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The concept of remote working has gained immense popularity over the past few years, and it's easy to see why. More professionals are realizing the freedom
and flexibility of working from anywhere in the world. If you're a foreigner looking to combine work and travel, Asia is an excellent destination for remote work. With affordable living costs, vibrant cultures, and beautiful landscapes, Asia offers some of the best spots to settle into for a few weeks, months, or even longer.
But where do you go in Asia to combine work and play? What are the most attractive remote working destinations that provide the perfect balance of productivity and exploration? Whether you're a digital nomad, freelancer, or someone just looking to take a remote job abroad, this guide will help you discover the best remote working travel destinations in Asia.
Why Asia for Remote Work?
Asia has become a top hub for remote workers thanks to its low cost of living, reliable internet connections, and a growing community of digital nomads. From the bustling cities of Southeast Asia to the serene mountains of Japan, there are options to suit every lifestyle. Additionally, Asia offers a rich cultural experience and many opportunities to explore new destinations while still getting your work done.
Some of the key reasons why Asia is a great destination for remote workers include:
- Affordability: Many Asian countries offer lower living expenses compared to the West, especially when it comes to accommodation, food, and transportation. This allows you to enjoy a higher standard of living for a fraction of the price.
- Quality of Life: With diverse environments ranging from lively cities to quiet coastal towns, you’ll find many places that offer a high quality of life. Whether you're working in a modern city or by the beach, there's always a peaceful place to unwind after a day's work.
- Community: Asia has a large and growing digital nomad community. You’ll find co-working spaces, meet-ups, and plenty of opportunities to network with other remote workers.
- Visa Flexibility: Many countries in Asia are becoming more flexible with visa policies for remote workers, making it easier to stay long-term and work legally.
Now, let's dive into some of the best remote working travel destinations in Asia for foreigners.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Bali has become one of the most popular destinations for remote workers and digital nomads. The island offers everything you need to stay productive while enjoying beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, and a laid-back vibe. In places like Ubud and Canggu, you’ll find an abundance of coworking spaces, cafes with reliable Wi-Fi, and affordable accommodation options.
- Why Bali? Affordable living, stunning nature, a great digital nomad community, and plenty of activities to do during downtime.
- Best Areas: Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak
- Visa: Indonesia offers a tourist visa that allows stays for up to 60 days, and there are longer-term options as well.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is often considered the capital of the digital nomad world, especially for those looking for a vibrant yet affordable lifestyle. The city has long been a favorite of remote workers due to its welcoming environment, low cost of living, and the number of coworking spaces available. The work-life balance is easy to achieve in Chiang Mai, as you can spend your free time hiking in the mountains, visiting temples, or exploring the surrounding countryside.
- Why Chiang Mai? Affordable, peaceful atmosphere, reliable internet, and plenty of opportunities to meet other remote workers.
- Best Areas: Old City, Nimmanhaemin, Santitham
- Visa: Thailand offers a 60-day tourist visa with the option to extend it, or you can apply for a longer stay visa depending on your situation.
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), offers an exciting environment for remote workers who enjoy the hustle and bustle of a city. The cost of living is incredibly affordable, and the city boasts modern amenities, good internet speeds, and a growing coworking scene. Ho Chi Minh City’s lively streets, markets, and rich history make it a fascinating destination to work remotely.
- Why Ho Chi Minh City? Affordable cost of living, fast internet, and a vibrant expat community.
- Best Areas: District 1 (central), Bui Vien Street, Thao Dien
- Visa: Vietnam offers a 30-day tourist visa, which can be extended or converted into a business visa if necessary.
4. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient traditions meet modern technology. Known for its high-speed internet and excellent infrastructure, Seoul is an excellent destination for remote workers who want to experience the convenience of urban life. The city is also full of green parks, historical sites, and modern cafes with excellent Wi-Fi, making it easy to get work done while soaking in the culture.
- Why Seoul? A modern city with excellent infrastructure, fast internet, and an exciting cultural scene.
- Best Areas: Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae
- Visa: South Korea offers a 90-day visa-free stay for many countries, with options to extend or convert depending on your circumstances.
5. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is another great option for remote workers, offering the perfect blend of urban living and outdoor adventure. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, modern amenities, excellent public transportation, and a relatively low cost of living. The numerous coworking spaces and cafes make it easy to work, and there are plenty of opportunities to relax by visiting night markets, hiking trails, and temples.
- Why Taipei? A friendly, safe city with great food, low living costs, and a growing digital nomad community.
- Best Areas: Ximending, Da’an, Zhongshan
- Visa: Taiwan offers a 90-day visa-free entry for most nationalities, with the possibility of extending your stay.
6. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, is a melting pot of cultures and one of the most modern cities in Southeast Asia. The city has an abundance of affordable accommodation, efficient public transport, and a variety of coworking spaces. KL is also an ideal place to explore the rest of Malaysia and nearby destinations like Langkawi, Penang, or the Cameron Highlands during your free time.
- Why Kuala Lumpur? Modern, affordable, diverse culture, and great for networking with other professionals.
- Best Areas: Bukit Bintang, Mont Kiara, Bangsar
- Visa: Malaysia offers a 90-day visa-free entry for many foreign nationals, and there are other visa options available for longer stays.
7. Jaipur, India
If you’re looking to experience India’s vibrant culture while working remotely, Jaipur is an ideal destination. Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur is full of history, stunning architecture, and bustling markets. The cost of living is very low, and there are several co-working spaces to help you stay productive. Jaipur’s charm lies in its rich cultural experiences, from visiting forts and palaces to exploring the local bazaars.
- Why Jaipur? Rich culture, affordable living, good coworking spaces, and plenty of sightseeing opportunities.
- Best Areas: C-Scheme, Vaishali Nagar, MI Road
- Visa: India offers an e-tourist visa for stays up to 60 days, with the option for extensions.
8. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
For something truly unique, consider Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. Ulaanbaatar is an emerging destination for digital nomads due to its affordability and interesting mix of traditional Mongolian culture and modern amenities. The city is surrounded by vast, open landscapes, making it an ideal spot for remote workers who want to combine work with outdoor adventures such as hiking, horseback riding, and exploring Mongolia’s nomadic culture.
- Why Ulaanbaatar? Affordable living, a unique cultural experience, and close proximity to natural wonders.
- Best Areas: Sukhbaatar, Chingeltei, Bayangol
- Visa: Mongolia offers visa-free entry for many nationalities for stays of up to 30 days.
Final Thoughts
Asia offers a variety of options for remote workers, from bustling metropolises to peaceful natural escapes. Whether you’re seeking the fast pace of a city like Ho Chi Minh or a serene location like Bali, the possibilities are endless. By choosing a destination that fits your interests, work style, and budget, you can enjoy a fulfilling remote working experience while discovering new cultures and environments.
Before you embark on your remote working adventure in Asia, make sure to check visa requirements, internet connectivity, and accommodation options in advance. With the right preparation,
you’ll be able to combine productivity with travel and experience Asia like never before!