Navigating Business Travel While Staying Grounded
In today’s world, business travel has evolved, allowing professionals to maintain their personal identities and passions even in transient environments. As a travel writer, I engage in habits that keep me connected to my roots. For instance, I often listen to Greek or Arabic podcasts, reminiscent of my family dinners, as a way to stay present amid my constant travel.
The Impact of Remote Work on Travel
As of March 2025, nearly 25% of US employees work remotely part-time, making the blend of work and leisure common during business trips. The business travel industry, valued at $1.5 trillion last year, reflects this shift as we turn our carry-on bags into mini homes that carry our personal routines along with our work.
Personal Practices on the Road
Many frequent travelers have developed personal habits that keep them grounded:
- Jon Sáenz Madrazo, Global Brand President of Kiehl’s, dedicates an hour each morning to sketching whatever captures his interest, calling it his form of meditation.
- Aaron Kithcart, a medical director at Regeneron, connects with his partner through quick FaceTime calls that blend their routines despite time zone differences.
- Kelly Wearstler, designer behind Proper Hotels, finds comfort in small rituals, like having a mint tea or applying face oils, that maintain her internal rhythm.
The Rituals of Home on the Go
Entrepreneurs like Christa Cotton, founder of El Guapo Bitters, make sure to unpack fully and light a candle whenever they arrive at a new destination, finding inspiration even in the unfamiliar grocery aisles. For Mauricio Umansky, CEO of The Agency, keeping a fitness routine is essential; he travels with a jump rope and resistance bands to stay active.
Industry Innovations
These personal rituals are mirrored by professionals in the tourism sector, like Tim Harrington of Atlantic Hospitality. He introduces a “pre-concierge” service, customizing arrangements even before guests arrive to make their stays feel more personal and functional.
Traveling for work doesn’t mean leaving your life behind. By integrating personal rituals, one can navigate the complex landscape of business travel while staying connected to their core identity.
