What is a Workcation?

How does relaxing on a beach with a cocktail in hand while doing your numbers or project proposal sound? This is the new workcation where ‘out of office’ actually means something!

While workcations combine work and leisure, we need to separate them from actual vacations. An actual vacation means you disconnect from work completely and fully immerse yourself in a new place, and recharge without work pressures.

Workcation Meaning (noun): A holiday that includes work. It’s an alternative break from the office that allows you to be productive and relaxed at the same time. This is the new era of remote work.

What’s the big deal about Workcations?

People are no longer confined to their cubicles for work. The remote working lifestyle has given rise to this trend where people travel and work at the same time. Increasing flexibility of remote work and location independence is making this option more and more appealing each day. Remote workers in various sectors like software development and marketing are given the chance to get away from the 9-to-5 work schedule which is not only desirable but is now easily achievable. Smart workcationers now combine their career duties with travel adventures while working remotely from anywhere in the world. The Why? To rejuvenate one’s mind and spirit while checking off their professional to-do list in style. A workcation might be just what you need to achieve that work-life balance you’ve been struggling with!

The rise of workcation trend

The early days of workcation can be traced back to the early 2010s. Our digital nomadic forefathers took advantage of fast internet connections, unlimited Wi-Fi and affordable flights to create a lifestyle that was unthinkable just a decade ago. A stable and high-speed internet connection was one of the main factors that encouraged workcations. Fast forward to now, the recent pandemic made remote working and workcations go from a whisper in the desert to the top of the office.

*****Statistic Alert:* Nearly 40% of Europeans, Americans and Canadians would prefer to work from a hammock. Why settle for the usual when you can combine profession and paradise?***

Workcation Breakdown

The Sprint – Short-term workcation:

Duration: A quick one-week break
Best for small team getaways
Pro Tip: Reconnect or disconnect from the daily grind with this short getaway

The Marathon – Long term workcation:

Duration: One to three months of semi-nomadic lifestyle
Work, play and soak in culture
Digital Nomad’s Joy: Co-rent homes in foreign countries encourage creative collisions

The Life Change – Permanent workcation:

Life Change: A significant shift, relocating and establishing in a new environment
Those who wish to work remotely as a way to reconstruct their working life from scratch

Benefits of Workcations

A workcation offers numerous benefits for employees, companies, and freelancers alike. For businesses, it can lead to enhanced productivity as employees work in more relaxed and inspiring environments. Individuals, whether in traditional roles or freelancing, gain the advantage of a better work-life balance, allowing them to recharge while staying on top of their tasks. This flexibility not only boosts creativity and motivation but also reduces burnout, fostering overall well-being and long-term job satisfaction. In essence, workcations provide a win-win for both professional and personal growth.

Main Reasons to Take Workcations

Try new working environments and rituals while achieving your work goals
Increase job satisfaction through alternative work arrangements.
Form lasting relationships with colleagues in unusual locations.
Combine work and play to increase work-life balance and recharge your batteries.
Network, network, network! Opportunities you never knew existed.
Boost your inspiration and creativity by working in a new location.
Save money by matching work or business needs with your travel lust.
Take advantage of any slow periods at work without using your precious vacation days.
Come back to work recharged and with a new perspective.
Design a work-life balance that fits your unique needs.

Reasons Employers Should Allow Workcations!

More productivity: Employees who are trusted and motivated perform better.
More morale: The ability to combine work and play creates a culture of respect.
More retention: By offering alternative work arrangements, employers can retain valuable talents that could otherwise leave.

Workcations can help save money while increasing employee mental well-being, productivity and retention. It is a win-win for employee satisfaction. It’s however important to set the right guidelines so workcationing employees don’t get too distracted. It’s a way to create a work culture that rewards free time, trust and innovation.

The Workcation-Vacation Dichotomy: Striking a Work-Life Balance

Note that a workcation is not meant to be a replacement for a full-blown vacation. Vacations allow you to use your precious vacation days to completely disconnect and recharge. Switching off completely helps you recharge as a whole person. You want to prevent burnout not invite it. So in essence, workcations are just one key on a keyboard, each contributor plays its part in the perfect work composition, workcation enthusiasts can bank those well-deserved vacation days instead of using them on a working holiday.

Taking a mental health week is important for overall well-being and workcations can help with mental health by changing the scenery and reducing stress.

On the other hand, Bleisure travel can help you get the most out of a business trip while experiencing something new in a business destination.

Workcation FAQs

Q1: Where do I go for my workcation?

Things to consider when choosing a workcation destination:

Time Zone: Does your work schedule align with your team or clients?
Weather: Beaches, cities or mountains? Where do you like to unwind or explore and where can you work with minimal interruptions
Local Attractions: What do you want to do in your free time?
Cost: Budget is key! Knowing the basic costs of going to a potential destination and other related costs e.g. experiences and activities.

Q2: Will my internet be ok?

You need reliable internet as a remote worker. That’s a given!

Reviews: If possible check reviews from other remote workers about Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes and coworking spaces.
Speed Test Apps: Apps like ‘Speedtest’ can give you a real-time idea of internet speeds in your destination.
Coworking Spaces: These usually have fast internet and are designed for remote workers.

Q3: Do I need any special gear?

Staying connected and charged is key. Here’s what you might need:

Phone Plans: Check if your current plan has international roaming. If not, get a local SIM or an international plan.
Electrical Adapters: Research the plug type in your destination country and bring the right adapters before travelling, because you might need to be operational right from day one.
Portable Chargers: Keep your devices charged on the go with a portable charger. Some countries have ‘load shedding’ which is a power cut that can last for hours. E.g. Cape Town, South Africa. Better be prepared
Work Equipment: Don’t forget your chargers, adapters and any other work gear you may need.

Q4: How will I get around in my workcation destination?

Getting around comfortably is key to a smooth workcation.

Public Transport: In many cities, public transport like buses, trams and trains are easy and cheap.
Rental Cars: Good for getting out of the city. Don’t forget to budget for fuel and insurance. In some countries like Bali, scooters are more practical.
Bicycles: Eco-friendly and good for short distances. Many cities have bike share schemes and bike lanes.
Walking: If you’re in a walkable city this could be your main mode of transport. It’s also a great way to explore while also keeping yourself fit.

Q5: Do I need a visa for my workcation?

Your need for a visa depends on the visa requirements of your destination and how long you plan to stay. Some countries provide dedicated digital nomad visas or visa options designed for remote workers (e.g. Japan, South Korea) while others may permit remote work under existing visa categories or even visa-free entry for short stays. Be sure to review the immigration policies of your destination to see if a digital nomad visa is necessary or advisable for your workcation plans.

Workcation Ideas

There are many different types of workcations, so you’ll never run out of ideas. Whether you’re looking to escape urban life and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, snorkelling, horseback riding or simply relaxing in nature, there’s something for everyone. On the flip side, those who typically work in rural settings might enjoy the thrill of spending a week or two in a bustling city for a change of pace.

A particularly popular approach is combining a workcation with an event you want to attend. This could be a professional conference, a networking event, or even something more personal, like an art exhibition or a concert by one of your favourite musicians. The possibilities to blend work and leisure are truly endless.

For example:

Take a workcation in Lisbon while attending Web Summit, the world’s premier tech conference.
Enjoy a workcation in Brighton during BrightonSEO, the world’s largest search marketing conference.
Always wanted to see Van Gogh’s masterpieces up close? Go on a workcation in Amsterdam and visit the Van Gogh Museum.
Fascinated by the Angkor Wat temples? Why not work from Cambodia for a couple of weeks and take your time exploring this breathtaking site without rushing?

With a bit of creativity, the workcation ideas are limitless.

Some of the Popular Workcation Destinations to Explore

Workcation in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has a vibrant coworking community that’s growing along with the city’s remote culture. Often called Europe’s Silicon Valley, Lisbon has become one of the fastest growing tech ecosystems and a top location for tech start-ups worldwide.

Coworking in Lisbon

You’ll find coworking spaces all over the city, from popular neighbourhoods to quieter suburbs and everything in between. Solo entrepreneur or growing team, there’s a space for you.

Lisbon Culture

Lisbon is not just about work. It’s a city full of nightlife, historic architecture and seafood. Wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, catch a Fado performance or head to Time Out Market (also known as Mercado da Ribeira) to indulge in the freshest seafood. Fun fact – one of the coolest coworking spaces, Second Home, is located right on top!

Lisbon Getaways

One of the best things about Lisbon is its proximity to nature. Imagine leaving your office and hitting the waters in less than 20 minutes. The beaches are just a short ride away and perfect for a post-work day escape. If history is your thing don’t miss out on visiting São Jorge Castle, one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a must-see and only a short ride up the city’s famous hills. In short, Lisbon has the perfect work-life balance.

Workcation in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an enchanting paradise with a harmonious mix of verdant landscapes, idyllic sandy shores, captivating traditions, and a thriving community of remote workers. Bali isn’t just a wonderful place to visit, it’s a hub for exploration!

Coworking in Bali

Bali’s coworking spaces are as innovative and creative as you’d expect. Think sound-proof Zoom rooms, poolside desktops, daily seminars and power-nap nooks. They all have robust Wi-Fi, of course. You’ll find other flip-flopped remote workers living the dream, alongside great coffee and island food to keep your creative juices flowing. Some of the favourite co-working space are:

Tropical Nomad is famous for its peaceful work environment, indoor palms and a balcony overlooking rice fields.

Zin@Work Cafe is an open-air space over 4 floors, blending traditional with modern and Bali vibes! And the best part? It’s a free coworking space… Yes, you read that right!

Bali Culture

The lifestyle in Bali is a perfect balance of work and island life. Remote workers in Bali do yoga, surfing and cultural exploration, they live a full life. And the local food, nightlife and wellness retreats are just the cherry on top. This is not just about flexible work but about a holistic approach to life, focusing on self-care and work-life balance.

Bali Getaways

Nowhere else on earth has the combination of surfing, spirituality and sun-kissed pleasure like Bali. With its cultural treasures like Uluwatu Temple and Tirta Empul pools or fine sand beaches like Kelingking Beach. Bali is a place that screams self-indulgence and bliss. If you’re thinking of a workcation adventure Bali might just be the place for you.

Workcation in Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand

Ko Pha Ngan is a remote worker’s dream. With its beaches and green landscapes it’s no wonder this island is a top workcation destination. Famous for its Full Moon Party where thousands gather to dance the night away on the beach, Ko Pha Ngan offers work, relaxation and celebration! Imagine a day that starts with productive work hours, followed by beach relaxation in the afternoon and ends with dancing under the full moon. Ko Pha Ngan makes that possible.

Coworking in Ko Pha Ngan

The island has many coworking spaces. From a local café to a premium coworking spot with beachfront views, beach bars and swimming pools, Ko Pha Ngan has something for everyone. One of our favourite is Sabaii Bay on Ban Tai Beach for its location but Koh Pa Ngan has coworking spaces to suit all tastes and budgets.

Ko Pha Ngan Culture

Ko Pha Ngan is more than a place to work—it’s a community with culture, spirituality and social life. Remote workers have endless opportunities to get out and about and stay active. Beyond the parties, you can hike, trek to waterfalls, nature trails. Yoga retreats are plenty and for the more adventurous, Muay Thai gyms to try Thai boxing and sweat out your work frustrations!

Ko Pha Ngan Getaways

Ko Pha Ngan has so many activities to choose from. Take a private tour of Anthong National Park, snorkel in Koh Nangyuan, go off-road around the island or visit the peaceful Kuan Yin Temple. Whatever your interest there’s something for everyone.

Workcation in Gran Canaria, Spain

Gran Canaria has diverse landscapes, from sand dunes to green mountains, perfect for hiking, water sports and beach relaxation. One of the best things about Gran Canaria is the weather, it’s always great, never too cold and the sun always shines. This is a big plus for European remote workers who want to stay close to home but have amazing workcations.

Coworking in Gran Canaria

Coworking spaces are more than just places to work, they aren’t your typical coworking setups, they are vibrant and creative, providing thriving remote working communities. These spaces offer sociable spots and fast internet, making them ideal for remote work. Hashtag Workspace in Las Palmas and The House are two popular coworking spaces. They are, apparently, known to have the fastest internet in the Canary Islands, and that is always good to know!

Coworking spaces are more than just places to work, they aren’t your typical coworking setups, they are alive and creative, with thriving remote working communities. These spaces have sociable areas and fast internet, perfect for remote work. ‘Hashtag Workspace‘ in Las Palmas and ‘The House‘ are two of the most popular coworking spaces. They have apparently the fastest internet in the Canary Islands, and that’s always good to know!

Gran Canaria Culture

Gran Canaria’s climate allows for daytime and nighttime activities, it’s the perfect place for remote workers to combine work and play. The island has many leisure activities to choose from, dolphin and whale safaris, day boat cruises, rainforest tours, buggy off-road expeditions. The local Gran Canarian food is simple with an exotic touch, but the cuisine of the Canary Islands is quite unique.

Gran Canaria Getaways

Throughout the year Gran Canaria has carnivals, music festivals and sporting events, for residents and visitors. Whether it’s the ‘FiestoRon’ pop-rock festival, ‘Ristos del Mundo’ electronic music festival or the International Classical Music Festival, there’s always something happening on or around the islands.

Workcation in Istanbul, Turkey

The city where East meets West. Famous for its landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul has Bosphorus views and a mix of cultures, cuisines and traditions. This busy, lively city combines the old with the new, perfect for remote workers.

Istanbul Culture

Istanbul, a city that’s half European and half Asian, has many places to clear your head and recharge as a remote worker. Rich in history the historic peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with landmarks dating back to Roman times. The food in Istanbul is a delicious mix of Greek, Armenian and Anatolian cuisine, due to its colourful history and diverse population. And if you’re a cat lover, you’ll be happy to know that Istanbul is also called ‘Catstanbul’. Cats have been roaming the streets for thousands of years so be prepared to meet some furry friends while you explore the city!

Coworking in Istanbul

Istanbul’s remote working scene has blown up in the last few years with many coworking spaces opening in Beşiktaş, Beyoğlu, Üskudar and Kadiköy. Countless coffee shops also have nice spots to work and meet other remote workers. The low costs, high quality services and good coworking infrastructure make Istanbul one of the top cities for workcations.

Istanbul Getaways

There’s so much to see and do. If you can finish your work a bit early you can easily spend your afternoons exploring the city’s historic and beautiful landmarks. For example; visit the Hagia Sophia Mosque and see the light show, experience the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaa, tour the majestic Dolmabahce Palace or Topkapi Palace for its famous Harem.

For a lazy afternoon spend time by the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy the different shades of the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Furthermore, with an Istanbul Tourist Pass you can visit more than 40 attractions in the city for one price, so it’s easy to plan your Istanbul adventures!

Taking a local workcation

You don’t always have to travel far to enjoy the benefits of a workcation. By working away from your usual location but staying within your own country, you can still reap the rewards. For example, working remotely at a serene chalet in the mountains for a week can leave you feeling refreshed when you return to the office. You can also work remotely in a place you’ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance to plan for.

A local workcation has the added bonus of not dealing with any time differences, especially if you have to attend web calls. It can also be considerably cheaper since you don’t have to book flight tickets. For example, a popular destination in the UK is Cornwall. You can enjoy the peaceful coastal vibes in St Ives or try some fun beach sports in Newquay, and still complete your to-do list and meet your deadlines.

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Remember, whether you’re writing emails with sand between your toes, on your usual Zoom calls with a tropical view or brainstorming a big project in a peaceful spot by the beach, workcations are about creating moments for you and your team. Workcations are not a trend, nor are they a travel movement; they are the flexibility in the future of work.

So hop on board, get your workcation checklist ready and get out of your office!