrace blended travel.
