Despite the reopening of the world, a significant number of offices are still not open. This situation presents a rare opportunity for individuals who have the capability to work remotely. For a growing number of people, the possibility of combining career growth with travel throughout Asia has become a tangible reality. It is now feasible to send an email while enjoying a bowl of tom yum soup in Thailand, have Zoom meetings with colleagues from the outskirts of a Korean rice paddy, or conduct research for an essay by a Japanese temple. Thanks to the increased availability of reliable internet connections even in remote areas, it is possible to embark on adventurous journeys while maintaining productivity, and even finance your travels throughout the continent.
We considered various important factors when creating this list of the top cities in Asia for digital nomads. These factors include the level of safety, especially for women, people of colour, and the LGTBQ+ community, the quality of infrastructure such as internet, the prevalence of English language, options for long-term visas, opportunities for networking, availability of co-working spaces, and the average cost of living. It is evident that the choices for working abroad in Asia, whether you are exploring the entire continent or staying in one city, are abundant. Throughout the process, we always prioritized the convenience of having travel opportunities nearby.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, located in Northern Thailand, is a large and tranquil city that has gained popularity among digital nomads. It offers affordable accommodations, good and affordable food, reliable internet, beautiful views, friendly locals, and a peaceful ambiance. With the increasing demand for remote work, numerous co-working spaces have emerged in Chiang Mai, further enhancing its appeal to digital nomads.
In addition to the availability of good internet and comfortable cafes for extended work sessions, Chiang Mai is a city that offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. The presence of stunning Buddhist temples and the surrounding picturesque mountains create a sense of spiritual connection, while also providing an inspiring environment for the work of digital nomads. Chiang Mai also boasts a vibrant food culture, with a variety of restaurants offering delicious Thai cuisine, catering well to vegan and vegetarian diets. With an abundance of fresh fruits and greens, one can easily adopt a healthier lifestyle while enjoying the misty mountain backdrop of Chiang Mai.
Ubud, Bali
I may be a bit biased, but Ubud is my personal favorite location as a Digital Nomad because of its unmatched culture, spirituality, food, and networking opportunities. Unlike the bustling tourist areas of Kuta and Canggu, Ubud offers a uniquely spiritual atmosphere. For those who enjoy networking and learning from others, there are a few popular co-working spaces where you can meet successful digital nomads, especially if you’re new to this lifestyle. However, if you prefer solitude and working in silence like me, there are plenty of affordable options for accommodations such as villas, homestays, and hostels, all equipped with wifi.
During the few months I stayed in Ubud, the locals were incredibly friendly and generous. They frequently invited me to traditional ceremonies held in their homes, where they offered a delicious variety of food. Despite being a popular tourist destination, Ubud maintains a peaceful and calm atmosphere, with minimal noise or disruptions. In my opinion, this makes it one of the most ideal locations for digital nomads.
Canggu, Indonesia
Bali is consistently ranked as one of the top destinations worldwide for digital nomads. One particular area, Canggu, is rumored to have the largest digital nomad community in Asia. The island of Bali has a rich history of attracting tourists due to its magnificent beaches, temples, and rice paddies. This has led to significant improvements in local infrastructure and the flourishing of expat communities. In July 2022, plans were announced for a digital nomad visa that would allow foreign remote workers to reside on the island for up to five years without paying local taxes, provided that their income is generated outside of Indonesia. While the entire Bali island is highly recommended, Canggu stands out with its fast internet speed, numerous coworking spaces, and fantastic networking opportunities.
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Despite some recent unrest, the British foreign office has given the green light for travel to Colombo once again. This is a relief because the Sri Lankan capital city, serving as both the executive and judicial hub, is quickly becoming known for its welcoming attitude towards digital nomads. In 2021, there was talk of a year-long digital nomad visa, but it has not yet materialized. Instead, you can extend your tourist visa for up to 270 days, which still provides a wonderful opportunity to stay in Sri Lanka for an extended period. Colombo also offers a myriad of captivating attractions, modern coworking spaces, and an impressive nightlife, making it a great place to meet new people and have some fun while working abroad on a limited budget.
Guangzhou, China
Guangzhou, one of the largest cities on our list, may not always be beautiful, but it is an ideal place for remote professionals. The country is quickly establishing itself as a leading nation in various sectors, including technology, making it crucial for digital nomads with start-ups and ambitions to grow to form connections there. The city is also surrounded by significant international cities, like Hong Kong. Currently, due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, visas are still limited. Additionally, all Chinese cities have the downside of strict internet regulations, meaning that sites such as Facebook may be censored and could potentially affect your business.
Gyeongju, South Korea
You can be certain that no matter where you stay in South Korea, you will have access to incredibly fast internet. Whether it’s in a rental apartment or at the local PC bangs, which are popular among gamers and digital nomads, fast internet is guaranteed. While Seoul or Busan may be the obvious choices due to their size, Gyeongju holds a special significance as it is the historical center of Korea and is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Buried beneath grassy tumuli in this area are the remains of ancient kings and queens, and nearby are some of the most beautiful temples in the region. Compared to the larger cities, living in Gyeongju is relatively cheaper, while still offering all the necessary amenities. It may not be immediately apparent, but English proficiency levels in South Korea, especially in this tourist-oriented region, are higher than one might expect.
Makati (Manila), Philippines
Manila can be described as having both positive and negative aspects, resembling a Jekyll and Hyde character. While it may give the impression of lacking the advantages of city living in various areas, Makati is completely different. Serving as the financial center of the Philippines, it has also been a popular destination for expatriates for many years. Currently, citizens of the United States can enter the Philippines without a visa for 59 days, and this period can be extended up to six months, making it an ideal location for long-term digital nomads. The proficiency in English is exceptional here, which enhances the appreciation for the renowned friendliness of the Filipino people. However, the internet quality is subpar, especially considering Manila’s status as a major city in Asia, and it becomes even worse on the islands.
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