What would you call a balance between working and a vacation? Taking a workation, of course. It’s exactly what it sounds like—an opportunity to plan some time away from your regular office while keeping up with your responsibilities. It allows you to work from a new location and get a refreshing change of scenery and an enjoyable getaway.
The best workation location is the one that most closely suits your professional and personal requirements. Maybe it’s a cabin in the mountains with inspiring scenery, or a condo in a big city with plenty of sights to see right outside your door. Perhaps it’s a house on the beach where you can fit in a quick swim whenever the mood strikes. Here are a few picks for a memorable, productive workation.
Best Workation Locations
1. Boone, North Carolina
Located in the mountains of North Carolina, Boone is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of your daily life. When it’s time to enjoy yourself, break free from your quiet place and visit the many restaurants and shops throughout the area.
2. Golden, Colorado
Colorado is well-known for its gorgeous mountain setting and everything that goes along with it, such as skiing and snowboarding. But that’s just part of the story. Golden is also a top location for a workation, as it’s a quaint and peaceful city that’s perfect for a long weekend or an extended escape.
3. Miami, Florida
It may not be the first place you think of when taking a workation, but there’s a lot to like about this lively setting. As a large city, Miami has co-working spaces located throughout, as well as plenty of fully equipped hotels geared towards business travelers. Miami is also home to world-class beaches, well-known restaurants, and a robust nightlife when you’re ready to explore and connect with local professionals.
4. Cincinnati, Ohio
If you’re looking to take a workation in an affordable, Midwestern town, Cincinnati is the place for you. From lodging to food to transportation, you’ll never overpay when you set up here. When it’s time to unwind, check out the local museums, food and craft markets, and breweries. The city’s proximity to Columbus, OH, and northern Kentucky provides even more options for enjoying yourself.
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy
A few days on the Amalfi Coast is all it takes to realize just how much the area has to offer. To go along with some of the tastiest food in the world, you can enjoy ferry rides, hiking, biking, and lemon groves. As for your time at the computer, book a stay in one of the area’s hilltop towns and enjoy historic accommodations with spectacular views that will be your team’s most talked-about video backdrops.
6. Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Costa Rica recently implemented a law that allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to a year. This makes it one of the top destinations worldwide for a workation. A stay in Tamarindo allows you to focus on your work during the day while surfing and taking in the sights the rest of the time. If you’re planning an extended stay, the law grants access to the local banking system and allows driving with your existing license.
7. Antigua, Guatemala
If you’re ready to take on a new city and new challenges, Antigua is a good jumping-off point. As a thriving tourism capital and ex-pat community, it’s a well-known telecommuting hub with access to all the technology you need. Antigua is also famous for its language immersion programs, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to brush up on your Spanish.
As for leisure activities, take in the local sights—such as Acatenango Volcano—and sample mouthwatering cuisine. In addition to traditional Guatemalan dishes, you’ll find interpretations of Mediterranean, Asian, and French favorites in the city’s restaurants and cafes.
Workation ideas to consider
Once you narrow your list of workation locations, it’s time to make a final decision. With so many options, choosing is easier said than done. Understanding your wants and needs during the trip will help you land on the perfect destination:
- How important is it that you have a steady Wi-Fi connection?
- Are you the type of person who requires a completely quiet place to work from?
- What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
- Are you traveling alone or with someone else, such as a co-worker or spouse?
- What is your workation budget?
- Do you require a location in a specific time zone?
Answering these questions ensures you’re achieving the right balance of personal and professional time.
Are you ready for a workation?
Do your research, choose a workation location, and discuss your trip with your employer. They’ll need to understand your availability for assignments and meetings, especially if your plans involve a different time zone. Once everything is lined up, you can leave home behind and take on a new adventure.
Not sure if a change in location will affect your benefits or taxes? Working with an employment management platform can help you ensure you’re following the letter of the law.
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