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Hong Kong ranks 22nd, following other Asian cities such as Jakarta (9th), Manila (13th), Mumbai (18th) and Singapore (21st).
Barcelona, Toronto, and Beijing have been named the top three cities in the world for visiting hybrid workers among 26 leading cities, according to research by IWG.
Comparing across nine key criteria, cities were marked out of 10 for climate, culture, accommodation, transport, food & drink, happiness, broadband speed, and the availability of flexible workspace.
Top 10 cities for workcations:
- Barcelona
- Toronto
- Beijing
- Milan
- New York
- Rio de Janeiro
- Amsterdam
- Paris
- Jakarta
- Lisbon
With a vibrant cultural scene, breathtaking architecture, and almost year-round sunshine, as well as an excellent transport system and relatively low cost of living, Barcelona has recently become a thriving hub for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure for their ‘workcations’. Toronto, on the other hand, boasts high scores in accommodation, happiness, and a wealth of flexible workspaces.
Beijing scored an impressive 57.5 out of 90. It performed exceptionally well in categories like culture, accommodation, and transport costs. Blending traditional and modern, the world-class art scene, and numerous galleries and cultural venues are all drawing travellers to the city.
Hong Kong ranks 22nd, following other Asian cities such as Jakarta (9th), Manila (13th), Mumbai (18th) and Singapore (21st). Affordable transportation and high-speed broadband are the city’s most significant advantages. Its prime geographic location with the world-class airport and mature international network allows hybrid workers to easily travel back and forth to adjacent workcation cities in the top 10 list, such as Beijing and Jakarta.
More people are embracing the idea of combining work with travel
Workcations, where travellers work from destinations abroad to prolong holidays, have exploded in popularity since hybrid working became the de facto working model for many. Research by IWG found that 88% of hybrid workers ‘worked from anywhere (WFA)’ last year, while almost three in five (57%) extended holidays by working from abroad.
This new mode of working is increasingly popular among office workers. Over two-thirds (67%) of workers believe they can effectively perform their jobs from abroad, and a significant 71% said they would only consider a job that offers the flexibility to work remotely, at least part of the time.
The study highlighted that improved work-life balance (76%) is the most common benefit cited for working from anywhere. Additionally, the ability to spend more time with friends and family abroad (52%), save money by travelling during off-peak times (47%), and enjoy longer holidays (30%) were other key advantages mentioned.
Lead image / Shutterstock
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