12 Southeast Asian Spots Where This Digital Nomad Is Living the Dream (and You Could Be Too)
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Having the opportunity to travel and work at the same time is a great privilege and one I enjoy immensely. However, unlike ‘normal’ travelers or vacationers, as a digital nomad, you have to be a bit more selective about where you go. Will the area have good WiFi? Are there co-working spots or cafés quiet enough where you can make a call? Is the cost of living manageable in the long run?
Thankfully, Southeast Asia has a huge variety of places that are perfect for digital nomads. I have spent the last three months working and traveling in this region, from beachside resorts to bustling cities to mountainous escapes. All of the places on this list tick digital nomad ‘must-haves—solid WiFi, good community, affordability, and places to actually get your work done!
So, let’s take a look at the top 12 places that digital nomads should consider when planning their next move.
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Bali, Indonesia
Bali is often the first place that comes to mind for digital nomads in Southeast Asia. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and well-established expat community, it’s no wonder Bali is a top choice. Areas like Canggu and Ubud are particularly popular, offering a mix of co-working spaces, affordable living, and a laid-back lifestyle.
In addition to working in serene surroundings, Bali offers a range of activities to unwind after a day’s work, from surfing in Seminyak to exploring the lush rice terraces. There are plenty of co-fworking places on the island, including some that offer accommodation, like Outpost in Canggu (as well as two other locations on Bali). Here, you’ll find like-minded digital nomads, great WiFi, and plenty of places to work.
Read also: Awesome Digital Nomad Destinations in the US
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has long been a favorite among digital nomads due to its affordability, reliable internet, and relaxed environment. As a result, the northern Thai city has a strong nomad community, making it a great spot to network as well as make new friends.
There is a strong café culture here, with some being perfect for working – including Siamaya Chocolate Factory, where you’ll find strong AC, good WiFi, and delicious hot and cold chocolate drinks. Aside from work, Chiang Mai offers cultural experiences, such as visiting ancient temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep or enjoying the local street food scene at the massive Sunday Night Market.
Read also: Stunning and Affordable Destinations for Expats
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis with a fast-growing digital nomad scene. The city’s energy, combined with its low cost of living and excellent street food, make it a top destination for remote workers.
District 1 is particularly popular, offering numerous co-working spaces like The Hive and Dreamplex. Beyond work, you can explore the city’s rich history at the War Remnants Museum or take a leisurely stroll along the Saigon River.
Read also: Spectacular European Destinations for Digital Nomads
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is a dynamic and modern city that attracts digital nomads with its blend of cultures, affordability, and excellent infrastructure. The city offers fast internet, a variety of co-working spaces, and is a great base to reach other parts of Southeast Asia.
Nomads often find themselves in the more upmarket area of Bangsar, known for its cafés and co-working spots like Common Ground. During your downtime, you can visit the iconic Petronas Towers or explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Little India.
Read also: Amazing Destination Dupes
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Earning a name for itself as an emerging destination for digital nomads, Phnom Penh is known for its affordability and growing expat community. The city is home to a range of co-working spaces, such as The Desk and Workspace 1, which cater to the needs of remote workers.
Beyond work, Phnom Penh offers a rich history, with sites like the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields providing a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s past. The city’s riverside area is a great spot to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and hang out with friends after a day of work.
Read also: Affordable Beach Towns Across the World for Expats
Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang is quickly becoming a favorite among digital nomads due to its coastal charm, modern infrastructure, and relaxed vibe. The city offers a mix of beachside living with urban convenience, making it an ideal spot for those who want the best of both worlds.
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An ideal place for digital nomads to base themselves is the An Thuong area. Here there are great spots like Root Plant-based Cafè to work from. It’s also less than a minute’s walk to My Khe, considered one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia, where you’ll find locals and expats alike enjoying the sunrise and sunset each day.
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Read also: Safest Cities Across the Globe
Manila, Philippines
Manila is a bustling metropolis that offers digital nomads a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences. While the city can be hectic, areas like Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) are more tailored to expats, with numerous co-working spaces like WeRemote and Acceler8.
In your free time, you can explore Manila’s rich history at Intramuros, the old Spanish-walled city, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Poblacion. The city’s international connections also make it easy to explore other parts of the Philippines, such as the beautiful islands of Palawan and Cebu.
Read also: Top-Rated Destinations Recommended by Travel Expert
Hoi An, Vietnam
Quite the opposite of Bangkok, Hoi An is a quiet, historic town that is seeing its digital nomad community grow from strength to strength. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the central Vietnamese town is world famous for its lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and historic cultural scene.
Hoi An is a great destination for expats looking to find a little more peace and quiet, although evenings in the old town can get quite hectic with tourists converging on the small town to see its lanterns. After work hours, you can enjoy scenic bike journeys through the rice fields and local countryside or head to the nearby An Bang Beach to relax.
Read also: Countries That Don’t Want Tourists
Penang, Malaysia
Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang is a top choice for digital nomads who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities. The island is known for its UNESCO-listed George Town, which is filled with colonial architecture, street art, and mouth-watering food.
For digital nomads, Penang offers a slower pace of life compared to Malaysia’s other nomad hot spot, Kuala Lumpur, with co-working spaces like @CAT Penang and Scoopoint providing creative environments to work. In your downtime, you can explore Penang Hill or indulge in the local street food, which is some of the best in Malaysia.
Read also: Visa-Free Countries
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap, while known primarily as the gateway to Angkor Wat, has also become a well-known destination for digital nomads seeking a quieter lifestyle. The city offers a range of co-working spaces like Biolab Cafè, which caters to remote workers with reliable internet, power outlets, and great coffee.
After work, exploring the ancient temples of Angkor or enjoying the laid-back vibe of Pub Street are popular choices for digital nomads. The cost of living in Siem Reap is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget while enjoying a unique cultural experience.
Read also: Last-Minute Flight Hacks to Save Big
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok needs little introduction, a sprawling city that offers all the convenience of Western cities for half the price. It’s not exactly a relaxed destination but there is so much to see here, with its extensive public transport system making moving around a breeze.
Co-working spaces like The Hive Thonglor and Hubba are popular among the city’s nomads, offering high-speed internet and a professional setting. When you’re not working, Bangkok’s street food scene, floating markets, and temples like Wat Arun provide endless opportunities for exploration.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities Around the World
Koh Phangan, Thailand
It might be most noted for its Full Moon Parties, but Koh Phangan is also a fantastic option for digital nomads seeking some sunshine. The island has a growing community of remote workers who are drawn to its stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and affordable living.
Co-working spaces like Hustle Club Koh Phangan offer a comfortable place to work with views of the ocean, and when the workday ends, you can explore the island’s natural beauty, from waterfalls to secluded beaches. For a change of pace, the nearby island of Koh Tao offers some of the best diving in the region.
Read also: Luxury Resorts for a Grand Holiday
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