Planning a business trip to New York? Doing business in the Big Apple is something many entrepreneurs can only dream of. Still, if your role requires you to travel to the city that never sleeps, you’re definitely going to need to set aside some time to decompress and enjoy this amazing destination.
Whether you’re visiting conferences and networking events over multiple days or only have a couple of client meetings in the calendar, there’s ample opportunity to create the perfect blend of professional productivity and enjoyable downtime. Every work trip should go beyond just meetings and conference rooms. It’s also a time for self-discovery, personal growth, and fun. Wondering how this balance can be achieved? Read on to discover how to make the most of your New York business trip.
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Booking Your New York Hotel: The Right Base Matters
If you’re responsible for booking your accommodation, then a little research will go a long way. When staying in NYC, location is key, not just because you want to get to your scheduled appointments as easily as possible, but because staying in those key leisure areas means you’ll spend less time off the clock travelling to where you want to go. When booking your New York hotel, consider both work convenience and after-hours relaxation.
Consider choosing a central location, as this will generally reduce travel time and stress. This will give you plenty of time to prepare and settle in for your work-related activities and more hours to explore the city. Alternatively, look for accommodation that offers quick access to subway lines or even walkable routes to your venues.
- Midtown Manhattan: Ideal for corporate offices, conferences, and events. You’re also close to Times Square and Broadway for evening entertainment.
- Financial District (FiDi): Best for those doing business downtown, near Wall Street and the World Trade Center, quieter at night with easy access to ferries and the Brooklyn Bridge.
- SoHo or Tribeca: Stylish, more relaxed neighbourhoods perfect if you’re meeting with creative clients or startups, also full of boutiques and great dining.
Remember to look for hotels that have the right kind of amenities and ones that understand a business traveller’s needs. Amenities such as fast and reliable Wi-Fi are a must, access to business centers or work lounges, and even early/late check-in/check-out options.
It’s also worth searching for accommodation that has a good range of amenities to enjoy after a busy working day. Options like rooftop bars, fitness centers or even hotel spas can be great for helping you unwind after a meeting-heavy day in the city.
Planning a Work-Friendly Itinerary
If you want to achieve a strong balance between work and leisure, then a lot will come down to your work itinerary. Creating a smart and flexible schedule can help you to feel less rushed and more in control. Here are some of our top suggestions that will help you get the balance just right.
- Don’t overfill your day: Always allow yourself some breathing room in case things run over or you need to travel.
- Always schedule breaks: Ensure you’re putting aside time for breaks, including lunch and catching your breath. These should be non-negotiable.
- Block out time for leisure: Treat this time just like any other appointment. And stick to it. Pencil in time to explore a neighbourhood, visit a museum, or take a walk in Central Park. And always keep a few hours free during your trip for spontaneous fun, a last-minute dinner invite, or a street fair you stumble upon could be the highlight of your visit.
Make Good Use of Tech
As an entrepreneur, you’ll know that technology is an important factor in pretty much everything you do. So, make sure you’re utilising it during your NYC trip. Tools such as Google Calendar, Outlook, or Notion can help you keep track of appointments, locations, and notes, streamlining your working day effortlessly.
For your downtime, use technology and apps like Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time directions and subway routes. Use apps like OpenTable to book lunches and make dinner reservations, or Uber and Lyft if you’d rather hop in an inexpensive cab.
Sneaking in Some Sightseeing
If you’re really pressed for time, avoid putting yourself under pressure to cram in as much leisure time as possible, and always be mindful of your energy levels. There are other ways you can sneak in a little sightseeing during your busy schedule, and even short breaks between meetings can be turned into memorable cultural moments!
Even 30-60 minutes can be enough to recharge, so a quick stroll or visual change of scenery can help you clear your head and boost your productivity, whilst having the opportunity to visit places like Central Park, the High Line of even popping into the MoMA. Here are some great ways you can sneak in a little extra leisure time during your day.
- Window shopping on Fifth Avenue: Peek into iconic shops like Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, or the Apple Store. Or stop at St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Rockefeller Center to enjoy some architecture and history.
- Explore Grand Central Terminal: Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s worth visiting for its stunning ceiling and historic charm.
- Visit the New York Public Library (Main Branch): Located near Bryant Park, this architectural gem offers peace, quiet, and inspiration.
- Take a short ferry ride: If you’re downtown, you could hop on the Staten Island Ferry for a quick round trip with amazing views of the Statue of Liberty.
Final thoughts…
Visiting New York City as part of a business trip is an amazing experience. With so many networking opportunities and the chance to soak up the incredible vibe, you’re bound to make progress in your career and feel a definite boost in your productivity. Just remember that it’s also important to prioritize downtime and not miss those opportunities for exploration, self-discovery, and fun. This is what will make your trip to NYC worthwhile.
