Business Travel Guide
The key to business travel is choosing hotels wisely and budgeting a little extra time for sightseeing. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Asia Business Travel
If you've endured the long haul to Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, or Mumbai, set aside some time for a little sightseeing.
- Hong Kong's Kowloon Peninsula has some of the island's best shopping, museums, and spiritual sights. If you're short on time it's always easy to grab some dim sum.
- When in Shanghai, immerse yourself in the local customs; all you'll need is 3 days for a good city itinerary.
- Your hosts in Tokyo will most likely have everything planned for you, including meals and probably nights out, so know your dining etiquette and carve out some time of your own if possible. Refer to our Fodor's Choice summary for a short list of essential stops.
- If you're doing business in Mumbai, be sure to stop by theChowpatty Beach & Marine Drive.
Europe Business Travel
London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels, Milan, and Zurich are thriving business capitals of Europe, as well as excellent cities in which to have an expense account.
- When your business in London is complete, choose an itineraryand head for the city's iconic top attractions.
- If haven't been to Paris recently, you might not recognize today's Paris. Many things have changed. Versaille and the Louvre will always be there for the extra time you can grab for yourself, though.
- You could do worse than visit Brussels on business, where bothbeer and chocolate are available (separately, of course) in abundance.
- In Milan, take some time out to check on the gallery scene.
- You'll be eating well in Zurich, so walk it off at the city's best sights.
Latin America Business Travel
- In Buenos Aires next to El Centro, where you'll probably do business, is Recoleta— the toniest neighborhood in the city. If you have time, make a side trip to nearby San Antonio de Areco for a taste of the gaucho life.
- Santiago is a thriving economic center for Latin America. If you can make it, hike the top of Cerro San Cristobal for the sunset one night you're in town. You'll be rewarded with an unforgettable 360-degree view of the sprawling city dwarfed by the Andes.
- Brazil, land of contrasts, has São Paulo as its financial hub. Take awalking tour of Centro, then stop at the Mercado Municipal for some gifts to take home.
- Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis, so if you have any free time, stay focused on the essential stops and plan ahead.
United States Business Travel
- Los Angeles' hotel dining room revival is a great development for business travelers. Though the city is somewhat decentralized,Downtown and Santa Monica are two places you could go to get a lot of sightseeing done quickly.
- A little basic Chicago know-how can go a long way— and if you've already got it, take advantage of the numerous free things to doin this great city. Plan your stay with our list of Fodor's Choicehotels, restaurants, and other points of interest.
- Business travelers to New York would do well to know about the city's hotel hot spots. There are many lodging alternativesavailable for lengthier visits. If you can, steal a day to see New York's most iconic sights, then book a table at one of the best restaurants in the city.
- There are great hotels all over Washington, D.C., so whether your doing business Downtown or in Dupont Circle, you'll have plenty of options. With your business successfully concluded in Washington, D.C., explore the free things to do all around the mall.
