How do you mix business with pleasure when you’re at a beach resort?
The pandemic made it easier for more people to combine work and travel, as the concept of a “workation” became more common. Some hoteliers revamped their furnishings to increase the amount of space and amenities they could offer to travelers who wanted to take advantage of remote working opportunities while enjoying some vacation time, too. But can you really get work done at an all-inclusive resort?
Well, check out our Instagram Reel for some insider tips!
Mexico is an especially big hotspot for all-inclusive resorts, and these beach resorts offer tons of activities and amenities for a Mexico beach vacation, with food and drinks included and lots of spaces to relax and have fun. And, surprisingly, you can stay productive even as you enjoy your all-inclusive vacation. Whether you’re a digital nomad or just someone who needs a break but also needs to stay on top of work, there is hope.
During a recent trip to Sensira Resort & Spa Riviera Maya, an all-inclusive hotel in Mexico’s Riviera Maya that opened a couple years ago, I joined forces with fellow travel writer and good friend Meagan Drillinger (who has a great travel blog called Drillinjourneys) to seek out the best places to stay productive. And we made an Instagram Reel about the 6 best places for remote working at an all-inclusive resort.
In this Instagram travel reel, Meagan and I show the 6 best places for remote working at an all-inclusive resort.
- The Hotel Lobby: You might think that a hotel’s main lobby would be too noisy for working, but remember: at all-inclusive hotels, people usually spend more time outside at the pools during the day. So unless the reception desk is a source of distraction, a well-furnished hotel lobby can be a good place to grab a seat and set up shop for a few hours. Plus, I find people watching a fun way to take a break. People can look entertainingly ridiculous with their luggage and you can stare with pity at the people who are leaving to go to the airport.
2. The Hotel Bar: Again, during daytime hours, hotel bars can be surprisingly peaceful, making them a potentially relaxing place to get some work done. Plus, you can stay hydrated with a never-ending flow of beverages, without having to worry about the tab.
3. The Beach and the Pool: If you’re an outdoor type and don’t want to miss a minute of sunshine, you may want to take that laptop outdoors. There are a couple risks, of course: it could be crowded and loud, and you may get water or sand on your work material. But arriving early — or at the very end of the day — and staking out a seat that’s removed from the crowds can help assure a productive day. Just don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!
4. The VIP Lounge: Many all-inclusive resorts have VIP or elite-level lounges that are beautifully designed and provide extra-comfy seating, and perhaps even tables and work spaces. While staying on an elite-level floor may cost extra, it could be worth the price if you’re looking for extra space for working — as well as extra perks like VIP check-in and extra-tasty snacks and drinks throughout the day, without the lines.
5. Your Hotel Room: This is an obvious choice, of course, but a well-equipped all-inclusive hotel room should have either a desk or table that are appropriate for working. If you’re serious about staying productive, you should check the guest room features of multiple hotels before you book your vacation, to make sure the rooms are set up for working and relaxing.
6. Remote Work Space or Business Center: Not every all-inclusive hotel has a business center, so that’s something that you should also check before booking. Those that do, however, can be especially attractive for travelers looking for dedicated workspace with extra services like printing and copying.
During my stay at Sensira Resort, however, I found something even better than a business center: the REMO Workspace, an absolutely amazing remote working facility that I’ve never seen at any other all-inclusive resort (but I certainly hope I’ll see it at other hotels soon).
Sitting atop a third-floor roof, these private REMO offices are modern, spacious and beautifully furnished with work desk and chair, a comfy armchair, shelves and even coffee, soda pop, water and drinks (and you can order room service, too). Oh, and the floor-to-ceiling windows provide an amazing view.
Using the REMO Workspace costs extra, but it’s worth it if you really need your own space (and it could be especially worthwhile if traveling with family). I spent several productive hours in the REMO workspace, and if other all-inclusive hotels in Mexico had features like this it would definitely sway my choice when traveling on a working vacation.
However you get your work done at an all-inclusive resort, don’t forget to have some fun, too!
I’m a travel writer and travel blogger, and I love sharing travel tips to make your next vacation or business trip better. My new memoir was just published: Prepare for Departure: Notes on a Single Mother, a Misfit Son, Inevitable Mortality and the Enduring Allure of Frequent Flyer Miles. Please click to check it out!
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