More than half of Hong Kong business travellers say that adding leisure time during a business trip makes their meetings more successful, according to a recent Booking.com for Business survey.

The study, conducted with more than 17,000 working professionals from 24 countries, showed that 55 per cent of business travellers from Hong Kong say their meetings are improved by having leisure time during a work trip, with 60 per cent also saying experiencing new cultures and destinations adds value to their job.

The majority (60 per cent) of travellers said they would use this “bleisure” downtime to sight see and explore famous attractions, while 55 per cent would try local cuisine and restaurants, and 53 per cent would shop

Travelling for work is also still seen as necessary for business success, with 58 per cent of Hong Kong professionals believing in-person meetings were essential and just 33 per cent saying they prefer to avoid interactions with people while travelling.

“Experiencing different cultures and destinations and gaining new perspectives through travel is becoming increasingly important to professional success, particularly in today’s hyper-connected and globalised business world,” said Ripsy Bandourian, senior director of product development at Booking.com for Business.

“Regardless of profession, today’s business travellers are savvier about the value up for grabs, both for their companies and for themselves. Where they choose to stay is crucial in realising that value, with today’s business travellers seeking places that align with their specific, priority needs when it comes to location, flexibility and certain amenities.”

Among the top accommodation priorities of Hong Kong business travellers were a comfortable bed (47 per cent), a strong wifi signal (45 per cent) and good breakfast and free transportation service (38 per cent).

booking.com/business