Business Travel Gets Personal: New Hotel Perk Encourages Guests to Bring a Companion
Crowne Plaza, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio, has introduced a time-limited travel offer that invites professionals to include a friend or relative on their next business trip. The "Bring Your Bestie" offer is open for bookings through May 12, 2025, with valid stays running until July 10. Available at select hotels across the United States, the promotion highlights a rising interest in blending business travel with opportunities for relaxation and shared experiences.
The promotion is rooted in research indicating that many travelers now prefer to share business trips with loved ones. A survey conducted for Crowne Plaza showed that nearly three-quarters of U.S. travelers would welcome the chance to bring someone along, particularly among younger age groups. More travelers are now looking to make their business trips more than just work-related, viewing them as chances to enjoy personal growth and deeper connections along the way.
Today’s professionals are embracing blended travel and the perks it offers. Bringing a plus one on a work trip was once kept under the radar, but times have changed. Connectivity is at the heart of the Crowne Plaza brand, guiding how we deliver service and spaces across our hotels. The Bring Your Bestie offer delivers upon guests’ needs for shared experiences and meaningful relationships.
To meet this demand, Crowne Plaza has included seven participating locations: Orlando, Seattle, Cleveland, Fort Myers, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Virginia Beach. Guests who reserve the package receive complimentary breakfast for two, one free evening drink per night, and 1,000 IHG One Rewards points. Bookings must be completed directly via IHG before the May deadline, and the offer applies only to selected dates, subject to availability and local property terms.
This approach allows for more enriching travel experiences. While business travellers stay focused on their professional responsibilities, they can also enjoy the company and encouragement of a familiar companion during downtime. At the same time, their guests are free to explore the destination at their own pace, benefiting from curated activities and hotel services. The setup encourages balance and makes short-term trips feel less isolating, especially for those constantly on the move.
This change reflects a broader movement in the hospitality sector toward encouraging shared travel experiences. For business travelers, it offers a chance to turn routine trips into more meaningful moments, both personally and professionally. It reinforces the idea that work-related travel can also support social connections and personal well-being.