Three Key Components to Writing While Traveling
I just got back from covering the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting in Chicago and between the press room and my hotel, I spent a lot of time in front of my computer. Writing on the road can be a little more challenging than when you are in the comfort of your own home, but it is still doable. Here you three things you should look for in your hotel, especially if you are having to meet a deadline.
1. Good Wi-Fi
Yes, most hotels offer solid Wi-Fi, but do not take it for granted. Some older ones do not have the infrastructure for it and less expensive hotels may not invest in it. The shoddy Wi-Fi is even more exacerbated when the hotels’ cities are hosting large conferences (That’s right, San Antonio. I’m talking about you.). If you want to play it safe, go with at least a three-star hotel whose name you recognize. It may be a little more expensive, but it will be well worth it.
2. A Desk Area
A hotel with strong Wi-Fi will most likely have a desk where you can do your work. However, there can be exceptions. For example, a room at boutique hotel may not have one because it distracts from the “quaintness”. Checking photos before booking will save you the headache of walking into your hotel room and realizing that you have no place to work.
3. No Distractions
This applies to wherever you are writing. I typically do not worry about this when I am checking into a hotel because I listen to music while I work. If you prefer to write in silence, it may be worth asking the front desk to put you in a room in a low-traffic area of the hotel.
Even with the best preparation, you are not always in complete control of where you can work and may have to improvise. One time I joined my wife on a business trip and the best place for me to write was at a make-up vanity. Ultimately, I completed all of my assignments, and it ended up being one of the best workstations I have ever had on the road, even if it was in a bathroom.
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