preference business travel

The Ultimate Travel Packet for Your Executive’s Business Travel

A journey of a thousand miles may begin with a single step, but a successful business trip begins with a kick ass travel list. This goldmine checklist, complete with useful tips organized by category, was created specifically for traveling executives after a Ninja asked what to include in a travel packet for the boss’s upcoming trip. So of course, we went straight to the experts: the OfficeNinjas Ambassadors.

This list is comprehensive, packed with Ninja-approved items and hacks for every possible situation we could imagine. But you should feel free to edit and make it your own go-to guide for business travel. Pare down, make tweaks, and add special exceptions tailored specifically to your company and team. Once you have the Ultimate Packing List customized to your boss’s specific needs, prepping for an upcoming trip will be the easiest part of your day.

• Include the confirmation/reservation numbers, phone numbers, and addresses for flights, trains, rental cars, cabs, and hotels.
• Include estimated travel time from the airport to the hotel or other destinations, as well as information on potential delays due to traffic, road construction, and inclement weather.

Ninja Tip: Send your boss a meeting request with airline details (terminals numbers, flight and seat numbers, departure and arrival times, etc.) in the subject line so that travel time is blocked out and the information is instantly accessible. For example-  Subject: Alaska 309 (SFO-SEA): lv 735pm arr 924pm, conf# AP35IRE Location: Seat 24A (window).

Ninja Tip: Once you’ve hammered out all the details, funnel them into PackPoint  so you and the traveler can both access the full spread on a convenient app.

LUGGAGE TAGS

Ninja Tip: Keep a pack of affordable luggage tags in the office as a backup.

MAPS & DETAILED DIRECTIONS

Ninja Tip: Install a map app, like Waze  or Google Maps , on your boss’s phone. You can even download an area for offline use in Google Maps, in case of a poor signal. Screenshots of entire routes can also be saved.

LOYALTY MEMBERSHIP NUMBERS

Track all frequent traveler membership numbers for airlines, hotels, dining, and rental car companies in one place using TripIt or Points .

PARKING INFO & COSTS

Use Spot Hero to reserve parking spaces in advance, and ParkMe  to locate spots.

LOCAL HOST CONTACT INFO

e.g. the client’s admin, office manager at satellite office, etc.

LOCAL SPOTS TO DECOMPRESS

Download one of these apps to your boss’s phone. They allow users to book hotel rooms by the hour so your exec can catch up on emails or even take a nap:

• Hotels by Day

TRAVEL DICTIONARIES & PHRASEBOOKS

Ninja Tip: Purchase travel dictionaries/phrasebooks or download a translation app to your exec’s phone (for international travel). Popular options include:

• Google Translate
• Lonely Planet Phrasebook & Dictionary ( Spanish , French , Mandarin , Japanese , German )

PROTOCOL FOR LAST-MINUTE ITINERARY CHANGES

Clarify who should take the lead on resolving conflicts and rescheduling travel.

PROVIDE TRAVEL ITINERARY TO EXEC’S FAMILY/PARTNER

Meeting Prep

BRIEF BIOS ON MEETING ATTENDEES

Download Charlie  on your exec’s phone. Charlie combs through a bunch of online sources and will send your exec a one-pager on who they’re going to meet before even seeing them.

Ninja Tip: Include suggested topics of conversation as well as personal details that may cause someone to be distracted or unengaged (like a recent birth or death in the family)

NOTES ON BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

Appropriate behavior varies greatly from culture to culture, refer to this infographic to ensure your exec is properly informed.

EXTRA BUSINESS CARDS

An obvious item but one that’s commonly forgotten!

LOCATIONS FOR SMALL MEETINGS & ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATIONS

These apps identify and reserve on-demand meeting space:

Ninja Tip: Walk Score will tell you if they need to travel by car to get there.

DRESS CODE FOR MEETINGS & SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTS

From casual to white tie, this attire guide breaks it down for you.

HEALTHY SNACKS FOR HEAVY MEETING DAYS

Try these healthy options:

• Love With Food
• Quest Nutrition Protein Bars and Chips
• And don’t forget mints , pocketmist , gum , or breath spray

Financial Considerations

CORPORATE CREDIT CARDS

Remind your exec of these tips for traveling with plastic overseas.

CLEAR, ZIPPERED ENVELOPES

Pouches  for receipts and small miscellaneous items.

EXPENSES REPORTS OR APP

Blank expense reports or ensure that your office’s expense reporting app has been downloaded to your boss’s phone.

Ninja Tip: Download an app that lets your boss scan documents or receipts and save them as PDFs, such as Tiny Scanner , Smart Receipts , Expensify , Abacus , or Shoeboxed .

CURRENCY CONVERSION APP

Download a currency conversion app to your boss’s phone for international travel. Popular options include XE Currency , Currency Converter , and Convert Pad .

Local Points of Interest

HIGHLY REVIEWED BARS AND RESTAURANTS

Check Yelp , Opentable , TripAdvisor , and Zagat before providing your exec with recommendations.

STORES THAT SELL SOUVENIRS AND COLLECTORS’ ITEMS

Ninja Tip: Does your exec’s loved one have an affinity for snow globes or any other trinket? Let your boss know where he/she can purchase these personal items. Boom. You’re now a hero to your boss.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES WITHIN WALKING OR SHORT DRIVING DISTANCE

• Parks and historical monuments
• Museums and theaters
• Fun/quirky exhibits

Ninja Tip: Check out AroundMe for nearby amenities.

There you have it, Ninjas! The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet. Let’s recap:

The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet:

• Travel itinerary
• Luggage tags
• Maps and detailed directions
• Loyalty membership numbers
• Parking info and costs
• Local host contact info
• Local spots to decompress
• Travel dictionaries & phrasebooks
• Protocol for last-minute itinerary changes
• Provide travel itinerary to exec’s family/partner

MEETING PREP

• Brief bios on meeting attendees
• Notes on business etiquette (for international travel)
• Extra business cards
• Locations for small meetings and one-on-one conversations
• Dress code for meetings and social engagements
• Healthy snacks for heavy meeting days

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Corporate credit cards
• Clear, zippered envelopes
• Expense reports or app
• Currency conversion app

LOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST

• Highly reviewed bars and restaurants
• Stores that sell souvenirs and collectors’ items
• Attractions and activities within walking or short driving distance

Do you have any additional items or Ninja Tips to add to the Ultimate Exec Travel Packet? Leave your ideas in the comments section!

I provide full itineraries for any of my traveling staff via PDF to their email. This way, they can have it on their smart phone, iPad, etc., as well as providing copies to family as needed. I post a copy in my office so when someone asks “Where is _____?” I don’t have to go searching. The itineraries always have all flight details, any car rental info, hotel confirmation numbers, any necessary phone numbers, email addresses, addresses for the offices/conference centers, etc. When I have multiple staff traveling to the same place from different locations, everyone has the full itinerary of arriving/departing flights so they know they can meet up at the airport and share a cab or a car. I’ve spoiled everyone with the itineraries. I even do them for myself when I travel.

Spoken like a true Ninja! It definitely sounds like those spoil your team… who knows what they would do if you set them up with some apps too! Do you start each itinerary from scratch for each trip, or keep a template somehow?

I use a 8 1/2 by 11 clear envelope for our CEO and put a copy of his flight itinerary on one side and his hotel on the other. This way he never has to open the envelope but flips from airport side to hotel side until he arrives. When he gets there, he pulls out the hotel portion and behind it is all his papers for his conference/meeting. He slips all his receipts in the envelope throughout the trip and brings the envelope back to me when he returns to fill out his reimbursement. I recently filled out a more detailed one page itinerary for another one of our executives with all her information of where she needed to be – flight numbers, hotel details etc. She preferred this method and I sold her on the clear envelope to carry everything in.

Great tip. Thanks for sharing, Lisa!

This is what I do, Lisa.

This is great! Thank you :)

You’re welcome, Carole! How often do you plan business travel?

Comments are closed.

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Blog / Global Mobility / Guide to Managing Corporate Travel in 2023: Strategies & Tools

Global Mobility

Guide to managing corporate travel in 2023: strategies & tools.

Corporate travel is an essential facet of business growth. Companies worldwide invest significant resources to enhance business travel planning strategies and ensure efficient, safe, and economical employee journeys..

Let’s start with the good news: Corporate travel spending should return to 2019 levels by next year, according to the 2023 Deloitte corporate travel study. In fact, American and European companies expect to see even more spending going toward international travel than before the pandemic. Business travel brings together colleagues and industry peers, improving job satisfaction and progress, so all signs pointing towards more time spent together in person are positive.

However, the nature of business travel has changed alongside travelers’ expectations. For one, they expect booking business travel to be as easy as any other transaction on a mobile app. They’re not prioritized on the best price or deals when booking trips but on the best travel option that aligns with their schedule and loyalty preferences. They expect their business to offer a corporate travel solution that users love with none of the traditional pain points.

Business travelers today also want to get the most out of their trip, which leads to mixing business and leisure. Because they’re spending more time in a location, they want to maintain their healthy habits from home and be able to integrate work and play while in a new destination. Business travelers prefer serviced apartments in local neighborhoods rather than hotels in a central location.

Businesses are responding: According to Deloitte’s 2023 corporate travel study, global corporate travel policies incorporate non-hotel accommodations more than ever. Nearly half of companies today (45%) have non-hotel lodging in their corporate booking and travel tools, versus only 9% last year, and 57% of companies now have agreements with specific branded apartment/home rental providers, up from 23% in 2022.

And lastly, sustainability is a priority for business travelers and companies, leading to smarter travel strategies that connect people without hurting the planet.

Let’s dive into the best practices for managing corporate travel in 2024. Explore proven strategies, tools, and industry trends.

TL;DR 6 tips on how to manage corporate travel effectively

• Robust travel policy to streamline business travel
• Use an integrated travel and expense management tool  
• Incorporate sustainability practices into your travel strategies
• Offer a variety of flexible booking options 
• Encourage employees to use PTO  
• Leverage AI technology to anticipate traveler needs 

What is Corporate Travel Management?

Corporate travel management is the comprehensive organization and oversight of a company’s business travel needs, which involves streamlining travel bookings, creating and implementing travel policies, managing travel budgets, ensuring traveler safety, and optimizing the value derived from corporate travel. It’s a multi-faceted function that requires strategic planning, efficient execution, and constant evaluation.

Corporate travel management is full of challenges that can be overcome with the right strategies and tools.

Challenges of Corporate Travel Management

Let’s look at some of the common challenges associated with corporate travel, and then we’ll dive into how to anticipate and overcome them:

Managing Travel Budgets and Expenses

Imagine an agency with a large team of consultants who must travel regularly for client meetings. The expenses involved in such travel—flights, accommodation, meals, local transportation, car rentals, etc.—add up quickly. 

The travel manager in this situation needs to manage travel budgets and expenses while also providing a positive travel experience and ensuring that the travel results in value for the business. The challenge is compounded by the variability of costs in different locations, fluctuating exchange rates, and the need for last-minute travel changes.

Ensuring Traveler Safety and Risk Management

Companies with a global presence frequently ask employees to travel, sometimes requiring travel to potentially high-risk regions. Ensuring their safety and well-being must go beyond travel insurance to account for full duty of care, which involves risk assessments, pre-travel briefings, and a robust crisis plan.

As revealed by a GBTA survey, there still needs to be more policies related to female traveler safety. With increasing numbers of women traveling for work, companies must address issues such as late-night arrivals, accommodations in safe neighborhoods, and emergency support services. Addressing these needs can pose challenges, especially when dealing with different cultural norms and standards in various countries.

Ensuring Policy Compliance and Effective Communication

Implementing corporate travel policies effectively across a large or geographically diverse company can be daunting. For instance, a company might have strict guidelines regarding the class of travel allowed, preferred airlines, and approved hotel chains aimed at controlling costs and ensuring the safety and comfort of their employees.

However, it is a significant challenge to ensure that all employees are aware of these policies, understand them, and comply with them every time they travel. The company must establish effective communication channels to disseminate this information and ensure it is readily available.

Furthermore, it can be challenging to track compliance, especially if travel booking is decentralized or the company works with multiple travel agencies. In this case, the company should consider investing in modern travel management software to monitor compliance effectively.

Evaluating and Optimizing the Travel Program

Maintaining a high-performing corporate travel program is a continuous process that involves regular evaluation and optimization. 

A finance team can partner with travel management stakeholders to evaluate the travel program based on a wide range of data, such as travel expenses, traveler feedback, compliance rates, and performance metrics of travel service providers. Based on this analysis, the company might need to negotiate new contracts with airlines or hotels, revise its travel policies, or provide additional resources for traveler support.

Commonly Used Solutions for Booking Corporate Trips

Navigating the intricate domain of corporate travel demands an informed choice of booking solutions. This analysis dissects three prevalent strategies: 

External corporate travel management

In-house management

Traditional travel agents

Each presents a distinct blend of features, advantages, and potential impediments, requiring businesses to astutely weigh them against their specific travel needs, fiscal boundaries, and overarching objectives. Let's distill these solutions that underscore the indispensable role of technology in streamlining corporate travel, irrespective of the selected modus operandi.

1. External Corporate Travel Management

The decision to outsource travel management to external experts can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of a company's travel program. External travel management companies are equipped to manage a multitude of responsibilities that ultimately save companies time, resources, and ensure an exceptional travel experience for employees.

Advantages of outsourcing travel management to external experts

The advantages of outsourcing travel management are manifold, but the real value lies in the integration of these key components within modern corporate travel management solutions :

Travel Policy Implementation: External experts craft well-defined travel policies, setting out clear guidelines for bookings, expenditures, and responsibilities, ensuring regulatory compliance and encouraging responsible employee behavior.

Unified Travel Booking and Expense Management: By employing centralized platforms for booking and expense management, these external entities ensure seamless, streamlined operations, alleviating administrative burdens on the corporate travel manager and other internal teams.

Supplier Relationship Management: Leveraging their industry relationships, external corporate travel managers negotiate favorable rates with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies, enhancing your travel inventory and yielding significant cost savings.

Traveler Safety and Security Measures: They shoulder the company’s duty of care by implementing effective travel risk management strategies, and provide access to travel assistance services, thus bolstering the safety and security of traveling employees.

Budgeting and Cost Control: These experts optimize travel expenses through strategic travel logistics , data analysis, and efficient tracking of expenses at the point of sale, offering a robust mechanism for cost control.

Data-Driven Reporting and Analytics: Harnessing the power of real-time travel data, external travel managers provide valuable insights that enable companies to identify cost-saving opportunities, monitor supplier performance, and enhance program effectiveness.

Communication and Training Initiatives: External experts also facilitate clear communication with employees about travel policies and safety protocols, and offer training or resources on using travel management tools, enhancing compliance and employee satisfaction.

Innovation Travel Management Tools

Several innovative tools and companies are changing the game in corporate travel management.

• AltoVita - A comprehensive platform offering end-to-end business travel solutions and global mobility software .

2. Navan - An intuitive travel management tool that enables efficient planning, booking, and expense reporting.

3. Egencia - A globally recognized travel management platform that seamlessly blends technology with customer service.

4. SAP Concur - A tool that integrates travel, expense, and invoice management into one system for total visibility and control.

5. TravelPerk - An all-in-one platform providing flexibility, transparency, and round-the-clock customer support for business travel management.

These tools help streamline the corporate travel process, delivering increased efficiency, transparency, and cost-effectiveness.

2. In-House Corporate Travel Management

In-house corporate travel management is where companies manage all aspects of their business travel internally rather than outsourcing these tasks to external travel management companies, travel agents or corporate travel sites .

The structure of in-house travel management teams can vary greatly depending on the size and nature of the company, as well as the extent and complexity of its travel needs. However, a corporate travel manager leads the team and oversees and coordinates all travel-related activities. The corporate travel manager works with a team that may include travel coordinators, travel risk analysts, administrative staff, and stakeholders from the finance department.

Considerations and Challenges

Companies with unique or particular travel needs are more likely to opt for in-house travel management solutions. For example, consider companies in sectors like oil and gas that often send employees to remote or high-risk locations, requiring specialized travel arrangements and risk management strategies, or consulting companies that manage a high travel volume with complex itineraries and last-minute changes. 

While in-house travel management solutions offer control and customization, they can be resource-intensive. The success of in-house travel management largely depends on the skills and capabilities of the team, making talent acquisition and retention a crucial aspect.

While in-house travel management had its place in the past, even travel managers today should leverage ingenious solutions to book better travel and access real-time data and insights that help optimize even the trickiest travel programs.

3. Travel Agents

Travel agents offer professional expertise and can handle many aspects of corporate travel, such as booking flights and accommodations. They can save time, provide personalized service, and often have easy access to special deals or rates. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the desire for human connection and personalized service post-COVID drives a continued interest in travel agents. A 2021 poll by the American Society of Travel Advisors found 76% of advisors saw an increase in customers compared to before the pandemic, while 81% said they were hearing from consumers who had never used an advisor before.

Benefits and Limitations

While travel agents offer several benefits, relying solely on them may limit your company’s control over its travel booking process and may not provide the comprehensive management needed for larger or more complex corporate travel programs. 

Since travel agents have a narrower scope than travel managers, the company would still rely on finance departments to file expense reports and business managers to oversee the approval process.

The best value of travel agents today is leveraging their human touch alongside technology for employees business travel. When a flight is canceled or an airline goes on strike, travelers want an experienced agent to speak to even though they’re probably more efficient in personalizing their travel booking without agent help for more routine travel booking.

How to Manage Corporate Travel Effectively

In an evolving corporate travel landscape, businesses must adapt to new trends and challenges. Successful corporate travel management requires innovative solutions and strategies. Let’s review six ways to streamline business travel to boost productivity, save time, and reduce corporate travel expenses .

1. Develop a Comprehensive Travel Policy

The cornerstone of effective corporate travel management is a robust, clear, and comprehensive travel policy. This policy is more than just a set of rules; it’s an essential tool that promotes cost-efficiency, effectiveness, and simplicity in business travel. 

Beyond managing costs, a well-formulated business travel expenses policy encourages responsible employee behavior and ensures compliance with legal requirements. Consider critical components such as booking guidelines, expensing procedures, safety protocols, and mandating the company-selected online booking tool in crafting a travel policy.

2. Leverage an Integrated Travel and Expense Management Solution

By leveraging an integrated travel and expense management solution, businesses can realize considerable cost savings. Tech-powered solutions provide valuable real-time data insights, enhance policy compliance, reduce processing costs, and prevent fraud. These systems offer real-time updates and control over all travel-related expenses and can save time, redirecting employee effort towards more productive tasks.

3. Incorporate Sustainability Practices

The growing interest in sustainable corporate travel only makes sense, as including eco-friendly practices in your travel strategy is imperative. Options such as favoring train travel over flights, where feasible, can significantly lower your carbon footprint. 

Given the sustainability targets set by many businesses, climate-conscious choices will continue to shape corporate travel decisions in the coming years.

4. Offer Flexible Bookings Options

The dynamics of business travel have changed significantly post-pandemic. Today’s corporate travelers seek longer stays, healthier habits, and a blend of work and leisure. Corporate travel policies are increasingly including non-hotel accommodation options to cater to these needs. 

As per Deloitte’s 2023 corporate travel study , around 45% of businesses now offer non-hotel lodging in their online booking tools, a significant increase from the previous year.

5. Promote Paid Time Off (PTO)

Encouraging employees to utilize their PTO combats burnout and boosts creativity. This practice enhances productivity and fosters a more attractive work environment for current and prospective employees. Additionally, employers recognize the value of travel incentives over traditional cash bonuses, tapping into the modern preference for experiences over material possessions.

6. Take Advantage of Artificial Intelligence

AI has emerged as a powerful tool in anticipating the needs of business travelers and proactively offering solutions to manage travel well. Advanced AI can streamline the travel experience, from personalized travel recommendations to automated expense reporting, making corporate travel management more efficient, cost-effective, and less stressful.

Top Corporate Travel Trends for 2024

As we navigate the evolving landscape of corporate travel in 2023, several key corporate travel trends are emerging, shaping the future of the industry. From the revival of live events and the adoption of “bleisure” travel to a shift towards serviced apartments and a heightened focus on sustainability, the corporate travel sector is undeniably experiencing a transformative period.

The Resurgence of Live Events 

A beacon of hope is shining in the sector with the return of live events. 

Travel managers anticipate a boost in business travel, driven primarily by industry events. Following a period of dormant activity, live-event attendance is expected to leap from being the fifth-largest trigger for increased travel spend in 2022 to the top spot in 2023. Over half of travel managers in the United States and Europe are optimistic that industry events will invigorate travel growth this year.

The Rise of “Bleisure” Travel

The blending of business and leisure, or “bleisure” travel, is surging. According to The State of Corporate Travel and Expense 2023 from Skift and Navan , 54% of companies now encourage employees to take personal time before or after a business trip. According to Skift’s 2023 State of Travel report, The percentage of business travelers who extended their business trip for leisure purposes was about a quarter in Australia and the UK, half in the U.S., and almost three quarters in India.

Shift from Hotels to Serviced Apartments 

With the changing nature of business travel post-pandemic, corporate travelers are increasingly favoring non-hotel accommodations. Deloitte’s 2023 corporate travel study reveals a significant policy shift to include non-hotel accommodations in travel itineraries, as almost half of businesses now accommodate such bookings. 

Nearly half of companies today (45%) have non-hotel lodging in their corporate booking tools versus only 9% last year, and 57% of companies now have agreements with specific branded apartment/home rental providers, up from 23% in 2022. This preference emphasizes the desire for a more integrated, home-like travel experience for business relationships, capable of supporting both work and leisure activities.

Sustainability: A Strategic Priority 

According to Skift’s 2023 State of Travel report , 63% of companies are interested in increasing sustainable business travel, even if it costs more. 

According to the study from the WTTC: A World in Motion Shifting Consumer Travel Trends in 2022 and Beyond most travelers are seeking and choosing sustainable travel options.

In response to rising environmental consciousness, sustainability has become a central focus in corporate travel. More than half of companies are prepared to increase their travel spending only on sustainable business travel, echoing the preferences of most travelers. Recognizing the environmental affect of corporate travel, most businesses aim to reduce their carbon footprint, with over 40% of surveyed companies actively optimizing their policies for a lesser environmental affect. Amid these changes, travel suppliers are also investing significantly in green initiatives and developing strategies to cater to the emerging demand for sustainable travel options.

These trends represent a seismic shift in the corporate travel landscape, redefining how we perceive and manage business travel. It’s an exciting time for the travel industry; one platform is ripe with opportunities for innovation and growth and a clear focus on sustainability and traveler well-being. As we progress, we must remain adaptable, adopting and incorporating these emerging trends into our corporate travel strategies.

Takeaways 

Effectively managing corporate travel in today’s evolving global business travel landscape is an art that requires strategic foresight, adaptability, and efficient resource utilization. The fast-paced shifts in the sector and the changing preferences of corporate travelers underscore the need for businesses to stay informed and agile. Here are the key takeaways from our comprehensive guide to corporate travel management in 2023, encapsulating the essential strategies and trends you need to consider to streamline your business travel operations and cater to the needs of your traveling employees effectively.

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WAKING UP TO A

New era of business travel.

Post-pandemic predictions for 2024

WORK HAS EVOLVED.

That means big changes for business travel.

Corporate travel is undergoing a massive transformation right now. What’s driving it? Big societal shifts. Remote working is here to stay, offering employees greater well-being and more work-life balance. Meanwhile, organizations are dealing with an ever-changing financial landscape and new environmental pressures. And at the same time, consumer trends are bleeding more and more into corporate ones. Combined, this means a whole lot of new expectations and friction to manage when it comes to business travel.

Corporate travel is undergoing a massive transformation right now. What’s driving it? Big societal shifts. Remote working has stuck around, offering employees greater well-being and more work-life balance. Meanwhile, organizations are dealing with an ever-changing financial landscape and new environmental pressures. And at the same time, consumer trends are bleeding more and more into corporate ones. Combined, this means a whole lot of new expectations and friction to manage when it comes to business travel.

Travelport is shining a light on some of the ways our customers have quickly adapted to a changing landscape. Having acquired Deem earlier this year, we’re doubling down on our efforts to modernize business travel. And that starts by finding out what today’s business travelers care about most, and then using these insights to further support the modern retailing efforts of travel management companies (TMCs).

We’ve identified six key trends for the year ahead, using our own research, third-party industry sources, and through the collective brainpower of our customers. We’ve crafted examples of how they have modernized their approach to corporate travel to keep all stakeholders happy. So read on, as we bring you the very latest on the evolution of business travel.

CORPORATE TRAVEL IS BACK IN BUSINESS. BUT WHAT’S CHANGED?

Since the pandemic ended, there’s been lots of speculation about the future of traveling for work. But in 2022, according to GBTA, global business travel expenditure increased by 47 %, topping over one trillion US dollars. And that growth shows no signs of stopping. Spending is predicted to recover to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024 — faster than the previously projected mid-2026 forecast.

Why? First and foremost, because business travel is a logistical necessity for many people, like sales reps, client service managers, consultants, conferences and events staff, construction workers, circus folk etc. For these folks, being on the road is part and parcel of their role, and it’s budgeted for even more in the most uncertain of economic climates.Because nothing beats being face-to-face time with customers. And the others? They travel because their organizations want them to, remaining steadfast in the belief that meeting in person drives performance and growth . What might surprise you is to hear that almost nine out of ten (87%) of business travelers agree with them .

of employees think business travel is important to company growth

Source: Uber and GBTA report

Nonetheless, many companies are still struggling to get employees moving, and that’s because many are still working from home. In fact, by 2025 it’s projected that 32.6 million US employees will be remote workers. Since that changes the very nature of what ‘work’ looks like, there are also knock-on consequences for business travel, too.

Balancing what everyone wants and needs is a delicate act, and many companies are turning to TMCs to help them do it. So here are six key findings to take into 2024.

6 BUSINESS TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2024

(AND HOW TO MANAGE THEM)

Research shows remote working offers employees a much better quality of life. So now, when they’re asked to hit the road, it’s important to remember people are giving up relatively much more than they were a few years ago. Business travel post-pandemic feels like a different (and bigger) ask. That doesn’t mean people don’t want to go, but when they do, they expect the same kind of freedom, flexibility, and personal time they enjoy in their daily lives.

of business travelers say their biggest priority is having options that support well-being, productivity, and aid recovery

Source: Travelport research 2022

To meet that need, our customers understand what ‘well-being’ truly means to people. For some, it means paying special attention to comfort, convenience, reward, and recovery time. For others, it means handier flight times, meeting times, or more R&R time. Overall, the goal is to create a feeling where work trips better reflect a normal day, causing less of an upheaval to one’s personal life. In 2024, employees will expect organizations to be flexible and look after their well-being — and this is even becoming as important as pay to many. This was one of the key takeaways from GBTA 2023 — mirroring the findings from Travelport’s third-party research study earlier this year .

OFFERING CHOICE, CUSTOMIZATION, AND RECOVERY TIME BUILDS GOOD WILL

In this strong employment market, well-being is a consideration when asking employees to travel. Research shows that if well-being suffers, people won’t stick around. Leavers create hassle for companies, as empty roles, recruitment costs, and training time all hit the bottom line either as costs or lost revenue.

of workers would consider leaving a company that does not focus on their well-being

Source: Gympass

Just like travel managers and TMCs, Travelport and Deem also believe the customer should always be at the center of any travel experience. After all, well-being isn’t just about healthcare benefits, lunchtime yoga, or hybrid working, it’s about all aspects of work life. But every individual has a specific definition of well-being — just like every business has a specific set of needs to be successful. So why do travel policies sometimes take a one-size-fits-all approach?

The most successful travel programs balance cost savings with traveler satisfaction. So we offer users a modern UI, robust content, and omnichannel support – and partnering with our customers to develop policies that prioritize wellness and productivity.

Direct Travel

Corporate travel managers and TMCs know it’s critical to provide transparency and give the traveler all the choices they need to make sure their needs are met, even if it’s limited somewhat by business policy. This may mean making exceptions and granting managers permission to override a rule, like adding extra legroom or access to a gym. It may mean building in extra recovery time, so they feel rested and ready for work on their return. And it means making sure employees don’t end up out-of-pocket by forking out for small comforts, like a convenient flight time.

Choosing travel technology that presents transparent, rich, and intelligent content and offers, while letting you set different permissions for different individuals makes this easy.

During the pandemic, many people were hired in locations far away from their designated offices. Others moved away from big cities, while being a ‘digital nomad’ became a career option. Companies meanwhile, got more freedom to hire talent from anywhere, including places where it costs them less. Fast-forward three years, and there’s now a new ask from these employees: to come to the office from time to time. So while ‘business travel’ may not have previously been a part of their job, now their ‘commute’ to a physical office might mean taking a flight instead of hopping in their car.

Visiting other offices isn’t something new, but the purpose, format, and frequency of visits is changing. Plus, it’s not just happening domestically anymore, but internationally, too. The EU, for example is taking steps to allow workers to move more freely between offices, albeit for a limited number of days per year, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in another way of life.

This trend has been dubbed ‘ super commuting ’ by some outlets, but unlike a regular, short-hop train or car journey, there’s more grounds for a business to pay for the trip. According to a Deloitte survey, relocated employees are now taking more trips to the company headquarters, most of which (70%) are either completely or partially paid for by the company. And that means there’s a new — or at least, an accelerated — type of business travel to account for in corporate travel policies.

Because the format of these visiting trips can vary quite a lot compared to typical business travel, e.g. to a conference, sales meeting, and so on. Visiting trips are infrequent and tend to be for longer. They’re usually designed to improve connectivity, morale, and retention, so may incorporate more leisure time and activities.

But the challenge with this (besides the income tax implications) is that many companies still rely on old travel policies that were written pre-pandemic, when this concept didn’t really exist, or at least, was an anomaly.

CORPORATE TRAVEL POLICIES ARE RIPE FOR MODERNIZATION

The many new types of working arrangements mean there’s a huge opportunity for travel managers, and many of them have already started to rethink corporate travel policies for these new and nuanced needs. For example, maybe you work for a big tech firm who takes out a long-term lease on corporate apartments for visiting staff , so your main challenge is finding suitable flights or car rental instead of accommodation. Or maybe your company no longer has a physical office, so your travel budget has been reallocated to get people together every so often. By refreshing your corporate travel policy, you can rise to these new challenges, and better balance the needs of travelers and the business.

Corporate travel policies exist to keep a lid on costs, and hitting budgets is sometimes a key measure of success when sending people on the road. But post-pandemic, business travel is about more than just cost containment . There are new metrics that travel managers and TMCs can help organizations improve, like well-being, retention, or productivity.

of business travelers want full transparency into what they are buying

Source: Travelport research

As consumers, we are all now much closer to the planning, booking, and servicing side of a trip than ever before. Plus, in our professional lives many people now enjoy more freedom working remotely, so it no longer feels natural for travel to be any different. All this means business travelers expect to see a wide variety of options, they expect more control over their trips, and they expect to be trusted to make responsible decisions.

That doesn’t mean don’t need or want the support of a TMC (more on this below) — it means more transparency and flexibility is needed from any modern corporate travel policy. To ensure employees do not bend the rules and find opportunities to poke holes in the process.

FIND CREATIVE WAYS TO MAKE CORPORATE POLICIES WORK FOR EVERYONE

There’s a huge opportunity to look to travel managers who are leading the change right now. Imagine if, instead of just having a set of rules, corporate travel policies were more agile? Yes, we still need rules, but business travel itineraries could certainly be more personalized and a little less one-size-fits-all.

Maybe there’s a preferable hotel a little farther from the client that’s a little cheaper. Maybe a traveler would trade a less comfortable flight for a more comfortable bed. Maybe they’re a foodie and they want to spend less on transport and more for a nice restaurant. It’s about empowering people to make choices and prioritize what’s most important to them, while not exploding costs.

Business travelers today want flexibility and personalization. So we’re giving them more choice, the ability to choose their own flights, hotels, and transportation, and creating custom itineraries to fit their individual needs and preferences.

Executive Travel

This is just one example of how we could rethink corporate policies and rule-setting. Letting business travelers have a say on what’s important to them sweetens the idea of business travel, as well as their affinity for where they work. But thinking this way means looking at business travel in terms of a total package, rather than overseeing each distinct element. But done right, it helps the traveler have a more satisfying trip, without negatively impacting the bottom line.

While companies need employees to travel for business, and they have to navigate new needs and operate efficiently, they’re also under mounting pressure to meet sustainability goals. In the U.S., for example, carbon accounting is set to become an SEC reporting requirement , so public companies at least will be required to reduce their carbon footprint and report on their impact.

And these companies aren’t just facing pressure from governments and environmental bodies. Climate change is a burgeoning topic with consumers too, and their concerns don’t go away just because they’re at work. Increasingly, business travelers — particularly younger ones , who are socially conscious — want more transparency on the environmental impact of their trips. On this point, businesses and employees do agree. So it’s not surprising that 63% of companies are investing more in sustainable travel, and 80% of business travelers want more sustainable options.

Nearly a quarter of business travelers would decline a trip based on sustainability concerns

Concur Study

SEEK OUT INSIGHTS ON TRAVEL CHOICES THAT MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE

When we talk about the importance of choice, we don’t just mean flight times, bag options, and a choice of chicken or salmon. It’s about giving people more information and helping them make informed decisions. When it comes to sustainability, we believe, and the data support, corporate travel managers will play a huge role in driving things forward, as they have the budget and power to make a real difference. But to do that, customers need more than just a leaf icon in their workflow, they need real insight into what a ‘sustainable choice’ actually reflects.

One option is, instead of focusing on carbon offsetting, look at the carbon generating characteristics of every flight. Booking tools need to give customers and their TMC reliable numbers, so they can be factored into flight choices based on their rule set. That way, the reporting will be more accurate, and you’ll know how you’re really tracking against your carbon goals — something for which government and regulators are increasingly calling.

Finally, it’s worth highlighting one approach that companies are trying to reduce their environmental impact, which is sending employees on longer trips instead of multiple short ones. They arrange more meetings in the same city over a longer time, or a multi-city tour, saving on the total number of take-offs and landings. The downside to this is that longer, more demanding trips hit employee well-being, and we know where that leads, right? Not necessarily, if done right, as we’ll see in the next section.

Fewer but longer trips with more meetings is a good way to help the planet, but what does it mean for Susan who has to spend six days away from home, family, friends, and her expensive gym membership? In order to coax people out of cozy home offices and, business travelers are asking companies to make the prospect as appealing and as purposeful as possible.

It’s interesting to see a disconnect between what businesses and travel managers think matters vs. what employees actually want. According to research, travel managers think it’s about late-start days after travel (74%) or letting the traveler book with an airline/hotel they have a loyalty membership with (68%). But business travelers say they want more, like paid-for premium experiences (45%), or additional paid time-off (42%). In 2022/2023, roughly half of business travelers (47%) included additional time for leisure/personal time while (on at least some) of their trips. A further 61% would like their corporate travel policy to allow for some leisure time, plus the freedom to let partners or families join them at the employee’s expense.

We all missed out on trips during the pandemic, right? Less time in the office means time spent somewhere new and exciting. This is particularly relevant for younger employees , who typically want to travel more and view it as a work perk.

BLENDED TRAVEL EXPERIENCES DRIVE EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

In the past, business trips often meant giving up 24 hours of your day, for a few days or more. But today’s focus on well-being means business travel needs to feel more like a normal day with time built in for R&R. So blended travel may be nothing new, but — as Amex GBT points out — remote working and the associated lifestyle expectations have accelerated the demand for it.

This doesn’t mean creating a vacation for employees, though some travel agencies are already starting to offer this service while some employers are looking at that as an option .. More broadly, this is about making sure your people have the flexibility to enjoy a blended travel experience. And even, helping them do it, through the TMC or corporate booking/expense tool.

of business travelers want recommendations for their trip. 85% want agencies to make them.

Source: 2023 Travelport research

Sometimes that only requires a rule set allowing the employee to use their own credit card for extras through the expense platform and the booking tool. Even with things the company would normally pay for (like hotels or meals), you can simply let the employee pay the difference for an upgrade. Or make it part of a rewards program — there are lots of routes to consider. Or you can allow the traveler to book some extras on the same itinerary. Or let them extend trips over a weekend to visit friends nearby or explore the destination. After all, Frankfurt may not be top of your places-to-visit list, but if work is sending you there, why not make the most of it?

Here’s an example: you’ve sent a salesperson to a meeting in Chicago on Friday, but they’ve also got to be in Cincinnati on Monday. Rather than flying home on Friday night, and back out on Monday, doesn’t it feel more rewarding to just connect the two trips and give them a little extra daily allowance for a ball game or a nice restaurant? It’s still cost savings, and the employee gets a better trip and feels more valued. The company benefits, too, because they’re proving they can be flexible, and that they value people’s well-being and personal time. Plus, they hit their sustainability goals. Win, win, win — as long as everyone’s needs are balanced fairly and satisfactorily.

These days, you really have to expect the unexpected. Whether that’s due to extreme weather events, political instability, strikes, or even, dare we say it, bed bugs — there are a lot of external factors that can cause unexpected changes to any kind of travel. According to Egencia , 69% of frequent business travelers now view disruption as normal. But the good news is, that doesn’t deter 94% of people from doing it.

The not-so-good news is that often business travelers don’t feel like they get much support when they need it. Fortune reports that less than a third of employees say they receive practical advice while traveling, including who to contact in an emergency or what to do in the event of an incident. And only a small majority of business travelers believe their company can help with an emergency or personal crisis while traveling abroad. One thing is for sure, that uncertainty is not great for well-being.

Our customers are telling us: travel is more prone to change than ever now, so we need more support on the road. To keep everyone moving, we’re using modern retailing technology to better manage itinerary changes, self-services, and communicating with customers

Increasingly, business travelers (and especially younger ones) are turning to new technology for help managing disruption too. No, that doesn’t mean they’re going to ask ChatGPT for advice if an earthquake happens. It means they’re using it to get things like real time updates, timesaving tips, view activity heat maps in destinations, and make arrangements if circumstances change unexpectedly.

USE RETAILING TECHNOLOGY TO HANDLE THESE DEMANDS

All areas of the travel industry have faced serious short-staffing challenges over the past three years. Coupled with more demands for more support (especially urgent ones) this is a big strain on TMCs. To tackle this, TMCs and agencies benefit from technology that offers richer insights for the traveler, with the right range of choices available in the corporate booking tool. Individuals have different needs and concerns, and functionality that takes that into account is so important — particularly for female safety and LGBTQI+ people. This also allows our customers to deliver greater duty of care, by considering crime levels and traveler safety without the traveler having to scramble for research.

While 77% of respondents have used chatbots, roughly the same amount want the option of live chatting with a human.

Automation and AI can help companies and TMCs support travelers more proactively, so they don’t need to do it themselves. When something goes wrong, customers need tools to communicate directly with travelers in advance and give them choices to help plan for all eventualities. Many want self-service capabilities, so they feel in control of their trip when the world around them isn’t. These days, people expect a range of contact options and things like live chat, so problems get resolved immediately, without having to wait for a callback. And as always, the human touch is critical : many want a real-life agent always standing by to help if plans change. Surprisingly, this is even more important for younger travelers .

Travelport and Deem believe the customer should always be at the center of both the travel experience and the corporate travel policy. After all, happy travelers make the best ambassadors a company can hope to have representing them out in the world.

Over the past few years, we’ve been innovating and investing in the corporate travel space, because this is a sector we believe in. To that end, we’re focused on modernizing the customer experience and making business travelers happy. And hey, many people really enjoy traveling for work (we sure do). But it’s important to keep in mind what they’re now giving up to do so, especially compared to five years ago.

Now is the time many innovative customers are modernizing business travel policy to put people first, and make the process easy, efficient, and comfortable. If you’re a corporation, that means harmonizing employee needs with your own. If you’re a TMC, you’ll be used to harmonizing everyone’s needs, but now, there are new things to consider.

Yes, that means thinking about things differently. Like measuring success not only by cost containment, but by well-being, retention, productivity, and meeting sustainability goals. But you’ll soon reap the benefits. Employees will be happier. TMCs will play a more invaluable role. Travel managers will find it easier to keep people within policy, cut costs, reduce leakage, and deliver on duty of care. And organizations will slash recruitment costs too.

But to do all that, customers need flexible technology that offers transparency, rich, intelligent content, offers, and the ability to set different permissions at the individual level. It’s our job to help you. We can offer the maximum choice in travel content, enable more flexibility in delivering compliant offers, and supply the data that helps measure results.

We aim to provide all the right choices. We aim to help customers find the right trip.

We aim to deliver a modern, easy-to-use platform that makes booking and servicing, simple.

See how Cvent can solve your biggest event challenges. Watch a 30-minute demo .

25 Business Travel Planning Tips for 2024

As someone who frequently travels for business, you know just how crucial it is to plan for each trip. From booking flights and accommodations to scheduling meetings and events, there are countless factors to consider when it comes to business travel planning. But with the right approach, you can make the process easier, more efficient, and less stressful. 

This blog post will provide an easy guide to business travel planning with tips and strategies to help you stay organized and get the most out of your travels.

Top 25 Business Travel Planning Tips

• Determine Your Travel Needs

Before you begin making any arrangements for your trip, you'll need to figure out what to do. It includes identifying the purpose of your trip, the dates you'll be traveling, and any specific requirements you have.

For example, will you need to rent a car, hire a driver, or take public transportation? Do you need to be in a specific location for a meeting or event at a particular time? Please list all your travel needs so that you can refer to it as you plan your trip. 

• Set Your Budget

Once you've identified your travel needs, it's time to set your budget. This will help determine how much you can spend on flights, accommodations, transportation, meals, and other expenses. 

Be sure to account for your company policies or restrictions, such as maximum daily allowances for meals or limits on travel expenses. 

• Book Flights and Accommodations

You can begin booking flights and accommodations once you know your travel needs and budget for flights; book as early as possible to get the best prices and seat selections. 

You can use online travel booking sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Orbitz to compare prices and find the best deals. Regarding accommodations, consider factors like location, amenities, and price. Sites like Airbnb and Booking.com can help you find many options in your desired location. 

• Plan Your Schedule

With your flights and accommodations booked, you can start planning your schedule. See if any meetings or events are on your calendar or if you have to schedule them during your trip.

You can use a calendar app like Google Calendar or Outlook to keep track of your schedule and be sure to account for any time differences between your home base and your destination. You can also use travel planning apps like TripIt to consolidate all your travel details in one place. 

• Pack Efficiently

For many, packing is one of the most stressful parts of business travel planning, but it doesn't have to be. With a bit of planning, you can pack efficiently and avoid overpacking.

Make a packing list that includes all the items you'll need for your trip, and be sure to consider the climate and culture of your destination. Maximize space in your luggage using packing cubes or compression bags, and choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. 

Here's a business travel checklist to get you started.

• Manage Expenses

Managing expenses is a critical part of business travel planning. Keep all your receipts and record your expenses as you go. You can use apps like Expensify or Concur to track your expenses and create expense reports which you can directly upload to your company's corporate travel management software . Adhere to all the travel policies of your company or restrictions regarding expenses, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you're unsure. 

• Stay Connected

Staying connected while on a business trip is essential. Please ensure you have all the necessary devices and chargers, and consider using a mobile hotspot or buying a local SIM card for internet access. 

You can also use apps like Skype or Zoom to stay connected with colleagues and clients, and consider using a VPN to access secure company networks while traveling. 

• Stay Healthy

Staying healthy while on a business trip is also crucial. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly. You can also research local health risks and take appropriate precautions, such as vaccinating or using insect repellent. If you're traveling internationally, be sure to bring any necessary medications or prescriptions with you. 

• Be Prepared for Emergencies

No matter how well you plan, emergencies can still arise during business travel —plan for emergencies, such as lost or stolen luggage, flight cancellations, or medical emergencies. 

Keep important documents like your passport and travel itinerary in a secure location, and make sure you have emergency contact information for your company, travel provider, and local authorities. 

• Reflect and Learn

After your business trip, take some time to reflect on areas of improvement and what worked well. Did you encounter any unexpected challenges? Were there any areas where you could have been better prepared or more efficient? You can use what you learned to enhance your travel planning process for future trips. 

• Make the Most of Your Downtime

While business travel primarily focuses on work, making the most of your downtime is essential. Use your free time to explore the local area, try new restaurants, or attend cultural events. It can help you recharge and also make your trip more enjoyable. 

• Network and Build Relationships

Business travel is also an opportunity to network and build relationships with colleagues, clients, and other professionals. Attend networking events, schedule one-on-one meetings, and engage in informal conversations with others in your field. Building relationships can help you advance your career and make future business trips more productive. 

• Consider Travel Rewards Programs

If you frequently travel for business, it's worth considering travel rewards programs to help you save money and earn perks. Many airlines, hotels, and car rental companies offer loyalty programs that provide benefits like free upgrades, priority boarding, and discounted rates. Research your options and sign up for programs that align with your travel needs and preferences. 

• Follow Travel Safety Guidelines

Travel safety is always a top priority, especially after the global pandemic. Follow all relevant travel safety guidelines, such as properly and regularly washing your hands, wearing a mask, and practicing social distancing. Stay updated on any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements in your destination, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. 

• Use Travel Planning Services

If you need more time or expertise to plan your business trip, consider using business travel solutions or planning services. Many companies offer customized travel planning services to help you with everything from booking flights and accommodations to scheduling meetings and events. It can help you save time and ensure your trip is well-organized and productive. 

• Take Advantage of Technology

Technology can be a valuable tool for business travel planning. You can use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate your destination, and consider using translation apps like Google Translate to communicate with locals.

You can also use productivity apps like Trello or Asana to stay on top of your tasks and deadlines and document scanning apps like CamScanner to keep track of important documents. 

• Be Flexible

Finally, it's essential to be flexible regarding business travel planning. Unexpected changes can arise, such as flight delays or last-minute meetings. You can try to remain flexible and adaptable, and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. You can have a successful, stress-free business trip by staying open-minded and solution-focused. 

• Consider Cultural Differences

When traveling to a different country or region, it's crucial to consider cultural differences. This can include language barriers, customs, and social norms. Research the local culture before your trip and try to learn some key phrases in the local language. Awareness of cultural differences can help you avoid misunderstandings and build stronger relationships with locals. 

• Use Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can provide significant protection in case of unexpected events during your trip. It can include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Consider purchasing travel insurance before your trip to ensure protection during unforeseen circumstances. 

• Stay Productive During Transit

Business travel often involves long transit periods, such as flights or train rides. Use this time to stay productive by catching up on work or reading relevant materials. Consider bringing a laptop or tablet, noise-canceling headphones, and any necessary chargers or adapters to maximize your time and stay on top of your tasks. 

• Consider Sustainable Travel Practices

Sustainable travel practices can help reduce your environmental impact while traveling for business. This can include using public transportation or carpooling, choosing eco-friendly accommodations, and minimizing plastic waste. Consider incorporating sustainable practices into your travel planning to help promote a healthier planet. 

• Choose the Right Travel Credit Card

A travel credit card can be valuable for business travel. Look for cards that offer rewards like points or miles that you can redeem for flights, hotels, or other travel-related expenses. Consider different cards' annual fees, interest rates, and rewards programs before choosing. 

• Consider Time Zone Differences

Time zone differences can be challenging when traveling for business, particularly when scheduling meetings or calls. Use a time zones converter app like Time Zone Converter or World Clock to stay on top of the time differences between your location and destination. Be prepared to adjust your schedule accordingly to ensure you're available during critical times. 

• Be Mindful of Jet Lag

Jet lag can be a significant challenge when traveling across multiple time zones. Please be aware of the symptoms of jet lag, such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping, and take steps to minimize its impact. This can include staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and adjusting your sleep schedule before your trip. 

• Plan for Time Off After Your Trip

Finally, planning for time off after your business trip is important. Returning to work immediately after a long journey can be physically and mentally challenging. Please take a day or two off after your trip to rest and recover before returning to work to ensure you're ready to tackle your next professional challenge.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, business travel planning can be daunting, but you can make it easier and more efficient with the right approach. Determining your travel needs and following these tips can ensure a  successful and productive business trip. Happy travels!

Cvent Guest

Cvent is a market-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider with more than 4,000 employees, ~21,000 customers, and 200,000 users worldwide.

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Why Understanding Your Preferences Is Crucial in Travel Planning

Traveling is an exhilarating and enriching experience that allows people to explore new places, cultures, and cuisines. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, every journey begins with a choice – where to go. However, while the destination is undoubtedly important, it’s equally crucial to understand your preferences when planning your trip. Your travel preferences can significantly impact the overall experience, from the activities you engage in to the memories you create. This article explores why understanding your choices is crucial in travel planning and how it can elevate your adventures.

The Importance of Personalization

Minimizing stress.

Travel can be stressful, especially when faced with unfamiliar environments, languages, and customs. However, knowing your preferences can serve as a powerful stress-reduction tool. For instance, if you’re an introvert, choosing a more secluded destination or accommodations can provide much-needed solitude and tranquility. On the other hand, extroverts may thrive in bustling urban areas with plenty of social interactions. Theme parks like Universal Studios and tourist attractions may delight some travelers, while others might find them overwhelming. For the former, get tickets for Universal Studios early and plan your visit during off-peak hours to enjoy shorter lines and a more relaxed experience. You can minimize stress and enhance your overall well-being by aligning your preferences with your travel choices.

Maximizing Enjoyment

Imagine embarking on a hiking expedition when you despise the outdoors or planning a culinary tour when you’re a picky eater. In both scenarios, the likelihood of enjoying your trip decreases significantly. Understanding your preferences allows you to avoid pitfalls and select activities that genuinely pique your interest. This ensures a higher level of enjoyment and minimizes the risk of disappointment or frustration.

The Impact on Accommodation

Budget vs. luxury.

Budget constraints often play a significant role in travel decisions. Understanding your financial preferences is essential to strike the right balance between affordability and comfort. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, you may opt for hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb rentals . Conversely, if you prefer luxury and pampering, boutique hotels or upscale resorts might be more your style. Acknowledging your financial preferences allows you to find accommodations that fit your budget without compromising quality.

Location Matters

The location of your accommodation can shape your entire trip. Do you prefer staying in the heart of the action, within walking distance of popular attractions, or in a quieter, residential neighborhood? Your choice can impact your daily routine and overall experience. If you value convenience and accessibility, a central location might be ideal. However, a less touristy area could be more appealing if you seek tranquility and authenticity.

Planning for Travel Companions

Communication and compromise.

Effective communication and compromise are essential when traveling with others. Understanding their preferences and finding common ground can prevent conflicts and enhance the overall experience. Discuss your travel goals, interests, and expectations beforehand to create a well-rounded itinerary that accommodates everyone’s preferences.

Balance in Activities

Each member likely has different preferences and interests if you’re traveling with a group. Strive for balance in your activities and create an itinerary that includes a variety of experiences. This way, everyone can indulge in their favorite activities while exploring new interests.

Flexibility

Flexibility is crucial when traveling with companions. Sometimes, you may need to adjust your plans or make spontaneous decisions to accommodate the preferences of others. You can make the most of your collective travel experience by embracing flexibility and a spirit of adventure.

Enhancing Your Travel Memories

Authentic Experiences

Choosing activities and destinations that resonate with your preferences makes you more likely to have authentic and meaningful experiences. These experiences include interacting with locals, immersing yourself in the culture, and discovering hidden gems that align with your interests.

Personal Growth

Traveling in line with your preferences can also foster personal growth. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone , try new things, and embrace different perspectives. Whether conquering fear, learning a new skill, or gaining a deeper appreciation for a specific culture, travel can transform and enrich your life.

Lasting Impressions

The memories you create during your travels are the souvenirs that stay with you long after you return home. By understanding your preferences and planning a trip that caters to them, you’re more likely to create lasting impressions you’ll cherish forever.

In travel planning, understanding your preferences is not a luxury but a necessity. It’s the compass that guides you to destinations and experiences that resonate with your individuality. By aligning your travel choices with your preferences, you maximize enjoyment, minimize stress, and create memories that are uniquely yours. So, the next time you embark on a journey, take the time to reflect on your preferences and let them lead you on a path of discovery and fulfillment. Travel is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey, and understanding your preferences ensures that every step of that journey is tailored to your desires and dreams.

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Understanding Traveler Plans, Preferences, and Priorities for 2024

Global Hotel Alliance + Skift

December 13th, 2023 at 10:00 AM EST

With travel demand holding steady into the new year, Global Hotel Alliance’s new member survey uncovers the most popular destinations for 2024, the factors motivating travelers to visit them, and the hotel loyalty benefits they value most.

Global Hotel Alliance

This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner.

Now that leisure travel demand is back — with business travel expected to catch up in 2024 — travel brands are looking carefully at traveler preferences and searching for clues that can shed light on the factors motivating traveler decisions.

The new “2024 Travel Trends” report from Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), a collection of 40 independent hotel brands with more than 800 hotels in 100 countries, provides an inside look at the travel plans and priorities of today’s travelers across 10 key markets globally.

“Overall, the survey confirms that travel is back and going strong, with no signs of slowing down,” said Kristi Gole, executive vice president of strategy at GHA. “Leisure travel remains the focus, and travelers are increasingly eager to see and experience new things.”

Where Travelers Plan to Go in 2024

Based on more than 10,000 responses from members of Global Hotel Alliance’s loyalty program, GHA Discovery , the survey revealed that most members want to explore new destinations more than visit destinations they’ve already experienced.

Japan and Thailand topped the list for global travelers, followed by Spain, Canada, and Hawaii, with Europe ranking as the most popular regional destination.

What Travelers Seek: The Ongoing Rise of Experiential Travel

Most survey respondents said they prefer to visit cities, followed closely by beaches, with less desire to visit the countryside or mountains. They also indicated their trip-planning decisions are increasingly driven by new experiences, activities, and cultural tours — and they’re looking forward to experiencing new things, including local foods and cuisines.

“Travelers are looking for authentic experiences in the places they stay, the food they try, and the things they do,” Gole said. “They want to see and feel the culture. In fact, cultural tours created exclusively for GHA Discovery members are the top booked experiences across our hotels.”

Across all regions, most respondents plan to travel more for leisure than for business, reflecting a relatively slower pace of recovery for the corporate travel sector.

“China has the highest average of business and leisure trips planned, with both being largely domestic or within Asia,” Gole said. “They also are the most interested in staycations, which has been diminishing in other markets, particularly in the U.S.”

How Travelers Find Inspiration: Social Media and Friends

Respondents cited social media and family and friends’ recommendations as top inspiration sources, with 75 percent of respondents saying they travel to new places after seeing friends’ posts.

“Brands can capitalize on this by tapping into influencers as well as making content easily shareable for guests during or after their stay, and even incentivizing posts, helping guests share their memories while gaining exposure,” Gole said.

Family and friends may have considerable influence over where members go, but they hold less sway over members’ accommodation choices. When selecting a hotel, members said family and friends’ recommendations are the least used.

How Travelers Choose: Hotel and Loyalty Program Preferences

Quality of accommodation and loyalty program benefits were cited as the most important factors when selecting a hotel. Members said they prefer using the hotel’s loyalty program website or app to conduct research, followed by online travel agencies (OTAs). They also prefer to book on the hotel loyalty website or app — except in North America, where members prefer the hotel’s direct website or app.

“Members want maximum choice with minimal effort within their preferred loyalty program,” Gole said. “Hotels should ensure they are leveraging the benefits of loyalty programs and maintaining the value exchange for customers on their loyalty site, such as having rate parity with third parties as well as offering member rates, which often results in members booking a higher room category, for a net increase in rate rather than assumed cannibalization.”

Respondents counted discounted member rates and benefits, such as room upgrades, among their most valued loyalty elements. In Europe, where members previously indicated that discounts were most important, room upgrades, early check-in, and late checkout were valued significantly more this year.

Gole is optimistic that travel demand will continue to rise as members discover more ways to experience added value through the GHA Discovery loyalty program.

“Leisure travel will remain strong in 2024, with travelers willing to go even farther to see and experience new things,” Gole said. “Brands and programs that have a diversity of destinations as well as properties that are more authentic and culturally distinct will have the advantage. Rates will remain high, but with the expectation that service levels and added value will match. We’re excited for the year ahead.”

In this report, you’ll also find:

• Where members are most excited to visit next year, by region of residence
• What indicators demonstrate the renewed strength of Asian outbound tourism
• How members support hotels with their sustainability efforts

This content was created collaboratively by Global Hotel Alliance and Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX .

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: Global Hotel Alliance , loyalty , SkiftX Showcase: Hospitality , travel planning , traveler

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Travelers on the move again

Traveler Sentiment Survey

The travel industry is gradually moving again, but predicting travel demand is challenging in a rapidly changing environment. For now, self-quarantine measures required when traveling from high risk areas continue to keep most would-be travelers homebound. The good news: Once consumers take that first trip in this new environment, they are far more willing to travel again. However, a number of other factors — most of which stem from uncertainty — could continue to influence consumer travel behavior.

To stay current with evolving expectations, attitudes and behaviors about travel, PwC surveyed more than 1,000 consumers nationwide during the week of July 8, 2020, following an earlier survey conducted in April. All respondents had taken at least one flight or spent at least one night in a hotel in 2019.

Once consumers travel again, they are vastly reassured

Most consumers are still wary of travel, but those who have traveled recently report a substantial increase in confidence. Among respondents who have traveled since May, 58% expect to book additional air travel within three months (compared to 46% in our April survey), while 74% expect to stay at a brand-name hotel (compared to 57% in April).

In contrast, survey respondents who have not traveled since May said they were less likely to travel in three months, with only 26% anticipating air travel and 38% expecting to stay in a brand-name hotel.

Consumers who traveled since May also show a dramatic decrease in anxiety. Before they traveled, only 11% said they were not concerned about health and safety measures during air travel and only 16% said they were not concerned during hotel stays.

After they traveled in May, the share of those who were not concerned about health and safety measures almost quintupled for air travel and more than tripled for hotel stays. In both cases, 50% said they were not concerned. In fact, they said that they are so comfortable with the health and safety protocols currently in place that they are more likely to select travel providers based on price — unlike earlier in the year, when safety mattered most.

Implications

To meet travelers’ expectations, figure out what they value — based on both their behavior and what they’re telling you. Use data and demand intelligence algorithms to assess leading indicators of travel recovery before tailoring specific messages to travelers — whether confident or reluctant ones. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Meanwhile, don’t overlook consumers who might be willing to try your brand for the first time because their outlook on travel is evolving.

Taking a trip paves the way for more travel

Traveling eases anxiety, travelers are up for grabs.

During the initial phase of the pandemic, consumers prioritized brand trust, which they equated with health and safety measures. For those who have traveled since May, however, price is now the top consideration for both airlines and hotels. Brand loyalty is also in flux, as more than 37% of the consumers surveyed are likely to switch airlines, while 41% are likely to switch hotels. Almost 40% are undecided, making them prime candidates for targeted offers.

Meanwhile, customers who provide the most value to travel providers — high-value customers — are most likely to explore switching brands. More than half (55%) say they are extremely or somewhat likely to explore new air travel brands or loyalty programs, and almost 60% express similar sentiments about hotel programs. Their reasons are varied, suggesting that travel providers should explore their high-value customers’ brand loyalty in greater depth.

Consumers are already making room for new possibilities in the wake of the pandemic, so travel providers should go beyond protecting existing loyalty members with extended expiration dates for points or miles. Our survey data illustrates that purchase drivers vary widely among status levels within loyalty programs. It’s important to understand these and other differences, identify pockets of demand and then develop data models to create targeted campaigns to attract, reward and retain customers. Pay special attention to high-value customers.

Why high-value members may switch loyalty programs

Risk remains ever-present.

In July, consumers continued to be just as wary of gathering in large numbers as they were when we asked the question in April. The majority of respondents — 76% — also said they would avoid gathering places such as restaurants, lounges, retail stores and other common areas in airports. For the foreseeable future, airport travelers are less likely to linger while shopping, eating, drinking or relaxing between flights. The opportunity here is for touchless digital innovation that allows travelers to navigate airports while staying healthy.

Our survey respondents also are as cautious as ever about which sources to trust for guidance on public health and safety measures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remains the most trusted source for travelers, with 66% of consumers putting their faith in CDC guidelines, compared to 59% in April. Meanwhile faith in government entities and private companies is lower than it was three months ago.

Even as confidence in travel grows, change is imminent. Without clear insight into that change, appealing to potential travelers is next to impossible. Travel providers should use demand intelligence tools, such as PwC’s Analytics Foundation , to identify regional and national travel trends and discover what appeals to various segments of travelers.

While consumers may not trust private companies as sources for their public health and safety information, they do rely on communications from airlines, hotels and short-term rental companies to make travel choices. The path ahead for travel, transportation and hospitality companies is clear: Align your customer communications with information from trusted sources. And explore touchless digital innovation to allow your customers to navigate the travel experience more safely and effectively.

Perceived risk of various travel options

Travelers will avoid gathering places at airports.

Travelers 40 years old and younger are the most willing to pay for increased physical space between themselves and fellow travelers.

Consumers want to hear from travel providers

Consumers told us in no uncertain terms that they want to hear from their travel providers. They are eager to receive clear, consistent, ongoing information about safety measures that can protect their health when they travel.

In fact, 80% of consumers told us they make choices about where to stay or how to get there based on communications from their travel providers. They also told us they are not satisfied with the communications they are currently receiving.

Having already implemented a raft of comprehensive safety protocols based on the most current guidance from medical experts, travel, transportation and hospitality companies need to complete the circle by communicating the breadth of those safety measures to reassure consumers.

Reach consumers in every channel they might expect, both digital and physical, with clear, consistent, ongoing information about ongoing safety protocols so they have ample reassurance before they make their travel plans.

Use those connection points with existing customers to cement loyalty, while also targeting new customers with features that might appeal to them. With many travelers primed to switch brands or loyalty programs, the time to act is now.

Consumer dissatisfaction with communications from travel providers inches up

80% of consumers make travel choices based on the communications they receive from their travel providers.

Guarded optimism for travel and hospitality

The isolation felt in the early stages of the pandemic has led to an increased desire in many consumers to reconnect in person — both for business and personal reasons. And the surge in confidence seen among consumers who have traveled bodes well for travel, transportation and hospitality companies.

While uncertainty about the public health implications of COVID-19 continues, consumer trust in the scientific and medical community offers travel providers an opportunity to implement safety measures based on scientific guidance.

These businesses are also well-advised to communicate consistently in order to reassure consumers about their health and safety. Meanwhile, demand intelligence tools that combine leading indicators of travel recovery with public health mandates and consumer preferences can provide insights into upcoming trends in the months ahead. 

Download Traveler sentiment survey

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Principal, Customer Transformation and Loyalty, PwC US

Customer Transformation and Loyalty Director, PwC US

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How Business Air Travel Is Changing

Business travelers and corporate travel managers are coming to terms with new factors that are enabling work trips to make a comeback, but which are also making journeys more complicated.

Many countries have lifted border closures or quarantine mandates related to the pandemic but are still requiring proof of vaccination and/or virus tests either before departure or on arrival—and in some cases, both. Additionally, corporations that are returning work travel to their schedules are increasingly doing so with sustainability in mind. There is much greater awareness of the carbon impact of work travel, not just because of the flight but also the destination.

Early indications point to 2022 being the long-awaited year when business and international travel returns and that it is coming back fairly swiftly.

 “We’re seeing significant returns to international travel,” travel and expense management company SAP Concur senior director, supplier management, Paul Dear, told ATW .

Virtual meetings and conferencing remain common, “but there are definitely more in-person meetings coming along,” he said.

Among changing trends with post-pandemic business travel, Dear said that foreign trips were more likely to involve staff flying to see clients for face-to-face meetings. Internal company travel, to visit colleagues in an overseas office or factory, will be less common than occurred before 2020, although it will remain important to some companies that want employees to retain some physical connections.

Small- and medium-sized companies, being less bound by rules than large corporations, are leading the return to the departure lounges, Dear said.

Those rules include a new emphasis on staff well-being, “which has to be at the forefront” of considerations by travel managers. Reports on aircraft cleanliness and inflight hygiene are likely to be scrutinized and will become significant factors in travel managers deciding which airlines to recommend.   

Those in charge of corporate travel will also have to consider the sustainability policies of airlines, Dear noted.

“Travel managers now probably have even more complicated jobs, not only negotiating airline and hotel rates, but also traveler well-being and carbon budgets—offsetting carbon costs if necessary,” he said.

With carbon budgets now increasingly being set at the departmental level, travel managers are turning to technology to understand the size of their carbon footprints. Accurate data will be essential to calculate that footprint and to allow organizations to adhere to new sustainability policies, he said.

Those organizations will increasingly seek to be aligned with airlines that demonstrably practice sustainability. That will include scrutinizing the marketplace to see which carriers are testing and putting into service sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and looking at which airlines have the most modern—and most fuel-efficient—fleets.

“There’s a lot of discussion about fleet age. I think sustainability is embedded now in all our lives, not just business travelers. If a travel manager recommends an airline today, sustainability will be a factor,” Dear said.

For now, these are being prioritized over airline loyalty schemes in determining which carrier to fly but, he added, “I suspect that as we come out of the pandemic, loyalty schemes will become more important again.”

Sustainability is also changing the travel mode options available, at least in Europe.

“In Europe, a number of global companies are looking at rail first as a travel policy. For example, there’s a travel event in Berlin at the end of February. I’m seeing UK-based employees of major UK companies taking the train rather than flying,” Dear said.

He noted that he was planning to take the train from his London base to an appointment in Switzerland using the cross-Channel Eurostar to Paris and connecting to a French high-speed train system for the remainder of the journey.

“Going to Basel [via train] is quite achievable; depending on connections, you’re looking at four to five hours,” Dear said.

Journey times would be roughly similar to a flight, given that the trip would be between city centers, cutting out travel to and from airports, as well as saving the one or two hours waiting at an airport for departure. It is also easier to work on a train, he added.

For business travelers who still elect to fly, SAP Concur has seen some changes in behavior. One was an increase in opting for direct flights, rather than connecting via hubs; another was the elongation of trips.

“People are flying less but staying longer,” Dear said. The preference seems to be for getting more out of a single trip, perhaps combining several client appointments with a conference visit, to optimize the value of the trip and the carbon impact.

Based in London, Alan is Europe & Middle East correspondent at Air Transport World.

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More From Forbes

Business travel is back—jump in with these travel essentials.

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It’s time to leave your work-from-home set up and not just for a stint into the office. Business travel is once again trending and many of us have not restocked our travel bags in years. Now is the perfect time for a travel closet refresh and these items will help you look your best and be better prepared for that next official meeting.

Arrive in style with this suit

A terrific wrinkle-free suit from Bonobos

Bonobos is well known for offering key wardrobe pieces that can be easily styled and customized. An excellent choice for business travel is the Jetsetter stretch wool suit. The tailoring looks great and the material—97% wool, 3% stretch—prioritizes comfort. This all-season suit features modern notch lapels, double-button placket, double vent, non-functioning button cuffs, Bemberg lining and an interior passport pocket. You can choose between slim, regular and athletic fit and a host of colors. The wrinkle-resistant fabric guarantees you will look terrific upon arrival.

A stylish choice from Veilance

A multi functional work friendly dress from Arc’teryx

While you may shop Arc’teryx for its outstanding outdor gear, its Veilance line is geared towards fashionable urban dwellers. A perfect piece that can transition from day to night is the Icosta dress. This new wardrobe favorite offers comfort, performance and lots of extra style. The stretch polyester weave makes it easy to move around in and its moisture wicking quality will help you stay cool in stuffy meeting rooms. Small pockets are a nice, welcome touch and ultrasonic finishing throughout provides clean lines and seamless luxury.

The Surface Pro 9

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An ideal laptop from Microsoft

If it’s time to upgrade your laptop, Microsoft’s Surface Pro 9 is a great choice. The Surface Pro 9 provides terrific laptop performance and up to 19 hours of battery life for long workdays. It can also be used as a tablet and provides an ideal screen for a late-night movie in your hotel room. Another plus—it weighs less than two pounds. You can customize the device and keyboard with multiple colors and materials. And if AI is on your wish list, Microsoft’s Copilot is easily integrated into this newest Surface device.

A fashionable backpack

A sleek backpack from Thule

It is definitely time to update your backpack. The Thule Subterra 2 21L backpack is perfect for the modern traveler; it combines a streamlined look, numerous features and storage compartments for all your needs. Inside, you will find padded laptop and tablet sleeves to ensure that your tech stays safe. And an interior organization section keeps pens, chargers, keys and other essentials in place. A back “security” pocket allows you to keep your passport and wallet hidden, but easy to access. As an added bonus, the bag is bluesign® certified, meaning it is manufactured with the environment in mind.

Durable and stylish travel jewelry

Designer travel jewelry from D. Louise

If you want to look stylish, but don’t want to tote your authentic gold and diamond pieces with you when you travel, then consider a purchase form D. Louise. This British company makes incredibly fashionable pieces that are appropriate for business meetings and adventure treks. The pieces are gold-plated stainless steel and use a coating process that is 10 times stronger than standard gold plating and is environmentally friendly. This is jewelry that you can confidently swim and work out in. All pieces are guaranteed not to fade or tarnish. In addition, the packaging is sustainable and the company plants a tree for every order placed.

Cozy wool slippers

Get cozy with these wool slippers from Glerups

This Danish company has been making environmentally friendly wool footwear for decades. Wool is naturally temperature regulating, odor-resistant and breathable and these Glerups come in multiple styles and colors. Stay comfortable during long flights or in your hotel room with these extremely lightweight wool slippers. They can be ordered with leather or rubber soles and are also ideal for a quick trip to breakfast buffet. The company uses wool that is carefully sourced from Danish Gotland sheep and sheep from New Zealand on farms committed to regenerative agriculture.

Multi-purpose sunglasses

Versatile sunglasses from ROKA

You can look terrific and obtain outstanding features with the newest sunglasses from Roka. The Oslo 2.0 includes upgraded hinges, temples, and GEKO™ grip placement. These features help to create a better fit during all activities. You can gain sun protection while navigating any city and also use these during an outdoor run or a trip to the beach, so there is no need to pack multiple pairs of sunglasses. ROKA glasses come in multiple colors and lens options and are customizable. Try them on virtually to see which you prefer.

A favorite travel pillow

A favorite neck pillow from Turtl

If you struggle to get comfortable on those longer flights, consider the Turtl. This innovative neck pillow might just allow you to get a bit of a rest before your arrival. The Turtl comes in four colors and offer multiple benefits. There is complete support for your head, so you won’t bump into your seatmate and it has been demonstrated to relieve stress on your spine and muscles. The soft fleece fabric will help you feel comfy as you nod off.

Protect your phone in style

Magsafe phone case from Otterbox

The Symmetry Series soft-touch phone case is an ideal travel companion. It provides durable protection so you don’t need to worry if you accidentally drop your phone (3 times as many drops as the military standard.) The ultra slim design means it is easy to slip in and out of pockets and the soft touch material makes it easy to grip. The case comes equipped with built in magnets that lets you charge your phone from any MagSafe charging device.

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Your United Corporate Preferred journey

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Enjoy tie-breaker preference on the upgrade list and preferred seat protection.

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Receive preferred re-accommodation and protection when travel doesn't go as planned.

Waiting for an upgrade? You receive tie-breaker preference for upgrade clearance.

This benefit applies across United’s available upgrade tools and instruments.

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Receive preference for your original seat assignment or type (like aisle, window, etc.) if there's an aircraft swap.

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You’ll have higher priority for protection in the unlikely event of a downgrade or involuntary denied boarding situation.

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Small Business Trends

10 best business travel management companies.

A good travel management company can provide you with a travel program that is tailored to your needs, as well as travel arrangers to help you with all of your travel arrangements. They can also provide you with helpful tips and advice for business travelers. If you’re looking for the best travel management services for your business, then look no further than the following 10 companies.

What are Business Travel Management Companies and What do They Offer Business Travelers?

BTMCs, provide services to their corporate clients to help manage their business travel. This can include providing software that tracks the expenses and itineraries of traveling employees, booking flights and hotels, arranging car rentals and other transportation, and providing customer service support during the travelers’ trip.

This can be invaluable for companies that have many employees traveling for work regularly, as it helps keep track of all the costs and logistics associated with business travel. Additionally, BTMCs can often negotiate lower rates for their clients on various travel services.

• READ MORE: Travel Risk Management Tips

Benefits of Using a Corporate Travel Management Company

There are many benefits to using a corporate management company for travel, including these four:

• Expense management. BTMCs can help businesses keep track of their spending on business travel and provide software to help manage and automate the expense reporting process.
• Business traveler support. Corporate travel management companies can provide customer support to travelers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This can be helpful in the event of an emergency or last-minute changes to travel plans.
• Travel management solution. BTMCs can provide businesses with a complete travel management solution that includes booking flights and hotels, arranging transportation, and providing customer support.
• Lower travel costs. BTMCs often have access to discounts on flights, hotels, and other travel services that they can pass on to their clients.

How to Grow Your Corporate Travel Program

A company can grow its business travel program in a few ways, including using a business management company for travel. Business travel arrangers can help to make travel easier and more efficient for employees, which can save the company time and money.

You can also educate employees on the benefits of using a travel management company in the travel program. And you can encourage employees to book their travel early.

General Criteria for Choosing the Best Business Travel Management Company- Our Methodology

Selecting the right business travel management company is crucial for streamlining your corporate travel needs. To assist you in this important decision, here are some general criteria to consider, along with a scale indicating their relative importance:

1. Expertise and Industry Experience (9/10):

• Extensive experience in corporate travel management.
• In-depth knowledge of the travel industry and its trends.
• Proven track record of successfully handling business travel for clients.

2. Cost Efficiency (9/10):

• Competitive pricing and cost-effective solutions.
• Ability to negotiate discounts with airlines, hotels, and other service providers.
• Transparent pricing structures with no hidden fees.

3. Traveler Support and Assistance (9/10):

• 24/7 availability for traveler support.
• Access to a dedicated travel advisor or consultant.
• Quick response time to resolve travel-related issues.

4. Technology and Booking Tools (7/10):

• User-friendly online booking platforms.
• Integration with expense management systems.
• Mobile apps for easy on-the-go bookings and itinerary access.

5. Customization and Flexibility (7/10):

• Tailored travel solutions to meet your specific business needs.
• Ability to accommodate last-minute changes or adjustments.
• Flexible policies that align with your company’s travel policy.

6. Traveler Well-being and Safety (9/10):

• Implementation of traveler safety measures and risk management.
• Access to real-time updates and alerts during travel.
• Compliance with health and safety regulations, especially during emergencies.

7. Reporting and Analytics (7/10):

• Access to detailed reporting on travel expenses and patterns.
• Analytics tools to help identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Insights into traveler behavior and preferences for future improvements.

8. Global Reach and Network (7/10):

• A wide network of partners and suppliers worldwide.
• Capabilities to manage international travel seamlessly.
• Knowledge of regional travel nuances and requirements.

9. Client References and Testimonials (7/10): 

• Positive feedback and references from current clients.
• Case studies showcasing successful travel management experiences.
• Reputation and credibility within the industry.

10. Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility (5/10):

• Commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly travel practices.
• Options for carbon offset programs or eco-conscious travel choices.
• Alignment with your company’s sustainability goals.

The 10 Best Travel Management Companies for Business Travel

As businesses increasingly shift to a global marketplace, the need for efficient and cost-effective travel management has become more important than ever.

In this new era of globalization, organizations are looking for travel managers who can help them navigate the higher prices and complex logistics of doing business internationally. Here are ten of the best travel management companies for businesses of all sizes:

1. TravelBank

TravelBank offers a comprehensive corporate travel management solution with extensive industry experience that includes expense reports, money management, and booking. With TravelBank, businesses can save time and money while ensuring that their employees have a safe and seamless travel experience.

2. AMEX GBT

If you’re looking for an efficient and reliable way to handle your business travel, AMEX GBT is a great option with a fantastic reputation. Their risk alerts and direct communication during disruptions make them a dependable choice, while their pre-negotiated rates can save you money.

Plus, their customer care operates at a rapid 15-second response time, so you can always get help when you need it. And if you need to cancel your trip last minute, FlexiPerk can get you up to 80% of your money back.

3. SAP Concur

SAP Concur is a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to manage their travel spending. It offers a wide range of features, including booking tools, expense reporting, and invoicing. This makes it an ideal solution for companies that want to streamline their travel process and reduce their expenses.

• READ MORE: David Alexander of SAP Concur: Automating Expense and Travel Management Sheds Light on Company Spending Issues

CWT is a 150-year-old company that has a global presence in 150 countries. So it has a fantastic reputation and a wealth of industry experience. It offers a business-to-business-for-employees platform that’s reliable and easy to use. Their myCWT app is accessible on PC and mobile devices, and it allows travelers to book flights and make reservations at 800,000+ properties at special rates.

Egencia is a travel management software that can help businesses keep track of their travelers and their travel data. This can help ensure traveler safety and a smooth travel program. Egencia also offers reports and analytics so that businesses can see how their travelers are performing and where they can make improvements.

6. BCD Travel

BCD Travel offers comprehensive travel management solutions for businesses of all sizes. With offices in 109 countries, BCD Travel is well-positioned to help businesses manage their travel needs worldwide.

Their software suite includes three separate platforms that can be customized to meet the unique needs of your business. Additionally, BCD Travel offers access to APIs to integrate with their platforms, making it easy to get the exact solution you need.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive travel solution for your business, look no further than CTM. They provide online booking tools for corporate travel, making it easy to find a hotel and car rental. With CTM, you can get your business trip organized quickly and easily.

8. TravelPerk

With the world’s largest inventory of travel options and partners with the biggest names in the business, TravelPerk can cater to your every need. Forget about hours wasted researching flights, hotels, and car rentals – let TravelPerk do all the hard work for you.

9. FCM Travel Solution

If you’re looking for great deals on business travel, FCM Travel Solution is the perfect option. With over 650,000 hotel properties and major airline partnerships, FCM can offer you specially negotiated airfares and hotel rates.

Plus, their FCM Connect suite of tools includes a powerful online booking tool and an expense management platform, making trip planning and tracking expenses a breeze.

10. TripActions

TripActions has trusted partner connections and an easy booking process that’ll have you on your way quickly and easily. Plus, if you need any help along the way, TripActions’ customer support is always happy to help.

• READ MORE: business travel tips

Factors to consider when choosing a corporate travel management company

When choosing the best corporate travel management solutions for a small business, there are a few key factors to consider.

One of the most important considerations is the travel managers themselves – what experience do they have and what is their knowledge of the travel industry advancements that can save money for your company?

Additionally, it’s important to look at the company’s commitment to traveler wellbeing. Are they offering features like loyalty rewards programs and 24/7 support? Finally, it’s also important to check out the company’s ability to save you money.

Can they offer discounts on airfare, hotels, and car rentals? By considering all of these factors, you can be sure that you’re choosing the best travel management solutions for your business.

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· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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