16.12.2024

Blog Post

Bleisure travel - the seamless blend of business and leisure - has become the new normal. For professionals, work trips are no longer limited to boardrooms and conference halls. There are opportunities to engage in new destinations, recharge, and create memorable experiences.

In fact, a recent report by Navan shows that 89% of business travellers plan to incorporate leisure experience into their work trips. This shift speaks to a rising trend: professionals are looking to combine business with moments of personal enjoyment throughout their journey. It’s no longer just about the work; it’s about the experience.

Photo of Namibia

The rise of bleisure travel is reshaping how events are planned, and Namibia is perfectly positioned to meet these new expectations. Business travellers today want experiences that connect them to the heart of the destination.

Namibia is establishing itself as a hub for high-profile industry events. Earlier this year, Windhoek hosted the AviaDev Africa 2024 conference, drawing airline executives from around the world and highlighting the country’s growing business attraction.

In the same week as the AviaDev Africa 2024 conference, O&L Leisure made a bold statement for the African hospitality sector by sponsoring N$500,000 towards the African Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF). This landmark event marked the first time AHIF was hosted in Southern Africa, thanks to NIPDB's successful bid to bring it to the region.

This dual spotlight reinforces the region's potential for groundbreaking growth and collaboration on the global stage, Namibia also won the Best Road Infrastructure in Africa, followed by Egypt and Benin. With a solid infrastructure that supports international events and the charm of its untamed landscapes, it’s not just a destination for untouched adventures - it’s becoming a serious player in the global business scene.

Imagine this: A conference that concludes with a sunset drive through the Namib Desert. Delegates enjoying a guided safari at Etosha or sipping cocktails under the African night sky. These aren’t just extras - they’re what makes Namibia an unforgettable bleisure destination.

Photo of Namibia

What makes Namibia even more exclusive is how remote it is. Far-off locations and rugged terrain make the journey feel intentional - perfect for travellers seeking luxury in solitude. Here, exclusivity isn't just about five-star hotels but about experiences that feel rare and personal.

If you are planning a corporate event in Namibia and would like to maximise its impact, I would suggest looking for hybrid spaces like Midgard. With state-of-the-art meeting facilities, comfortable accommodation options, and curated leisure activities, Midgard doesn’t just provide a venue - it delivers an experience.

When I travel for business, I look for places that blend seamless business functionality with leisure comfort - and Midgard provides just that. After a day packed with meetings, I can unwind by exploring the landscape on a guided walk, lounge by the pool, or enjoy Namibian cuisine that highlights the region’s unique flavours. The concept here is all about an integrated experience - a place where work naturally flows into relaxation.

Another added benefit? The AVIS and O&L Leisure partnership takes this to the next level. Book a car rental alongside your room reservation, and your vehicle will be waiting when you arrive - no separate car rental stop needed.

Photo of Namibia

For those who believe that work and leisure should complement each other, Namibia is the ultimate destination. It’s a place where conferences inspire, meetings rejuvenate, and every trip becomes a story worth sharing.

Namibia is setting a new standard for business travel - where productivity is amplified by experience, and every moment feels intentional. For companies, event organisers, and professionals ready to rethink how they travel, Namibia offers more than just a destination - it offers a journey.

AUTHOR

Kumwe Cj Dumeni

Award Winning Marketing Specialist & Founder | Tedx Speaker