For most of us living across the globe, the traveling that we undertake for purposes of business can never be like the traveling that takes us to exotic destinations with the purpose of holidaying in mind. As ironical it may seem, two trips to the same destination, for each for the above-mentioned purposes could have diametrically opposite outcomes. For instance, a business trip to Miami can never be the same as a holiday trip to the same destination. Although this is partly true, a business trip is not as mundane as it sounds and can be ramped up only if the business traveler takes some time off the business meetings and replaces his / her business suit with casuals to explore the attractions of the city they are in. The mantra is not to over-magnify the purpose of your travel – business / work - and steal some moments for personal leisure and relaxation as well.

With Information Technology at it's best and with the power of the Internet at our fingertips, you can avoid the long lines at the airport and get done with the checking in and boarding pass formalities through the Internet. Before you carry that overly stuffed suitcase to the car, imagine how much heavier it is going to feel when you have to lug it through the airport terminal (this warning is especially for the ladies). So, I strongly recommend you to pack light. Unless your business trip requires you to stay in the middle of the Thar Desert, only carry essentials. I'm sure your company will put you up in a hotel that will provide your toothbrush; towels, shampoos and the likes, so avoid the pain of carrying these universally used commodities across oceans.  

Study a little about the place if you have never been there. This way you will not feel like you have landed on 'no man's land' once you get to the destination. To be a safe traveler, you must carry with yourself a map of the city you are in at all times. This way you can be reassured of not getting lost in the unknown city. Look at your business partners and your associates as friends. Don't always talk and mean business. Remember, these associates are also locals and can turn your business trip into the most wonderful vacation ever. Don't be uptight. Be a peoples' person. You could miraculously find long lasting friends in these business associates.

Most importantly, every traveler must be enthused with the true seeking spirit – you must have the zeal to cherish the beauty of whichever corner of the earth you are in. As I mentioned earlier, you have to broaden your perspective and not take a business trip way too literally. Don't immediately fly back home once that meeting is over. Take every opportunity to explore every place you go to as such explorations can turn into truly enriching experiences. Mingle with the locals; get a feel of the local food and attractions. Every city or town or village in the world has something unique about it that only the particular place offers. Find out and appreciate the same.

The only key is to change the lens through which you conceive and comprehend these so-called business trips. For all those who respectfully abide by the age-old dictum of 'business and pleasure should not be mixed', are strongly recommended to take a reality check. A perfect balance between the two can give you the best of both worlds.