Have you ever visited a city for work, but not had time to truly experience the local culture and soak in the sights? We’ve listed our eight favourite cities below, where you absolutely must extend your work trip into a ‘work-ation’.
Now’s the best time to do so, because Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has rolled out a limited-time offer called the Wyndham Workation Deals that lets you enjoy up to 12% off for two consecutive nights’ stay, 15% off for three nights, and 20% off when you maximise your trip with a four-night stay or more. Enjoy these perks when you book from now till 25 November 2024, and complete your stay by 30 November 2024.
Furthermore, if you take a minute to sign up as a Wyndham Rewards Member, you can chalk up Wyndham Rewards Points while you travel. For this season, the Wyndham Rewards Summer Points Offer enables members to accumulate 7,500 bonus points with a booking of two consecutive night stays at hotels by Wyndham, 12,5000 points from three consecutive nights, and 15,000 points from four or more consecutive nights, available from now till 30 August 2024. 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points enables you to redeem up to two free night stays at participating hotels!
Enjoy huge savings with these two stackable offers! You’ll be in no rush and can take your time to soak in the best that these eclectic cities have to offer.
1. Singapore
The vibrant pulse of Singapore's city skyline is a breathtaking one.
Discover Singapore by exploring its spotless and very walkable streets, and riding its highly efficient transport. The best thing about this city that is a melting pot of cultures is its diverse cuisine. You can eat your way through Instagram-worthy heritage districts like Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam, and never run out of new dishes and restaurants to try.
Learn more about the advanced metropolis by booking a cruise along its historic river, or better yet, book the amphibious Duck Tours that travel along historic roads and into the sea!
If you’d like to bring something home for your loved ones, the city centre treats its visitors to a litany of traditional crafts and knick knacks that you can purchase as souvenirs.
After discovering this multifaceted city, you can consider taking a stroll through Gardens by the Bay, relaxing atop the high-tech reservoir known as Marina Barrage, or check out a rustic side of Singapore when you explore the Changi Precinct.
You can explore the heart of Singapore conveniently with a stay at the Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel.
Where to stay: Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel
When you visit Singapore, book yourself a room in the heart of the city. The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore is located in the historic Civic District, from which the British began planning and building modern Singapore in the 19th century. The nicely refurbished hotel is located near iconic sights like Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer. It is also within walking distance of vivacious watering holes like Chijmes and Clarke Quay, as well as a key MRT/subway interchange station, City Hall.
2. Phuket, Thailand
Make your island hopping dreams come true at Phuket, where you can experience a tropical escape.
A popular tourist destination that is famous for its stunning beaches like Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach and Phang Nga Bay, Phuket also invites you to indulge in rich heritage and boisterous nightlife.
For business travellers who visit Bangkok often, extending a work trip to Phuket is a viable option. Phuket is just a 90-minute flight from Bangkok, and travellers will be transported from a bustling city to a beach paradise.
Savour authentic cuisine from Phuket’s litany of street food stalls, night markets and restaurants. Must-try dishes include Pad Thai, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup). It’s also easy to book a traditional Thai cooking class during your stay in Phuket.
Wander through the streets of Old Phuket Town to admire its beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture, colourful buildings and local markets. We recommend visiting on Sunday to discover the old town’s famous Sunday Walking Street Market.
Culture enthusiasts might like to visit the 45m-tall Big Buddha atop Nakkerd Hill. Another iconic temple is Wat Chalong, which has played an important role in many junctures of Thailand’s history. And if you’d like to escape into nature, simply make a trip to one of Phuket’s ethical elephant sanctuaries, or book a snorkelling or diving trip around the Phi Phi Islands or Similan Islands.
Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket is surrounded by lush greenery and you will be in for a treat with magnificent views.
Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket
If you’ve been dreaming of an idyllic getaway, we highly recommend booking yourself a stay in the Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket, which surrounds its guests with verdant fauna and azure lagoons. Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket is located along immaculate Nai Harn Beach at the southwestern tip of Phuket, and stares out into the tranquil Andaman Sea. Pack your briefcase and your bathing suit – it’s time to unwind in one of this hotel’s 10 pools or book yourself a traditional massage in its in-house spa.
We also recommend visiting Pattaya at the eastern gulf coast of Thailand and staying in the award-winning Wyndham Jometien Pattaya. A lauded beach getaway with a totally different vibe, Phuket indulges its visitors in lively nightlife, raucous entertainment and a diverse culinary landscape.
3. Busan, South Korea
Busan, a vibrant coastal gem, is one of South Korea's most popular destinations.
Located at the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city. Soak up the sun on Haeundae Beach or discover kaleidoscopic street art in Gamcheon Culture Village, which is also known as the "Machu Picchu of Busan" because of its brightly painted houses and quirky sculptures.
Buy local seafood and have it cooked in front of you at Jagalchi Fish Market. The shopping and eating continue along nearby Nampo-dong Shopping Street, where traditional markets and street food stalls invite you to discover an array of local delicacies.
Religious attractions include Beomeosa Temple, which is located on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain, and is a historical site worth visiting for its architecture and calming surroundings. There’s also Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, which is one of the few temples in Korea located by the sea, and offers stunning ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere.
For unforgettable views of Busan, visit Oryukdo Skywalk, which is a glass bridge that extends out over the sea, and lets you experience the sensation of walking on air. Then take a walk up Yongdusan Park to Busan Tower, to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city and the harbour – it’s definitely one of the best things to see and experience in Busan!
The ocean views from Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan makes this hotel a travel bucket list item for many travellers.
Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan
When in Busan, treat yourself to a luxurious stay in the Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan, which is a 90-minute train ride from Seoul and 20 minutes’ drive from Gimhae International Airport. Located in Songdo Beach and Busan’s city centre, Wyndham Grand Ijin Busan has a sauna, four different eateries and a heated indoor pool that overlooks Namhang Bridge and the ocean.
Yeosu, a storied city located a little further south, is worth a visit too. Known for its mesmerising islands and nature parks, Yeosu has an award-winning hotel in its city centre called Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Dolsan Yeosu.
4. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
The vibrant streets of Phu Quoc in Vietnam is aellers who want to experience local life and culture.
A beach getaway that is gradually rising in prominence, Phu Quoc is an island off the western coast of Vietnam. As Vietnam's economy is booming, Phu Quoc has been attracting business travellers seeking an escape from the city. It's just an hour's flight from Ho Chi Minh City, and two hours from Hanoi.
Unwind on Sao Beach’s white sands, and dive into the crystal-clear waters off the An Thoi Archipelago to discover the diversity of Phu Quoc’s marine life. Enjoy freshly caught seafood in Rach Vem Fishing Village, which is known for the many species of starfish that inhabit its shallow waters. You can also tuck into local cuisine in Ham Ninh Fishing Village. This peaceful village will offer you a glimpse into the lives of locals, and will indulge you in beautiful unblocked views of the coastline and mountains.
You can learn more about the culture and history of Phu Quoc by visiting its Pepper Farms. Pepper is an important export of this city, and played a big role in its economic growth. These farms teach visitors about Vietnamese pepper's cultivation process and give them the opportunity to buy fresh pepper. Later, visit the nearby Fish Sauce Factories to learn about the manufacturing process of this essential Vietnamese condiment. You can also visit the historic Coconut Prison, which still houses artefacts from the Vietnam War.
Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc is a beach resort destination, perfect for families and travellers who wish to unwind and rejuvenate.
Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc
The Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc is an award-winning beach resort hotel that is located on scenic Bai Dai Beach and has its own private beach. Relax in its sophisticated spa or outdoor pool, enjoy games with your loved ones in its tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, and then refuel in one of its four gourmet restaurants.
Another acclaimed tourist destination of the region, Da Nang is known for its natural caves, marble mountains and ancient Buddhist architecture. When in this historic city, check yourself into the opulent Wyndham Da Nang Golden Bay, which is located near iconic landmarks like Danang Cathedral, Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture, and Han Market.
5. Sun Moon Lake (Nantou), Taiwan
The views from Sun Moon Lake are breathtaking and have an enchanting allure.
Three hours’ drive from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Sun Moon Lake is located in the heart of Taiwan, and many visitors like to stop over in Taichung. You’ll never forget the breathtaking views to be had of Sun Moon Lake and its surrounding mountains.
Travelling to Sun Moon Lake from Nantou in Taichung is also a popular choice for travellers visiting the central part of Taiwan.
Book a cruise to soak in these views and to visit landmarks like Lalu Island, then ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway to see these iconic attractions from totally different perspectives. This cable car ride will bring you to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, a popular theme park that showcases the culture and traditions of Taiwan's indigenous people through performances, exhibits and amusement rides.
Other famous icons of Sun Moon Lake include the majestic Wenwu Temple, which has beautiful architecture dedicated to Confucius and the warrior deity Guan Gong, and Xuanzang Temple that is dedicated to the Buddhist monk Xuanzang and houses his relics. There’s also Ci’en Pagoda that was built by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother, the Nine Frogs Stack that is visible when the water level drops, and Shuishe Pier which offers boat tours, souvenirs and local delicacies.
If you like cycling, rent a bicycle to explore Sun Moon Lake, its surrounding tea plantations, and Thao Village. In Thao Village, you can discover the local snacks and traditional crafts of the Thao indigenous people. After a long day of exploring, you might like to savour traditional Shaoxing wine on the Puli Winery tour, or relax in one of Sun Moon Lake’s natural hot springs.
Great views, luxurious amenities, and a karaoke room - these make for a perfect stay in Wyndham Sun Moon Lake.
Where to stay: Wyndham Sun Moon Lake
One of the most lauded properties in Sun Moon Lake is Wyndham Sun Moon Lake, whose balconies offer private views of the surrounding mountains and lake, and even has private hot springs. Showcasing Thao-style architectural details, this hotel invites you to unwind in its Instagram-worthy outdoor pool and take your pick from a list of pampering treatments at its in-house spa. You can also indulge in Eastern and Western cuisines in its in-house restaurants and sing your heart out in its karaoke room.
6. Nanhai, China
Discover beautiful landscapes and historical temples, and experience unique cultural events at Nanhai, China.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance, Nanhai is located in the Guangdong Province of China, in a district of Foshan city. You’ll be bowled over by the architecture of Nanhai Kwan-yin Temple, which is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in the region, and is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Another temple worth visiting is the well-preserved Foshan Ancestral Temple, which showcases detailed Lingnan architecture, intricate wood carvings, and regular performances of traditional Cantonese opera and lion dances. One of the oldest continuously operating kilns in China, Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, is also located in Nanhai.
Viridescent Nanhai invites visitors to enjoy lush greenery in Xiqiao Mountain National Forest Park, which teems with cultural sites and picturesque waterfalls. You can also escape to Qinghui Garden, which is a classic-style Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty.
Wyndham Foshan Nanhai is perfect for business and leisure travellers, with a host of attractions and amenities in its surroundings.
Where to stay: Wyndham Foshan Nanhai
40 minutes’ drive from Guangzhou, Wyndham Foshan Nanhai is a designer property situated in the business district and near major shopping malls. This upscale hotel’s restaurants indulge guests in the best of local produce and stunning views of this rapidly advancing city. Wyndham Foshan Nanhai is a short drive from Foshan Shadi Airport, and several ports and railway stations. Speak with this hotel’s friendly concierge to arrange a tour of attractions like Boai Lake, Dongfeng Reservoir, Nanguo Taoyuan and Tianzimao Forest Park.
Another award-winning Wyndham property in China is the Wyndham Grand Lishui Downtown, which has an in-house spa, gourmet restaurants and is located near beautiful attractions like the Guyan Huaxiang Scenic Area, Xiandu Scenic Area and East-West Rock Scenic Area.
7. Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty that will suit all travellers.
While Melbourne and Sydney often steal the spotlight for business travel, rhe capital city of South Australia, Adelaide, offers a refreshing alternative. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks and revered wineries.
Visit Adelaide Central Market, which is one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere, to explore over 70 stalls offering seafood, specialty ingredients and authentic local dishes. Afterwards, relax in Adelaide Botanic Garden, which is a beautiful and serene garden in the heart of the city that comprises landmarks like the Palm House, Bicentennial Conservatory and the Mediterranean Garden.
You might also fancy soaking up the sun along Glenelg Beach, which can be reached via the historic Glenelg tram. We also recommend catching a cricket or AFL match in the world-renowned Adelaide Oval.
Art lovers must visit the North Terrace, which comprises the Art Gallery of South Australia, South Australian Museum and the State Library of South Australia.
Animal lovers can meet more than 2,500 animals who live in the Adelaide Zoo, and wine lovers can book themselves on a wine tour in nearby Barossa Valley, where famous wine companies like Penfolds, Jacob’s Creek and Seppeltsfield grow and manufacture their wines.
Last but not least, chocolate lovers should book themselves on a tour of Haigh's Chocolate Factory, which is Australia’s oldest family-owned chocolate maker.
TRYP By Wyndham Pulteney Street, Adelaide is a stone's throw away from popular attractions in the city centre, making it an attractive choice for many travellers.
Where to stay: TRYP By Wyndham Pulteney Street, Adelaide
Business and leisure travellers alike will love the TRYP By Wyndham Pulteney Street, Adelaide. Located near attractions like the Adelaide Oval and Glenelg Beach, TRYP By Wyndham Pulteney Street, Adelaide is situated in the heart of Adelaide’s business district, and near gregarious watering holes and a diverse array of restaurants.
8. Christchurch, New Zealand
Immerse yourself in the charm of Christchurch, New Zealand.
Located on the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city that has a variety of gardens, walking paths and conservatories. Next, take the Christchurch Gondola to the top of Port Hills for panoramic views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps.
Museum buffs will enjoy the International Antarctic Centre, which provides a multi-sensorial experience of the Antarctic, its climate and its wildlife, and Quake City, which is a museum dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that hugely impacted Christchurch. There’s also Canterbury Museum, which offers a comprehensive view of New Zealand's cultural and natural history, including exhibitions on Maori culture, Antarctic exploration, and the region’s natural history.
Mementos from the devastating earthquakes pepper the city: You can visit the Cardboard Cathedral, which is a functioning church that was made of cardboard tubes after the 2011 earthquake, and Restart Mall, which is a vibrant shopping area made from shipping containers following the earthquakes.
For a truly unique experience, book a punting ride along the Avon River, and you will find yourself gliding along this famous river in a punt guided by a punter dressed in traditional Edwardian attire.
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street is a perfect place for you to start your adventure in New Zealand, and you must check out the stylish rooms.
Where to stay: Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street is located near landmarks like Cathedral Square, Riverside Market and Quake City. Speak with this hotel’s forthcoming staff to arrange a visit to attractions like the International Antarctic Centre, Christchurch Art Gallery, Christchurch Adventure Park and more. New Zealand is one of the best destinations for cycling and sightseeing so you can explore the city on your own wheels, at your own pace.
Ready to step up your bleisure trip experience with Wyndham Hotels?
So, what are you waiting for? Combine business and leisure and transform your next business trip into an unforgettable bleisure getaway! With Wyndham Workation Deals and the Wyndham Rewards Summer Points Offer, you can extend your stay, experience the local culture, and rack up rewards all at once. Book your workation today and discover the magic of these vibrant destinations!
You can stack the two offers to earn more bonus points, and redeem them for nights during future stays at hotels by Wyndham.
💡Don't miss out—Our Pro Travel Tip: Stack Workation Deals with our Wyndham Rewards Bonus Points Offer to max your rewards!
📌Step 1: Register to earn up to 15,000 Wyndham Rewards bonus points
📌Step 2: Book you stay at hotels by Wyndham and select Wyndham Workation Deals
Sign up as a Wyndham Rewards member now to enjoy these exclusive perks and much more.
This story is brought to you by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
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