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Imagine navigating uncharted waters with no compass; that’s akin to venturing into corporate travel without a policy. Welcome to the business landscape of 2023, where collaboration, innovation, and connectivity are at their peak. In this fast-paced world, corporate travel is not just an option; it’s often a necessity. 

To maximize the potential and minimize the challenges of business travel, savvy companies are increasingly adopting corporate travel policies. This strategic guide to the wonders of an effective corporate travel policy uncovers how it paves the way for cost savings, productivity, employee satisfaction, and much more. Let’s embark on this enlightening journey!

What is a Corporate Travel Policy?

The cornerstone of successful business travel is a well-crafted corporate travel policy. It is a strategic document that sets the course by defining the rules and procedures for business travel. This includes booking channels, travel expenses, preferred vendors, and employee behaviour during travel. Technology has added a new dimension to corporate travel policies, and in 2023, it’s imperative to have integrated platforms for seamless planning, real-time updates, and efficient communication. Companies can achieve streamlined travel operations by leveraging mobile apps and analytics to keep track of itineraries and expenditures.

Financial Benefits of a Corporate Travel Policy

A corporate travel policy acts as your financial compass, steering you towards significant savings. By negotiating corporate rates with airlines and hotels, travel expenses can be dramatically reduced. A robust policy also standardizes expense reporting and reimbursement processes, ensuring prompt and accurate payments. 

The systematic analysis of travel data can further enhance decision-making and help pinpoint areas for additional cost reduction. This financial efficiency and transparency contribute directly to the company’s bottom line and facilitate better budget management. 

Productivity and Employee Satisfaction with Corporate Travel Policies

An effective corporate travel policy can boost productivity and morale. It enables employees to focus on their core responsibilities rather than fretting over travel arrangements and expenses. Furthermore, incorporating a ‘bleisure’ component, which combines business and leisure travel, has become an increasingly popular trend. This work-life balance during travel can greatly enhance employee satisfaction and foster a motivated, loyal workforce. It’s a win-win situation, benefiting both the employee and the employer. 

Duty of Care, Legal Compliance, and Risk Management

Duty of care is an organization’s moral and legal responsibility to ensure the well-being and safety of its employees during travel. A comprehensive corporate travel policy outlines clear procedures for emergency situations, health concerns and risk management. Moreover, compliance with legal requirements and industry standards is paramount. Ensuring that the travel policy adheres to these regulations protects both the company and its employees, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. 

Enhancing Corporate Image Through Sustainability and Responsibility 

In 2023, environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility will be more than just buzzwords; they will be essential components of a company’s identity. A corporate travel policy that encompasses green travel options and supports carbon offset programs showcases a commitment to sustainability. This ethical approach not only reduces environmental impact but also resonates with clients, partners, and employees who value eco-friendly initiatives. In essence, your travel policy becomes an extension of your brand’s values and integrity. 

Adapting to the Changing Business Landscape

The corporate world is similar to shifting sands – it’s ever-changing. Your corporate travel policy needs to be agile and adaptable. This involves regular evaluations and updates to ensure it reflects current trends, employee needs, and organizational goals. Employee feedback can be a treasure trove of insights, helping to optimize the policy. By ensuring that your corporate travel policy is aligned with the company’s long-term goals, you create a sustainable framework that can weather the winds of change and predict the business travel outlook for the coming years. 

Streamlined Processes and Flexibility 

By employing technology and clearly defined processes, corporate travel policies enable smoother and more efficient business travel experiences. Streamlined booking and expense processes remove bottlenecks, and the policy can also provide employees with choices and flexibilities, leading to more customized and comfortable travel experiences. This combination of efficiency and flexibility is a boon in today’s dynamic corporate world.

Secure Your Company’s Future Travel

Like the captain of a mighty vessel, a corporate travel policy steers the corporate armada through turbulent waters into harbours of opportunity. It’s an alchemist, turning the mundane into gold—financial savvy, employee zeal, and a greener world. Now that you’re privy to the secrets, are you ready to set sail with a business to business travel agency? 

Corporations looking to renew or implement a corporate travel policy often have some important questions to ask. Here’s some of the most common:

Business travel can be a hassle. Long flights, unfamiliar airports, and other challenges can make travelling for work an exhausting experience. From packing to navigating an unfamiliar city to staying connected while on the go, there are many details to manage and keep track of.

Thankfully, there are apps out there designed to make the process smoother and more efficient Keep reading to learn about five awesome apps for business travellers that will make your next business trip feel like a breeze.

Technology for business travel 

Technology can make business travel a lot easier and more efficient. From tools to help you plan your trip to apps that will help you stay connected while on the go, technology can help reduce stress, save time, and increase productivity. Travel technology has made it easier to automate bookings, make payments, and execute back-office tasks. This enables corporate travellers to make their online bookings and run essential errands without the need to involve a third party in the mix.  

Technology for business travel makes us self-reliant and enables us to maximize productivity. 

Business travel tech essentials

We already mentioned how stressful business trips could be. But if you are unprepared for the journey or forget to pack some essentials, your plans will be in disarray. 

Whether you are headed to a business conference, a sales pitch or to meet existing clients, packing for a work trip is an important step.  Before you suit up to jet off for that important client or colleague meetup, here are some important business tech travel essentials to take with you:

Laptop and/or Tablet 

It goes without saying that if you’re travelling for business, having access to a laptop or tablet is essential. Make sure your device has enough storage space for all your documents, photos, videos, etc., as well as a long battery life so you don’t have to worry about charging it throughout the day. If you plan on using your device for work purposes, consider investing in a laptop with more power than a typical consumer model. 

Noise-Canceling Headphones 

Travelling can be stressful but it doesn’t have to be noisy. Invest in some good quality noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds so that you can focus on your work without being distracted by the sounds around you. Look for models with Bluetooth capabilities so that you can easily connect them to your laptop or other devices without having to fumble with cables. 

Portable Charger and Mobile Hotspot 

Having access to reliable internet wherever you are is essential when it comes to staying productive while travelling. We recommend packing a portable charger and mobile hotspot to ensure that you always have access to both power and data when needed. This way, even if the hotel WiFi isn’t working properly, or if there’s no free WiFi available at the airport, you’ll still be able to get online quickly and easily.  

External Hard Drive & Cloud Storage Services 

 You should not leave home without an external hard drive or cloud storage service! These are great for backing up files before and after trips – make sure not to leave them in public places or on public transportation! For extra security, encrypt your files with password protection before transferring them onto the external drive or cloud service so no one else can access them in case of theft or loss. 

Cloud Services like Dropbox and Google Drive are also great for sharing large files quickly while on the road; they also allow you to store documents online so they can be easily accessed from any of your devices at any time!                                                       

Apps to Help with Productivity While on the Road

Here is a look at some of the most helpful apps for business travellers.

Evernote

If we had to give the title of the ultimate digital notebook, Evernote would be it. This powerful app lets you do more than just take notes. From adding text notes, audio clips, images, PDF documents, scanned handwritten pages, conversations from multiple project management apps, emails, websites and more, the list is endless! Evernote is a safe place to throw everything and easily sort and organize them. You can access a slew of more features if you opt for the paid monthly subscription. 

Translation Apps – Google Translate and iTranslate

Most corporate travellers who go on international trips can understand the frustration of not being able to read certain signs or understand the local language. This affects productivity and can also be dangerous in an emergency! This is where translation apps like Google Translate and iTranslate come in to save the day. These apps allow you to interact with other languages and have a vast library of languages from around the world! This may not make you fluent in the local language but will help you understand the basics just well enough to get through your business trips!

LastPass, a great app for business travellers

Passwords are hard to remember. We have all been in a position where we forgot a password and ended up spending a lot of time to retrieve a certain account. With LastPass, you will never have to worry about losing passwords ever again! As a password manager tool, it does the work of creating, remembering and filling in passwords. Simply log into an online account for the first time and LastPass will store your username and password so every time you go back your credentials will be filled in automatically.

Worldgo Mobile Travel App

This must-have travel app is the industry standard to see all your travel plans in one place. Worldgo automatically and seamlessly compiles everything into one master itinerary allowing you to view your entire trip on your tablet or smartphone. No need to get into your inbox and hunt for flight, car, or hotel booking, it’s all there in one place, in an easy-to-read, fluid format. In addition, you’ll receive automatic notifications of gate changes and flight delays, you can check in for your flight, view the weather in your destination, or even make restaurant reservations. With the click of a button, you’ll be connected to a Worldgo agent, available 24/7 to assist you. Available for download in the Apple Store or on Google Play.

Bonus App for business travellers: Car Booking Services – Uber and Lyft

Uber and Lyft are two must-have apps when travelling for work because they make getting around town much easier than hailing traditional taxis or relying on unreliable public transportation schedules. Both Uber and Lyft offer carpooling options as well, so if you need to get around with colleagues then this is a great way to save money while still being able to get where you need to go quickly and safely.

No matter what kind of business trip you’re embarking on, these apps should make life easier by providing useful information quickly and conveniently while on the go. From booking flights and hotels to managing your itinerary and converting currency, these apps have your back! So if you’ve been dreading upcoming business trips due to all the hassle involved—fear not! With these awesome apps by your side, every business trip will be a breeze!

We hope these business travel apps will help you be more productive when on the road. Safe travels! 

 Some related questions you might have about apps for business travellers:

How does technology affect travel?

The advent of technology affects travel positively by making the user experience smooth and productive. Mobile apps and sites have transformed the way we manage bookings and reservations, documents, and more, all from the palm of our hands. 

What are some of the best travel apps?

Some of the best travel apps are the ones that help you boost productivity while being user-friendly. Apps like Uber, Worldgo, and Google Translate can be great tools to make life easier while on the go!

Why is a Travel Reporting Platform important?

A travel-reporting platform is important to track spending patterns. Such a platform can enable sustainable corporate travel practices and minimize errors and inaccuracies. Travel reporting platforms are great to maximize productivity and efficiency.

Engaging with corporate travel service providers is a big consideration for many small and mid-sized businesses in Canada. Yet when the right practices are in place, it can be a huge boon to the bottom line. Canadian businesses often use corporate travel management services to maximize efficiency, lower overall costs associated with travel, manage risks and get the most return on investment. This added convenience and specialization allows business owners and management to focus on more the important aspects of success.

Corporate Travel as a strategic investment

You might have heard how companies with a strong travel culture are more diversified. When it comes to business, first impressions matter. How you present yourself and your company to potential clients and partners can make or break a deal. That is why corporate travel is such an important strategic investment. It allows you to put your best foot forward, build relationships, and close deals.

Whether you are attending a trade show, meeting with suppliers, or visiting customers, corporate travel allows you to do business in person and build relationships that would not be possible over email or phone. If you are not already incorporating corporate travel into your business strategy, now is the time to start. The benefits of corporate travel are too great to ignore.

Here are some noteworthy benefits of corporate travel:

Increased productivity

When employees are given the opportunity to travel for work, they often return to their desks more productive than before. This is because traveling provides a change of scenery and a new environment in which to work. In addition, corporate travel often allows employees to network with other professionals, exchange ideas, and learn new skills. As a result, corporate travel can be an invaluable investment for any business.

Access to new markets

A corporate trip can be a great opportunity to open up new markets for your company. By meeting with potential partners or clients in person, you can forge stronger relationships and lay the groundwork for future business deals. With the addition of some careful planning, you can make the most of your time and maximize your chances of success.

Corporate travel is tax deductible

Travel expenses are among the most commonly deducted business expenses. You can deduct the cost of getting from point A to point B on a business trip regardless of how you get there.

Airline tickets, taxi bills, hotel-related stays, meal premiums, and rental car expenses are all fully deductible within the CRA’s scope of taxation. A good corporate travel agency will help you account for, and delineate these expenses in their reporting.

Business travel can help you build relationships

When you are able to meet with clients face-to-face; it allows you to build a stronger relationship with them. You are able to get a better sense of their needs and what they are looking for from your product or service. When they see that you are willing to invest in meeting with them in person, it shows that you are serious about doing business with them.

Tips for Successful Business Travel in the Post-pandemic Age

Corporate travel is an important component of doing business that involves a lot of communication and coordination. Business travel has changed post-pandemic as companies around the globe get back to international business travel.

Here are some ways to ensure the success of your next corporate trip:

Get vaccinated and tested

In the post-pandemic era, it is of utmost importance to plan your trip around changes announced by governments. The best way to prevent unexpected hiccups is to ensure that you or the employee who is travelling for business purposes is fully vaccinated and goes through the mandatory COVID-19 testing regulations set out by the specific country of visit before their journey.  

Make sure to track the status of travel restrictions in the country/countries that you plan to visit.

Stay connected with your office

Communication with your office is of utmost importance on corporate trips. The best way to do this is by using collaborative tools. Slack, Google hangouts, and Microsoft teams are some of the popular services that allow for real-time messaging and video chatting to stay in touch with your coworkers.

In this age of technology, you can utilize cloud storage solutions to store and share documents electronically, which is a great way to stay connected with your office and keep documents handy.

Setting up a VPN Is one of the best ways to make sure that your connection to the office is secure, no matter where you go!

Check our Resources Hub

Last but most importantly, make use of our resources hub to navigate this ever-changing world of corporate travel!

By using a Worldgo Corporate Travel Agent, businesses can be assured that their employees are being taken care of and that their travel plans comply with the latest guidance on COVID-19.

A few commonly asked questions

What is a corporate traveller?

A corporate traveller is any employee or business owner who travels with the primary motivation to conduct business for their company. This can include travelling to a conference, client meetings, or site visits. 

Are business travel expenses tax deductible?

Business travel expenses are tax deductible and can include expenses like airline tickets, taxi bills, and rental car expenses as well as out-of-town lodging and meals. Make sure to hold onto your receipts as proof of your expenses incurred.

What is corporate travel vs leisure travel?

Corporate travel vs leisure travel can be differentiated simply as wants versus necessity. While corporate travel is more limited to individuals who travel for the sake of work commitments, leisure travel is focused on recreation, entertainment, and tourism activities.

Creating a greener business travel culture is often overlooked. However, as having greener workplaces is becoming a trend, businesses are working hard to make their office spaces as green as possible by looking for ways to minimize their carbon footprints while on work trips.

Can business travel be sustainable?

Short answer: Yes! Business travel can be sustainable. There are plenty of ways you can encourage your employees to travel sustainably, and loads of ways you can make it more accessible to them. We can help! Here are a few ways to promote a responsible business travel culture in your business:

Book Your Flights Wisely

Switching to greener practices in travel doesn’t have to mean inconvenience! One great way of cutting back on your carbon footprint is by choosing direct, non-stop flights wherever possible. There are also a number of airlines that offer carbon offsetting options. Airlines such as Qantas, Delta, British Airways, United Airlines, Air Canada, and more are doing their part by offering passengers the opportunity to offset their carbon emissions. Consider flying with these airlines on your next business trip!

Choose public transit.

Major cities often have access to great public transit. It’s also a great way to get to know a city. Choosing public transit wherever possible cuts back on your carbon footprint and saves the company some money in the process! If public transport is not available where you are travelling, consider carpooling services, cab sharing, hybrid or electric car rentals, or uberPOOL.

Choose Green Hotel Options.

Opting for hotels that practice eco-friendly operations is a great way to reduce your footprint. LEED Certification, Green Globe Certification, Rainforest Alliance, among other designations, are put in place to show a hotel’s commitment to the planet. Eco-resorts, eco-hotels, LEED certified, etc., are all things to look out for in order to make an impact on your travels.

Provide Employees with BPA-Free Water Bottles

Photo by Martin Sanchez on Unsplash

Encouraging employees to cut down on single-use plastic use is a huge step! Making a small investment in BPA-free water bottles will prove to be well worth it! Not only will plastic use in the office be cut down, but water bottle waste while traveling can be combated by using their own water bottle. Encourage your employees to take a no water bottle challenge! They’ll quickly get used to packing their own.

Travel Apps to Eliminate Paper

We’re all used to getting a stack of paper with our hotel reservations, flight reservations, train travel, car rental reservations, and other travel plans. Have employees install a travel app like TripIt, which can sync to their Gmail account or e-mail, and pull the reservations all into one place. This small act can save a huge amount of paper, and keeps all of the travel plans in one place!

There you have it! There are so many ways that you can work together as a company to make a difference on this planet! These are just a few simple tips to make business travel a little more eco-friendly and employees a little more eco-minded. At Worldgo, we are here to help you plan and manage your greener business trip. Get your no-obligation consultation now! Our team of experts at Worldgo is always happy to assist!

When it comes to booking travel, many people wonder about the difference between a business travel agency and a more stereotypical or regular travel agency. Since they both have their own advantages and specialties, the one you choose to use for your trips will depend on your needs.

Business travel agencies focus holistically on the travel and expectations of the organisations that they represent, including expense management, travel logistics and the individual travelers experience. While on the other hand, regular travel agencies specialize in leisure travel that curates dream vacations that help people recharge and reconnect. 

Both types of agencies typically offer similar services, such as booking airfare, hotels, rental cars, and tours. However, there are some key differences between the two. 

In this article, we’ll go over the key differences in details so that you can make the best decision for your next trip. 

Business Travel Agency

A business travel agency specializes in arranging business trips for corporate clients. They usually have closer relationships with airlines and hotels, which allows them to negotiate better rates for their clients. They also have relationships with ground transportation companies that allow them to get their clients discounts on rental cars and other ground transportation.

The focus of business travel agencies is to save their clients money on business travel expenses, simplify administration, and the time to coordinate everything themselves. They also typically have more experience dealing with corporate red tape, such as visa requirements and government regulations. As a result, business travel agencies can often provide a smoother and more efficient travel experience for business travelers. 

A good business travel agency can make all the difference when it comes to organizing a successful meeting, conference, or event. They will have the experience and know-how to handle all the logistics involved in planning and executing a successful event, from booking flights and hotels to arranging transportation. 

Furthermore, a travel agency can also provide valuable insights into different destinations, helping their clients to choose a location that is convenient and cost-effective for their attendees. With their help, the clients can focus on getting the most out of their event without having to worry about the details.

In addition, these agencies have systems and processes in place to help their clients keep track of business travel expenses and comply with their company travel policies. One of the most important things is providing a consolidated view of all travel-related expenses. 

This ensures that the clients have a complete picture of their spending and can identify areas where cost savings can be made. By helping their clients to better manage their travel expenses, corporate travel agencies can save businesses both time and money.

Many business travel agencies have custom online booking platforms for their clients to book business trips directly. These online booking tools help business travelers to stay organized and have everything in one place. On top of that, most business travel managers are available around the clock to assist their clients when plans change.

Regular Leisure Travel Agency

A regular leisure travel agency specializes in arranging leisure travel for individuals and families. Although they may still be able to book business trips, they are not geared towards business travelers. These agencies offer a variety of services in addition to booking airfare, hotels, rental cars, and tours. Such as putting together package deals that include multiple components of the trip, helping with visa applications, travel insurance, and currency exchange. 

Leisure travel agencies also provide guidance on what attractions to see and things to do at their clients’ destination. They can assist with the planning of itineraries and make recommendations based on their client’s interests and budget. They help maximize the vacation experience by making sure that their clients have all the necessary information before departure. 

This includes things like a list of recommended activities, restaurants, and attractions in the area, as well as any insider tips that will help the traveler make the most of their time. By taking care of all the details, a travel agency can help to ensure that the traveler has a stress-free and enjoyable vacation.

Since regular travel agencies focus on leisure travel, the agents working there will have a wealth of knowledge about hot travel destinations and are always staying on top of travel trends. They educate their clients about alternate destinations if they are open to suggestions and are looking for a different travel experience. 

In conclusion

Both business and leisure travel can be stressful, especially if you are trying to coordinate travel arrangements on your own. A travel agency can take care of all the details for you, so that you can relax and enjoy your trip. For companies that frequently send employees on business trips, working with a business travel agency can be valuable. 

Whether you’re looking to take a quick business trip or planning a leisurely vacation, it’s important to do your research and choose the right type of travel agency for your needs. 

If you would like to learn more about booking business travel, conferences and events, our Travel Managers at Worldgo can help. We specialize in corporate travel and have years of experience helping businesses book and organize the best trips possible. 

Contact us today to get started!

FAQ

What are the benefits of using a business travel agency?

A business travel agency can take care of all the details for you, allowing you to focus on your trip goals. You can save time and money while ensuring that your trip goes smoothly. They can provide guidance and support if there’s a problem during your trip. They will also have access to a wide range of travel services and vendors, so they can get the best deals for you.

How much does business travel agencies charge?

Business travel agencies typically charge a commission on the total cost of a business trip. While some operate to transparent cost-plus fee structure. The amount is typically dependent on the complexity of the itineraries. When choosing a business travel agency, it is important to ask about all fees upfront to avoid any surprises.

How to choose a good business travel agency?

You will want to make sure that the agency should not only be familiar with booking flights and hotels, but also with booking conferences and meetings, and have experience dealing with the unexpected events. Also make sure that the agency offers excellent after-hour support to help when you need it.

Are you a frequent traveler who spends days in airport lobbies, or zig zagging your way across the nation from business meeting to business meeting? If so, then you may be interested in learning about some of the best travel point credit cards available for Canadians. There are a lot of great credit cards out there that offer travel rewards and here are our 2022 top picks for the best credit cards for travel points in Canada!

1. American Express Gold Rewards Card 

The American Express Gold Rewards Card is a great choice for travelers who want to earn rewards on their spending. With this card, you can take advantage of these benefits:

• $100 Annual Travel Credit to offset the cost of your travels
• Four complimentary visits per calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges
• A $50 NEXUS Card statement credit

Rewards and card details:

• Welcome Bonus: 40,000 Membership Rewards points (after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months) plus 10,000 additional points when you use your card between the 14th and 17th month of Card Membership
• Earn Rate: 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel, dining, and more
• Income Requirement: No requirement
• Annual Fee: $150
• Annual Interest Rate: 20.99%, and 21.99% for cash advances

2. RBC Visa Infinite Avion Card

The RBC Visa Infinite Avion card gives you the ability to travel anywhere you want to go. Flights start as low as 15,000 RBC Rewards points, and RBC has made the process of redeeming rewards points easy. Benefits of the RBC Visa Infinite Avion card include:

• No blackouts or seat restrictions – even during peak seasons! You can fly if there is an open seat
• Access to The Avion Collection – perks and special offers on travel, dining, & more
• Instant booking of travel rewards using their online tool

Rewards and card details:

• Welcome Bonus: Up to 55,000 points (35,000 points on approval and 20,000 additional points after spending $5,000 within the first 6 months) – offer ends on September 16, 2022
• Earn Rate: 1 point on all purchases, plus an additional 25% on eligible travel-related purchases
• Income Requirement: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
• Annual Fee: $120
• Annual Interest Rate: 19.99%, and 22.99% for cash advances

3. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card

The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card is a great way to earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases. Whether you use your card for gas, groceries, or paying bills, you’ll be rewarded with points that can take you across the globe. With this card, you’ll also enjoy:

• Save on baggage fees – when your travel begins on an Air Canada flight, Primary Cardholders, Additional Cardholders, and travel companions (up to eight) on the same reservation will all receive their first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb).
• Receive up to a $100 rebate for NEXUS application fee
• Free Uber Pass membership for 6 months (limited time offer)

Rewards and card details:

• Welcome Bonus: Up to 50,000 Aeroplan points (10,000 after your first purchase, 20,000 after spending $1,500 within 90 days of account opening, and extra 20,000 points after spending $7,500 within 12 months of account opening) – offer ends on September 5, 2022
• Earn Rate: 1.5 Aeroplan points on every $1 spent on gas, groceries, and direct through Air Canada purchases; 1 point per $1 on all other purchases; 50% more points on Starbucks purchases; extra points when shopping at 170+ Aeroplan partner brands
• Income Requirement: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
• Annual Fee: $120 (first year free)
• Annual Interest Rate: 19.99%, and 22.99% for cash advances

4. HSBC World Elite Mastercard 

The HSBC World Elite Mastercard is a great choice for those who want to earn points on their spending and save the transaction fees on all foreign purchases. With this card, you can enjoy several other perks, such as:

• A $100 annual travel enhancement credit that can be used to cover the cost of your travels
• No foreign transaction fees – so you can use your card while traveling abroad without having to worry about any extra charges
• 10% discount on select hotel bookings on your card when booking directly through the HSBC Expedia and Agoda websites

Rewards and card details:

• Welcome Bonus: Up to 80,000 HSBC Rewards points (20,000 on approval, 40,000 after spending $6,000 within 6 months, 20,000 anniversary points) – offer ends on Oct 31, 2022
• Earn Rate: 6 HSBC Rewards points per $1 spent on eligible travel purchases, and 3 points per $1 on all other eligible purchases
• Income Requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
• Annual Fee: $149 (first year free)
• Annual Interest Rate: 19.9%, and 22.9% for cash advances

5. BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard comes with a number of great benefits that make it the perfect choice for those who travel frequently. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you can be sure to enjoy these benefits:

• No black-out periods
• Free membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass
• Four free airport lounge passes per year

Rewards and card details:

• Welcome Bonus: Up to 60,000 BMO Rewards points (30,000 after spending $3,000 within the first 3 months, and 2,500 points for each subsequent month when you spend at least $2,000, for a total of 12 months)
• Earn Rate: 5 BMO Rewards points per dollar spent on eligible travel purchases, 3 points for every $1 on dining, entertainment, and recurring bill payments, and 1 point for every $1 on all other purchases
• Income Requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
• Annual Fee: $150 (first year free)
• Annual Interest Rate: 20.99%, and 23.99% for cash advances

Choosing the best credit card for travel points can be a difficult task. With so many options available, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. However, by taking into account your spending habits and travel goals, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect card for your needs.

If you’re looking for a credit card that will help you earn travel points, then any of the cards listed above would be a great choice. Each one offers its unique benefits and perks, so be sure to compare them before making your final decision. And if you need any help planning and managing your next corporate travel, please contact us. Our team of experts at Worldgo is always happy to assist!

Our top 5 of the Best Restaurants for Client lunches in Toronto

Toronto, Ontario the largest city in Canada, and one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in the world. It’s an international centre for business and finance, as well as a hub for media, information technology, film and other bustling industries. An incredibly vibrant, inspiring city, it’s a popular destination to meet and impress clients. 

Below, you will find our top 5 of our favourite locations that ensure your next client lunch meeting is at one of the best restaurants in Toronto.

1. Terroni Queen Street

Photo credit: Terroni

Terroni’s first location is located in the heart of Queen Street West. It has quickly become a local favourite and is one of the best Italian spots in Toronto. Terroni serves a variety of salads, pastas, pizza, and paninis to be enjoyed on the great back patio in the summer months, or a cozy table indoors.

 This Italian-style restaurant has two more locations in the city at Price Street, and Adelaide. Italian food is a classic when meeting clients, so make it a memorable experience!

 2. Le Select Bistro

Photo credit: Blogto.com

Le Select Bistro has a strong belief that “what we put in our body three times a day has an impact on how we feel”. That belief trickles down to the diner, who can expect sustainable food free of pesticides, hormones, antibiotics and other nasty chemicals.

Le Select Bistro looks like it was plucked right out of France and strategically placed in Toronto’s Downtown. Your clients will delight in the delicious food, and Parisian ambiance.

3. – Richmond Station

Photo credit: BlogTo

Richmond Station is a must go spot in the heart of the city, a lively neighbourhood eatery.

Located on Richmond St, a few doors west of the Yonge St junction. This restaurant is a wonderful choice for business dinners or team lunches because of its focus on outstanding food and comfortable professional service. The staff is kind and helpful. Also, it carries a great selection of  wines.

4. Momofuku – Kojin

Photo credit: Momofuku Kojin

The Momofuku family of restaurants has been hugely successful, and it’s no wonder why. With changing menus, a mind for fresh and local ingredients, and an amazing presentation.

Kojin is a restaurant where you can experience global flavours and cooking techniques with an emphasis on local, quality ingredients cooked over a charcoal flame.

5. Union

Photo credit: TripAdvisor

The farm to table, hip spot Union, is well known in Toronto. Besides the tasteful decor, the food is really the standout here. With a few constant staples on the menu, Union has an outstanding daily menu which centres around fresh, local, seasonal ingredients.

Your clients can expect housemade pastas and breads, fresh seafoods, local meat, a great wine selection and divine desserts.

Bonus Point! Planta

Photo credit: Planta

Are you getting lunch with a vegan client? We got you covered! Planta was founded in 2016 by Steven Salm, Founder and CEO, and David Lee, Co-Founder and Executive Chef, with the goal of increasing the accessibility and acceptance of plant-based eating options.

In the process of creating the world’s first hospitality collective composed entirely of plant-based restaurants, PLANTA  has 4 different locations in  Toronto where they reimagine, reinvent, and revitalize the food industry with a great customer service and a quiet atmosphere to enjoy your meal and have a great conversation with your clients!.

Having a meal with your clients is such an important way to get to know them outside of an office environment. When planning your lunch meeting, make sure to take the extra care and ask about any food preferences or allergies. A few questions goes a long way to building trust with your clients and showcasing your dedication to their business.

At Worldgo, we hope that you enjoy our top 5 picks for the best restaurants in Toronto, and we invite you to reach out to us if you need help with Corporate Travel Management; it will be our pleasure to assist you, but for now, Bon appétit!

This month we shine a light on Toronto. 

In a previous blog, we shared our best neighbourhoods for business travelers, so today we’d like to share some great venues and places to go, whether you’re here for business, leisure or indeed a pleasure trip. We’ve got you covered.

Firstly let’s visit the Harbourfront. For amazing views why not try the 360 Restaurant with, yes you’ve guessed it, 360 revolving views of the harbour! It’s situated in the CN Tower and offer regional cuisine and a truly amazing selection of wines. 

The CN Tower also has several meeting rooms, a cinema and the LookOut level space which has floor to ceiling windows for your guests to fully admire the sparkling lights of the city. Making it a unique place to hold an event.

If you’re after a low key treat with a harbour view, why not try The Fix Ice Cream bar. Their menu features signature creations like Campfire, for your s’more fix and Like a Sir for you peanut lovers. This place is unique and a must-visit for Ice cream lovers.

Where to stay in Toronto

The Westin Harbour Castle Hotel is the perfect place to stay to watch the sun go down on the harbour. They have meeting & conference facilities making it an excellent choice for your next event. You’re right in the centre of all the exciting and cultural activities that take place along the harbourfront. 

The Broadview Hotel is a boutique that is brimming with originality. It has a rich history in the East End of Toronto. Their rooms offer locally sourced minibar and bathroom products, each room has its own individual twist with curated artwork and design. Some even have an enclosed terrace. For that Wow Factor, you can enjoy a cold beer on the exclusive Rooftop bar for stunning views of the Toronto Skyline and the Don River. 

For the most luxurious hotel in Toronto, that has to be the Shangri-La Hotel  . It’s located in the centre of downtown in one of Toronto’s tallest buildings. 

The decor is traditionally Asian, they have a mixture of rooms and suites. Beautiful marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and separate deep soaking bathtub, just the ticket after a busy day of meetings. If you’re traveling with loved ones, why not treat yourselves to elegant Afternoon tea with Veuve Cliquot champagne in the Lobby Lounge. 

Let’s talk food in Toronto

Finding a great restaurant is important. Whether it’s to entertain clients, relax with colleagues after a busy day at the conference centre or a quiet solo dinner, a bad choice will spoil the evening.

For a relaxed meal, you can try Stelvio  It’s an authentic Italian restaurant which is pretty famous in Toronto. Relax with pasta and a bold glass of red to wind down solo. 

If you miss the feeling of home when traveling then Richmond Station is the palace to go. It’s owned by the Top Chef Canada winner and is located in the vibrant dining community of downtown Toronto. The restaurant focuses on creating great dishes with the best ingredients for a relaxed, friendly experience. 

Perhaps you want to impress your clients with your choice. For this, I’d recommend you try the Alo Restaurant. Located at the top of a heritage building, Alo has contemporary French food on the menu along with blind, multi-course tasting menus. Nothing less than perfect is expected from the Michelin starred Chef that runs the kitchen. Also, don’t forget to check our top 5 of the best restaurants for client lunches in Toronto!

There are so many great choices for venues, hotels and restaurants in Toronto, so I hope we’ve made it a little easier for you to choose!

How to Save Money on Business Travel in 2022

JANUARY 1, 2022

We all know that travelling for business can be costly and comes with a budget. And whatever that budget is, you need to be savvy to ensure you are maximizing your spend and saving wherever possible. We know it can be tough, especially if you are a small business or in your early stages of operation, but also for large organizations.

We’ve created some tips and guidelines to help you get the most out of your money. 

Clear & Concise Travel Policy 

Having a clear Travel Policy is critical for any organization. This will not only outline processes and procedures to follow when travelling for business, but it also ensures your company is saving wherever possible. Your Travel Policy can include things like: advance purchase requirements, approval process, nightly budget for hotels, cabin to select for flights, daily per diem, preferred suppliers, what to do in the event of an emergency and so much more. 

Advanced Purchase 

Due to the nature of business travel it is not always possible to book early. However when you can, booking at least 14 days prior to departure will save money. The key thresholds for advance purchase on flights are 21 days, 14 days, 7 days and 3 days. Typically prices will increase the closer you get to departure

Use a Travel Management Company

Consolidate your travel program with a travel management company like Worldgo and let us negotiate discounts with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. Enjoy added benefits such as airline credit tracking, round the clock support in case of an emergency, and save your company long hold times with airlines (flight changes take us just minutes instead of hours as we have direct access to the booking system). Also, benefit from the industry’s leading technology and experts who can advise on the latest travel restrictions and updates.

Eat out using the 10-15-25 rule

Unless you’re taking clients and stakeholders out to dinner, business travellers should aim to follow the ’10-15-25′ rule for eating out. The simple rule applies $10 for breakfast, $15 for lunch, and $25 for dinner, and if you can find a hotel with breakfast included, you will free up more to spend on the other 2 remaining meals or tighten up your budget. With parts of Europe being a possible exception, there are few places where this rule can’t be followed with ease. To stretch things further, look for Happy Hour discounts, or book accommodations with kitchens and trade dining-out for eating-in – which is generally a healthier option to begin with. Another great option, and increasingly interesting choice, is choosing food trucks. Cities like Portland, Seattle, and Toronto are known for the quality and quantity of their food truck vendors.

Book using an Online Booking Platform

Whether your company is big or small, setting up an online booking platform for your business could make a lot of sense. This will allow travellers to book online quickly and conveniently while following the company’s travel policy and approval process. Your discounted corporate rates for flights, hotels, and car rental are loaded into the platform and you’ll save with reduced service fees (compared to an agent assisted booking). We offer Deem and Concur, two of the best platforms for business travel. 

Use cell phone apps to save on roaming costs

There is WIFI just about everywhere now; and smartphone apps like WhatsApp, which is huge in South America, Asia, and Europe, help travellers stay connected for free. Viber, Signal and Voxer are other excellent options for voice and video calling using WIFI.

Also, ensure you chat to your mobile provider about a roaming package. Most providers offer unlimited Canada/US calling and text message plus the use of your existing data package for $10 a month. 

Expenses App

Keep track of your spending with a handy expense app. Snap a picture of your receipt on the fly. It’ll save you time on your return, plus with oversight on your spending, you’ll easily see where you can make any necessary changes. According to recent market research, the Expensify app comes up on top for Business users. For more info check out this article https://www.cnbc.com/select/best-expense-tracker-apps/.

These are some simple ways to save while travelling for business, but it all starts with awareness and the desire to save. Reach out to us today, and we’ll help you take this to the next level.

The Business Traveller’s Holiday Gift List

Updated for 2021

It’s coming around to that time of year again and we all need a bit of inspiration for gift giving. With the holidays fast approaching, what do you get for that friend, colleague or client who’s always on the go? Well have no fear, as always, we’ve updated our annual business traveler’s holiday gift list for 2021!

Here are our picks for the best gifts for the business traveler in your life:

First up is the carry-on. As any seasoned business traveller will tell you, a sturdy carry-on bag is essential (let’s face it, it’s going to get banged around a lot)! There’s a lot of choices out there but we’ve narrowed it down to this M5 bag from Horizn Studios. It’s sustainable, approved vegan and super durable. There’s a handy front pocket for your laptop and, most importantly, it’s lightweight. An excellent gift. 

And where would we be without headphones? Perfect for a long-haul flight, these top of the line Sony headphones have industry-leading noise cancellation and up to 30 hours of battery life!  Or, if you prefer a more discreet look, then these Bose headphones will do the trick. 

Need to catch up with the office back home? Sound like a pro during those hotel room Zoom calls with this Tula Mic . Perfect for on the go meetings, it’s also capable of recording audio, so you can capture any creative ideas on the fly!

Whether you’re catching up on emails or catching a quick Netflix session between flights, you definitely don’t want to run out of charge. A classic traveller gift like a portable charger will never go out of style! This charger from Anker can charge 2 devices at once, with high-speed charging it’s built to last. 

How about giving your traveler some fun? There are so many options to choose from with Life Experiences, you could surprise them with a Segway Tour around the city, the chance to drive a sports car or taste some amazing local wine. A great way to get in some downtime on a busy work trip.

Catching up on sleep is so important, especially if you’re hopping between cities. For the ultimate in neck comfort, check out the Everlasting Neck Pillow. Not only is it ergonomically designed, but it’s also made from memory foam and comes with earplugs and an eye mask. No more waking up with a stiff neck!

Lastly, how about a Spotify Premium subscription so your travel-hearty connection can enjoy ad-free holiday music (or not) for as long as they like! 

We hope this helps you find the perfect gift for your traveller! 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Worldgo Travel Management!

The Best of Chicago – 3 x three-pointers

Visiting a new city for work can be difficult when you’re on a time crunch. You want to get out and explore, go to the best cafes and restaurants, and see some sights, all in between your meetings and other work obligations. But how do you choose? Worry no more. Our “top threes of cities” continues, with this one delving into the beautiful city known for its stunning architecture and deep-dish pizza. None other than vibrant Chicago, Illinois.

Top 3 Eateries in Chicago:

A relaxed, friendly, well-priced, and open café usually ticks all of the boxes for a quick breakfast before you’re stuck in meetings all day. Wishbone Chicago serves delicious home-style southern dishes with a Cajun spin that will leave you satisfied until you can escape the work meetings for a late lunch. For a healthy start to the day, grab a bowl of oatmeal with almond milk and pecans. If something more indulgent is your thing, you absolutely can’t go wrong with the chicken & waffles – a sugar waffle and fried chicken with maple honey butter and a side of fruit. For something hearty, order the chicken andouille hash with a side of the cheese grits.

There’s this incredible lunch spot in Chicago that makes me salivate just at the thought of it. Lobster roll with truffle parmesan tater tots, curry fish cakes, fresh fish and chips, sriracha-sesame soy glazed grilled shrimp… YUM! Okay, it’s a seafood lovers paradise, but they also have keto, vegetarian and paleo options, and seafood isn’t the only thing they do well here. Brown Bag Seafood Co has a fresh take on what a restaurant should be. No table cloths or black-tie waiters in sight, they have a down-to-earth and happy atmosphere with DIY menu cards and use environmentally friendly and biodegradable packaging. If it’s good weather, why not get it to-go? Located just a short walk away is Lake View Park which has lovely views of Lake Michigan.

So this just wouldn’t be a Chicago list without some Chicago deep-dish pizza options. This place sells out quickly as they are crafted in very small quantities, but oh man, they are so incredibly worth it. Milly’s Pizza in the Pan is owned by Robert, who handcrafts each pie himself from his grandmother’s recipes. They open at 5 pm (take away only), so try and get there as early as possible to pick up your pie. The magic here is in the crust, with a halo of caramelized mozzarella that is wrapped around each pie, giving a satisfying crunch to each slice.

Top 3 Experiences in Chicago:

The Museum of Contemporary Art is wondrous, inspiring, and encompasses a refreshing new look at art that is not to be missed. Ever-changing exhibits that are playful, thought-provoking and enticing draw you in, but their permanent collection is every bit as incredible as those that stop by. With over 2500 artworks from the 1920s to present, they switch it all out over time, to ensure every piece gets its time to shine and doesn’t sit locked in a lonely basement for all of eternity without appreciation. Admission is suggested as $15 per person, but something that really made my heart happy is their “pay what you can” policy. They won’t turn anyone away, as they believe art should be accessible to everyone. I love this so much.

I think there are few things more thrilling in life (that you can do while sitting down) than going for a helicopter ride. Heart racing, adrenaline-pumping adventure, with views that will firmly rest in your memories for a lifetime. Chicago Aerial Tours offers a stunning 30-minute helicopter tour and allows you the opportunity to see the spectacular Chicago skyline from a unique vantage point. You’ll be able to see the iconic Navy Pier, Lake Michigan, Soldier Field and so much more.

Hit up a comedy club for a truly memorable Chicago experience. The comedy greats started their careers here, like Dan Ackroyd, Bill Murray, John Candy, Steve Carrell, Mike Myers, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler… and the list goes on! This really is THE comedy club to visit, and it is none other than Second City.

Top 3 Spots for Work Drinks in Chicago:

A rooftop bar, a food market that will have even the fussiest of eaters salivating, views for days of this breathtaking city, and a cozy all-season location to find it all. Tony’s Rooftop Bar was named after the Time Out Founder, Tony Elliott, and is located at the top of the Time Out Market Chicago. Fairy lights, exposed wooden beams, and a plethora of delicious drinks on the menu, this spot is great for after works drinks to start the night off right.

Did you know that Chicago has the oldest Jazz club in the USA? Known for its eclectic jazz performances, poetry readings, and a great night out, The Green Mill jazz club has been welcoming tourists since 1907. They serve up a mean cocktail, they don’t serve food, and they take cash only. This place is a gem and has some quirks, but you won’t find a spot in Chicago that will serve up better live jazz music than these guys.

A unique experience and drinks all rolled into one. Chicago’s Barrel Bus is a gigantic beer barrel on wheels (okay so it’s a bus that looks like a beer barrel) that is one of the coolest ways to experience a couple of drinks after work. You can take one of their brewery tours, and while you can’t drink on the actual bus, it will take you between some of the best Chicago breweries the city has to offer. I love kitsch, I love beer, and I love exploring new cities, so this tour is a gigantic win in my books!

Top 3 Free Things to do in Chicago:

You have probably seen this spot in your favourite movies and shows multiple times, but maybe you (like me!) didn’t know it was actually located in Chicago. The iconic Navy Pier that juts out from downtown with incredible water views is the go-to spot in Chicago for live music, free public programs, dining, shopping, cultural events, and more. The Navy Pier is a great spot to just wander around for free, but you can also get some delicious bites from a concession stand, ride the Centennial Wheel, catch a movie at the IMAX, enjoy a Shakespearean show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, or take a cruise on the river. Whatever you do – be it wandering and taking in the sights, or having a full day of concession stands, rides and theatre – you’re going to love it here.

Catch an illuminating water and lights show at Buckingham Fountain, located in Grant Park. Once the sun sets, head to the fountain for its mesmerizing nightly light show. Up to 14,000 gallons of water is shot up into the air per minute, and it is all beautifully lit up after dusk. Water shows occur every hour on the hour and last for roughly 20 minutes.

Millennium Park is one of the most extraordinary public spaces in the world. The architecturally stunning centre-piece of the park is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion which hosts a range of free cultural performances like concerts, movies, and dance shows, but is worth a visit even if nothing is on for its sheer beauty. Millennium Park also is home to “the bean”, you know the one… the gigantic mirrored bean that is one of the world’s largest outdoor sculptures by British artist Anish Kapoor. Its official name is Cloud Gate and is more incredible in person due to its overwhelming size. Be sure to visit Lurie Garden, which includes sculptures and lighting across their five-acre urban oasis.

Top 3 Business Travel Hotels in Chicago:

This lovely four-star boutique hotel is well priced, comfortable, sophisticated, and welcoming. This award-winning hotel, the Thompson Chicago, is located downtown and a short walk from Lake Michigan. Excellent dining options just steps away, friendly and helpful front desk staff, and trendy, clean, and cozy rooms that will have you wishing to extend your stay for another night… or 7.

Virgin Hotel Chicago is a fantastic business hotel, with economically priced rooms and is located in the heart of downtown. It’s a chic hotel with a cool rooftop bar, which has some of the best skyline views to offer while sipping your handcrafted beverages. They have a huge amount of meeting room space, a phenomenal coffee bar, a couple of great restaurants and as mentioned, their rooftop bar – they really have everything you could need so you wouldn’t even need to step outside of the hotel if you didn’t want to! But do step outside the hotel, Chicago is incredible and you don’t want to miss this vibrant city. What I’m saying is, the Virgin Hotel Chicago is an excellent choice for your business or leisure stay in this city.

It would be remiss of me to not include The Langham on here. Five-star luxury, with no expense spared, this mid-century-inspired hotel will have architecture enthusiasts enthralled. They also have one of the best hotel lounges in town! Sure, so it might be a bit high-end for business travel, but if you’ve got the budget for it, or want to stay an extra night in luxury, then this is the place to enjoy yourself (and in their award-winning spa!).

With your Chicago travels schedule looked after, it’s time to pack!

Packing can be one of the hardest things to do before a business trip. You’ve got home from work, you’re exhausted and all you can think about is taking a quick beer out of the fridge to relax… but you’ve got to be up early tomorrow to fly to another part of the world. We’re here to help. Read our article on the best business travel packing hacks here.

We hope you enjoyed our list and it helps you enjoy the best of Chicago!

Are you looking to set up your business with a travel management company? Reach out to a Worldgo Specialist at 1-888-236-1566 or by email at [email protected]

Written By: Holly Atkins

February 26, 2021

Holly Atkins has been working in tourism for many years as a travel manager, tour guide and on the front desk in a couple of hotels. An Australian Canadian citizen that now permanently resides in beautiful Vancouver, BC, Holly can’t think of a better place to call home with the vast mountains and her oceanfront dwelling. Touring on motorcycles for the past 14 years has allowed her to see places that few discover, and get off the beaten path to experience all that the open roads have to offer. Visiting a vast amount of the Oceania region, trekking around Europe, discovering BC and most recently travelling to Jordan and Egypt, she’s always looking forward to the next adventure!