Although the world has reopened, many offices are still shuttering. Anyone who can work remotely is presented with a rare opportunity. For an increasing number of people, the chance to advance your profession while exploring Asia is now a reality.
Send an email regarding a cup of Thai tom yum soup; You may be both adventurous and productive while paying your way through the continent thanks to the growth of improved internet connections in the most remote areas. Zoom-call colleagues from either the foot of a Korean rice paddy or conduct research for an article next to a Japanese temple.
The continent of Asia is the one that draws the most digital nomads from all over the world. The cost of living is low, the populace is incredibly hospitable and pleasant, and the food is excellent. Asia is the ideal choice if you’re starting a digital online business. All you need is to travel with your tech pouch to carry your laptop, adapter, blue light glasses, and travel credit card! Here are the top places in Asia for you to travel.
Canggu, Indonesia
One of the top destinations worldwide for digital nomads is constantly Bali. Canggu is thought to have Asia’s largest group of digital nomads. The gorgeous beaches, temples, and rice terraces of the Indonesian island have attracted tourists for a long time. This has significantly improved local infrastructure and promoted the growth of established ex-pat communities.
The island will allow remote employees to live there for a maximum of five years tax-free as long as their money is generated outside of Indonesia, according to plans for a digital nomad visa that were presented in July 2022.Canggu stands out above the rest of Bali because of its quick internet, plenty of coworking spaces, and fantastic networking chances.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Vietnam, where internet speeds and acceptance of otherness are rising, is another country in Asia that is becoming more and more attractive for digital nomads. And even while they may still appear deficient compared to other hotspots for remote workers, the low-key atmosphere here means that living expenses are still reasonable.
Da Nang is ideally positioned for those who want to travel further afield because it has stunning beaches, historical sites, and mountains that offer various vacation experiences. In addition, Da Nang has many contemporary coworking spaces, which will encourage more digital nomadism and increase the likelihood of meeting new people.
George Town, Penang, Malaysia
On the Malaysian island of Penang, George Town has long been regarded as one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the area. With many Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences in the food and architecture, George Town has a definite east meets west vibe. This has drawn UNESCO’s interest and made it a delightful place to live. Because of the historical British control, English is widely spoken, and decent, contemporary coworking spaces are becoming more widespread.
Prices in George Town continue to be less expensive than in the big digital nomad hotspots in Thailand or Singapore, which are located to the south. Still, both cities are easily accessible by public transportation, making George Town an ideal starting point for traveling around Southeast Asia. In addition, although Malaysia does not have a digital nomad visa, freelancers can work remotely on a tourist visa (as long as they are not employed in Malaysia), which is better for digital nomads who wish to travel frequently.
Nara, Japan
In Nara, the deer are so docile that they will eat directly from your hand. Other temples are strewn across the slopes, all cloaked in dense forest, and the area exudes peace and tranquility. The fact that Nara has a cheaper cost of living than many Japanese towns while being easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka makes it seem like the ideal Asian location for digital nomads looking for a little more peace. In Japan, visas are divided into many occupation and job classifications, which makes them a minefield. For most citizens, tourist visas have a 30-day maximum stay limit, so a thorough study is required if you intend to stay longer.
Jeju Island, South Korea
Korean island of Jeju Jeju Island is a volcanic, subtropical outpost of South Korea that avoids the cold winters of the mainland and has pleasant weather all year round. Therefore, it may be a more apparent alternative for digital nomads in South Korea. While there is presently no long-term visa program for digital nomads in South Korea, most nationalities can obtain a 90-day tourist visa as long as they are not working there or with Korean companies. Jeju Island is the ideal location for shorter visits as part of a longer digital nomad journey around Asia because it boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, excellent surfing, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, it would be best to take aircraft to get anywhere else. The best coworking spaces are located in Jeju City on the island’s north shore.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is known for being a refuge for digital nomads, with a tonne of coworking spaces and a thriving café scene. But it’s the quality of life in the city that shines. It’s the ideal location for digital nomads who wish to stay for a short period before moving on to the next spot because of the adjacent Andaman Sea’s picturesque islands and the city’s exciting nightlife.
Bangkok, Malaysia, and the islands of Krabi, Pha Ngan, and Samui, are all easily accessible, which is ideal because you’re probably visiting on a tourist visa, which you can extend up to 270 days if you apply for the Special Tourist Visa in advance. Depending on where you’re from, your tourist visa may only grant you a 30- to a 90-day stay.
Conclusion
So, which affordable Asian country is the best fit for you if you? Depending on your personal requirements and preferences. Phuket is a wonderful choice if you’re seeking a lively nightlife scene and lots of things to do. Thailand and Malaysia are both wonderful options if you’re seeking an Indonesian alternative that is more reasonably priced. Additionally, Nara, Japan, may be the ideal location for you if you’re seeking a peaceful setting to unwind and complete some work.
Whichever country you pick, I’m certain you’ll have a fantastic time working remotely in Asia!