As the pandemic unfolded, remote work entailed squeezing oneself into the spare room or walk-in closet. However, individuals fortunate enough had the option to retreat to a home office. With the increasing acceptance of remote and hybrid work, new spaces started becoming available.
What would happen if you continued to expand your hybrid workspace?
What if you pushed it to the next level of intensification?
Is there a rule stating that you cannot have your office chair in a location other than your home if your daily commute involves simply getting out of bed and into it? Is there a restriction preventing you from pursuing your dream job while simultaneously enjoying magnificent views?
If you’ve ever wanted to maintain your job while experiencing a new location, welcome to the trend of combining travel with telecommuting, which will enhance your productivity and happiness. So, here’s a step-by-step guide on selecting the optimal places to work from home to maximize your experience.
How to Choose the Right City
If the concept of working remotely and exploring different parts of the world interests you, that’s wonderful! However, it is important to be cautious about selecting your destination and not just impulsively embark on a journey. It would be wise to reserve the Australian Outback for your vacation time. Instead, follow these guidelines to find the ideal location to work remotely or for your hybrid job while being away from your home.
Internet connection
When working away from home, having a reliable and fast Wi-Fi connection is extremely important. It is necessary to have excellent Wi-Fi speed and reliability in order to ensure that your video calls, emails, document sharing, and other tasks are successfully completed. Relying solely on your phone’s hotspot to make things work is not advisable as it can become expensive quickly.
Workspaces
If working from home is not sufficient, ensure that the city you choose has other places to work. These can include co-working spaces, a charming café with reliable Wi-Fi, or your preferred coffee shop or park. The decision is yours.
Cost of living
Are you daydreaming about sunny California beaches? However, it’s important to consider if this option fits within your financial means. Certain cities may require higher expenses for housing, food, and transportation. Therefore, be diligent in researching the cost of living to ensure that your workcation doesn’t exceed your budget.
Travel opportunities
When selecting the best cities for remote work, it is important to choose those that not only offer a wide range of activities after work but also serve as ideal bases for extended weekend getaways. Remember to take into account the enjoyable activities available during your free time when deciding on remote work locations. It would be advantageous if the chosen city is conveniently connected to an airport, allowing for effortless travel to other destinations.
Ease of travel
If you are a US citizen traveling within the country, planning a workcation may be simpler compared to if you decide to travel outside of the US. If you want to explore new countries and continents, that’s wonderful! Just remember to make arrangements for any necessary visas or work permits required by the city you choose to visit. By the way, some countries now offer digital nomad visas specifically for this purpose!
Taxability
We really wish it was as simple as renting a place in Cali for a short period and relishing the ocean breeze while working from your home office. Truly, we do. However, unless you happen to be fortunate enough to work in one of the nine states where income tax on earned wages is not mandatory, you will likely have to bear the responsibility of paying state taxes.
Our List
Porto, Portugal
Porto is increasingly becoming recognized as one of the leading European destinations for digital nomads, and rightfully so. It possesses all the elements necessary for a modern society, including high-speed internet and efficient public transportation, along with a superb quality of life. Furthermore, this city is abundant in historical landmarks and architectural heritage, and offers a plethora of attractions, restaurants, boat trips, charming coffee houses, and a vibrant nightlife. Often described as a smaller, more affordable, and authentically Portuguese version of Lisbon, Porto lives up to its reputation.
Penang, Malaysia
Over the years, Penang has become a well-liked spot for both backpackers and individuals who need to cross the Thailand border. However, there is an emerging trend of digital nomads relocating to this Malaysian state, with its capital city, George Town, situated on the Malay Peninsula. The old town offers inexpensive and delicious food options, and you can also discover numerous coffee shops with dependable wifi. In terms of visas, gaining entry into Malaysia is quite effortless, and traveling from Kuala Lumpur to any destination in Asia is very convenient.
Medellin, Colombia
Once upon a time, Medellin used to house a feared Colombian drug cartel that was known for its high level of organization. However, things have changed greatly since the death of Pablo Escobar, with frequent rainfall and a pleasant year-round climate resembling spring. The city now offers delicious and affordable food, along with significantly safer streets compared to other major cities in South America. Additionally, Medellin boasts a wide selection of coworking spaces and a thriving community of digital nomads and local entrepreneurs.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is an extremely popular destination for tourists, and it is likely included on the travel lists of many people around the world. Additionally, Bali is also a favored location for digital nomads. There are two primary hubs for digital nomads in Bali. The first is Ubud, a serene town located in the center of the island, known for its rice fields and vegetarian eateries. The second hub is Canggu, situated on the South Coast and particularly appealing to surfers and those seeking a more vibrant nightlife compared to central Bali.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
If you have never been to East Europe, it is likely that you have never heard of Plovdiv. However, this city is gaining more attention in digital nomad discussions for various reasons. These include the affordable cost of living, excellent quality of life, fast Internet, healthy lifestyle choices, pleasant weather, delicious cuisine, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and many other factors. Because of these advantages, Plovdiv is an appealing destination for digital nomads looking for an affordable home base in Europe.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, the capital of North Thailand, is renowned as the central hub for the digital nomad community while also serving as the overall capital. This vibrant city presents a unique blend of the old and the new, nestled near Doi Suthep mountain and boasting a more tranquil atmosphere compared to Bangkok. Here, the richness of traditional Thai culture harmoniously coexists with the influx of digital nomad entrepreneurs conducting their online businesses throughout the city. Notably cost-effective in terms of lodging, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of nutritious food options and trendy coffee shops, providing an ideal setting for remote work with a laptop.
Cape Town, South Africa
Many digital nomads have not yet explored Africa as a continent, but South Africa may become the one exception. Recently, Cape Town received the esteemed Design Capital of the World Award, and it is renowned globally for its neighboring wine regions. This city offers a perfect opportunity to relax and experience the refreshing ocean air for a few months.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Even though facing financial, political, and social pressure, Buenos Aires remains a city of contrasts with a European style that has many offerings for residents. Coffee shops in Palermo and Recoleta provide a space to work while enjoying a beverage. While not the safest city, violent crime levels are relatively low. The cost of living in Buenos Aires is no longer as cheap as it once was but still remains affordable compared to previous years.
Budapest, Hungary
Hungary has become a popular choice among digital nomads looking to spend their summers in Europe. Budapest, the capital of this incredible country, offers a lower cost of living compared to London or Amsterdam, although the prices of food are not as inexpensive as in Asia. However, the wide selection of coworking spaces makes up for it. Additionally, there is plentiful accommodation, including several centrally located AirBnBs to choose from.
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