Long business trips can wear on your mind and body, especially when you travel on your own. Too many days in a row away from home and your colleagues can be challenging. The key to surviving such a trip might be to make the most of where you are. When business is done for the day:

Try a little sightseeing. It may seem a little bit corny to act like a tourist while traveling on business. But, visiting a museum, a historic building or a park during your off hours might be just the break you need.

Treat yourself to a show. Relax by catching a movie at the local theater. Larger cities usually offer some live music or theater performances in the evenings. Ask your hotel concierge or front desk staff for recommendations.

Indulge in some retail therapy. Seek out shops that offer locally made or unique items. Perhaps you can get a start on your holiday shopping by picking out some gifts for those at home.

Take some light exercise. Take a walk that will stretch your legs and might lead you to interesting architecture, an outdoor plaza or another gathering spot where you can enjoy some people-watching. Check with the concierge or front desk staff at your hotel to establish a route and make sure you don't stray from safe areas.

Chat up the bartender. Bartenders in hotel lounges are often good conversationalists who are used to chatting with solo business travelers. A simple conversation about something other than business can be quite refreshing.

Research your next destination. If you find yourself with nowhere to go in the evening but your hotel room, use the time to browse the Internet for information about your next destination. If you identify some things to do or see after the day's meetings are done, you'll have something extra to look forward to on the next leg of your trip.