As the workation trend gains more popularity, the International Workplace Group (IWG) conducted research to rank the world’s most suitable cities for hosting this new generation of digital nomadic workers. The concept of ‘workations,’ where individuals work from abroad to extend vacations, has gained immense popularity with the rise of hybrid work arrangements.
According to IWG’s research, 88 per cent of hybrid workers engaged in ‘work from anywhere (WFA)’ last year, with 57 percent choosing to blend work and holidays.
Across nine essential criteria, cities were rated on a scale of 1 to 10 for factors such as culture, climate, accommodation, transportation, broadband speed, food, access to flexible workspace and happiness.
According to research conducted by IWG, the top 3 global cities for accommodating hybrid workers are Barcelona, Toronto and Beijing. Among a pool of 26 notable cities, these three have secured the top positions.
Barcelona has emerged as a coveted ‘workation’ destination, offering a vibrant cultural scene with historical landmarks. The city boasts pleasant weather and well-connected travel routes, all at an affordable cost. In contrast, Toronto excels with its top-tier ratings in lodging quality, overall contentment and an abundance of adaptable work environments.
Meanwhile, Beijing showcased exceptional performance in categories such as cultural richness, housing, and transportation affordability. Fusing traditional and contemporary elements, Beijing’s world-class art scene, along with its array of galleries and cultural venues, magnetises travellers from around the globe.
Notable Asian cities in the rankings included Jakarta (9th), Manila (13th), Mumbai (18th), Singapore (21st), and Hong Kong (22nd).
Cities listed: Barcelona, Toronto, Beijing, Milan, New York, Rio de Janeiro, Amsterdam, Paris, Jakarta, Lisbon
IWG research results shows that since 2022 almost 88 per cent of workers embrace the concept of working from anywhere or hybrid work after the surge in popularity of ‘workations’, where individuals work from overseas destinations while extending their vacations, has been propelled by the widespread adoption of hybrid work models. Along with that 57 percent workers opted to elongate their holidays by working remotely from abroad. This emerging trend has notably gained traction within the office workforce.
A significant majority of nearly 67 per cent of employees express confidence in their ability to effectively fulfil their job responsibilities while abroad. Moreover, an impressive 71 percent of respondents indicated that they would exclusively contemplate job opportunities that grant them the flexibility to work remotely, at least on a part-time basis.
The research emphasises that a significant 76 per cent view an improved work-life balance as the primary benefit of remote work. Additionally, the urge to spend more time with loved ones while abroad stands at 52 per cent. Realising financial savings through off-peak travel is a prominent advantage for 47 per cent of respondents, while 30 per cent find extended vacations particularly appealing.
