Have you ever dreamt of swapping your cubicle for a beachside cafe in Bali or trading your daily commute for a stroll through the cobblestone streets of a charming European city?
Well, you're in luck. As remote work becomes the new norm, the world is your oyster—or, should I say, your office. The best remote work destinations offer many compelling reasons to move abroad.
Beautiful Bali (photo: Sebastian Pena Lambarri)
I've experienced the thrill of making a new home in a foreign city. In my case, it was seven years in Medellin, Colombia. And I've encouraged readers to pursue similar adventures ever since.
In this article, we're diving into three destinations making waves in the remote work scene: Bali, with its tropical allure; Madeira, a Portuguese paradise; and Tallinn, Estonia's tech-savvy capital.
These places offer attractive scenery, vibrant cultures, top-notch coworking spaces, reliable internet, and communities of like-minded professionals.
So grab a coffee, and let's explore the best places for expats to make their remote work dreams a reality.
Where To Work Abroad
Bali, Indonesia
Beach and cliffs on Bali (photo: Alfiano Sutianto)
When planning my trip around the world, I chose Bali as my first stop in Asia, as the Indonesian island symbolized tropical escapism to me at the time. And it still does, fifteen years later.
The capital of Denpasar is in southern Bali, where most visitors first arrive, and many choose to live.
Why is Bali one of the best remote work destinations? First off, the digital infrastructure is solid. There's reliable internet and plenty of cafes offering workspaces with Wi-Fi. So, you can send that report while sipping on a fresh coconut.
Bali has a wide range of accommodations to suit your preferred standard of living. From inexpensive guesthouses to luxury villas, you can tailor your stay to your desired budget and vibe.
Getting around is a breeze, too. Motorcycles and scooters are the go-tos, especially for dodging traffic in busy areas like Kuta. During my stay, surfers riding bicycles to the beach were common.
But what sets Bali apart is the quality of life. It's affordable, especially compared to Western countries.
The island is a wellness haven, offering everything from yoga studios to fresh, healthy food. And let's not forget the natural beauty—think beaches, rice terraces, and lush jungles—that serve as the ultimate stress reliever.
Easy access to nature and outdoor activities is a big draw for digital nomads living in Bali.
Madeira, Portugal
Camara de Lobos (photo: Piotr Musiol)
Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of mainland Portugal.
Known for its lush landscapes, the island is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring everything from dramatic cliffs and towering mountains to botanical gardens and terraced vineyards.
The capital, Funchal, is a charming city with a historic center, bustling markets, and a scenic harbor.
Madeira's climate is temperate year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities like hiking , sailing, and whale-watching. The island is also famous for its namesake wine and vibrant cultural festivals.
With its natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich culture, Madeira is a sought-after destination for tourists and is increasingly popular among remote workers.
Ponta de Sao Lourenco cliffs (photo: Tim Roosjen)
Due in part to the growing community of remote workers, improvements have been made to the island's high-speed internet access, and more coworking spaces are available.
Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from hotels and apartments to co-living spaces. Getting around is a breeze with well-maintained roads, rental cars, and a solid bus network centered in Funchal.
The cost of living is lower than in most Western European cities, and the time zone aligns well with Europe and parts of North America.
Safety is another perk. Portugal ranks 6th globally for safety, and Madeira is no exception. Add various visa options, including the new Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU people, and you've got an ideal remote work destination.
Tallinn, Estonia
Kadriorg Art Museum (photo: Frederic Koberl)
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a captivating blend of old and new. Situated on the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe, the city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site , has cobblestone streets, historic churches, and bustling squares.
But Tallinn is also a modern, tech-smart city, often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Europe” due to its booming tech industry and status as the birthplace of several international startups like Skype.
The city offers a high standard of living, efficient public transportation, and a vibrant cultural scene featuring museums, galleries, and a wide range of festivals.
Estonia has led the international community in providing public services online. Avoiding red tape and bureaucracy is a big plus for foreign workers looking for a new home.
English is widely spoken, making it easier to connect with local Estonians, whether for friendship or work.
And perhaps most importantly, there's the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa Type C, which has no income requirement and is valid for 90 days. You can use this to give Tallinn a trial run and see if you'd like to live there long-term.
Conclusion
So there you have it, friends! Whether you're craving the tropical vibes of Bali, the natural splendor of Madeira, or the tech-forward atmosphere of Tallinn, the world is brimming with incredible spots to set up your remote office.
Each remote work destination offers a unique blend of culture, convenience, and connectivity, making it easier than ever to integrate employment and wanderlust.
I've felt the thrill of setting up shop in a new city; let me tell you, it's a game-changer.
Exploring new places while maintaining a career is nothing short of liberating. And in today's digital age, why limit yourself to one corner of the world?
With reliable internet, diverse accommodation options, and communities of like-minded professionals, these cities are more than just postcard-perfect—they're practical, too.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack up your laptop and let your remote work journey begin. The world is your office, and it's time to clock in.
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This story is brought to you in partnership with Express Technologies Ltd.
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