Workcation Wonderland: The Best Places to Work Remotely and Travel during the Holidays

The holiday season is a great time to get away from it all. But even while surfing in the Bahamas as a remote worker, you may find yourself checking your email for one or two urgent messages.

Which is why it’s good to go on a holiday at a beautiful location that also allows you to work remotely. 

Yes, you’re supposed to enjoy your holiday without anything relating to work. But even when you’re trying to relax and enjoy yourself, it can be hard to completely disconnect from work.

So which holiday destination do you choose that also offers a remote work friendly environment. 

We’ve put together this guide, detailing the best remote work destinations for the holiday season.

Factors to consider when choosing your holiday remote work destination

• Internet speed: Make sure the internet speed is fast enough to support your work needs.
• Visa requirements: Make sure you have the necessary visa or check that you have the right documentation.
• Safety: Do your research to make sure the destination is safe for tourists and remote workers.
• Amenities: Consider the amenities that are important to you, such as cafes, coworking spaces, and restaurants.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best remote work destination for you to enjoy the holidays while still being productive as a remote worker or digital nomad.

Best Remote Work Destination For The Holiday Season: EUROPE

Europe, undoubtedly, has some of the best remote work destinations for the holiday season around the world. Here are some of Europe’s best cities and countries to explore as a remote worker or digital nomad during the holidays.

Montenegro

Montenegro, a hidden gem along the Adriatic coast, offers remote workers a blend of breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness. This Balkan nation is known for its stunning coastline, historic towns, and rugged mountains. Remote workers can enjoy the tranquility of the Bay of Kotor or the charming streets of Budva and Kotor. The country boasts reliable internet, an array of cozy cafes, and coworking spaces perfect for productivity. Montenegro’s relatively low cost of living and friendly locals make it an ideal destination for a workcation. After work, explore the Durmitor National Park or take a boat tour around the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. With its combination of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities, Montenegro is an excellent choice for remote workers looking to balance work and leisure during the holiday season.

Skopje, North Macedonia

Tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, Skopje exudes charm with its Ottoman architecture, vibrant nightlife, and affordability. It’s a remote worker’s haven, offering a multitude of cafes and coworking spaces.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Nestled amid green spaces and framed by the Alps, Ljubljana is the embodiment of a relaxed city lifestyle. Remote work thrives here, thanks to numerous cafes and coworking spaces offering fast internet and a welcoming atmosphere.

Zagreb, Croatia

Found at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean, vibrant Zagreb is a treasure trove of museums, art galleries, and mouthwatering cuisine. Remote workers will find their haven in the city’s coworking spaces and cafes.

Porto, Portugal 

Porto, a city steeped in history and culture, beckons remote workers with its picturesque beauty, reliable high-speed internet, and a cost of living that won’t break the bank. Countless cafes and coworking options await.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, another Portuguese gem, offers remote workers fast internet, affordable living costs, and a plethora of cafes and coworking spaces to choose from, all set against a stunning backdrop.

Budapest, Hungary

Charming Budapest, rich in history and culture, opens its arms to remote workers with a variety of cafes and coworking spaces. With fast internet and reasonable living costs, it’s a prime location for the remote professional.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s breathtaking beauty, low living costs, and a profusion of cafes and coworking spots make it an attractive destination for remote workers. Fast internet speeds only sweeten the deal.

 

 

Krakow, Poland

Krakow, steeped in history, offers remote workers an affordable lifestyle, fast internet, and a touch of character. Numerous cafes and coworking spaces make it a thriving hub for professionals on the go.

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko, renowned for skiing, transforms into a remote work haven during the off-season. Good internet connectivity and a low cost of living make it an appealing destination.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Modern and stylish Copenhagen strikes a work-life balance that appeals to remote professionals. While living costs are high, government-funded coworking spaces ensure accessibility for all.

Best Remote Work Destination For The Holiday Season: ASIA

Asia is a vast continent. Here’s why it’s a great location for holiday celebrations and remote work.

• Variety of cultures and landscapes: Asia is home to a vast array of cultures and landscapes, from the bustling cities of Tokyo and Shanghai to the stunning beaches of Bali and Phuket. 
• Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in many parts of Asia is significantly lower than in other parts of the world. This means that you can save money on your accommodation, food, and transportation costs while you’re working remotely.
• Fast and reliable internet: The internet in Asia is generally fast and reliable, making it easy to stay connected with your work.
• Friendly locals: The people in Asia are generally very friendly and welcoming. 

Here are some of the best remote work destinations for the holiday season in Asia. 

Siem Reap, Cambodia 

Angkor Wat’s ancient splendor sets the stage in Siem Reap, a city adored by tourists. It’s not just a historical treasure; Siem Reap also offers remote workers a range of cafes and coworking spaces to thrive in.

George Town, Malaysia

Unfolding on Penang Island, UNESCO-listed George Town enchants with its colonial architecture and culinary delights. Remote workers can revel in fast internet and a laid-back atmosphere at the city’s cafes and coworking spots.

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud’s serene beauty lures digital nomads with affordable living, good internet, and a plethora of activities. This tranquil paradise promises a productive remote work experience.

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Canggu, a laid-back alternative to Ubud, invites remote workers with its good internet connectivity and a profusion of cafes and coworking spaces, all set against a relaxed backdrop.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s beauty extends beyond its stunning beaches and lush rice fields, offering digital nomads an affordable haven with good internet connectivity for both work and play.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, a city steeped in history and culture, beckons remote workers to unwind in its laid-back ambiance. With good internet and affordability, it’s an ideal escape.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Vibrant Chiang Mai fosters collaboration among remote workers in its thriving startup scene. Good internet and reasonable living costs add to its allure as a hub for professionals.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang’s coastal charm and affordability beckon remote workers with good internet and a variety of attractions to explore while enjoying a productive work environment.

Cebu, Philippines

Cebu, a vibrant city, caters to the needs of remote workers with good internet and affordable living, promising an enriching experience for both work and leisure.

 

 

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Bustling Ho Chi Minh City immerses remote workers in Vietnamese culture while offering good internet and a cost-effective lifestyle in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Penang, Malaysia

Beautiful Penang Island opens its doors to remote workers with good internet connectivity and an affordable cost of living, creating a picturesque workspace by the sea.

Best Remote Work Destination For The Holiday Season: SOUTH AMERICA

Many parts of South America are a great remote work destination for the holiday season. That’s because these areas offer a variety of climates and landscapes, affordable cost of living, fast and reliable internet, and friendly locals. 

Here are some of the best remote work destinations for the holiday season in South America. 

Montevideo, Uruguay

Nestled along the coast, Montevideo’s European-style architecture and thriving cafe culture offer remote workers a relaxed urban lifestyle. The city’s coworking spaces and cafes make it a perfect fit for those seeking a charming workspace.

Cuenca, Ecuador

Perched in the Andes, Cuenca boasts charming architecture and an affordable cost of living, creating a tranquil retreat for remote work amidst the mountains.

Medellin, Colombia

Medellin’s transformation into a livable city with a flourishing startup scene has made it an appealing destination for remote professionals. Numerous coworking spaces complement this dynamic city.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur, the laid-back beach town, beckons with its low cost of living and abundant outdoor activities. Surfing, swimming, hiking, and a welcoming expat community make it an idyllic remote work haven.

Punta del Este, Uruguay

On the coast of Uruguay, Punta del Este offers remote workers a luxurious escape. Beautiful beaches, upscale dining, and vibrant nightlife provide a change of pace for those seeking a touch of luxury.

Antigua, Guatemala

UNESCO-listed Antigua enchants with its colonial charm and walkable streets. Remote workers will find cafes with reliable internet, while the city serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Salento, Colombia

Nestled in the Colombian mountains, Salento’s breathtaking scenery and rich coffee culture create a captivating remote work setting, offering a taste of Colombian life.

Quito, Ecuador

Ecuador’s capital, Quito, combines beauty and history, catering to digital nomads with its co-working spaces and vibrant atmosphere, fueled by universities and research institutes.

Bogotá, Colombia

As Colombia’s largest city, Bogotá teems with business and culture. Its numerous co-working spaces, cafes, and cultural attractions provide a bustling backdrop for remote work.

Best Remote Work Destination For The Holiday Season: NORTH AMERICA

From the vibrant cityscapes to the serene natural wonders, North America offers a diverse range of travel destinations that cater to both work and leisure.

Whether you’re seeking modern infrastructure, networking opportunities, cultural immersion, or simply a change of scenery, North America’s rich tapestry of experiences promises something for everyone.

Here are some of the best remote work destinations for the holiday season in North America.

Antigua and Barbuda

This Caribbean gem, famous for its stunning beaches and charming villages, offers a serene atmosphere for remote work, making it a paradise for those seeking a relaxed yet productive environment.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the mountains, Asheville boasts breathtaking scenery, a thriving arts scene, and a mild climate, making it a perfect destination for remote professionals. Countless coffee shops and coworking spaces cater to work-life balance, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breweries just around the corner.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delectable cuisine, Puerto Vallarta’s allure extends to remote workers. The city’s coworking spaces and cafes offer a delightful blend of work and leisure.

Bahamas

With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and abundant water sports opportunities, the Bahamas beckons remote workers to combine productivity with relaxation in an island paradise.

Canmore, Alberta

Set against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore’s stunning vistas provide the perfect setting for remote work. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, while coffee shops and coworking spaces cater to work-life balance.

 

 

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax’s charming waterfront, lively music scene, and warm locals create a welcoming environment for remote professionals. The city’s coworking spaces and cafes offer a delightful blend of work and cultural immersion.

Barbados

Luxury resorts, white-sand beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle define Barbados. For remote workers, the island offers a unique blend of work and leisure, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to choose from.

Park City, Utah

Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City enchants with its mountain views and outdoor activities. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and remote work coexist harmoniously, complemented by coffee shops and coworking spaces.

Calgary, Canada

Stunning Rocky Mountain views, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a mild climate create an inspiring environment for remote professionals in Calgary. The city’s coworking spaces and cafes enhance work-life balance.

Belize

Belize’s lush rainforests, Mayan ruins, and unhurried pace of life make it an idyllic setting for remote work in Central America.

Portland, Maine

Known for its lobster rolls, microbreweries, and friendly locals, coastal Portland invites remote workers to savor work-life balance. Coffee shops and coworking spaces thrive amidst easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and forests.

Costa Rica

With its lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and stunning beaches, Costa Rica beckons remote professionals to embrace the natural beauty while maintaining productivity in Central America.

Dominican Republic

Stunning beaches, affordable all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant culture make the Dominican Republic an appealing destination for remote work in the Caribbean.

Panama

Home to the Panama Canal, stunning beaches, and a modern city, Panama offers remote workers an enticing blend of history, nature, and urban life in Central America.

The Best Places to Work Remotely and Travel during the Holidays in AFRICA

Experience a unique blend of work and adventure by considering Africa as your ideal destination for a digital nomad or remote work holiday. With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and growing infrastructure, Africa provides an unparalleled opportunity to combine work with exploration.

Here are some of the best remote work destinations for the holiday season in Africa.

Cape Town, South Africa 

Cape Town is a beautiful city with stunning views of Table Mountain. There are plenty of things to do in Cape Town, from visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach to hiking in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town is a popular choice for digital nomads thanks to its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and vibrant culture. The city has a variety of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet access, making it easy to get work done. There are also plenty of things to do in Cape Town outside of work, from hiking in Table Mountain National Park to exploring the city’s many beaches.

Marrakech, Morocco 

Marrakech is a charming city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Marrakech, from exploring the medina to visiting the Koutoubia Mosque.It’s a great place to experience Moroccan cuisine, wander through the medina, and relax in a hammam. There are also a number of coworking spaces in Marrakech, making it a good option for remote workers.

Johannesburg, South Africa 

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and a major economic hub. There are many things to see and do in Johannesburg, from visiting the Apartheid Museum to exploring the Soweto township.

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and a great base for exploring the country’s wildlife. There are many national parks and reserves near Nairobi, including the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Nairobi National Park. Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and a major economic hub. The city has a variety of coworking spaces and cafes, as well as a number of organizations that support digital nomads. Nairobi is also a great base for exploring the rest of Kenya, including the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Great Rift Valley.

 

Lusaka, Zambia

Lusaka is the capital of Zambia and a more affordable option than some of the other cities on this list. The city has a number of coworking spaces and cafes, as well as a growing community of digital nomads. Lusaka is also a good base for exploring the rest of Zambia, including the Victoria Falls and the South Luangwa National Park.

Tanzania 

Tanzania is home to some of the most iconic wildlife in Africa, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. You can see these animals in their natural habitat in national parks like the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. Tanzania is also a great place to go on safari, or to relax on the beach at Zanzibar.

Mauritius 

Mauritius is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. It’s known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. You can go swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling in the ocean. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and golfing.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a picturesque escape adorned with blue-hued streets and stunning mountain vistas. This enchanting Moroccan town provides a serene backdrop for remote work, with its calming atmosphere and vibrant local markets offering a unique blend of focus and cultural immersion.

Windhoek, Namibia

The capital city of Namibia boasts a blend of modernity and tranquility. With its efficient infrastructure and welcoming locals, Windhoek offers a conducive environment for remote work. After productive work hours, explore the nearby breathtaking desert landscapes or engage with the city’s rich history and culture.

Accra, Ghana

Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and contemporary art scene, Accra, Ghana, is a dynamic destination for remote workers seeking an energetic holiday experience.  Its cultural diversity, along with a range of entertainment options, allows for a balanced combination of work and leisure in one of Africa’s trendiest cities.

Mutare, Zimbabwe

Tucked away in Zimbabwe’s eastern highlands, Mutare presents a refreshing escape for digital nomads. Surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, and mountains, this serene town offers a calm environment to focus on work while enjoying the beauty of nature during your downtime.

Mombasa, Kenya

With its stunning coastal scenery and laid-back atmosphere, Mombasa provides a unique blend of work and relaxation. Remote workers can find inspiration from the Indian Ocean’s turquoise waters, explore historical sites, and indulge in delicious coastal cuisine.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s capital is a thriving hub of culture and innovation, making it an attractive spot for digital nomads seeking a diverse experience. Addis Ababa offers a mix of modern amenities, traditional markets, and historical landmarks, ensuring an engaging holiday season for remote workers.

Durban, South Africa

Known for its golden beaches and welcoming climate, Durban is a perfect spot for remote workers looking to balance work and outdoor activities. The city’s beachfront promenade and bustling food scene provide an ideal setting to unwind after productive work sessions.

Egypt

Steeped in ancient history and marvels like the pyramids and temples, Egypt offers an unparalleled blend of remote work and exploration. With reliable internet connectivity and a wide range of historical and cultural sites to explore during holidays, Egypt caters to both work-related and leisurely pursuits.