workcation Archives - https://alicubi.work/blog/tag/workcation/ Work Smarter, Wander Further Wed, 28 May 2025 12:39:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://alicubi.work/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/eaven-placeholder-1-150x150.png workcation Archives - https://alicubi.work/blog/tag/workcation/ 32 32 224008282 Remote Work Security Best Practices: Staying Safe on the Go, or on a Workation https://alicubi.work/blog/remote-work-security-best-practices-safe-workations/ Wed, 28 May 2025 11:44:03 +0000 https://alicubi.work/?p=2435 From dodgy Wi-Fi to lost laptops, here’s what you need to know to stay secure, whether you’re working remotely, on the move, or living the workation dream.

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Let’s be honest—working from a beachside bungalow or a cosy mountain café beats the home office any day. Thanks to the rise of workcations (a mix of work and vacation), more and more people are taking their jobs on the road, logging into Zoom calls from exotic places.

But here’s the catch: your cybersecurity probably didn’t book a seat on that flight.

Workcations may feel like a dream, but they come with a whole new set of cybersecurity risks that most people don’t see coming. From shady Wi-Fi to stolen devices, let’s break down the biggest threats—and how to stay safe while working remotely, even if you’re poolside.

1. That Free Wi-Fi? It’s Not Your Friend

When you’re on a workcation, you’re likely hopping between hotels, airports, Airbnbs, and local cafés—and connecting to public Wi-Fi in all of them. Most of these networks are wide open for hackers to snoop on what you’re doing.

Even worse, some attackers set up “Evil Twin” hotspots that look just like the real thing (e.g., “Hotel_WiFi_Free”), tricking you into logging in. Once you do? Your passwords and sensitive company data could be up for grabs.

🔍 INTERPOL reports that nearly half of public Wi-Fi breaches come from these fake hotspots.

2. International Internet = International Problems

When you’re logging into work systems across borders, you’re also entering different digital territories—and not all countries treat your data the same way.

Some places have weaker cybersecurity laws, and your data might be at higher risk of being intercepted just because it passed through certain networks. A recent study found that cross-border data had 58% higher chances of interception compared to local connections.

3. Your Devices Might Be Too Chill

Here’s a fun (read: scary) stat—62% of workcationers use personal devices that lack strong security. Many of these laptops or phones aren’t updated, don’t have enterprise-level protection, or are shared with family (hello, malware risk).

And since you’re on the move, the chances of losing a device—or having someone steal or snoop on it—go way up. In fact, 1 in 5 workcation workers reported someone physically tampering with their device while it was left unattended.

4. Password Fatigue Is Real—and Dangerous

Travel messes with your schedule and energy. So it’s no surprise that people start using the same password for everything—or make them super short just to remember them.

The result? 43% of workcation-related data breaches involved weak or reused passwords. Add in jet lag and time zones, and you’re also more likely to fall for phishing attacks—especially ones that look like hotel confirmations or flight updates.

5. Even MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) Has Its Flaws

MFA is great—until it’s not. Hackers are now using clever tricks to intercept those “verify this login” codes, especially when you’re using SMS-based methods overseas. Some attackers use adversary-in-the-middle tactics to steal your one-time codes in real-time.

Plus, if you’re in another country, sometimes those codes don’t even show up on time, or at all.

6. Shadow IT: The Sneaky Data Leak You Didn’t Notice

Let’s say your company app is acting up while you’re abroad. Instead of calling IT, you might just upload files to your personal Google Drive or send them via your private email. That’s called Shadow IT, and it makes corporate data security teams break into a cold sweat.

This kind of off-the-grid data storage increases breach risk by 63%, and it’s totally unintentional most of the time.

7. Shoulder Surfers & Screen Sneaks

You’re sipping espresso at a cute café and working on a big report. You don’t notice the person at the next table watching your screen, but it happens more often than you think. About 1 in 3 mobile workers have experienced visual eavesdropping, especially in crowded co-working spaces.

So, now that we’ve totally stressed you out, here’s the good news: you can still take that dream workcation and keep your data safe. It just takes a few smart moves from both you and your employer.

How to Workcation Safely (and Still Enjoy It)

✅ 1. Go Beyond the VPN: Use Zero Trust

While VPNs offer a solid layer of protection by securing connections to internal networks, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) takes security a step further by continuously verifying user identity, device posture, and context before granting access, ensuring tighter control and reduced risk.

Examples: Cloudflare Zero Trust, Microsoft Entra Private Access, Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access

✅ 2. Lock Down Devices Automatically

Companies should use Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools that enforce security settings based on where you are and what network you’re on.

Examples: Microsoft Intune, Google Endpoint Management, Cisco Meraki Systems Manager

✅ 3. Upgrade Your Login Game

Skip the SMS codes and move to biometric logins (like Face ID) or physical FIDO2 security keys. These are much harder to spoof, even for clever hackers.

FIDO2 Security Examples: TrustKey G-Series, Google Titan Security Key, YubiKey Series

✅ 4. Protect Your Screen in Public

Use privacy filters or screen blockers, and don’t leave your laptop unattended. If you can’t keep an eye on it, lock it or take it with you.

Examples: 3M, SightPro, Kensington

✅ 5. Get 24/7 Support

For companies with global teams, having a round-the-clock security response team is crucial. It ensures help is available even if someone’s halfway across the world.

✅ 6. Make Training Real

Forget boring slide decks—use simulated phishing attacks and real-world scenarios to train employees. These hands-on experiences help people spot threats 47% more accurately.

Workcations are here to stay, and that’s a win for flexibility, work-life balance, and wanderlust. But while you’re planning your next remote adventure, don’t forget to plan for cybersecurity too!

Think of it like packing sunscreen; you might not notice it at first, but it can save you from a lot of pain later.

So go ahead, book that trip. Just make sure your data doesn’t go off on its own vacation.

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Quiet Vacation vs. Workcation: What’s Better? https://alicubi.work/blog/quiet-vacationing-vs-workcation/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:39:51 +0000 https://alicubi.work/?p=2414 Should you secretly unplug completely or mix work with your getaway? Explore which approach truly boosts your wellbeing and productivity.

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How Should We Really Be Taking Time Off?

In a world that never stops buzzing, even our vacations have started to look different. Two emerging trends are reshaping how we approach time off: quiet vacationing and workcationing. One suggests we completely disconnect from our jobs, while the other embraces the idea of working remotely from inspiring destinations. But which one truly helps us recharge?

What is a Quiet Vacation?

Quiet vacationing” is the art of taking time off without broadcasting it—no out-of-office replies, no Instagram beach shots, no Slack status updates. It’s about stepping away from work discreetly, maintaining the illusion of availability while seeking real rest. This trend has grown in popularity amid rising workplace pressures and the unspoken expectation that even when we’re “off,” we should still be “on.” By going quiet, employees aim to reclaim mental and emotional downtime, without triggering concerns about their commitment or reliability.

However, quietly disconnecting without formally reporting time off raises ethical and practical concerns. Pretending to be online while disengaged can strain team dynamics, create imbalances, and erode trust. While often a response to restrictive PTO policies or inflexible workplace cultures, the practice can add stress and confusion rather than relieve it.

The Rise of the Workcation

As a more transparent middle ground, workcations—blending light work with a change of scenery—are gaining traction. They offer employees the chance to recharge in a new environment while staying partially engaged, giving teams clarity and maintaining trust. While not a perfect substitute for true rest, workcations can offer a healthier, more honest approach to flexibility in a world that increasingly resists the off switch.

Workcations offer a different kind of escape: blending work responsibilities with the refreshment of a new environment. It’s working from a cosy cabin in the mountains, a seaside Airbnb, or even a coworking-friendly resort. For flexible remote workers or freelancers, the workcation is less about checking out and more about changing the scenery.

This trend caters to those who find inspiration in travel or feel more energised working away from their usual space. It offers freedom, novelty, and the chance to explore new places without burning through precious vacation days.

The Psychology Behind the Two

Burnout is real, and so is the modern struggle of balancing hyper-connectivity with mental wellness. For some, being unreachable feels liberating. For others, the idea of returning to hundreds of emails after total disconnection creates more anxiety than relief.

Studies have shown that short breaks, variety in environment, and autonomy over work schedules can all contribute positively to mental health and productivity. So while quiet vacationing promotes psychological distance, workcations may foster wellbeing through a balance of purpose and flexibility.

Quiet Vacations vs. Worcations: Pros & Cons 

FeatureQuiet VacationingWorkcation
RestOffers full mental detachment, ideal for complete disconnectionPartial detachment, but a change of scenery, can be mentally refreshing
FlexibilityRequires careful planning to stay fully offline and unnoticedHigh flexibility; allows location independence while staying connected
ProductivityNone by design—focus is on total restModerate to high, depending on setup and boundaries
Family/FriendsUninterrupted quality time, free from work distractionsShared time is possible, though work hours may create occasional boundaries
FOMOHigher risk of missing important updates or opportunitiesReduced FOMO—stay in the loop without being fully “on”
LogisticsMay involve ethical grey areas or deception around availabilityTransparent and feasible for remote-friendly roles with proper planning

Which One is Right for You?

Are you an introvert who needs silence and space to truly unwind? Quiet vacationing might be your go-to. Or perhaps you’re a restless creative who thrives on novelty and hates coming back to an overflowing inbox—in which case, a workcation could be a smarter fit.

Your job flexibility, team culture, and even your phase in life all play a role. A young entrepreneur might embrace workcations to keep the hustle going from inspiring backdrops, while a mid-career professional may crave a complete digital detox.

While quiet vacationing can deliver meaningful rest, it often raises ethical and logistical concerns. Workcations, when approached intentionally, offer a more balanced alternative—blending flexibility, transparency, and the mental refresh of a new environment, without requiring complete disconnection.

Hybrid Solutions – Do You Really Have to Choose?

Luckily, this doesn’t have to be an either-or situation. Many are discovering hybrid solutions: a few days of deep rest followed by a flexible remote work schedule. For example, you might fully unplug for the weekend, then log in for a light week of work while enjoying a new destination.

Some remote teams even structure retreats this way, allowing colleagues to bond, explore, and still get some work done, without the pressure of pretending to be off-grid or 100% online.

Final Thoughts – Reclaiming Rest on Your Own Terms

At the end of the day, whether you lean toward quiet vacationing or a workcation depends on your own definition of rest. The goal isn’t to follow a trend, but to intentionally design breaks that support your mental health, creativity, and long-term productivity.

So next time you’re planning time off, ask yourself: do I need a total reset, or a refreshing change of scenery? The right answer is the one that leaves you feeling truly renewed.

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Revitalise your Mondays: How changing your workspace sparks fresh energy and creativity https://alicubi.work/blog/how-changing-your-workspace-sparks-inspiration/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 09:15:01 +0000 https://alicubi.work/?p=2375 How a quick change of scenery can ignite creativity, sharpen focus, and refresh your motivation.

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My dad worked in an office for 35 years. 8am to 7pm. And he’s not alone – many office workers exist in a copy and paste cycle where Mondays evaporate into Fridays – and every week feels the same.

The problem with a fixed work routine

But a fixed routine can be harmful. My creativity dried up when I worked 5 office days a week for a former company. I felt irritable, uninspired and suffocated by the same four walls. And protests against return-to-office mandates suggests I’m not alone. (See Amazon’s uproar).

Changing work environment feels natural

boring office work vs working remotely in Cape Town - Alicubi

Changing environments is in our DNA. Before Gmail and Zoom became our closest friends, humans roamed nature for food and spent time in communities. It’s why hybrid work feels refreshing – with its mix of home comforts and office community. This buzz has inspired remote workers to dwell in Lisbon, Barcelona, Indonesia, Mexico, Mauritius, and Vancouver – checking into workspaces, beach bars, cafes and restaurants – exploring nature, sharing meals and forming friendships – all while meeting their deadlines. Put simply: we are not designed for 40 hours in the same chair.

Rejuvenating ways to mix up your workplace

So how can we balance this need for novelty and excitement with our work commitments? I suggest purposefully varying your workspaces to boost your zest for work, creativity and productivity. For example, I write best in the mornings (usually in silence). I like to ‘Eat The Frog’ in an uninterrupted 3-hour burst. But in the afternoons, I need to be energised; and so I exit my studio flat and go to the Residence co-working space.

Co-working at The Residence in Bishop's Stortford - Alicubi
Images provided by Karen Tait, Founder of The Residence.

Here I talk to people, listen and share ideas. Suddenly I feel a jolt of energy. (Remember we are social creatures). It’s also a perfect opportunity to reply to my emails as I’ve dedicated this time for connecting and organising, rather than a focused flow state of writing.

More than this, simply putting on a shirt, adding wax to my hair and heading out gives me a surge of positivity. A reminder that we are no longer home-bound by COVID restrictions. As another example, see this post from Stephen White of Spaced Digital.

For any bosses reading this, offering your teams flexibility to go on workcations will boost morale and improve recruitment and retention.

Crucial advice for finding your work routine

But be weary: too much variety can be counterproductive. For example, changing locations 4 times a day can leak away time, leaving you without internet connection in crucial moments. Or simply exhausted. I recommend finding what feels refreshing. Try new coffee shops. Join workspace communities and events. Tinker with your work stations. For example: can you add more plants? A 2023 field study on the effects of indoor plants on office workers revealed increased workplace satisfaction, improved air quality, reduced stress and enhanced concentration among employees.

I also recommend experimenting with different work times. I am a morning person, but my friend does his best work between 6 pm and 10 pm. If that’s your sweet spot – go for it! Alternatively, to unlock a fresh jolt of inspiration, perhaps it’s time to book a workcation.

Workcations ignite inspiration

3 young professionals working remotely outdoors - Alicubi

Workcations are exhilarating because they ignite our senses with wonder and our work reaps the rewards. If this thought energises you –  read about how a workcation in Cape Town changed my life, and pocket this workcation checklist to prepare for your next trip.

Where will you work tomorrow?

Switching up your workspace is more than a change of scene, it’s a psychological and spiritual mindset shift — and often the secret ingredient to loving your work again. In our flexible and evolving work landscape, it’s easy to feel stuck staying in one spot. So chase change and inspiration. And ask yourself: where will my next lighting bolt idea strike?

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Workcation Warrior: Seamless Video Calls from Anywhere https://alicubi.work/blog/workcation-warrior-seamless-video-calls-from-anywhere/ Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:11:56 +0000 https://alicubi.work/?p=2338 Attending video calls while working remotely? Here's how to nail it, no matter where you are!

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Ah, the dream of taking a Zoom call with a breathtaking mountain view, nestled in a lush green retreat, or with your toes in the sand—sounds like paradise, right? Until your internet decides to take a workcation of its own. Here’s how to keep your meetings smooth, no matter where you roam.

Not all video conferencing apps perform the same in different locations. If you’re on an island with sketchy WiFi, Zoom’s low-bandwidth mode might save you. Google Meet is great for browser-based calls, and Teams integrates well with Office tools. Always have a backup plan—just in case your go-to platform lets you down.

Optimising Video & Audio

  • Turn off HD video if your connection is unstable.
  • Use noise suppression settings (Zoom & Teams have built-in options!).
  • Use a virtual background if your real one is…less than ideal (we see you, messy hotel room!).

Nothing says “rookie remote worker” like scheduling a meeting at 3 AM your time. Use tools like World Time Buddy or Google Calendar’s built-in time zone feature to avoid those painful mishaps.

Best Portable Gear

  • Noise-cancelling headphones – Drown out chatty coffee shop neighbours.
  • A good mic – Your AirPods mic works, but a travel-sized lapel mic is a chef’s kiss.
  • Ring light – Avoid looking like a silhouette in your beach bungalow.

Ideal Locations for Calls

  • Co-working spaces – Reliable WiFi and minimal distractions.
  • Hotels – More stable internet, but check speeds beforehand.
  • Coffee shops – A gamble, but if it works, you get coffee + work vibes.

Background & Lighting Hacks

  • Face the light – No one wants to talk to a shadowy figure.
  • Use a blurred background – That way, nobody knows you’re actually poolside.
  • Avoid movement in the background – A passing parrot is cool, but also distracting.

Best Travel-Friendly WiFi Solutions

  • Mobile hotspots – Skyroam, GlocalMe, or a local SIM card.
  • Tethering from your phone – Works in a pinch but drains battery fast.
  • Check your hotel’s WiFi before booking – Don’t assume it’s good!
Workcation-Friendly WiFi Solutions - Alicubi

Testing Your Connection

Before a big meeting, do a speed test (Speedtest.net) and check for lag. If all else fails, turn off video to save bandwidth.

Quick Fixes for Laggy Video

  • Move closer to the router.
  • Kick others off the network (sorry, Netflix-streaming roommate!).
  • Switch to audio-only mode.

What to Wear on Zoom

  • Above the waist: Business casual.
  • Below the waist: No one needs to know (but be careful if you stand up!).

Managing Distractions

  • Hotel noise? Use noise-canceling apps like Krisp.
  • Beach waves too loud? Move inside (sad, but necessary).
  • Unexpected interruptions? Roll with it—people love a good “exotic location” moment.

Handling a Call Cut-Off

If your call drops mid-meeting, don’t panic. Rejoin ASAP and have a backup way to message the team (Slack, WhatsApp, email).

Mute/Unmute Wisely

Nobody wants to hear “Can you hear me now?” every 5 minutes. Mute when not talking, but don’t forget to unmute when it’s your turn.

Be Mindful of Backgrounds

  • No messy hotel beds.
  • No random strangers walking behind you.
  • No distracting motion (yes, we’re talking about those palm trees swaying beautifully).

Time Zone Awareness

Respect your global team. Avoid scheduling calls at crazy hours for others!

Set Meeting Boundaries

Just because you’re in paradise doesn’t mean you’re always on call. Block out your work hours and stick to them.

Communicate Availability

Let your team know when you’re online. A simple “I’m available from X to Y” message works wonders.

Say No to Unnecessary Meetings

If it can be an email, make it an email. Protect your workcation time!

  • Krisp – Blocks background noise.
  • Otter.ai – Live meeting transcription.
  • VPN – Keeps your work data secure while using public WiFi. (e.g. NordVPN

Backup Plans

  • Have a dial-in number ready.
  • Switch to a different app (if Zoom fails, try Google Meet!).
  • Use mobile data if WiFi goes out.

Recovering From a Tech Fail

If something crashes, own it. A simple “Sorry, my connection dropped!” keeps things professional.

Setting Expectations

Before travelling, let your team know your situation. Transparency goes a long way!

Workcations are the best of both worlds—if you do them right. With a solid setup, good etiquette, and backup plans, you can Zoom from anywhere without a hitch. Now, go enjoy that sunset… after your last meeting, of course!

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Escape to Paradise – A Long Workcation in Mauritius https://alicubi.work/blog/workcation-in-mauritius/ Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:06:31 +0000 https://alicubi.work/?p=2080 Discover the magic of a workcation in Mauritius! Enhanced productivity and relaxation while savouring stunning beaches and sunsets.

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Imagine this: stunning beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant sunsets, and top-notch work performance all rolled into one incredible experience. Can you believe it? Well, that’s been my life for the past couple of years! It’s been an awesome journey of blending work and play in a way that’s unbelievably rewarding. And guess what? It’s all thanks to something called “workcation“. Interested? Stick with me as I spill the beans on how I’ve turned the past couple of years into my most productive (I even won some industry awards) and relaxing ever, all while chilling in jaw-dropping locations. Let’s dive in!

I must admit that growing up in Mauritius has given me the advantage of knowing the island very well and understanding how to kick-start a workcation. Having spent half of my life there, it wasn’t difficult to adjust to a workcation.

I had to decide where to stay in Mauritius. Despite Mauritius being famous for its beaches I chose to stay in the lush greenery of Moka, which is in the centre of the island. Moka is also known as the Coeur de L’ile’ by the locals, literally meaning the ‘heart of the island’ and it’s a very special place with lush greenery, majestic mountains (like Le Pouce), rivers and a lot of colonial history which can be seen in the many ancient houses, such as the famous ‘Eureka – La Maison Creole’.

I chose to stay in Moka firstly because it’s the place where I used to run in the fields with my hand-made kite as a child. It was also a good opportunity to reconnect with the people of Moka but also to finish a flat I started building years ago but never had the chance to complete. So while workcationing I made it a side project to finish the flat and I ended up living in the unfinished flat until it was completed.

So I didn’t have to rent a place, but if you are interested in workcationing in Mauritius there are plenty of places to rent in the centre, near the beaches, especially on the north (e.g. Grand-Baie) and west coast of the island (Flic en Flac). You can easily find self-catering accommodations on Booking.com, Airbnb and other platforms, from one-bedroom apartments to 5-star hotels and everything in between. It all depends on your preference, the type of accommodation and your budget!

For my daily work in SEO and digital marketing, I needed fast and reliable internet. Luckily there are several good internet service providers on the island. For example Emtel’s Prepaid Airbox Packs offer unlimited internet access through a simple plug-and-play device. This is very convenient as it doesn’t require any technical intervention from the supplier. You simply prepay for your internet, plug in your device and you’re ready to go. These packages start from Rs1,050/month which is approximately £14 (pounds) or 22$ (US dollars) per month. I chose Emtel but there are other good providers to meet your internet needs, such as My.T and Chili Box.

Public transport in Mauritius is not the best. Buses are not very dependable and although a new tram line was recently introduced it only connects a few stations in the main cities. And no Uber! So you have to rely on local taxis, especially at night. But I recommend renting a car, it will make life much easier. There are plenty of options from small cars to 4×4 vehicles. I was driving a Nissan Micra and it was perfect for the size of the island and very economical. Trust me having your own mode of transport is essential in Mauritius.

A workcation day in Mauritius - Alicubi

One of the best perks of working from Mauritius is the small time difference from the UK. In the summer it’s 3 hours and in the winter it’s 4. With most of my projects in Europe, scheduling Zoom meetings at convenient times was easy. I usually start my day at 9 am, so I have 3 hours of solid, productive work before anyone in the UK has even started. By the time they check their emails, they are greeted with a bunch of completed tasks and updated project statuses, setting a very positive tone for the day. At lunchtime I like to take a stroll in Moka which is full of green spaces, walking paths and fields. I particularly like to wander around the Minissy area for its calm and refreshing atmosphere. I always return to my desk feeling rejuvenated for the rest of the afternoon.

My workday usually ends around 4:30 pm. After that, I head out for a run in the fields or go hiking around ‘Le Pouce’ mountain which by the way has the shape of a thumbs up! And that’s how it got its name! Sometimes I drive to Flic en Flac Beach to catch the sunset. It’s only a 30-minute drive and one of my favourite places to unwind. I take a quick dip in the turquoise lagoon and then chill with a cold beer on the golden beach. Speaking of beer, if you are a beer lover you have to try Phoenix Beer, the most popular brew in Mauritius and winner of several beer competitions around the world! Recently new brands like Flying Dodo, Thirsty Fox and Manawa have become popular. My favourite is the Manawa Golden – it’s an absolute beauty of a beer, perfect for that tropical vibe!

I found working from home in Mauritius very convenient as it saved me time in the mornings and I didn’t have to deal with traffic. But I sometimes liked to go to coworking spaces for a change of scenery. These spaces had great amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms and good coffee.

In Moka, there were many options for coworking spaces. One of my favourites was Workshop 17 which also had multiple locations on the island including one at Telfair, Moka Centre. This particular location was built on the site of a former sugar factory (Mont Desert Alma) surrounded by century-old trees which was very inspiring. I also liked the food at Zakadi and MokaZ which had a nice mix of European and traditional Mauritian food.

From time to time, I spent my working days at cafes near the beach for a change of pace and to be able to take a quick dip in the turquoise lagoon during lunchtime or after work. Kuumba Coffee and Vanilla Cafe in Tamarin on the west coast of the island were among the best I found. In the north of the island, The Hive was another great coworking space in Grand Baie, right in the middle of one of the most beautiful tourist places in Mauritius.

Workcationing in Mauritius - Alicubi

The island has plenty of activities to suit every taste, from beach sports to hiking, trails, sailing, paragliding, parasailing and more. Personally, I like snorkelling, body-board surfing and paddle boarding.

On Saturday mornings I like to snorkel in Blue Bay, home of the National Marine Park, one of the most beautiful spots on the island. The water there is incredibly clear and blue, allowing you to observe colourful fish and coral. It’s a paradise for divers.

Or I paddle board at Le Morne Beach, near one of the most iconic mountains on the island. The lagoon and the history make it the perfect spot for paddle boarding and a great place to recharge and connect with nature.

Sometimes I just relax on the beach with a good book. Flic en Flac is one of my favourites, with a long golden beach and plenty of street food stalls serving traditional Mauritian food. An absolute must-try is the ‘rotis’ from Aka Vinoda, a very popular spot. Flic en Flac also has great opportunities for scuba diving, kayaking and even horse riding on the beach, like Sea-Horse Adventure, a unique experience!

I love live music and as a guitarist myself I prefer bars with live music over clubs, especially in the north of the island around Grand Baie. N-Joy is one of the best on the island, with live music 4 days a week with different music styles. They have an amazing bar and restaurant serving local and international food. The tropical vibe and beachside location at La Cuvette make it a great spot for lunch or dinner. As a music connoisseur, I am very picky with live sound and in my opinion, N-Joy has one of the best live music sounds on the island. It’s the perfect spot for a Saturday night and the crowd is very cool! Banana Beach Club is another cool bar with a similar vibe but if you prefer nightclubs there are many options around like OMG or Imsonia.

On the West Coast Big Willy’s in Tamarin is also a great spot to hang out. Live music and a DJ at the end of the night, a cool beer garden and tasty local and international food. Enso Bar in ‘La Gaulette’ has a surf-style vibe whereas Nomad is famous for one of the best coffee and burgers on the island!

  1. Dive in Blue Bay Marine Park or on the West Coast

Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal clear waters of Blue Bay Marine Park or head to the West Coast for the best snorkelling and scuba diving spots. The coral reef and marine life will take your breath away.

  1. Hike ‘Le Morne’ or ‘Le Pouce’

Easy and rewarded trails for a great view and some exercise by hiking up Le Morne or Le Pouce, the latter being one of the easiest climb on the island. The view of the Moka range of mountains and the view over Port Louis (the capital) from the top is worth the effort.

  1. Just chill on the beach with a book

Spend the day on one of Mauritius’ many sandy beaches. Flic en Flac and Mont Choisy are perfect for a relaxing read and sunbathing. There’s something very soothing about it.

  1. Try beach sports

For the adventurous try your hand at wind-surfing, kite-surfing or kayaking. The gentle waves and warm water make it perfect for water sports. The best spots are around Le Morne where the wind is ideal.

  1. Try Mauritian food and drinks
Mauritius Food, Rhum and Beer - Alicubi

Don’t miss out on the local food! Try Gateau Piment, Dholl Puri, Samosa, Boulette and Napolitaine and our famous local rhums. Each bite is a taste of Mauritian culture which is a mix of all its origins.

  1. Visit Black River Gorges National Park

Explore the scenery and wildlife of the Black River Gorges National Park. Scenic trails and great views, a must for nature lovers. You might even see some very cool monkeys there…

  1. Visit the Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses

Take a walk in the botanical garden in Pamplemousses, home to many tropical plants and beautiful lotus ponds. A very peaceful escape.

  1. ‘Ile aux Cerfs’ for beaches and views

Take a trip to ‘Ile aux Cerfs’ and enjoy its pristine beaches and picturesque scenery. If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll love the island’s world-class golf course.

  1. Dolphin and Whale watching

Go dolphin and whale watching for an experience of a lifetime. Seeing them in their natural habitat is the highlight of the trip.

  1. Chamarel Seven-Coloured Earth

Make sure to visit the Chamarel Seven-Coloured Earth, a geological park with seven distinct colors of sand. It’s a unique and mesmerising sight that you won’t want to miss. Also, be sure to try Chamarel Coffee while you’re there – it’s a unique aromatic experience!

  1. Get Ready for Your Workcation: Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary equipment, including reliable technology like a good laptop, chargers etc.
  2. Research and choose the right location: Make sure the location fits your work needs and has a peaceful environment to relax, e.g. beach or mountains. Also consider your workspace (home, co-working, coffee shops, etc.) and proximity to services. Being close to supermarkets like Super U, Intermart or Winners is very convenient.
  3. Research your internet requirement: Fast and reliable internet is key to your workcation, so ensure you are well connected.
  4. Plan your work schedule: Align your work schedule to the local time to be productive and have a good work-life balance. If you have Zoom meetings at odd hours, ensure you are in a place where you won’t be disturbed. E.g. Mauritius has many dogs and their night activities can be noisy sometimes.
  5. Take time to explore: Take advantage of the flexibility of remote working to visit beaches, nature reserves and cultural landmarks during off-hours or weekends. Find your way to get around, e.g. rent a car, scooter, bike, etc.
  6. Take care of your health and well-being: Include physical activities like morning walks, afternoon runs or yoga in your daily routine to stay energised.
  7. Connect with new people: Meet the locals and connect with other remote workers to find the best places to visit, eat, work and relax. Connecting with fascinating locals or other workcationers can be very inspiring. 
  8. Budget Smart: Look for affordable accommodation and local eateries to enjoy Mauritius without burning a hole in your pocket. The food range is very wide, from gastronomic food in 5-star hotels to typical local food in restaurants and tasty street food. You’ll be sure to find something that you like and fits your budget.

So there you go: I had a fantastic workcation in Mauritius and can’t wait for the next one! I hope this inspires you too!

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