Why remote young professionals are balancing work + play with group trips
April 11, 2023
30-somethings rejoice: Group workcations are all the rage, offering the perfect balance of productivity and adventure. For busy professionals, finding time to connect with friends across the country can be a challenge; coordinating travel, getting off work, and finding pet sitters all prove to be difficult to overcome.
Studies say that most adults tend to start losing friends at age 25, and social circles begin shrinking. Pair that with the isolation of a pandemic, lockdowns, and the recent surge of remote work, and you’ve got a recipe for loneliness and alienation in adulthood. That’s why adults have been taking work-life balance into their own hands. Workcations are popping up as a great way to make time to connect, meet people, and level up social lives.
What is a Workation?
A workation is a blend of work and vacation where professionals work remotely and enjoy a change of scenery, socializing, and leisure activities.
Think of it as a sophisticated summer camp – here, friends can bring all the necessities of home (work, pets), work during the morning, explore a new city, go on outdoor excursions, and cook meals together. A workcation with friends is an ideal way to elevate your life, build your network, and recharge your energy. When adults need a break from the hustle, workations help adults fight loneliness and create lasting memories.
Why Should You and Your Friends Take a Workation?
Mojave Stargazer from Open Air Homes boasts an outdoor shower, fire pit, and swing overlooking the valley.
Research shows a number of benefits to group workations among remote workers – increased productivity, creating lasting memories, and remedying burnout are just a few. Read on to learn more about why you should consider a group workation this summer.
1. Strengthen friendships, bond, + catch up
Busy schedules, hectic lives, and long distances make staying connected with friends challenging in adulthood. That’s where the allure of a group remote workcation comes in; the chance to spend extended time in a new location, surrounded by your closest confidants, can be transformative. Combining remote work and adventure not only strengthens existing bonds, but also creates opportunities to forge new connections. Looking for a friend to exercise with back home, or to grab drinks with the next time you’re in D.C.? Meeting mutual friends on a workcation is a great way to become acquainted with new faces by people you trust.
Imagine long days filled with productivity, creativity, and exploration, followed by evenings spent sharing stories over a delicious meal. The benefits of bonding, strengthening friendships, and creating lasting memories are undeniable.
2. Increased Productivity
Ocotillo by Open Air Homes features shuffleboard, private patios, and an expansive pool complex with swim-up bar.
When it comes to remote work, it’s all too easy to let distractions get in the way of productivity. Stepping out to run errands, playing with pets, or even crawling back into bed are universal temptations that many WFH-ers face. Workcations help break up the monotony of remote work, provide motivation, and leave workers much more refreshed and ready to crush deadlines upon returning home. In fact, nearly 90% of employees surveyed by Passport Photo Online reported a boost in productivity after a workcation (Passport Photo Online).
Working alongside friends while soaking up the sun and stunning mountain views of Palm Springs is a game-changer for employee output. And working in a shared environment with friends who are also focused can create a supportive and motivating atmosphere.
3. Improved Mental Health + Coping with Burnout
Post-2020, work-life balance and burnout are discussed more than ever before. Workers are advocating for themselves and their mental health, calling out toxic work environments on social media, and more. In this modern world, taking time to prioritize your mental health is essential. While the surge in remote work has been a boon for those who aren’t fans of commuting or office small-talk, it can still cause feelings of isolation in many – and they may not even realize it.
With company-mandated luncheons, awkward happy hours, and office politics, why not work with people you actually like? A group workcation with your closest companions can provide the perfect escape. Not only will spending time with friends boost your mood, but a change of scenery can work wonders for reducing stress and anxiety. In fact, 83% of workers surveyed said that workcationing helped them cope with burnout.
4. Cost-Effectiveness + Attainable Luxury
In a world where jet-setting can come with a hefty price tag, it’s important to find ways to cut costs without sacrificing fun. Luckily, a group remote workcation offers just that. Splitting the monthlong total cost of a luxury short-term rental, cleaning, and meals among friends is still significantly lower than taking one or several smaller trips throughout the summer. And who says you can’t have a little fun while being cost-effective? Trade off grilling duties and cooking meals together, and watch your bank account thank you.
5. New Experiences
Finally, a group remote workcation provides the chance to explore a new region together. From hiking picturesque trails to exploring art museums or even something adventurous like surfing lessons, it can create new and exciting experiences for everyone.
With endless experiences on offer, you and your friends will create unforgettable memories that will strengthen bonds. It’s a chance to escape the office and immerse yourself in a world of adventure, all while taking advantage of quality time with loved ones.
Discover Your Perfect California Workation with Open Air Homes
Sunsplash by Open Air Homes
As the trend of remote work continues to grow, so does the popularity of workcations. It’s an opportunity to break free from the monotony of daily life, connect with friends, and explore new places – all while remaining productive. Thanks to the flexibility of remote work, a workcation is no longer a luxury, but a viable and desirable option for many. So why not gather your closest pals, and book a month-long stay in Southern California?
From the excitement of L.A. to the otherwordly desert landscapes of Yucca Valley and the glamour of Palm Springs, the possibilities are endless.
Explore Open Air Homes‘ stunning portfolio of rental homes and start planning your summer workation. Who knows – this could be the start of a new tradition with your favorite people.
