The internet has made it possible to find work, manage projects, collaborate and execute with no need for a permanent site, office water cooler or 5pm cut off–but how many of us are taking advantage of the opportunity?
In fact, millions of freelancers and digital nomads are achieving that ever-elusive work/life balance every day. Isn’t it time you threw away your suit and joined the remote working revolution?
For a little bit of extra inspiration to get you to unchain yourself from your gray cubicle, check out our list of exotic coworking locations. From tropical beaches to island rainforests, it’s amazing where a little bit of determination and a good wifi connection will take you.
Related reading: What does remote work mean?
Top 5 most exotic places to work remotely
1. Bali, Indonesia
Famous for its beaches and surf, not to mention volcanoes, rice fields and excellent – hot – cuisine, Bali has long been a popular destination for holiday-makers. What is less known about this exotic and spiritual location is that it has a budding startup ecosystem with entrepreneurs, tech talent, initiatives, events, and startups springing up all over the island. To accommodate this burst of interest in technology, a number of coworking spaces have cropped up to provide these digital nomads and small businesses with all their crucial wi-fi, coffee and community needs.
When the work day is done there are plenty of outdoor activities to embrace on this unique Indonesian island. Diving in the rich coral reefs around the coast, particularly around popular diving spots such as Tulamben, Amed, Menjangan or neighbouring Nusa Penida, is a great way to let off steam, and dolphins are often spotted on the north coast near Lovina. Can you think of a better way to let your hair down after a long day at the office? We thought not.
Co-working spaces in Bali:
2. Morocco
Despite it just being a one-hour boat ride from Spain, once you step foot in Morocco you immediately feel transported from anything you’ve previously experienced. The diverse and magical landscape attracts millions of visitors every year, with four mountain ranges and the Mediterranean coast providing particular points of interest, but it is really the fantastically preserved culture of the country – Islamic and very traditional – that draws the most intrigue and tourists.
Even more surprising is that Morocco is catching on to the tech revolution, embracing digital nomads and local entrepreneurs with an array of co-working spaces and initiatives, while boasting surprisingly fast internet connections in its rented villas. The low cost of living, the renowned kindness and generosity of the locals and the relatively short distance (and cheap flights) to Western Europe mean expats and digital nomads are settling in Morocco for a simpler way of life without giving up home comforts or work opportunities.
Coworking spaces in Morocco:
Marrakech:
Rabat:
Casablanca:
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
Not attracted to heat, surf or sand? Then think about relocating to Reykjavik, Iceland, a city rich with museums, galleries, an enduring sense of history and larger-than-life characters. With its unique climate and surrounding, spectacular landscapes, Reykjavik offers the inspiration-seeking digital nomad more than a sun-drenched, beachside resort ever could.
More of a town than a city, the population is just over 200,000 inhabitants. You’ll be struck by how close-knit the community is once you break away from the more tourist-centric parts and head into the suburbs. And who could forget the backdrop of snow-topped mountains, turbulent, grey seas and pure, clear air?
Coworking spaces in Reykjavik:
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a colorful combination of commerce and culture that sweeps its visitors full-force with its creative energy. From designer shopping centers to ancient temples, inspiration can be found around every corner. Plus, cafes with fast wifi and excellent coffee are now standard, not to mention the increasing number of coworking spaces popping up all over the city.
When you’re done for the day head on down to the Ben Thanh Market, easily identified by its iconic clock tower. Here you can buy anything from clothes to groceries at very reasonable prices, especially if you’re willing to barter a little. This unique, local experience is where 70% of the clientele are local Vietnamese families doing their daily shopping.
Coworking spaces in Ho Chi Minh City:
5. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and take your laptop to somewhere more remote, the Galapagos Islands, west of continental Ecuador, could be for you. Made famous by Darwin’s studies of the natural world during his voyage on the Beagle, the wildlife on the islands is still a huge draw to many visitors of the island, with turtles, iguanas, tortoise and albatrosses still commonly spotted. And with a total population of 25,000, this island paradise is is about as remote as it gets.
As a remote worker on the island the cost of living is cheaper than you’d think if you avoid the usual tourist traps, cook your own meals and enjoy the wildlife without a guide. Almost every hotel or privately rented room will offer WiFi for free, with connections from rented apartments being generally very good.
What Now
If you are thinking about going freelance in tech and would like some help acquiring the right skills then a CareerFoundry course could be just what you need to get your new career off the ground.
At CareerFoundry we’re focused on helping launch freelancers into their careers in tech, with our programs teaching skills from beginner up to professionals in everything from Web Development to UX Design, with curriculums written by tech professionals and taught by expert mentors.