A Spot To Relax When Traveling

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Places to relax while traveling

Have you ever been away from home and needed to find a place to remove yourself from the crowds for a minute, or longer, to get some work done, rest, or flat-out nap? I have been there many times, and I have some great suggestions ranging from free to a few hundred dollars, depending on what you need. Here they are, in no particular order:

Coffee Shops

This one may be common, but don’t underestimate it. In the mornings they can be packed and it may be hard to get a table, but late morning into the afternoon most are quiet with plenty of open spaces. While some close early, others stay open all day and into the early evening. I have been to some around 4 PM when they were just transitioning from a coffee menu to a wine menu. I indulged in a rosé and found a quiet corner to finish some writing.

Hotel Lobbies

Some hotel lobbies are small and don’t have any accommodations for anyone but guests checking in or out. Others are lively with bars, restaurants, and plenty of seating. Even if you are not a guest in these types of hotels, most will not have an issue as long as you are not causing any concern. If they offer food or drinks, head to the bar, grab a drink (alcoholic or not), and take it to the lobby. Now you are a customer relaxing in a comfortable spot. I might not nap in this situation, but it’s a great place for unwinding for a few hours.

Bar/Pub

Just like a hotel, a bar or pub can be a great place to unwind. Probably not the best for sleeping, but fine for getting off your feet for a while. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, grab a soda, mocktail, or something small to pay for. During the day, especially during the week, most are quiet and no one will mind you taking up a table or bar stool. A $4 soda is better than no business.

Movie Theater

This is one of my favorite discoveries. My wife and I have used this relaxation trick many times. Just last month, we flew to Chicago early on a Friday morning, landing around 9 AM. We headed to our hotel, checked our bags, and grabbed a coffee. It was now about 10:30 and we were tired from the 6:30 AM flight. We were meeting friends around 6:30 PM and knew it would be a long day. It was movie time.
We are not frequent moviegoers, but an 11 AM matinee is perfect in these situations. I bought tickets on the AMC app, and we walked the few blocks to the theater. Of course, I still needed popcorn and a $12 bottle of water. We found our seats, reclined as far back as possible, and relaxed for three hours. There was one other person in the front until just before the movie started, when a man walked in with a small suitcase and took a seat a few rows behind us. In about 10 minutes, he was out cold. Clearly, he had the same idea as we did but took full advantage of the recliner and his $17 ticket for a solid two-hour nap. Maybe be careful if you snore (he didn’t), but this is a great trick for when you really need to relax.

AMC Theatres on iOS | AMC Theatres on Android

Co-Working

During and after COVID, more co-working spaces have popped up. These are usually large spaces with desks, couches, bean bag chairs, etc. Most have coffee and light snacks. Some are members-only with monthly sign-ups, but many are available hourly or daily.
For example, I use Regus, and all of their spaces are available by the hour, day, or month. My favorite is “SPACES,” which seems to be the most modern. Use the app to search, find a location that works, and book a co-working desk for the time you need. It’s usually about $9 an hour with a one-hour minimum.
A co-working desk gives you access to the shared workspace and amenities such as coffee, snacks, and kitchen appliances. Some locations also have first-come, first-serve private areas like phone booths for calls. If you need more privacy, you can book a private office for a higher fee.

Note: When signing up, it may ask for your business name. I was told by customer service that they have many personal customers and to put your full name in the business name section.

Regus on iOS | Regus on Android

Day-Use Hotels

Another gift from COVID is the rise of day-use hotels. Brands like Hilton offer them directly on their app. You search as you normally would, but put your check-in and check-out dates as the same day. This can be the priciest option, but you get a full hotel room for the day—nap, shower, work, whatever you need. Most start around 8–9 AM and have you check out by 5–6 PM. I’ve used this once or twice when I needed to get work done and have a real nap.

Remember to book these direct and do-not relay on third party sites

Resort Pass

This app is like Uber for resorts. Find a resort on the app and book access for the day without being an overnight guest. Some are full resorts with pools, gyms, lounges, spas, etc., and others are hotels providing access to select amenities.
I’ve even seen “office day” listings, where hotels provide work areas similar to co-working spaces. My wife and I used the app last month when her sister dropped us off about an hour from her house at the airport—but seven hours before our flight. We found a beachfront resort with a pool and restaurant. It was worth it for the time we had.

ResortPass on iOS | ResortPass on Android

Final Thoughts

Whether you need a quick break from sightseeing, a place to work, or just somewhere to recharge, there are plenty of creative options beyond your hotel room. From sipping coffee in a quiet café to catching a midday movie, booking a co-working desk, or even enjoying a resort for the day, these ideas can help you make the most of your time away from home. The next time you find yourself needing a spot to relax, you’ll have a list of go-to options ready—no matter your budget.

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