Consider a workation as an alternative to becoming a digital nomad. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the tendency of merging work and leisure. This is due to flexible working regulations implemented in response to Covid-19.
Workations provide new options for employees, freelancers, and entrepreneurs by allowing them to explore the world without taking time off. Choosing an exotic destination can be challenging, especially for first-time business and leisure travelers.
We’ve compiled a list of seven nations that should be on your radar, based on considerations such as cost of living, Wi-Fi speeds, and time variations from the United States, whether your ideal working environment is a cottage in the woods or a bustling metropolis. Discover our favorite workation sites and learn about the trend that’s changing the way we work.
Here are the best work destinations for 2024
1. Brazil
- Time difference: 1 to 3 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Florianopolis, Jericoacoara
- Internet speed: Good
- Digital nomad visa: Yes ($100-$300)
- Average monthly living cost: $1,600 a month
If you want to work among diverse, beautiful landscapes in a time zone that is not too far ahead of the United States, look no further than Brazil. Brazil offers a diverse range of experiences for professionals, from natural wonders like the Amazon jungle to urban centers like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Brazil’s low cost of living makes it perfect for both short and long-term travelers, and the recently introduced Digital Nomad Visa has made it easier than ever for international residents to apply for residency.
2. Argentina
- Time difference: 1 hour ahead of EST
- Top locations: Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Cordoba, Mar del Plata
- Internet speed: Good
- Digital nomad visa: Yes ($200)
- Average monthly living cost: $1,000-$1,300)
Argentina’s diversified geographical landscape makes it a naturalist’s dream. The country is home to numerous glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and even one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Iguazu Falls.
If you prefer a city trip, Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, is known as the “Paris of South America” for its gorgeous European-style architecture and lively cafe culture. Unfortunately, due to currency volatility in the Argentine Peso ($), most travelers are encouraged to spend US dollars, making the vacation significantly less cheap than prior years.
3. South Korea
- Time difference: 13 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, Gyeongju
- Internet speed: Excellent
- Digital nomad visa: Yes
- Average monthly living cost: $2,000
South Korea is one of the only nations that grant a ‘Workation visa’ for remote workers earning above 85 million won (~$64,000). The unique visa allows you to stay in the East Asian country for a year and may be renewed annually, making South Korea a perfect destination for people planning longer-term travels.
Whether you adore K-pop or want to explore cultural mainstays like hot pots or bibimbap, South Korea has plenty of bucket list activities. Its reliable internet connection, which is currently recognized as the fastest in the world, will keep you linked in real time throughout the working day.
4. Thailand
- Time difference: 11 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Bangkok, Chang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui
- Internet speed: Good
- Digital nomad visa: Yes
- Average monthly living cost: $1,300
Thailand’s colorful culture, world-class cuisine, and affordable cost of living have attracted backpackers for decades. However, as the city’s infrastructure evolves, it is also becoming a destination for workers seeking a more colorful backdrop to their 9-to-5.
Aside from many UNESCO Work Heritage Sites and countless natural attractions, Thailand has a network of coworking spaces, making it one of the greatest places to combine business and pleasure. For professionals prepared to put up with an 11-hour time difference, the South-East Asian gem is also straightforward to explore, making it ideal for first-time travelers.
5. India
- Time difference: 9.5 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Kerala, Rajasthan, Goa, Himachal
- Internet speed: Great
- Digital nomad visa: No
- Average monthly living cost: $900
India’s digital nomad community may not be as established as Thailand or Vietnam, but it is a vastly underappreciated work place. The South Asian country has a plethora of hidden beauties, from the royal city of Udaipur to the majestic mountains of Himachal Pradesh.
India’s low cost of living and unique cultural background make it perfect for workers on long-term visits. However, because the country does not presently offer a digital nomad visa, tourists will need to apply for a multiple-entry tourism visa if they plan to remain for more than one month.
6. Portugal
- Time difference: 5 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Lisbon, Porti, Algarve, Évora
- Internet speed: Great
- Digital nomad visa: Yes
- Average monthly living cost: $1,500
Portugal is quickly establishing a reputation for its thriving digital nomad lifestyle, so it’s no surprise that it’s also a popular location for individuals doing shorter work trips.Whether you prefer the bustling of Lisbon or the laid-back nature of the Algarve, Portugal’s mild climate and traditional architecture have made it a popular destination for remote workers across Europe.
Despite its popularity among digital nomads, the country’s move to levy taxes on foreign nationals makes it less appealing for long-term workers.
7. Iceland
- Time difference: 5 hours ahead of EST
- Top locations: Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri
- Internet speed: Excellent
- Digital nomad visa: Yes ($94)
- Average monthly living cost: $3,000
Iceland boasts breathtaking scenery, friendly locals, and broadband speeds that rival South Korea. While the cost of living is higher than in the United States, its high safety rating and breathtaking scenery make it an attractive destination for single travelers planning a short or medium-term trip.
The country’s capital, Reykjavik, boasts multiple coworking spaces and is close to a number of must-see attractions such as the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle, which are ideal for exploring during your free time. If you want to go even more off the grid, you may check in at one of the country’s many internet-accessible campgrounds.