As the world continues to adapt to the “new normal” of social distancing, face masks and self-quarantines, there are some silver linings to be found. Virtual cooking classes have created scores of new chefs who now prepare gourmet meals in the comfort of their homes, while online music and art instruction is booming, thereby opening whole new worlds of creativity for people who have been separated from society for months on end.
Another positive trend is that your average nine-to-five worker is no longer confined to being in an office Monday through Friday, ultimately gaining a sense of flexibility that was never before possible. “Workations” is a new phenomenon that suggests the homebound worker will leverage this new-found geographical liberty to book more travel to safe and secure havens. With guest comfort and safety at the forefront, hotels and resorts are embracing the emerging workation trend, offering uniquely designed perks for today’s traveler.
Conrad Punta de Mita, Punta de Mita, Mexico
Opening in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit on Sept. 1, the Conrad Punta de Mita is situated among the area’s serene natural landscapes and aquamarine waters. In celebration of its upcoming opening, the property is currently offering the Work from Paradise Package, uniquely designed to meet the needs of today’s traveler and inspired by the emerging ‘workation’ travel trend. With starting rates of $260 this package includes a daily $75 resort credit, access to premium Wi-Fi, early check-in/late check-out and 50% discount on a re-energizing massage. After work Zoom calls, guests will enjoy the adventures available at the resort for off-work hour fun. Among the highlights are three expansive pools, a two-mile-long beach and access to the Litibu Golf Course.
W Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Located directly along the shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, W Fort Lauderdale invites travelers to work in full privacy with its new Buy Four, Get The Floor Promotion. Book four of the hotel’s two-bedroom Residential Suites and the hotel will block off the rest of the floor, ensuring zero distractions and full privacy at $2,000 per night. Ideal for extended stays, these suites include two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, washer, dryer and balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic waterfront views. The promotion also includes insider access to ‘The Spot’, a bespoke lounge with complimentary continental breakfast to start the day off strong. The Book Four, Get the Floor offer can accommodate up to six people per suite, 24 persons total.
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Trade in your daily coffee for a fresh coconut drink, home office walls for open, ocean air and everyday views for a panorama of the Pacific when relocating your workstation to Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. Located on a private beach along the pristine Banderas Bay with views of the Sierra Madre Mountains, the resort’s newest renovations include Nosh, a bi-level, open air eatery providing the ultimate spot for working on spreadsheets or filing reports. The expansive beachfront resort, equipped with Wifi throughout, offers plenty of safe spaces to put in eight hours. Guests who book three nights will save 25% or 30% when they stay four or more. To book, use promo code D3Q. The offer is available through September 30, 2020 and valid for travel through December 20, 2020.
Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection, Napa, California
Grab your laptop and kick your feet up as you lounge poolside, making those daily conference calls while you work on your tan. This weekday-only offer includes daily breakfast, a daily cocktail on the new, expanded Solbar patio and access to Solage’s exclusive business lounge with refreshments. Enjoy a waived daily resort fee which includes access to Wifi anywhere on property. Private conference rooms can also be reserved upon request. One of Napa Valley’s best destination pool experiences, Solage’s landmark pool has been newly upgraded with new daybeds, chaises and a new elevated pool deck for a spacious lounging experience.
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, Park City, Utah
The Lodge at Blue Sky is redefining “kids education” with Mountain Classroom, a variety of options for families looking to work in a beautiful, inspiring mountain setting. Kids can do their virtual classroom for a few hours each day in the safety and privacy of their mountain-view suite. After virtual classes, their education will continue in other fun, experiential ways with The Lodge at Blue Sky’s Little Vaquero’s Kids Camp, which includes daily themed activities like horseback riding and fishing. This also gives parents time to get a few hours of focused work done while the kids are outside learning and having fun. The Lodge at Blue Sky is also offering socially-distanced shared work spaces with sanitation supplies, daily refreshments and office supplies.
Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
The brand-new Hyatt Centric Las Olas welcomes guests with a new way to work in style. Located inside the city’s newest skyscraper, the 238-room property features a nautical design inspired by the area’s yachting culture. Remote workers can book the hotel’s DND (‘Do Not Distract’) package for a mini ‘work-cation’ that feels more like an indulgent escape. The package includes all-day access to a poolside suite that doubles as a private work space, a power lunch from Harborwood Urban Kitchen (either in-room or at the restaurant), and after work cocktails. Rates from $75/day ($125 for overnight).
Carmel Valley Ranch, Carmel Valley, California
When you choose to “WFH” (Work From Here) or “LFH” (Learn from Here), you can check email in a poolside cabana, plug in on a balcony with stunning views and take that important meeting in your favorite cozy spot around the resort. And the kids’ distance learning days will be just as full, with socially distanced activities that allow you to be productive while they get to learn and play. You’ll also be able to get your play in, from tasting wines at The Market to teeing off at the championship golf course, and then indulge yourself at the exquisite spa.