Working from 'anywhere' is becoming increasingly popular (even hotels are jumping on the hush trip trend ), with research showing Workcations, where travellers combine work and leisure at their destinations to prolong holidays, are booming alongside the rise of hybrid work. International Workplace Group revealed that almost three quarters (74 per cent) of workers view a 'work from anywhere policy' as a significant factor when considering a new job, with 77 per cent of Australian hybrid workers saying they would consider taking a workcation in 2024 if their company supported it. The research also looked to identify the leading 'workcation' cities around the world.
Each location was awarded a mark out of 10 on climate, culture, accommodation, transport, food and drink, happiness, broadband speed, sustainability, and the availability of flexible workspaces. Here are the best cities for a 'working holiday', according to IWG's Work From Anywhere Barometer. Milan may be the fashion capital of Italy, but it's also a great place for remote employees to work and play, though it dropped from fourth last year to number 10 on the list in 2024.
The cosmopolitan city offers an abundance of workcation hotels, and its thriving food scene makes it the perfect place to treat yourself once the work day is done. LA is often considered an ideal place for workcations because of the abundance of sunshine and nearby beaches. It also scored high for flexible workspaces and internet access, as well as having plenty of events and things to do on offer.
The capital of Indonesia promises to have everything you need for a workcation, with plenty of cheap and cheerful hotel deals, great nightlife for winding down on weekends, and the chance to explore the region's historic and diverse mix of cultures. Already a popular travel and stop-over destination, Singapore has bolted into the top 10 for workcations as well. Areas the city-state excelled in included broadband quality, culture, sustainability, food and happiness.
In fact, no other city in the top 10 matched Singapore when it comes to the survey's Happiness scale. With countless coffee shops, bars, restaurants and social spaces to choose from, many remote workers flock here to soak up that go-getter energy in the city that never sleeps. Although accommodation costs are high (the worst out of the top 10), the Big Apple makes up for it with top notch internet speed and a host of flexible office spaces you can access.
Blessed with good weather and rich in heritage, Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a coastal city loved by remote workers. I just from 10th spot last year to fifth in 2024. No doubt easy access to plenty of gorgeous vineyards is another plus.
Beijing scores well for accommodation with reasonable rental costs, as well as receiving high points for transport, food and sustainability. China's capital city seamlessly blends ancient and modern architecture and has scores of workcation-friendly spots to set up camp. However, while Beijing's broadband may be lightning fast, beware the Great Firewall, which renders accessing sites like Google and Instagram impossible without a VPN.
Rounding off the top three 'workcation' cities for 2024 is Rio de Janeiro in joint second, which rose from sixth place in last year's barometer thanks to impressive scores on accommodation, food, transport costs, and affordable yet strong broadband speed. Home to the world-famous carnival, Rio is filled with nightclubs, restaurants, and extensive green spaces. Hybrid workers will benefit from a thriving digital nomad community, bolstered by local government investments to make the city more attractive for remote workers, including citywide 5G coverage and a new digital nomad visa.
Rio offers big-city amenities alongside world-famous beaches, hiking, and other outdoor attractions, making the city a memorable workcation destination for any hybrid worker. It was the top destination in 2023, but Barcelona remains a favoured spot for hybrid workers, offering a lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and nearly year-round sunshine. The city has become a popular hub for those seeking a diverse work environment which combines sun, sea, and sand with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Spain's wide-ranging digital nomad visa, along with Barcelona's excellent transportation infrastructure and relatively affordable cost of living, ensures it remains a prime workcation destination. Securing high marks for transport and accommodation prices, broadband speeds, and availability of flexible workspaces, Budapest stands out as the top destination for hybrid workers in 2024. Situated in the heart of Central Europe and set against the stunning backdrop of the Danube River, the Hungarian capital is famed for its classical architecture, attracting some 12 million international tourists per year.
The city boasts over 200 museums and galleries, vibrant neighbourhoods, and ample green spaces, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads seeking a balance of work and leisure. Sydney excels in climate (8.5), sustainability (8), and subsistence (7.
5), creating a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by stunning coastlines and iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. With mild winters and sun-soaked summers, the city's enviable climate invites year-round outdoor activities. Its commitment to sustainability, including green public transport, appeals to environmentally conscious nomads.
Despite placing 26th overall, Sydney did beat competition from the likes of London, Toronto, Podgorica and Dublin..
