With working from home becoming an integral part of most of our lives, a number of aspects of daily life were bound to change. With a shift in our workspaces came a shift in our mind spaces, making social distancing, regular sanitisation, and added safety the need of the hour. Needless to say, travel was the last thing that mattered. But, given that most of us have been cooped up indoors with limited movement, the concept of a workation seems like a welcome change, especially since the various lockdown restrictions have eased up.
So what is a workation? The name literally translates to work vacation. And since we are working remotely, what’s stopping you from taking a workation? We list out five destinations that you can enjoy working from. Besides, when your office space offers your great views, what’s not to love about a work day?
Soulitude Boutique Hotels, Uttarakhand
Soulitude boutique hotels have two properties, both near Nainital in Uttarakhand--Soulitude In The Himalayas is situated on a quiet hillside in Gagar, and has a 180-degree view of the snow-capped Kumaon mountain range while Soulitude By The Riverside is nestled on the banks of the Kalsa river in Chanfi. It is an organic farm and is surrounded by water bodies such as rock pools and waterfalls.
Amenities: Both the properties offer workation packages, and assure high-speed internet for a seamless work day. Additionally, your children, too can attend their online classes, while being surrounded by nature.
Manish Chandra, who runs Soulitude mentions, “While the concept of workation is now becoming mainstream, it has been a part of the Soulitude DNA since the properties were built 15 years ago. While I used it for my work for extended period of time, when we began opening our doors for staycations, it became popular for Chief Experience Officer (CXO) level off-site meetings. In the present times, we have focused on long-stay packages, with several of our guests working from one of our Soulitude properties, while their children attend online school.”
Activites: For the days when you want to take a break, you can check out the temple trail which is near Soulitude In The Himalayas—offering guests an insight into the religious heritage of the Kumaon region. For those who like to be closer to nature, you can check out the various hiking trails that are close to the property. For those visiting in the cosy winter months, you will be in for a real treat and can witness a white winter. For guests at Soulitude By The Riverside, the river bank is a great spot for bird-watchers. You could even visit the village nearby for a taste something local (subject to COVID-19 guidelines). There’s outdoor space for children to indulge in free play, experience nature, and even partake in activities such as vegetable picking.
Packages: The long stay packages for workation start from INR 31,050 onwards. For bookings and further information, you can visit https://soulitude.in/
Please Note: A COVID test (RT-PCR, within 72 hours of arrival) from an ICMR Lab with negative report is compulsory. Additionally, rapid testing is also being conducted at the state border.
Parvada Bungalows, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand
Parvada Bungalows is a quaint luxury homestay near Mukteshwar. It offers guests a 180-degree view of the South Gola mountain range on one side, and is surrounded by lush green forests on the other. The property even boasts of an orchard that attracts a variety of exotic birds, and is a treat for bird watchers.
Amenities: Spread across three acres, at Parvada Bungalows, you can choose a spot anywhere on the property and get started on work as they offer 24/7 high-speed internet and Wi-Fi. What’s more, the property is pet friendly, making it ideal for longer getaways with your fur baby. However, at the time of booking, make sure to mention that you will be travelling with a pet, and all the necessary arrangements will be made for your stay.
Puneet Kahlon, spokesperson for the property, says, “People are looking for a change in scenery—a home away from home. They want to continue their regular activities in the midst of peaceful surroundings and be close to nature whenever they take a break. All they need is a good Wi-Fi connection. These needs will definitely be met with at the property.”
Activities: For a change in routine, you can try orchard hopping within the property or just enjoy the surroundings; you could also assist the locals in the fields, and visit their homes for ’kut ki chai’ (subject to COVID-19 guidelines). Those who enjoy easy treks can visit the nearby Bhalugaad waterfall, a 2 km trek through the dense forest (you can learn more about the trail and safety guidelines at the property). To get your adrenaline pumping, try your hands at quad biking, a little further away at Bhimtal (COVID-19 rules apply).
Packages: The tariff starts from INR 9,800 per night. For bookings, you can head to: https://parvadabungalows.com/
Please Note: A negative COVID test report within 72 hours of arrival from an ICMR Lab is compulsory. Additionally, you could also get a rapid test while entering Uttarakhand.
Naad Wellness, Sonipat, Haryana
Naad Wellness, as the name suggests, is a wellness retreat on the outskirts of New Delhi. It focuses on holistic healing through a series of curated experiences, based on your needs. They follow the principles of Ayurveda, yoga and naturopathy for their healing and wellness practices.
Amenities: The property has recently started offering workation packages, keeping in mind the rising demand for wellness while people work remotely. They provide round-the-clock high-speed internet, and a full power backup, so you can work in a peaceful setup.
Dr Hrishikesh Ashok, BAMS, MS (Ayurveda), and chief Ayurveda consultant at Naad Wellness, asserts that wellness should be an integral part of one’s work routine. “When your mind is at peace, it makes it that much easier for you to concentrate on your work. Your body too reacts positively, and together, your mind and body make sure you are able to give your best.”
Activities: After work, you can unwind and de-stress, as their packages are designed around your work schedule, instead of pre-planned activities. These include spa sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, and yoga.
Packages: The charges for the workation packages are available on request. For further details, you can log on to https://naadwellness.com/
Please Note: It is mandatory for all guests to show the ‘safe’ status on the Aarogya Setu app before entering the premises.
Linger Properties, Across India
Linger properties have a variety of workation offerings ranging from campsites to simple village living. However, the most sought after stays are at Balur Estate in Chikmanglur, and Varshini Estate in Sakleshpur, both coffee estates located in southern India.
Balur Estate is India’s first coffee estate. Spread over 400 acres on the hills, the planter’s bungalow within the estate will help guests travel back in time, as the décor is steeped in history and that old world charm. If that’s not all, the Hemavathy River originates just above the estate. While Varshini Estate in Sakleshpur, is a 30 acre coffee estate with large paddy fields surrounding it.
Amenties: There are dedicated rooms in both the properties, which can be used as a work station or a classroom for your child. They also provide Wi-Fi connection throughout. Along with ensuring guests have a smooth working experience, they will also enjoy delectable meals that will satiate their appetites and cravings. Moreover, Balur Estate is a pet-friendly property, and necessary arrangements can be made with a timely intimation.
Sameer Shisodia, proprietor at Linger has been pushing the idea of slower, more immersive travel—the concept of a longer stay where guests are not just visitors but get to experience the local life, for some time now. However, with the COVID-19 lockdown and remote working becoming a necessity, they decided to embrace the concept of a workation to welcome more people onto their properties.
Activities: Varshini Estate is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers and is the perfect place to go bird watching. If you’re in luck, you might even spot some elephants. The nearest places to check out are Manajarabad Fort, Baileygat, Kukke Temple. The famous temple towns of Horanadu, Kalasa, Sringeri, Dharmasthala, and Balehonnur are not far from Balur Estate. Kudremukh and the Charmady Ghats are also a short drive/trek away.
Packages: Workation packages start from INR 38,000. There’s also a discount for seniors, as well as women-only groups of three or more. For bookings, connect at https://linger.in/
Novotel Hotels, Goa
For those missing the comforts and hospitality of hotels, Novotel Goa Resorts and Spa, and Novotel Goa, Candolim, are offering special workation packages.
Amenities: Novotel Goa Resorts and Spa is known for its greenery and tranquil spaces. It is also the only property in Goa with a Turkish hammam, which makes for the ideal way to de-stress after a long day at work., Novotel Goa Candolim, on the other hand, has a spa specialising in Ayurveda treatments (while following all safety guidelines in view of COVID-19). There is also a dedicated play area for childrem in both the properties, with a chaperone to guarantee full supervision. You can also indulge in family activities post work, depending on the day’s schedule.
Amisha Gutgutia, director of PR and corporate communications, Accor Group of Hotels is of the opinion that since workation is an emerging segment in the hospitality sector, it has a huge potential in the current scenario. This will also allow the hotels to provide experiential facilities to their guests and diversify their services.
Activities: When you feel like taking time off from work, head to Candolim, the closest beach, a quick five-minute drive from both properties. You could also sign up for some cooking classes with the hotel’s in-house chefs, and learn some authentic Goan dishes while you stay there.
Packages: Both properties are offering a workation package inclusive of all meals, everyday yoga sessions, cooking sessions, in-house activity for adults (in a 4-night stay package) early check-in and late check-out. The packages start from INR 6,799 plus taxes. For more information and bookings, you can visit https://all.accor.com/india/
*Please Note: In view of the current situation, we recommend exercising full discretion while booking your stay at the properties mentioned above. Stay safe!