IOL
TRAVEL JUNE 2021
Work from anywhere
in the world
Contents Workation Wonders BlackBrick ticks all the right workation boxes How to plan your workation in five easy steps The wellness benefits of taking a workation Balancing work and play Where to workation in South Africa Zareef Minty shares the art of a successful workation Travel the world while you work
CONTACT US PUBLISHER Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency.com EDITOR Clinton Moodley clinton.moodley@inl.co.za DESIGN Tanya Fynn tanya.fynn@inl.co.za EXECUTIVE LIFESTYLE EDITOR Nelandri Narianan nelandri.narianan@inl.co.za PRODUCTION Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Keshni Odayan keshni@africannewsagency.com SALES Charl Reineke charl@africannewsagency.com Kyle Villet kyle.villet@africannewsagency.com ENQUIRIES info@anapublishing.com
Editor’s note
“Travel and change of place impart new vigour to the mind.”
IF YOU could work anywhere in the world, where would it be? Would it be at a safari lodge, a villa overlooking the beach? A sleek hotel that offers amenities galore? Or a cottage in the middle of nowhere, with a strong cellphone signal and wi-fi, of course? Well, with the rising trend of workations and remote working, you could work pretty much anywhere you like, whether it is a staycation, road trip to another province or a trip to another country. And, if you were curious about this trend and want to plan one in the future, then this issue has everything you need to get you started. This month, we unpack the workation trend – from how to plan one in 5 easy steps to workation friendly hotels you can book in South Africa. If you want to venture abroad, we feature the international countries perfect for ‘out of office’ trips. Workations also provide many wellness benefits, as I found out during a three-night trip at BlackBrick Sandton just over a month and a half ago. The workation helped me become more calm, productive and allowed me to strike the perfect work/explore balance. Read about my BlackBrick Sandton trip on page 6 and about the wellness benefits of taking a workcation on page 9. Author and TV personality Zareef Minty also shares some of his workation tips. As an avid traveller, Minty shared how workations encouraged him to become innovative in his businesses. There’s plenty of other content to inspire your next workation trip. Enjoy the read and safe travels.
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The workation trend is redefining the travel landscape, writes Clinton Moodley
orkation onders
A CHANGE of scenery is just what is needed to get you out of your work-related slump. And, if you are fortunate enough to work remotely, then a workation (also spelt workcation) is an ideal way to continue your daily work tasks while you still find time to explore a new destination. Working remotely isn’t something new as digital nomads have been doing this for years. However, the pandemic has allowed more people to work in another setting, whether it’s a beach getaway, safari break, or a city escape. While this may be at your own expense, a workation can offer many benefits for the mind, body and soul. How does it work? A workation depends on the traveller and the type of trip they intend to take. It could be an overnight stay at a hotel in their city, a two day getaway to another province, an island escape on the continent or an international trip. The options are endless. Workations still requires you to complete your day’s tasks, only this time you get to enjoy stunning views and equally impressive accommodation and cuisine. Productivity overload A workation is said to make travellers more productive. Elske Joubert, the acting head of newsroom and publications at one of South Africa’s universities, recently went on a workation to Langebaan in the Western Cape. She booked a week-long stay in the hope of enjoying the tourist offerings of the Western Cape town while still fulfilling her daily job requirements. She posted pictures of sunsets, Instagram worthy cuisine and selfies with the most glorious ocean views. Joubert said that the workation allowed her to become more productive. “The workcation allowed me to work from a gorgeous setting while remaining productive at the same time. I met all my deadlines while enjoying all the benefits that a holiday provides,” she said. The gift of workations Travel expert Natalie Knibbs encouraged people to gift themselves a workation when they need to escape from their routine. “Being at home during the pandemic can get lonely and certainly demotivating. A workations is the perfect gift you can give yourself when you need to escape from a routine lifestyle. A change of scenery does miracles for the soul. “Trips like these often get my creative juices working. The ideas tend to flow naturally. I try to look outside the box rather than inside it. I found that one doesn’t waste time and energy on the small stuff, which often happens when watching the clock go by in the office. I also try to incorporate activities like bushwalks or game drives to my schedule as I do not want to miss out on anything,” she said.
WORKING from home for over a year has been somewhat of a blessing in disguise. I don’t have to deal with traffic and rude drivers. I work at my own pace, have access to unlimited snacks when I want, and I get to do it all in my PJs (I kid you not). But, sometimes a change of scenery is necessary if you want to shake up your already comfy routine. So, I swapped sunny Durban for a colder Johannesburg to spend three nights at one of the city’s swanky new hotels called BlackBrick Sandton for a workation. I’ll admit that the idea of an ‘out of office’ trip felt daunting. Still, I decided to test this workation theory: would I be wooed by Jozi’s grandeur and meet my print and digital deadlines? After I checked into my studio suite, prepared myself a cup of ginger chai, I positioned myself on the
and vibey – words you would use to describe a young professional. At the same time, the décor also appeals to the leisure market, perfect for a couple wanting a romantic getaway, a family on a staycation or a solo retreat. If you like it, you have the option of renting a similar apartment for longer stays. FURIOUS TYPER Wasting no time, I drank the last of my chai tea and started my first feature. Despite a slow start, I managed to complete the feature and switched off my laptop just in time to enjoy the sunset. Blackbrick Sandton is a destination in itself, so if you do not want to venture out, there’s plenty of amenities to keep you occupied. In between your work schedule, you can book a 2-hour movie at their private cinema, have cocktails at the rooftop bar, or get lost in a book at the library.
BlackBrick ticks all the RIGHT WORKATION BOXES couch to plan for the weekend ahead. I wrote down a list of articles that I needed to complete during the stay and scheduled time to explore the city and catch up with friends. THE ROOM BlackBrick’s industrial design is a work of art. Once you walk through the dark corridor to get to your room, your sanctuary awaits. My suite overlooked the Sandton skyline and near the window stood a tall tree where birds sang their afternoon choruses. The spacious suite boasts all the modern comforts of a hotel room, from a fully equipped kitchen, a smart TV with streaming channels, a small bathroom, a lounge area and super-fast fibre. The star had to be the nifty workspace that doubled as a dining table. I wasn’t a fan of the chair. The design of the room is fresh
WORK OR PLAY – WHY NOT BOTH AT JOHANNESBURG’S HIP BLACKBRICK SANDTON? ASKS CLINTON MOODLEY If you do not feel like cooking, you can head to the restaurants on the property. Other onsite amenities include a conversation lounge, meditation garden, boxing gym, and more. You can even rent a Mini Cooper for a day of exploring. BlackBrick hosts weekly events that range from business, fashion, food and wine and entertainment. There are even workspaces and conference rooms (the first hour is free) where guests can conduct business. CLINTON THE EXPLORER Surprisingly, the weekend offered plenty of exploration time. On Saturday morning, I took a stroll to Sandton City, a five-minute walk from the hotel. I spent a few hours
window shopping, indulging in rainbow cake and making a few purchases. I even found the time to binge season 1 of Million Dollar Beach House. I spent Sunday morning at Modena with friends. The chic eatery is famed for its Italian food and breakfast service. I worked out the French toast, berries and mascarpone meal by checking out the local scene in Parkhurst. I also visited some foodie spots in Sandton with a friend. FINAL THOUGHTS Despite some scepticism of how a workation would work, I managed to complete my list of articles while finding time to discover new places in the City of Gold. HOTEL DEETS Location: 25 Fredman Dr, Sandown, Johannesburg. There is also a BlackBrick property in Cape Town. Cost: Rates start from R950. Contact: Call 087 183 1766 or visit www.blackbrick.club/ Clinton Moodley was hosted by BlackBrick Sandton
How to plan your workation in 5 easy steps
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CLINTON MOODLEY
Choose a suitable location The location will depend on the type of work you do. Some companies may require you to meet once a week while others conduct meetings virtually. If you are unsure, let your manager know that you intend to take a workation. These trips are centred around work, so it’s best to discuss your flexible working hours with your manager. If you are venturing abroad, familiarise yourself with the travel restrictions before you go and the time difference between your home country and workation destination. Set a budget Create a budget to track your spending. Factor in accommodation costs, food, transport costs and activities. Always compare prices and the value of the deal before you book anything. Ask whether your accommodation is workation friendly As tempting as it sounds to book bucket list accommodation in remote areas, you will need to ascertain whether the establishment is workation friendly. Do they have high-speed fibre or wi-fi? Are the facilitates geared towards business travellers? Is there a good signal for making calls? If the answer is no to any of the above, you may need to reconsider. Many hotels and lodges have created workation packages that include everything you need to complete your office duties, including a desk and reliable wi-fi. Plan an itinerary based on your work schedule While out of office trips are not fully fledged holidays, it does provide a muchneeded escape for those wanting a break away from their routine. Depending on how your workday goes, add a few activities to your bucket list that you can do after you complete your tasks. It can be anything from a city tour, water sports if you are at a beach location or a game drive if you are at a luxury lodge. Find time to rest Workation trips can be stressful as you juggle work and exploring, which is why rest is vital. Prioritise some ‘me time’. Spend your time reading, taking walks on the beach or taking a snooze.
THE WELLNESS BENEFITS
of taking a workation VUYOLWETHU FUNDAM
WORKATIONS are not an entirely new concept. They had initially been frowned upon by companies. That has changed, especially since the advent of Covid-19 in 2020. As the name suggests, this concept blends work with a vacation. It provides employees with the flexibility of taking their work along with them to vacations. Sounds like a dream, right? According to recent studies, flexible working conditions contribute significantly to the wellness of employees in several ways, including reduced stress, inspired creativity and overall happiness among other benefits. Here are some benefits: Less stress, good vibes You'll be in a happy mood just because you're in a different province or region. Housekeeping facilities are normally included in most vacation establishments, which will then reduce chorerelated stress. There won't be a need to be concerned about your daily commute or being confined to your boring office boardroom. In addition, studies reveal that feeling happy may help combat stress, lengthen your life expectancy and boost your immune system. Boosts creativity and enhances work performance Being in the same environment can stifle creativity. According to a Forbes article, research shows that travel and exposure to various environments can change the brain's neural pathways. Immersing yourself in a different cultural setting will help to renew your mind. It will also encourage you to be more creative. As a result, you'll be able to enhance your productivity. More time to exercise It's no secret that exercise is beneficial to one's health. Exercise, according to studies, is an excellent way to feel better, improve your health and have fun. Working flexibly helps you to get more exercise, which will help you stay focused, protect you against certain diseases and boost your immune system – in the long run, help you perform better at work. Provides peace of mind Being in the hustle and bustle of the city can inevitably stress us out. Trying to get to work done while needing to tend to your home life may lead to burnout. As a result, you might be frustrated with your job because you never seem to have enough time to try new things. You can relax, do your work and explore your destination while on a workation. All of this will eventually bring you happiness and peace of mind.
Balancing work and play DEBASHINE THANGEVELO
THERE was a time when companies baulked at the idea of staff “working remotely”. But the arrival of Covid-19 has made it the new normal. This change meant the traditional sort of 9 to 5 work day has also evolved. Yes, the time frame tends to overlap but most people don’t mind work eating into a bit of personal time as they are in the comfort of their home. And when there is a need for a chance of scenery, there’s always the option of going on a workation. I wasn’t sold on the idea at first. I prefer to keep the two separate. But when an opportunity to test this new trend popped up, I decided to give it a try. As such, I recently found myself at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Wanderers. When the hard lockdown was enforced in March last year, the tourism industry - along with many others - took a huge knock. For this well-known establishment, it was the perfect time to renovate. My last memory of the place dates back to several years back when I was still living in Durban. So you can imagine my pleasant surprise when I arrived
at reception and was greeted by a sleek new trendy space. In fact, everything from the rooms, the dining area to the event spaces were remodelled, with the fixtures and décor giving it a very urban chic, cutting-edge feel. I stayed in a junior suite on the eighth floor, which offered a wonderful overview of the neighbouring Wanderers Club along with the bustling vibe of the Illovo/ Melrose Arch Precinct. The room was kitted out with a king size bed, a smart TV in the dining area as well as the bedroom. A spacious bathroom with a tub as well as a shower. It also had an executive work desk, where you can comfortably set yourself up during your stay. And there is free wi-fi throughout the hotel. During a tour of the place, which is fitted with plenty of sanitising stations throughout, I checked out their conference rooms, some of which can accommodate up to 15 delegates. By the way, it doesn’t matter whether you book into a standard guest room, a junior or presidential suite, all the rooms have a smart TV with satellite channels, air-conditioning, tea and coffee-making
facilities, a comfortable workstation and a king size bed, unless you request otherwise. I was told by the manager that they went with a Scandinavian design, which favours functionality, simplicity, and craftsmanship. As such, they gravitate towards natural materials, pale woods as well as wool and linen textiles. If you are on a tight deadline, which prevents you from making your way to the hotel restaurant, where they serve a buffet breakfast as well as lunch and dinner from the à la carte menu, they have room service available. However, the operating hours are aligned with the current lockdown level. And if you are staying over on a Friday, you might want to try their stir-fry special. I took time to explore the ambience of this tranquil urban bubble by popping down to the restaurant for my meals. Side note: their pastas are divine. By the way, they also have a deli-coffee bar for those quick meetings or catch ups. And the outdoor area makes it the ideal sundowner spot, too. There is a swimming pool and a gym on the
property. However, should these options not be to your liking, they do offer guests complimentary temporary membership of the Wanderers Club, which gives them access to the sports facilities as well as other social venues. And if you want to enjoy some retail therapy, they provide a shuttle to malls within a 10km radius. This revamped venue is a stone’s throw away and if you want to check in for the day, you can do so, too. It’s the perfect spot to strike an harmonious balance between work and play. From that perspective, I can honestly say that I’ve warmed up to the idea of a workation. It makes perfect sense in this new normal. For more information, visit: https://www. marriott.com/hotels/travel/jnbwa-protea-hoteljohannesburg-wanderers Debashine Thangevelo was hosted by Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Wanderers.
Where to workation in SA Clinton Moodley picks out some South African hotels perfect for a workation
Oyster Box, KwaZulu-Natal
The Oyster Box, which overlooks the Indian Ocean and the grand Umhlanga Lighthouse, is a dream destination for workation travellers. The 5-star hotel, named ‘Top Resort Hotels in Africa’ at last year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, is the epitome of luxury. Once the working day is over, guests can pamper themselves with a few treatments at the spa, indulge in afternoon high tea or sundowners at the rooftop Lighthouse Bar or tuck into their
famous curries. The rooms come kitted with high speed wi-fi, tea and coffee making coffee facilities, a well-stocked minibar and luxurious bathrobe and slippers. The business centre is open 24-hours a day. It features two workstations, printing facilities and a complimentary refreshment station. A-list stars Kim Kardashian West, French Montana, Prince Harry and Naomi Campbell stayed here when they visited Durban. Call 031 514 5000 or visit: www. oysterboxhotel.com
Turbine Hotel and Spa
Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa, situated on Thesen Islands in Knysna and once housed an old power station, offers travellers all the amenities needed for a bleisure trip. The luxury property boasts 26 rooms with a flat-screen TV, desk, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar. All rooms offer stunning views. Between Zoom meetings, grab a bite at the Island Café Restaurant that overlooks the canals and pool deck, or The Gastro Pub, which offers classic pub meals with lagoon sunset views. Guests can also head to The Turbine Spa for some pampering or The Turbine Water Club that provides a range of water and land-based activities such as lagoon cruises, forest walks, city tours and bicycle hire. Visit: www.turbinehotel.co.za
Wild Coast Sun, KwaZulu-Natal
Travellers who want to dabble in some adventure and hit the slots can visit the Wild Coast Sun, located less than 2 hours from Durban. The 4-star-property has room types that suit any traveller. The rooms feature free wi-fi, a writing desk, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar. In between meetings, make a splash at the Wild Waves water park, horseback ride on the beach, get adventurous on a segway or enjoy an afternoon quad biking tour. Visitors can play a game of golf at the championship 18-hole Wild Coast Sun golf course. If you have children, the indoor entertainment area housing the Magic Company, Cosmic Bowling in the Aloha Village and kiddies spa will keep them occupied while you catch up on emails. Call 039 305 9111 or visit: www.suninternational.com/wildcoastsun
The Eendracht Hotel & Apartments, Western Cape
Once a small two-roomed cottage built in 1710, Eendracht Hotel & Apartments has transformed into one of South Africa’s most beloved small hotels. The Stellenbosch hotel is within walking distance of major attractions. Travellers have the option of booking a hotel room or an apartment. Rooms at the luxury hotel come kitted with air-conditioning, smart TV, writing desk, coffee and tea making facilities and
wi-fi. The apartments are ideal for those who seek something more spacious and private. Eendracht has also introduced the Huddle Room, a conference venue ideal for Zoom, team and business meetings or private or family functions. The Huddle Room features state-of-the-art video conferencing facilities and high-speed internet access. For those who want to explore the area, the hotel can arrange activities. Call 021 883 8843 or visit: www.eendracht-hotel.com/
Houghton Hotel, Gauteng
Tucked away in Lloys Ellis Avenue in Johannesburg, Houghton Hotel has everything workcation travellers need to conduct business. The suites come kitted with a Nespresso machine, a marble-inspired bathroom, a writing desk and free wi-fi. Houghton Hotel has two restaurants on the property, the H Restaurant and Nova Delicatessen. Visit the Amani Spa and Wellness @ The Houghton, FitBar Gym and pool when you want to take a break from your busy schedule. Call 011 032 5500 or visit: www.thehoughtonhotel.com/
ZAREEF MINTY
shares the art of a successful workation
AUTHOR, entrepreneur and media personality Zareef Minty has mastered the art of taking a workation. The avid traveller, who has travelled to Dubai, France and New York, to name a few, said workations allowed him to be innovative and creative. “A workation is the perfect balance between running your business and your daily schedule while still having fun. As someone who loves networking, these kinds of trips allow me to interact with different people. You never know if your biggest client is lounging by the pool deck at your hotel or is on the same hike as you are. “From a mental health perspective, it allows you to find peace and reduce your level of stress,” he explained. Workations helped him to refocus and find motivation from his surroundings. “Whenever I feel overwhelmed, or I need to think of something innovative to improve one of my businesses, I book a trip to a location that inspires me. It’s always very last minute, but when I come back from the trip, I feel like I can take over the world,” he said. Minty avoids trips that require long travel times.
“I try my best to reduce the travelling time for workcations unless I want to leave the country for a while. Most of the time, I visit nearby locations like Sun City, Durban, Cape Town and Gqeberha,” he said. He also cited Dubai, Mauritius or any 5-star hotel in the country among his favourite workation getaways. Minty revealed the key factors for a successful workation. He said travellers should limit phone usage. “A phone distracts you from being innovative. For example, I have a few phones and very few people have my private number. I tend to only take my personal phone and a second phone with me on a workcation. “I also notify my clients. While you can’t possibly tell everyone that you are on a workcation, let the people you interact with daily know about the trip. “As much as a remote and quiet destination is great, it can get frustrating if there is no phone reception and weak phone wi-fi connection. Before you book your workation you would want to confirm that you would be able to work and have access to the internet,” advised Minty.
Travel the world while you work
Travellers can work pretty much anywhere in the world if there is high speed wi-fi and a strong phone signal. Clinton Moodley shares some top workation destinations to visit
New York
This is among the top cities in the world. With its historic landmarks, shopping experiences and culinary delights, New York offers a workation like no other. Known as one of the most linguistically diverse cities, New York is home to more than 800 languages. You might want to spend a few weeks in the city as there are plenty of activities to add to your itinerary. In your free time, visit New York's famed attractions like the Empire State Building, Central Park, Rockefeller Centre, and The Statue of Liberty. The city is also home to some of the finest eateries in the world, including Kochi, Oxomoco and Hell's Kitchen.
Mauritius
Sun, sea and sand: that’s what a workation in Mauritius promises. Mauritius (image above) will reopen its borders in mid-2021. Travellers can work from their hotel pool, the white sandy beaches (they need their own portable wi-fi device) or in a luxury suite overlooking glorious views. Mauritius boasts a range of activities that incorporate history, culture, food and dramatic landscapes. After you have completed your meetings, explore Port Louis, Grand Baie, Mahebourg, Le Morne, Chamarel and Rodrigues. Depending on where you are based, travellers should discover the market scene and soak up the sun at their blue flag status beaches.
Thailand
This is the playground for many digital nomads. The destination boasts world-class resorts, beautiful beaches, sustainable activities and tempting cuisine. Whether you work from a luxury hotel overlooking the Bangkok skyline or at a Phuket beach, you can turn any place into your office. Embark on island hopping excursions, visit an elephant sanctuary, explore the markets and temples or go for a Thai massage in between your work schedule. If you have time, book a cooking tour and go for an early sunrise hike.
Dubai
With world-class shopping, iconic buildings, tantalising cuisine, and a wide array of tourist activities, Dubai doesn’t disappoint on the experience front. As Dubai offers plenty to see and do, travellers need to plan their time effectively to balance work and leisure.
Cape Town
This is an award-winning city that provides a one stop shop for all types of travellers. You can dabble in adventure, take half-day food and wine tours, marvel at the scenery, visit landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island and more. Before you start with work, hike up Lion’s Head to watch the sunrise. Or end the day at Signal Hill to watch the sunset. Other attractions include Boulders Beach, Groot Constantia, Bo-Kaap, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and Muizenberg Beach. Cape Town is also a getaway to many small towns in the Western Cape.
Start by visiting famed landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain and the Dubai Frame, before embarking on half-day tours to the desert. The souks are popular for travellers, offering a range of items from spices to jewellery. If you are travelling with the family, the city provides a range of child-friendly activities.
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