How to Bring Your Vacation to Your Work Office: Relaxation Tips for Travel Lovers

If you’re anything like me, returning to the office after an incredible vacation can feel like a shock to the system. One moment, you’re sipping espresso in a charming Parisian café or lounging on a sun-drenched beach, and the next, you’re back at your desk, buried in emails. But what if I told you that you can infuse your workspace with the essence of your travels? By bringing small elements of your vacation into your office, you can keep that relaxed, adventurous spirit alive and make work feel a little more enjoyable.

1. Scent: Transport Yourself with Aromas

Scent is a powerful trigger for memories, so why not bring the smell of your favorite vacation spot into your office?

• Essential oil diffuser with scents like coconut, lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus

• Travel-inspired candles (opt for flameless options if needed)

• Room sprays reminiscent of your favorite destinations

  
  

2. Visuals: Surround Yourself with Travel Memories

Give your workspace a vacation-inspired makeover with visual reminders of your favorite destinations.

• Framed photos from past trips

• A digital photo frame cycling through vacation pictures

• A scenic screensaver featuring dreamy landscapes

• A vision board of places you want to visit next

  
  

3. Sounds: Set the Mood with Music

Bring the ambiance of your travels to your office with the right sounds.

• A playlist of tropical waves, café chatter, or nature sounds

• Music from countries you’ve visited

• A small water fountain for a peaceful, zen-like vibe

  
  

4. Comfort: Make Your Desk a Relaxation Haven

Since your workspace is where you spend most of your day, a little comfort goes a long way.

• A plush travel pillow or lumbar cushion

• A cozy throw blanket for chilly office days (you can hang it on a blanket ladder)

• A heated or massaging chair (or pad) for added relaxation

  
  

5. Snacks & Drinks: A Taste of Travel

Food is another great way to bring vacation vibes into your office.

• A stash of international snacks (chocolates from Belgium, tea from Japan, or biscotti from Italy)

• A mini coffee, Keurig, or espresso machine to recreate that European café experience

• A fun travel mug with an inspiring quote or destination design

6. Desk Décor: Small Touches with Big Impact

Incorporate subtle yet meaningful décor items that reflect your love of travel.

• A small globe or travel-themed calendar

• Souvenirs from past trips (a tiny Eiffel Tower, a hand-carved elephant, or a decorative plate)

• A sand jar from your favorite beach destination

7. Break Time Rituals: Recharge Like You’re on Vacation

Make your work breaks feel like mini-getaways.

• Take a short walk outside to clear your mind

• Do a five-minute guided meditation or breathing exercise

• Sip on a tropical smoothie while daydreaming about your next adventure

  
  

8. Homey Office Touches

Make your work office feel a bit more like you.

• Comfortable office chair with functional upgrades

• Leather desk pad

• Elegant pen holder

• Small plant or succulent

• Wireless charging pad

• Stress ball

• Comfortable headphones or earphones

• Small desk lamp with warm light

9. Plan Your Next Getaway

One of the best ways to beat post-vacation blues is to start planning your next trip! Keep a notebook or travel planner on your desk and jot down ideas, destinations, and dream itineraries.

By incorporating these small but meaningful touches, you can make your office feel less like a cubicle and more like an extension of your dream destinations. After all, work should inspire you—not drain you. And if you’re ready to turn those daydreams into reality, I’d love to help you plan your next adventure!

Ready for your next trip? Contact me at Dreamy Destinations by Victoria to start planning!