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The Best Places in the World to Live as a Remote Worker

Remote work has transformed how professionals approach their careers, offering amazing freedom and flexibility. Being able to work from virtually anywhere has given rise to an expanding community of digital nomads looking for the ideal home base. But where exactly should a remote worker live? That answer depends on many factors including cost of living, internet speed, lifestyle choices or stunning views. In this blog, we have done the legwork for you with this helpful article of some of the world's top destinations for remote workers.

Photo by Domenico Loia on Unsplash


Bali, Indonesia: The Classic Digital Nomad Hotspot 

Bali has long been considered an idyllic place for digital nomads looking for work-life balance. From lush forests and beaches, vibrant coworking spaces, and plentiful leisure options, it offers everything a digital nomad could ever ask for in a location for work-play. Bali's cost of living is one of its primary draws, allowing you to live comfortably on any budget while indulging in exotic cuisine and scheduling regular massages without breaking the bank. But Bali is more than just about leisure. Remote work opportunities exist here too. Cities such as Canggu and Ubud in Bali boast some of the world's most idyllic coworking spaces, featuring reliable internet service and welcoming communities of professionals. Which explains why Bali remains so popular. Plus, local custom of making offerings to gods gives your Zoom calls a spiritual kick start. Not bad way to start those calls.


Lisbon, Portugal: Europe's Trendiest Remote Hub

For those who thrive in European environments, Lisbon offers the ideal blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Lisbon stands out as a vibrant metropolis with cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and a lively cafe culture that's hard to rival. Those who work remotely appreciate Lisbon's relatively inexpensive cost of living (at least within Europe), excellent public transportation links and the various hip neighborhoods where coliving in Lisbon can take place. Lisbon's prime coastal location makes for the ideal combination of relaxing beach walks or hiking trails on weekends, with work-life balance suddenly tasting much sweeter.


Mexico City, Mexico: Urban Wonders and Artistic Flair

Mexico City offers culture, vibrant food scenes and nonstop excitement all in one location, offering remote workers an ideal mix of business and pleasure. This sprawling metropolis can make a fantastic home base. Mexico City offers excellent coworking spaces across neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa at an incredibly low cost of living compared to U.S. cities, making it an attractive choice for urban life on a tight budget. Internet speeds are reliable, the climate pleasant year-round and there is no shortage of museums, art galleries and restaurants to visit when the workday ends. As an added tip, try and learn Spanish. While English will suffice most times, locals appreciate your effort more.


Chiang Mai, Thailand: Where Serenity Meets Productivity

Chiang Mai could be one of the most affordable yet idyllic remote working hubs. Nestled into the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its laidback pace of life and delicious street food options, as well as its bustling digital nomad community. Furthermore, living costs here seem so minimal it almost feels like cheating the system. Chiang Mai offers affordable living for an economical price, from street food stall meals that cost just a dollar to apartments that reach only a fraction of Western costs. Coworking spaces such as Punspace provide reliable internet connections and networking opportunities. Should you need a break from work, take a hike through nearby mountains or visit one of its beautiful temples to restore yourself spiritually.


Medellin, Colombia: The City of Eternal Spring

Medellin has quickly become one of the top choices among remote workers due to its affordability, scenic setting, and abundance of amenities. Once known for its troubled past, Medellin has evolved into one of South America's most livable and innovative locations, earning the nickname of the City of Eternal Spring due to its near-ideal climate. Boasting modern coworking spaces, an active expat community, decent internet speeds and shockingly low living costs. The only downside may be resisting spending all your days admiring stunning views instead answering emails.


Tallinn, Estonia: A Techie's Dream

Are you looking for an exciting destination with futuristic vibes? Put Tallinn at the top of your list. Estonia stands out as a leader in digital innovation, offering an innovative e-residency program to allow remote workers to easily establish and run businesses from abroad. This city perfectly marries medieval charm (think cobblestone streets and beautiful Gothic architecture) with cutting-edge tech infrastructure (such as fast internet). Winter in Tallinn may be cold, yet its streets come alive with festive Christmas markets and cozy cafes perfect for working or unwinding in. Summers bring long daylight hours and lively outdoor events that energize and revitalize the city. Tallinn offers an attractive combination of rich history, an active modern tech ecosystem, and distinct seasonal experiences. An attractive proposition for digital nomads looking for innovation without forgoing charm.


Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Luxe Living with Remote Work Perks

If luxury is what you are looking for in a remote working destination, Dubai could be an excellent place. This bustling metropolitan hub is known for its golden beaches and cutting-edge skyscrapers. Furthermore it boasts an exceptional remote work setup. With the UAE's remote work visa, relocation has never been simpler. While the cost of living may seem high in Dubai, its high quality infrastructure and world-class amenities help offset this cost and ensure a high standard of living for its inhabitants. Dubai was designed with convenience in mind, providing everything from gourmet dining and premium shopping experiences to some of the fastest internet speeds globally. An attractive feature for digital nomads and digital nomad communities alike. You could be hosting virtual meetings or working on tasks while gazing upon the towering Burj Khalifa or lounging at an elegant beachfront cafe - that's Dubai for you. Combining luxurious lifestyle with practical everyday tasks, Dubai provides an environment in which professionals and individuals can thrive both professionally and personally. Thanks to its sunny weather, unparalleled modernity, and forward-thinking vision, remote work becomes luxurious experience here.


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Cape Town, South Africa: Breathtaking Beauty and Endless Adventure

This city combines remote work with spectacular natural beauty in perfect harmony. South Africa, home to majestic Table Mountain and stunning beaches, boasts some of the world's most breathtaking scenery. Additionally, its low cost of living makes living there affordable while an exceptional food scene offers something delicious to satisfy nearly every palette. Remote workers looking for productive environments to work from, coworking spaces are becoming an increasingly attractive solution. Although internet connectivity was once an issue, recent improvements have made working online much smoother. Cape Town provides adventure seekers with plenty of exciting activities, from hiking iconic trails and surfing along its picturesque coastline, to thrilling experiences such as shark cage diving. For remote workers looking for a perfect blend of work, play, and adrenaline-charged exploration, Cape Town makes the ideal destination.


What Should You Consider When Choosing?  

While remote working destinations can provide incredible experiences, choosing the ideal home base will depend entirely on your individual preferences and considerations. Some key aspects to keep in mind include:

  • Time Zone Compatibility: Working with others? Make sure your time zones align. 

  • Cost of Living: Can your current income support your expenses comfortably?

  • Internet Reliability: A slow connection can quickly undermine productivity.

  • Safety: Before undertaking remote work abroad, always research safety statistics and expat experiences.

  • Visa Requirements: To check if a visa is needed and how long your stay may last. 

  • Culture and Lifestyle: Are your interests compatible with local culture?

  • Coworking Spaces and Digital Nomad Communities: Will you have access to reliable coworking spaces as well as an engaged digital nomad community?


Discipline for Remote Working and Living Abroad

Maintaining discipline as a remote worker abroad is very important in order to be productive and balanced, particularly without the structure of traditional office. Without that structure it's easy to lose focus or become overwhelmed with cultural differences. To remain productive and balanced take into account these aspects of discipline:

  • Create a Routine: Plan out a consistent daily schedule that includes work, meals, exercise and leisure, regardless of time zone changes. 

  • Set Boundaries: To avoid burnout or distractions while exploring your new surroundings.

  • Designate a Workspace: Designate or create a quiet, reliable space solely dedicated to work. Whether that be at home, a coworking space, or cafe. 

  • Stay Organized: Utilize tools such as calendars, task management apps and time trackers in order to keep track of deadlines and commitments.

  • Adapt to Local Challenges: Be mindful of cultural differences such as holidays or specific business etiquette to maintain work efficiency.

  • Stay Healthy: Prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and physical activity as ways of staying focused while enjoying your new environment is key for keeping work efficient.

Being disciplined allows you to juggle both work responsibilities as well as the exciting experiences offered by living abroad.


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Conclusion

Remote work opens the doors to endless travel, personal growth and unique experiences. With careful research and considerations in mind, finding your ideal remote working destination should not be hard at all. There are so many great places around the globe offering fantastic digital nomading options that don't break the bank either.Don't be shy. Explore and discover places that align with your lifestyle goals and career objectives.


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