As part of the “working from …” series of articles this one covers those times when you’re travelling for work and find yourself having a meal-for-one in the hotel restaurant.

I admit to some laziness driving the use of the hotel restaurant, although few people want to go out every night with colleagues. I used to be even more of a hermit and use room-service sometimes too, however this comes with a bunch of problems I am sure you can emphasize with:

• Indigestion from eating whilst in a horizontal position (lying on the bed).
• Spills and mess, again due to poor posture.
• Repeatedly flicking through TV channels, neither eating properly (see above) or doing any meaningful work.
• Limited choices on the in-room menu. They usually drop the best and freshest choices in preference for easy-to-prepare options like burgers and pizza.
• Extra charges which can land you in hot water.

So, get yourself down to the restaurant and find a suitably peaceful and expansive table, and consider asking about power outlets too.

Now if you’re a drinker then there is a risk you might hit the bar of course. A tipple with your meal is fine, however don’t be sidetracked or tempted to stay late out of loneliness – encouraged by the artificially-friendly bar staff.

Different types of work suit the dining experience better than others. Mobile and tablet-based tasks such as correspondence and research, are easier on a laid-up table, and the devices quicker to put-down and pick-up as you drink and eat. If you’re thinking of breaking out the laptop, then I would recommend you put it aside when your food arrives, and reopen it once you’re done eating. No-one likes a sticky keyboards or screens with splashes of sauce.

Sadly if you need a bathroom break the ‘right’ thing to do is to pack everything away. This is annoying, so try to think ahead! In the same way, be at least a little discrete about others seeing what you are doing, protecting all logins and sensitive information.

Finally I don’t recommend you rush back to your room once you’ve eaten. Take a walk or continue working in the bar or a lounge area. Another 30 minutes aids your digestion and makes the whole exercise a bit more productive.

I find working while eating dinner a good time for some reflection and resulting idea generation. It’s formal enough to make my brain engage, plus since everyone is focused (on eating) it’s relaxed while not distracting. There is also something of an ego hit involved, as you (attempt to) demonstrate to the world how productive and engaged in your work you are.