Deciding where to work from next is one of the most exciting aspects of being a digital nomad. The world is full of stunning places, extraordinary people, and delectable cuisine. Remote workers have the advantage of exploring diverse cultures while still managing their professional responsibilities.
If you are in need of your next destination or seeking some inspiration, this is the correct place for you to be!
There are several reasons why working remotely in Asia is a great choice. Firstly, it is the largest continent, offering a wide range of opportunities to explore captivating cultures, beautiful landscapes, and varied cuisines.
Due to its affordable prices for tourists and generally pleasant climate, Asia, especially Southeast Asia, has increasingly emerged as a favorable destination for digital nomads in the past years.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang, located on Vietnam’s central coast, boasts picturesque beaches, lively local markets, and a laid-back ambiance. Those working remotely can indulge in a blend of breathtaking scenery, up-to-date facilities, and a thriving community of entrepreneurs.
Da Nang offers a cost-effective lifestyle in comparison to other Southeast Asian places, with reasonably priced accommodation, food, and transportation. This allows digital nomads to make the most of their budgets while still enjoying a good standard of living.
Da Nang is an appealing choice for digital nomads due to its reliable internet connectivity, co-working spaces, and welcoming cafes. Moreover, the city’s infrastructure is constantly improving, further enhancing its attractiveness for remote workers.
George Town, Malaysia
Famous for its historical significance, colonial architecture, and diverse culinary offerings, George Town, located in Penang Island, serves as the capital and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those leading a digital nomad lifestyle have the opportunity to delve into lively street art, discover significant historical sites, and savor the delightful local cuisine.
George Town has a reputable expat community that provides chances to engage with similar individuals. There are co-working spaces, cafes, and networking events available for collaboration and social interaction.
Malaysia, in general, provides a cost-effective standard of living, which is also the case in George Town. The prices for accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment are affordable, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Canggu, Indonesia
Canggu, located on the island of Bali, provides a relaxing coastal lifestyle and renowned surfing locations. Those who work remotely can experience a combination of beach atmosphere, stylish cafes, and a thriving wellness and yoga community.
Canggu has transformed into a center for digital nomads, as it offers various co-working spaces that specifically cater to remote workers. The community is inclusive, diverse, and encourages cooperation among entrepreneurs and creatives.
By immersing yourself in Balinese traditions and ceremonies, exploring ancient temples, and experiencing the unique blend of spirituality and creativity that fills the island, you can fully engage with the local customs and connect with the Balinese way of life while in Canggu.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An, famous for its well-preserved ancient town, narrow streets beautified with lanterns, and rich cultural heritage, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Digital nomads have the opportunity to fully experience the town’s distinct atmosphere and discover its historical sites.
With its peaceful and tranquil setting, Hoi An provides a perfect environment for focused remote work due to its slower pace of life and the town’s natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Any digital nomad in Hoi An must explore the local markets and try traditional dishes to fully appreciate the vibrant culinary scene, which includes local street food, regional specialties, and cooking classes.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, Thailand is another great spot in Asia for remote working. In this location, you can discover a distinctive wat (temple) on every corner, along with many other attractions!
Chiang Mai is a haven for digital nomads in terms of internet connectivity, which is both swift and readily accessible. WiFi details are usually displayed for customers in most establishments.
It is highly unlikely to encounter any internet issues in Chiang Mai due to the active presence of Chiang Mai University students who are always busy doing their work.
Chiang Mai has numerous coworking spaces located all over the city, including a well-known one called Yellow Coworking that remains open for 24 hours and is particularly favored by those who enjoy working during nighttime.
While Thailand’s coffee scene may not be as impressive as Vietnam’s, the country still has a flourishing coffee culture and a number of visually appealing cafes that are perfect for productivity. One such café is Brown Cafe, which not only offers a charming ambiance but also boasts delightful desserts.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang, situated in northern Laos amidst mountains, attracts digital nomads for various reasons. Its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1995 is attributed to its rich architecture, culture, and history.
With its beautiful forests, waterfalls, and rivers, it easily becomes one of the top contenders for the best work-from-home destinations in Southeast Asia.
Coworking spaces are not commonly found in Laos because it is not a popular destination for remote workers. However, there are plenty of riverside cafes, such as Saffron Coffee, that provide excellent locations for work. It is possible that coworking spaces will become more prevalent in the future.
While in Luang Prabang, there are multiple areas to consider staying in. Once again, Airbnb provides a range of choices for both short-term and long-term accommodation.
Old Town is the perfect choice, particularly for your initial few nights or for a brief stay, when it comes to well-liked locations. The region enclosed by side streets, which are flanked by the main road (Phothisalath Road) and the Mekong River road (Khem Kong), provides a range of guesthouses and homestays.
Cebu City, Philippines
Moving on to the next destination on our compilation of top locations in Southeast Asia for digital nomads is Cebu, the capital city of the Philippines. Renowned as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu City has an array of attractions such as stunning shorelines, lively celebrations, and amiable locals.
Cebu City has average internet speeds, so you should generally have no issues with your computer unless you need to upload large video files. In such cases, you might encounter difficulties, and having your own backup wifi could be advantageous.
If you were looking for coworking spaces in Cebu City, you’re in luck because there are several options available. One of them is ASPACE, which provides various work areas, relaxed lounges, and rooftop gardens.
When it comes to cafes, there is a wide variety of coffee shops in Cebu! No matter if you desire a comfortable ambiance or a scenic view of the island, there is a place suitable for everyone to enjoy a cup of coffee and work. The Workplace Cafe is an excellent option to begin with, as it has been designed exclusively for individuals working remotely.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh, which is a vibrant city in Cambodia, has an international airport and serves as an increasingly popular center for digital nomads. Situated in the southern part of the country, it boasts three rivers: the Mekong, the Tonle Bassac, and the Tonle Sap.
In Phnom Penh, the majority of cafes and accommodations provide complimentary WiFi. Although Cambodia may not boast the fastest internet speeds globally, it does offer some of the swiftest in Asia. It is advisable to verify the speeds, as is the case anywhere, yet you can generally rely on accomplishing your tasks in the city.
With the increasing awareness among remote workers, coworking spaces in Phnom Penh are growing. There are several options available, including The Desk, which is an excellent choice for both short-term and long-term use to enhance productivity.
Whether you prefer a consistent favorite or to switch it up daily, there are numerous cafes available for you to work on your laptop. Backyard Cafe, specifically, provides a delightful and plant-filled ambiance alongside various seating choices.
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