Workation Destinations and How to Plan One: The Ultimate Guide
The rise of remote work has unlocked a new era of travel: the workation. Combining work and vacation, a workation lets you swap your home office for a scenic beach, a bustling city, or a serene mountain retreat—without missing a beat at your job. But making the most of a workation takes smart planning. This guide covers the top destinations, practical planning tips, and how to balance productivity with exploration.
What Is a Workation?
A workation is when you travel to a new location and work remotely while enjoying the perks of being somewhere different. Unlike a business trip (which is all about work) or a regular vacation (which is all about leisure), a workation blends both worlds, giving you the chance to stay productive while also exploring new cultures, foods, and adventures.
Workations can be solo getaways, family adventures, or even team retreats. The key is finding a balance between your professional commitments and the joys of travel.
Top Workation Destinations
The best workation spots offer fast internet, comfortable accommodation, great local experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for remote workers. Here are some top picks for 2025:
- Bali, Indonesia: Known for coworking spaces, affordable villas, and a vibrant digital nomad community.
- Lisbon, Portugal: Reliable infrastructure, sunny weather, and a rich cultural scene make Lisbon a favorite in Europe.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand: Low cost of living, great coffee shops, and beautiful mountain surroundings.
- Medellín, Colombia: Modern coworking hubs, mild climate, and a growing expat scene.
- Cape Town, South Africa: Stunning nature, buzzing city life, and excellent value for money.
- Barcelona, Spain: Beach, culture, and easy access to the rest of Europe.
- Remote U.S. Spots: Places like Asheville (NC), Sedona (AZ), or Lake Tahoe offer fast Wi-Fi and incredible scenery.
When choosing a destination, consider time zones, visa requirements, and how easily you can access coworking spaces, local attractions, and reliable healthcare.
How to Plan a Productive Workation
A successful workation is all about preparation. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Define Your Work Scope: Set clear expectations with your employer, clients, or team about your availability and what you intend to accomplish. Avoid overcommitting—define realistic goals and stick to them.[1]
- Pick Your Dates Carefully: Avoid workations during crucial projects or deadlines. Make sure your calendar is clear of major commitments so you can truly enjoy your time away.[2]
- Book the Right Accommodation: Look for places with dedicated workspaces, strong Wi-Fi (check reviews for connectivity), and amenities that make working easier (like a desk, coffee maker, and good lighting).[3]
- Plan Your Free Time: Research local activities, restaurants, and attractions in advance. Strike a balance—don’t overschedule, but don’t leave your leisure to chance either. Make time for rest and spontaneous adventures.[2][4]
- Pack Essentials: Bring all your work gear (laptop, chargers, noise-canceling headphones, backup Wi-Fi hotspot), plus travel basics like adapters and travel insurance.[3]
- Create a Routine: Set working hours that align with your home office (or adjust for new time zones). Stick to a daily schedule to keep productivity high and avoid burnout.[4]
- Set Boundaries: Communicate your working hours to colleagues and travel companions. Use tools like an out-of-office email note to remind others of your temporary availability.[1]
- Budget Wisely: Calculate all costs—accommodation, travel, coworking fees, food, insurance, and some fun money. Track your expenses to avoid surprises.[2]
- Have a Backup Plan: Know what to do if the Wi-Fi fails or your accommodation isn’t ideal. Scout local coworking spaces or libraries as alternatives.[3]
Tips for a Balanced Workation Experience
- Move Slowly: Stay in one place for at least a week to avoid travel fatigue. Use weekends for short trips nearby instead of switching cities every few days.[4]
- Mix Work and Play: Fit sightseeing or local experiences around your work schedule. For example, visit a museum during lunch or take a morning walk in a local park before starting your day.[4]
- Incorporate Wellbeing: Add in yoga, meditation, or nature walks to recharge both physically and mentally.[5]
- Engage with Locals: Join local events or coworking meetups to build a sense of community and discover hidden gems.
- Be Adaptable: Embrace the unexpected—whether it’s a spontaneous invitation, a new favorite café, or simply a slower pace of life.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Workations can be incredibly rewarding, but they come with unique challenges. Here’s how to handle some common issues:
- Distractions: Set clear boundaries and a dedicated workspace to minimize interruptions.[1][4]
- Time Management: Use time-blocking, prioritize tasks, and communicate your working hours with your team.[1][5]
- Connectivity Problems: Always have a backup Wi-Fi plan, like a portable hotspot, and know the nearest coworking spaces.[3]
- Loneliness: Join coworking communities, attend local events, or plan workations with friends or colleagues.
- Burnout: Don’t overpack your schedule. Make relaxation and self-care a priority.[2][5]
Workation with Family or Teams
Traveling with family or as a team? Consider these strategies:
- Book spacious accommodation with separate work and living areas, especially if kids are coming along.[3]
- Plan routines so everyone knows when it's time to work and when it's time to play.[3]
- Mix in group activities like outdoor workshops, team hikes, or local classes to foster collaboration and relaxation.[5]