Why ‘workations’ are the boost the travel industry needs
Tourism chiefs are hoping to tap into a new “workation” trend, and help the travel industry recover from the pandemic's devastating impact.
Industry leaders are urging businesses to capitalise on the number of people working from home by encouraging them to relocate for a working break away.
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Workations are one of a number of growing trends which VisitScotland believes could transform the industry as it recovers from the effects of COVID.
The tourism body said people working from home can now work from anywhere, and that staff could clock off, and already be on holiday.
“We want to show people the different experiences you can have in Scotland,” Vicki Miller, head of marketing at VisitScotland, said.
“Workations are a growing trend because many employers have had their employees working at home during the pandemic, but are maybe now looking at a blended model in future. If you can work from home you can work from anywhere now.
"You could be heading off on a Thursday and Friday to work from somewhere completely different, with a different view, and maybe somewhere to sit outside to work. And when you finish work you’re already on holiday. It’s definitely a trend we’d encourage businesses to think about.”
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The industry is also encouraging people to embrace “slow travel” instead of ticking off bucket-list sights and take responsibility for protecting unspoiled landscapes.
"We have got some great touring routes across Scotland,” Miller added.
“It’s a great way to see the country, but we want people to take their time and have really memorable experiences in Scotland this year. The best way to do that is to slow down, take in the sights and enjoy experiences, spend time in local communities, buy local products and enjoy the local hospitality.
“It’s really important for the survival of the industry, which is obviously starting the season later this year, that we see demand throughout the rest of the year and not just the summer.”
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A recent trend report from Skyscanner found that 39% of travellers surveyed said they were planning a trip of over 14 days to enjoy an extended holiday this year, suggesting the slow travel trend is on the rise.
Countries like Dominica are encouraging people to take an extended break in their nation too. As we reported last month, Dominica is now offering 18-month visas for remote workers and welcoming families, in particular, to apply.
Additional reporting by SWNS.
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