- Cities were scored across 10 criteria including climate, transport, general living costs and broadband speed
- Sydney achieved high scores in climate, sustainability and subsistence
- Research shows that 84% of hybrid workers now consider extending holidays to work remotely
As the rise of hybrid working fuels longer workcations and employees have more flexibility over how and where they work, Sydney has been named among the best ‘workcation’ cities in the world, beating competition from the likes of London, Toronto, Podgorica and Dublin in International Workplace Group’s second annual Work from Anywhere Barometer.
Workcations, where travellers combine work and leisure at their destinations to prolong holidays, have exploded in popularity since hybrid working became the de facto working model for many. Thanks to the proliferation of hybrid working and cloud technology, employees can now work from wherever they feel most productive. More than three-quarters of Australian hybrid workers (77%) would consider taking a workcation in 2024 if their company supported it*.
New research** from International Workplace Group, the world’s largest operator of flexible and hybrid workspace, has revealed the rising popularity of workcations among office workers, with three quarters (74%) of workers viewing a ‘work from anywhere policy’ as a significant factor when considering a new job. The same number (75%) said that the freedom of being able to work from anywhere boosts their job satisfaction.
With over 4,000 flexible office locations in more than 120 countries, International Workplace Group’s network includes 30 leading ‘workcation’ cities that have been marked against 10 key criteria to create the second annual Work from Anywhere Barometer. Each location was awarded a mark out of 10 on climate, culture, accommodation, transport, food & drink, happiness, broadband speed, sustainability, and the availability of flexible workspaces.
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. Beyond work, Sydney offers world-class dining, picturesque beaches, and adventures like hiking in the Blue Mountains and surfing at Bondi Beach, making it a lifestyle that perfectly blends professional opportunities with unforgettable experiences.
Budapest is Buda-best – (75/100)
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.
Barcelona bumped from top spot – (73.5/100)
The top destination in 2023, 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.
Rio rising – (73.5/100)
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.
New contenders for 2024
International Workplace Group’s Work from Anywhere Barometer also welcomes several newcomers to this year’s list of best working destinations for digital nomads to have on their radar. These include:
- Austin, Texas, also famed as the “live music capital of the world,” boasts an impressive cultural offering and dynamic tech scene that make the city an ideal destination for remote workers.
- Despite its small size, Podgorica, Montenegro boasts a burgeoning start-up community and a growing number of co-working spaces, making it an increasingly popular choice for workers seeking tranquillity and affordability nestled between the mountains and Adriatic Sea.
- Marrakesh, Morocco has captivated travellers for centuries with its vibrant souks, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Now, it’s also gaining attention as a desirable workcation destination thanks to a growing infrastructure to support remote work, offering an enticing blend of tradition and modernity to hybrid workers looking to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience.
- Finally, Valletta, the Maltese capital and UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its historic architecture, picturesque harbours, and Mediterranean charm. Valletta’s accessible size and sunny climate make it an ideal spot for remote workers.
2024 Work From Anywhere Barometer top 10 cities for workcations:
The ongoing shift in work culture has not only transformed professional attitudes but also broadened the horizons of workers when choosing travel destinations, with 80% stating that the availability of these policies has prompted them to consider destinations they previously wouldn’t have.
International Workplace Group Country Head for Australia, Damien Sheehan said:
“As the world embraces hybrid working, Sydney’s recognition as a top ‘workcation’ city is a testament to the unique blend of professional opportunities and lifestyle it offers.
Whether it’s extending a vacation or diving into a longer adventure as a digital nomad, the ability to work from such vibrant locations is redefining how we view productivity and work-life balance.
We expect this ‘workcation’ movement to accelerate even further with more companies adopting WFA policies to enhance employee wellbeing and bolster their appeal as employers.”
With brands including Regus, Spaces and HQ, International Workplace Group offers access to an unrivalled global network and opportunity to work from anywhere all over the world, with a strong presence in the most sought-after destinations, from Barcelona to Brussels, and from Sofia to Singapore. Through their wide network of flexible workspaces, International Workplace Group supports the growing trend of remote work and workcations, enabling individuals to seize exciting opportunities and embrace a more flexible and fulfilling work lifestyle.
To find out more and book your next workcation space, head to: www.iwgplc.com
