Over the last couple of years, remote and hybrid work has gained traction, becoming increasingly popular across the globe. This is the rise of the “workcation”, which allows you to work remotely while exploring the world.
The added flexibility of remote working means that longer trip durations have also become more common, presenting the opportunity to explore destinations in an in-depth manner. We got together with the great team from Scott Dunn, who have seen a rise in the workcation trip. In fact, they noted that one in three guests are now travelling abroad for essential purposes, such as work or to visit loved ones, with many choosing to extend their time to sightsee for leisure.
READ MORE: 5 exotic destinations for overseas adventure travel
This was a new trend amongst their guests following the pandemic. In the past year, they have had guests travel to China, the US and the Maldives for extended trips that combined both work and play. To help you explore a workcation, we’ve compiled a list of 5 unique destinations.
Enjoy the natural wonders of Iceland
Iceland is a majestic natural wonder boasting mysterious, magnetic auroras unlike anywhere else on earth. Whether you choose to visit in summer or winter, a trip to Iceland is nothing short of spectacular, be it beneath the midnight sun or the Aurora Borealis. An added perk?
Iceland offers long-term visas that are valid for up to six months for remote workers and digital nomads giving you plenty of time to explore this fascinating country. Your time off here can be spent in a helicopter to get a bird’s eye view over the towering Gullfoss Falls, travelling into the heart of a dormant volcano to explore or venturing out as night falls to search for the elusive Northern Lights.
- When to Go: May to September
- Remote Work Stay: Up to 6 months
Georgia takes you back to the old country
A trip to Georgia will bring an opportunity to discover the famously warm, local hospitality and the beauty of the country’s sprawling mountains, verdant wine-growing valleys and ancient monasteries that will keep you enthralled. Oenophiles will be pleased to learn that Georgia is generally considered the birthplace of wine. A visit to the rolling vineyards of Kakheti will definitely delight any wine connoisseur.
One of our favourite experiences is arranging a cooking class at a traditional Georgian restaurant to learn how to make the famous khinkali dumplings or embark on a winery tour in Chateau Mukhrani, a historical estate for the Bagrationi royal family, in the old capital Mtskheta.
For the creatives and writers who need more quiet time to work, Georgia is an ideal destination to enjoy some time off the grid when needed. The country’s “Remotely From Georgia” scheme, allows remote workers to enjoy their stay for up to a year giving plenty of time to explore and get inspired while allowing pockets of time to work in peace.
- When to Go: May to October
- Remote Work Stay: Up to a year
Raw and untamed beauty in Norway
Strikingly beautiful, Norway conjures up images of vast Fjords, jagged coastlines and a strong desire to simply soak up nature’s stunning vistas. This adventure playground with its raw beauty has something for everyone. Uncover the blends of classic and contemporary architecture as well as its booming culinary scene in Oslo, which is also home to world-class museums and parks. An extended trip means that you have more time to check out the local art scene after work as well.
Pack your weekends with short trips out to the countryside where you can admire the spectacular scenery at your own pace, relishing fresh mountain air.
There is so much to see in Norway. A good thing is that Norway provides a 2-year long Independent Contractor visa suited for remote workers. Extended trips are a merry thing to consider in the land of the mighty fjords.
- When to Go: November to January
- Remote Work Stay: Up to 2 years
Portugal offers sun and beaches
Portugal’s key cities are the fascinating result of centuries of foreign rule, from the Romans to the Moors, and the ensuing architecture and history will delight any culture lover. There are boundless things to do in Portugal and the activities can be based around the country’s love for exquisite food and wine, long stretches of coastline and gorgeous beaches, or interesting culture and traditions.
The off days or free time can be spent exploring historical churches or palaces with a private guide, surfing at one of the top beaches near Lisbon or hiking in the Algarve. Try a hand at sailing under the guidance of an experienced skipper on board a private yacht, or simply sit back with a glass of Portuguese port wine and some traditional pastries while watching the Lisbon coastline glide by.
Fret not about time covering the grounds of the Mediterranean melting pot, Portugal offers a temporary resident visa and residence permit for independent workers and entrepreneurs for up to a year.
- When to Go: March to May
- Remote Work Stay: Up to a year
Relax in beautiful Spain
Spain, with its extensive Mediterranean coastline, colourful culture and fabulous food, is at the same time both vibrant and relaxing. On an extended stay here, visit the buzzing cities of beautiful Madrid or vibrant Barcelona; dedicate a week to soak up the culture of Andalucia, or spend your time off just soaking up the sun in Mallorca.
Spain dedicates a digital nomad visa that will last a great six to 12 months, the perfect duration to work and see the sights of Spain with time on your hands.
- When to Go: March to May
- Remote Work Stay: Six to 12 months
With more countries offering long-term visas for remote workers, time is not an issue when choosing the highlighted destinations for a workcation experience. Choosing to extend your holiday will be a tempting, yet viable option for many travellers, especially with such long-term visas at their fingertips. Our friends at Scott Dunn can help you plan your trip if you need the help.
