As employees gain greater flexibility to maximize and control their schedules, leisure travel is increasingly unrestricted by vacation time or personal time off.
Data is tracked by designating accommodation as travel or leisure, but remote work is blurring the lines between categories.
It’s a national trend that’s been given many names, but Charleston’s travel industry experts are paying close attention.
Remote or hybrid working models have become the norm for many in the wake of the pandemic, allowing workers to save time and money and live or work from virtually anywhere with a reliable broadband connection.
Teleworkers can take advantage of this new freedom by taking extended vacations or offsetting PTO homecoming with remote days. Concept: work during the day and rest at night.
chris campbell of explore charleston Indicates that trends are something marketing organizations are monitoring, but points out that they are difficult to quantify and track.
“This is one of the newer national trends impacting the industry, and it goes beyond pent-up demand,” Campbell said. “While there is still more to learn about this type of travel, we believe the flexibility of remote working has changed the leisure needs of more people, which can help our industry maintain the strong performance we have seen in 2022.”
This American Chamber of Commerce is also watching the trend, noting in its outlook to 2023 that it expects hotels to respond by increasing workspaces and Wi-Fi speeds.
Tour brochures are on display at the Charleston Visitor Center.Files/Lauren Petracca/Staff
Kevin Murawinski of mount plesant is an example. He worked remotely as a contributor during his visits to see if family members out of state were able to spend more time.
“Otherwise, I’d burn out over the holidays,” Murawinski said. “Or, it’s a really quick weekend trip and I’m scrambling to get back on Sunday because I have to get up and go to the office the next day. I’m not nervous about being remote and can stay there on Monday or Tuesday , and then find a cheaper flight back.”
Historically, airfares have been more expensive on weekends due to demand, so flying on weekdays can make travel more affordable and feasible. For airlines, demand is more spread out rather than concentrated on weekend travel.
According to data from travel booking apps hopper, the industry is taking notice. The Associated Press reported that compared with 2019, the cost of domestic flights on Sunday and Monday in 2022 will increase by 5.9% and 2.97%, respectively. Flight costs fell 3% on Friday and 1.6% on Saturday.
mount plesant resident Matt Parker Said working remotely was what moved him and his family to the Charleston area.
“We packed our bags and made the trek to get here, all thanks to remote work,” Parker said. “Remote work has made traveling so much easier for me and my family.”
around town
- If you want to expand your taste buds and try new local dining options, Charleston Restaurant Week Time to savor all that the holy city has to offer. The annual sale runs from January 12th until January 22nd.It offers diners the chance to sample some of the city’s most famous cuisines Charleston– Regional chef. More than 50 participating restaurants offer specially selected lunch and dinner menus. To see a full list of participating restaurants, view the menu or make a reservation, visit www.charlestonrestaurantweek.com.
- Firefly Winery will host a monthly “bring your own shucker” oyster roast on its four-acre property on Jan. 22 Hazel Creek. Ticket sales will be provided from lowland oyster co. Live music, beer and cocktails are available for purchase.
- It’s Jane. 26, charleston museum Provide director visit Carl Borik of its oldest series “earlier years” gallery, reflecting the long history of the museum from before its founding american revolution to the end of the 20th century.
