The line between work and travel has never been more blurred. With over 36 million Americans now working remotely at least part-time, the concept of the workation has evolved into a lifestyle choice that’s reshaping how we think about productivity, work-life balance and professional growth.
If you’ve been dreaming about trading your home office for a beachside café in Bali or a mountain retreat in the Alps, you’re not alone. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a successful workation in 2025.
What Exactly Is a Workation?
A workation combines remote work with travel, allowing you to maintain your regular job responsibilities while experiencing new destinations.
Unlike traditional vacations, where you completely disconnect, workations let you explore the world without using all your vacation days or sacrificing your income.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Nearly half of the global workforce now has some form of remote work arrangement, and 98% of remote workers say they’d continue working remotely for the rest of their careers.
This isn’t a temporary trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how we work.
Why Workations Are Worth Considering
The benefits extend far beyond Instagram-worthy laptop setups. Research shows that remote workers report 24% higher job satisfaction compared to their office-bound counterparts.
About 79% experience lower stress levels, and 82% say their mental health has improved with flexible work arrangements.
But the advantages go deeper than personal well-being:
Financial Benefits: Remote workers typically earn almost 10% more than full-time workers in similar roles. When you factor in eliminated commute costs and the ability to base yourself in more affordable locations, the financial case becomes even stronger.
Productivity Gains: Contrary to skeptics’ fears, research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics found a positive relationship between remote work and productivity. About 90% of employees believe they’re as productive or more productive in remote arrangements than they were in traditional office settings.
Cultural Enrichment: Working from different locations exposes you to diverse perspectives, expands your professional network internationally, and provides creative inspiration that’s impossible to replicate from a cubicle.
Extended Travel: By working during your trip, you can stay in destinations longer without depleting vacation days. A two-week vacation becomes a two-month immersion when you’re only taking weekends and evenings to explore.
The Reality Check: Workation Challenges
Before you book that one-way ticket, understand the potential hurdles:
Time Zone Juggling: Working from Bali while your team is in New York means 12-hour time differences. You’ll need to be strategic about scheduling meetings and may find yourself taking calls at odd hours.
Internet Reliability: Your productivity depends entirely on stable connectivity. A dropped connection during a client presentation can be career-limiting. Always have backup plans, including mobile hotspots and knowledge of nearby co-working spaces with reliable WiFi.
Legal and Tax Complexities: Working from different countries can create tax obligations and visa issues. Some countries have introduced digital nomad visas specifically to address this, but regulations vary widely. Always consult with a tax professional before embarking on an extended international workation.
Work-Life Boundaries: When your hotel room is also your office, it’s challenging to truly disconnect. You’ll need discipline to set clear working hours and resist the temptation to check emails during a sunset beach walk.
Security Concerns: Public WiFi networks pose real cybersecurity risks. Invest in a quality VPN, use two-factor authentication on all accounts, and never access sensitive company data on unsecured networks.
The World’s Best Workation Destinations for 2025
Choosing the right location can make or break your workation experience. Here are the top destinations that consistently rank highest for remote workers:
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo claimed the top spot in 2025’s global workation rankings. This is thanks to its lightning-fast internet, exceptional public transportation and the recent introduction of a digital nomad visa.
The city combines urban energy with easy access to mountains, beaches and national parks. Co-working spaces like The Hive Jinnan offer stunning Mount Fuji views, while the food scene provides endless exploration opportunities between video calls.
Best for: Tech workers, culture enthusiasts and anyone who values efficiency and safety.
Seoul, South Korea
With blazing-fast internet and countless 24/7 co-working spaces, Seoul makes staying productive effortless. The city’s digital nomad visa program, efficient public transport and vibrant expat community have made it a rising star among remote workers.
When you need a break, explore ancient palaces, trendy neighborhoods like Hongdae, or hike the mountains that surround the city.
Best for: Night owls, foodies and tech-savvy professionals.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers the rare combination of Old World charm and modern infrastructure at prices far below Western European capitals. With over 60 affordable co-working spaces, reliable high-speed internet and a happiness index that rivals much wealthier cities, it’s easy to see why Budapest consistently ranks among the top workation destinations.
In addition, the thermal baths provide the perfect way to decompress after deadline-heavy days.
Best for: Budget-conscious nomads, history buffs and wellness-focused professionals.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital has become synonymous with digital nomad culture. The tech scene is booming with 30% annual growth in startup investment since 2016, and the city hosts major global events like Web Summit.
English is spoken by many, costs in Lisbon remain reasonable compared to other major European cities and the proximity to stunning beaches and Sintra’s fairy-tale landscapes offers the perfect balance.
Best for: Entrepreneurs, networkers and beach lovers who want European culture.
Image by Vasil Dimitrov from Getty Images Signature via Canva
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Mexico has emerged as one of the most beloved workation destinations, particularly its Caribbean coast. Playa del Carmen offers that coveted work-life balance with affordable living costs, strong digital infrastructure, welcoming communities and year-round warm weather.
The food scene rivals anywhere in the world, and you’re a short trip from Mayan ruins, cenotes and world-class diving.
Best for: Beach lovers, mid-price point travelers and anyone seeking sunshine without sacrificing connectivity.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali remains the quintessential digital nomad destination, seeing a 40% increase in remote workers over the past year. Areas like Canggu and Ubud offer thriving communities of remote professionals, affordable living costs, incredible wellness offerings, and diverse co-working options.
Indonesia’s new Remote Worker Visa allows stays up to two years for qualifying professionals.
Best for: Wellness-focused workers, creatives, and those seeking an established nomad community.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand’s northern capital combines rock-bottom costs with excellent infrastructure. Monthly living expenses can run as low as $1,000-$1,500, including accommodation, and the co-working scene is well-established.
The city’s artistic vibe, incredible food culture, and proximity to mountains and temples make it a favorite spot.
Best for: Long-term nomads, budget travelers and anyone new to the workation lifestyle.
How to Plan Your Ultimate Workation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Get Employer Buy-In
If you’re employed rather than freelancing, start with an honest conversation with your manager. Present the business case:
- Explain how the time zone will (or won’t) affect your availability
- Offer to work core hours that overlap with your team
- Emphasize your track record of productivity
- Suggest a trial period to prove the concept works
- Address security concerns proactively
About 88% of companies now offer some form of hybrid or remote work, so your chances of getting an agreement are pretty good.
Step 2: Choose Your Destination Strategically
Consider these factors:
Internet Speed: Aim for a minimum 25 Mbps download speed. Check nomadlist.com for reliable data on connectivity in different cities.
Time Zone: Calculate the overlap with your team’s working hours. A 3-4 hour difference is manageable; 12+ hours requires serious planning.
Cost of Living: Use tools like Numbeo to compare expenses. Factor in accommodation, food, transportation, and co-working space memberships.
Visa Requirements: Research digital nomad visas, tourist visa lengths, and any special permits needed for remote work.
Safety: Check travel advisories and research areas carefully, especially for solo travelers.
Climate: Consider whether you work better in tropical heat or cooler mountain air.
Step 3: Secure Proper Accommodation
For short workations (1-2 weeks), hotels with dedicated workspaces are ideal. Look for properties advertising “work-friendly” amenities like ergonomic desks, good lighting, and reliable WiFi.
For longer stays (1+ months), consider:
Co-living Spaces: Purpose-built communities that blend accommodation with co-working facilities. Companies like Selina and Outsite specialize in these arrangements.
Airbnb with Workspace: Use filters to find properties with dedicated work areas, comfortable chairs, and verified WiFi speeds.
Serviced Apartments: Mid-term stays often get better rates and include housekeeping and amenities.
Always confirm internet speeds before booking. Ask hosts for speed test results or check recent reviews mentioning connectivity.
Step 4: Set Up Your Tech Infrastructure
Essential Equipment:
- Laptop with full battery capacity
- Quality noise-canceling headphones for calls
- Portable WiFi device or multiple eSIM options
- External hard drive for backups
- Universal power adapter
- Portable laptop stand and external keyboard (for ergonomics)
Critical Software:
- Reliable VPN service (ExpressVPN or NordVPN)
- Cloud storage with automatic backup (Google Drive, Dropbox)
- Communication tools (Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Teams)
- Time zone converter (World Time Buddy)
- Project management software (Asana, Trello, Monday)
- Password manager (1Password, LastPass)
Backup Plans:
- Know the locations of at least three co-working spaces near your accommodation
- Have both eSIM and local SIM options for mobile data
- Keep offline versions of important documents
- Maintain a second device (tablet or backup laptop) if possible
Step 5: Manage Your Finances
Budget Planning:
Create separate budgets for work essentials and leisure activities:
Work Costs:
- Co-working space: $50-300/month, depending on location
- Upgraded internet: $20-100/month
- Business calls: $10-30/month
- VPN and security software: $10-20/month
Living Costs (vary dramatically by location):
- Accommodation: $500-3,000/month
- Food: $300-800/month
- Transportation: $50-200/month
- Activities and entertainment: $200-500/month
Total monthly costs can range from $1,500 in Southeast Asia to $4,000+ in European capitals or North American cities.
Money Management Tips:
- Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees
- Open accounts with international banks like Wise or Revolut
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid frozen cards
- Keep emergency funds accessible
- Research tax implications with a professional
Step 6: Establish Routines and Boundaries
Image by LukaTDB from Getty Images Signature via Canva
Success requires discipline:
Create a Dedicated Workspace: Even in a hotel room, designate a specific area for work only. Don’t work from bed.
Maintain Consistent Hours: Stick to a regular schedule that overlaps with your team’s core hours.
Schedule Exploration Time: Block out specific times for sightseeing and activities. Treat them as seriously as work meetings.
Communicate Proactively: Over-communicate with your team about your availability, progress, and any challenges.
Join Local Communities: Attend co-working space events or nomad meetups to avoid isolation.
Practice Self-Care: The excitement of a new location can lead to burnout. Maintain sleep schedules, exercise routines, and healthy eating habits.
Step 7: Handle Legal and Administrative Details
Visa Requirements: Many countries now offer specific digital nomad visas:
- Japan: Digital Nomad Visa (6 months)
- South Korea: Digital Nomad Visa
- Portugal: D7 Visa (for longer-term stays)
- Spain: Digital Nomad Visa
- Costa Rica: Rentista Visa
- Mexico: Temporary Resident Visa
Research requirements well in advance, as processing times can be lengthy.
Travel Insurance: Standard travel insurance often doesn’t cover extended stays or work-related activities. Look for policies designed for digital nomads that include health coverage, equipment protection, and liability.
Explore options with SafetyWing or SquareMouth to find the coverage you need.
Read More: Why You Need International Travel Insurance When You Travel
Tax Obligations: This gets complex quickly. Generally:
- Short trips (under 183 days) usually don’t trigger foreign tax obligations
- You’ll still owe taxes in your home country
- Some countries have tax treaties that prevent double taxation
- Keep meticulous records of time spent in each location
Consult with an international tax specialist before embarking on extended workations.
Making Your Workation Successful
The difference between a successful workation and a stressful disaster often comes down to mindset and preparation.
Start Small: Your first workation shouldn’t be a six-month world tour. Try a two-week trip to a nearby destination with a minimal time zone difference. Learn what works for you before committing to longer adventures.
Stay Flexible: Flight delays, internet outages, and unexpected challenges are inevitable. Build buffer time into your schedule and maintain a sense of humor when things go wrong.
Prioritize Work First: Remember, this is a workation, not a vacation. Your job performance must remain strong. If you’re constantly missing deadlines or unavailable for important meetings, the privilege may disappear quickly.
Invest in Relationships: Make an extra effort to stay connected with your team. Without hallway conversations and lunch breaks together, you need to be intentional about maintaining those relationships.
Document Everything: Take photos, keep a journal, save your favorite restaurant recommendations. Your workation memories will be among your most treasured, and the experiences often provide unexpected professional benefits through expanded perspectives and creativity.
The Future of Workations
The workation trend shows no signs of slowing. With 64% of remote workers saying they would look for a new job if forced back to the office full-time, companies are increasingly embracing flexible arrangements.
Some organizations now offer “work from anywhere” months as a standard benefit, while others are closing physical offices entirely.
Cities and countries are competing for digital nomad residents by improving infrastructure, offering tax incentives and creating specialized visas.
The World Economic Forum predicts global remote work will grow to 90 million positions by 2030, up from 73 million in 2024.
For individuals willing to embrace the challenge, workations offer an opportunity to design a better work/life balance.
The question isn’t whether workations are here to stay; it’s whether you’re ready to take advantage of this transformative way of working and living.
Ready to Start Planning?
The hardest part of any workation is taking that first step. Start by having a conversation with your employer, researching destinations that align with your work requirements and personal interests, and begin building the skills and systems that will make you successful.
Whether you’re dreaming of working from a Parisian café, a Bangkok co-working space, or a beachfront bungalow in Costa Rica, the tools and opportunities exist to make it happen. The only question is: where will your first workation take you?
Need a hand planning your trip? Here are the sites and services we rely on most, from booking tools to travel products we love.
Inspire your next adventure with our articles below:
- 6 Cheapest Places for Digital Nomads To Live and Work Overseas
- 4 Health and Safety Essentials Digital Nomads Must Prepare Before a Long Trip
Author Bio: Sandy Page is a life-long adventurer. In her free time, she reads and consumes copious amounts of hot beverages.
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