An employee who has the option of working in the office or remotely due to the benefits of hybrid work. Picture: Unsplash
As the world emerges from the pandemic, full-time remote work has decreased, but a significant evolution has taken its place: hybrid work arrangements.
Across South Africa’s professional landscape, employees are now enjoying a flexible blend of work and leisure, leading to the emergence of the captivating concept of workations.
This trend is not just about changing one's environment; it represents a shift in how South Africans are redefining their work-life balance.
Onwaba Gonyora, director at Brahman Hills in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, has observed a notable uptick in guests utilising their hybrid work set-ups as a central component of their holiday planning.
“The idea of fully disconnecting during holidays is fading, replaced by a desire for balance,” Gonyora explains.
“Professionals are increasingly opting for extended stays that allow them to blend productivity with leisure activities.”
Research supports this evolving approach. A 2024 study by Harvard Business School indicates that unfamiliar environments can significantly boost creativity, while a 2016 Stanford University analysis confirmed that hybrid workers are just as productive as their traditional office-based counterparts.
Gonyora adds, “Our guests are realising the benefits of a fresh setting merged with nature's inspiration to improve both their well-being and productivity.”
This trend resonates particularly with families. Parents are aligning their work trips with school holidays, enabling them to enjoy quality family time while continuing to work remotely.
“This reflects a modern approach to work-life integration, blurring the lines between productivity and leisure,” Gonyora points out.
Imagine waking up to the tranquillity of morning walks with stunning mountain views, engaging in productive virtual meetings, and then indulging in relaxing afternoon activities like a jacuzzi and family excursions.
Such a scenario transforms the concept of a holiday, offering a refreshing perspective on productivity set against a beautiful backdrop.
In light of South Africa’s 2025 calendar, opportunities abound for redefining routine workdays into inspiring getaways.
Many public holidays align appealingly with weekends, making them ideal for workations. Here are some highlights to consider:
Human Rights Day (Friday, March 21): A perfect opportunity for a three-day escape.
Freedom Day and Workers' Day (April 27 and May 1): Combine a Sunday and Thursday holiday for a five-day getaway by taking a leave day on April 30.
Youth Day (Monday, June 16): Another built-in long weekend.
Heritage Day (Wednesday, September 24): Take two days off for a comprehensive five-day retreat.
The rise of workations is more than a transient trend; it reflects South Africans reimagining the nexus of work and leisure.
“With such a favourable alignment of public holidays in 2025, now is the perfect time to blend productivity with exploration. Let’s turn those office hours into adventure hours,” Gonyora concludes.