Among the many new concepts we have had to get used to quickly in the past two years, is working remotely. But who imagined that even WFH (working from home), as it has come to be known, could result in acute cabin fever – a condition defined by lethargy and irritability arising from prolonged isolation indoors. Happens typically during winter, but doesn’t this pandemic seem like one endless winter?
With travel restrictions finally easing up across the world, it is time to say hello to the ‘workation’, or the idea of combining vacation with work. It’s a rising trend fuelled by millennials who’ve grown accustomed to remote work and are looking to spend extended periods overseas – given how prohibitive quarantine restrictions can be for those planning short vacations.
There are now even agencies such as Workation, which help workation-seekers find and settle in the ideal European city of their choice. Here are our suggested workation destinations from across the globe.
*Do check the ever-changing travel and quarantine rules before making any firm plans.
Langkawi, Malaysia
This one does not need much time or thought. When the going gets too monotonous, just cross over to Langkawi in the neighbouring country, which invites visitors through the international travel bubble for foreign tourists. And head straight to The Datai, a luxury eco-resort set between a white sand beach and a ten million year-old rainforest. Here, coffee breaks in the middle of work could include dolphin spotting in the Andaman Sea, or a quick massage at the spa. You can choose to work from the poolside porch outside your room or the small office library situated in the main building.
Tallinn, Estonia
The homeground of entrepreneurship in Europe, one of the most digitised countries in the world, and birthplace of Skype. Welcome to Estonia, where free and fast wifi is available practically everywhere, including remote areas. Apply for a digital nomad visa and get to stay for a year, working and travelling in the tiny Baltic country. The Palo Alto Club comes with private rooms and shared spaces, as well as inhouse advisors on legal and financial matters. The Workland is another great choice, with four locations within the city, including the one at Vabaduse close to the picturesque old town.
Bangkok, Thailand
In recent surveys of best workation cities, Bangkok has repeatedly emerged on top. And really, where better to mix a bit of work and play than in one of the most vibrant cities in this region? Add to this a new visa scheme that will allow foreign citizens to stay and work in Thailand for up to ten years as a digital nomad. Bangkok has plenty of peppy coworking spaces like Hive and Hubba. Settle into cool mid-city villas such as the Artisan’s Antique House, Silom or get out of the urban jungle to stay at Anantara Riverside Resort, which boasts lush open spaces and well-equipped meeting rooms. And on weekends, you can always zip off to Chiang Mai for a spot of culture or Koh Samui for some beach-hopping.
Paris, France
If traipsing through art museums and shopping for haute couture after work is your thing, then sign up for Hyatt’s package that promises The Great Relocate, along with private work spaces and high speed internet. Location does not come better than the Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme, right next to the historic Place Vendôme. Or choose to stay in a luxury villa in prime locations, complete with private kitchens and gardens.
The Maldives
While The Nautilus was one of the first luxury resorts to offer up a workation package, complete with a dedicated personal assistant, others have soon joined the trend. Consider the long stay offers from One&Only Reethi Rah or Soneva Fushi that come with all facilities needed to work between snorkelling breaks, including libraries and study rooms.
Dubai, UAE
Care for some sun, sand and shopping malls alongside your daily work routine? Then look no further than the five-star Jumeirah Emirates Towers, located squarely in Dubai’s financial district. When the government announced a one-year virtual working programme that allows foreigners to work remotely from Dubai, the hotel followed suit with its own Discover Remote Work package, with access to a coworking lounge, business centre and even secretarial support. Or head out to the desert in Abu Dhabi for some traditional style living at the Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa.
Bali, Indonesia
Get the creative juices flowing at the much talked-about Desa Potato Head in Seminyak, Bali. A valid business visa allows up to six months of stay and work at this beachfront hotel community, dedicated to lofty themes such as sustainability and arts conservation. There are beachside coworking spaces, as well as rooms that come with enticing ocean views and even some with attached office areas. Unwind at the spa or gym before hitting the beach before, after, or between work meetings.