Best Places to Work in Asia

Saturday, July 14, 2018

If you caught my recent article about working in Europe, then you know how big of a proponent I am when it comes to earning a few bucks in between sightseeing tours. Ever think you could do the same thing when visiting other parts of the world? Have you wondered about the best places to work in Asiainfo-icon?

It turns out that some of the most popular travel destinations in Asia are also some of the most high-tech and freelancer-friendly spots in the world! So pack your bags, grab your passport, and book a flight because we’ve got the best places to work in Asia lined up and ready for you to visit!

A Few Pointers for the Best Places to Work in Asia

As you prepare for your epic work-travel extravaganza, you’ll want to be particularly aware of the following as you work during your visit:

  • Time Differences.

This ought to be the case for anyone traveling abroad, but can be particularly important whenever you’re embarking to the other side of the world. For example, there is a 12-hour time difference between New York and Bali, a fact you should definitely keep in mind when sending emails back and forth to your coworkers or clients back home!

  • Currency Woes.

I can’t think up anything worse than trying to calculate the currency difference between the Yen and the U.S. Dollar as I frantically try to pay for an hour of Wi-Fi to meet a deadline. Do yourself a favor and master the conversion rate(s) a bit before heading abroad to avoid the unnecessary headache when work is involved!

  • Social Customs.

Whenever you travel, take some time to get up to speed with the local customs (after all, nobody likes to feel like that ignorant tourist!). Whether it’s brushing up on the tipping customs or leaving your laptop unattended at a work station, you (and your fellow freelancers!) will be glad that you took some time to learn the lay of the land.

Bali, Indonesiainfo-icon

Coworking spaces are a thing in Bali, other than beautiful beaches and temples.

If living out your own personal version of Eat Pray Love has always been on your bucket list; it’s time to visit Bali. Amidst the gorgeous beaches, temples, and spanning greenery, you may be surprised to find several high-tech co-working spaces that are begging for you and your laptop to set up shop for the day! Most of these spots also boast meeting rooms and other membership perks, so you may just enjoy your workdays along the way!

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnaminfo-icon

Coworking has risen in trend in Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis of Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh is bustling with exotic foods, fashion, and art, so it’s no surprise that so many people place this Vietnamese city at the top of their ideal list of travel destinations in Asia! This bustling metropolis features several dedicated co-working spaces and, since 2016, free Wi-Fi has been available for tourists all across the city! 

It's definitely becoming one of the best places to work in Asia.

Bangkok, Thailandinfo-icon

Bangkok has been popular for expats for many decades, and it's easy to see why.

Bangkok has been a top travel destination in Asia for travelers and ex-Pats alike for decades, and it’s easy to see why. From the towering golden temples to the vibrant colors of the local markets, Bangkok truly is a gem worth visiting on your next voyage to Asia.

You might be surprised to learn that there are several co-working spaces in downtown Bangkok (many of which rival the techy hot spots found in New York or Amsterdam) along with numerous spots featuring free Wi-Fi and printing services. That alone makes it a worthy addition on the list of best places to work in Asia.

Shanghai, Chinainfo-icon

Shanghai is where East meets the West, so it's only natural that there are many places where you can work at maximum productivity there!

Shanghai has long since been known as a tech hub, so there’s no surprise that it is on this list of the best places to work in Asia! With dozens of co-working spaces, free Wi-Fi, and tech-friendly spots galore, Shanghai is the perfect blend of a beautifully rich culture and the endless possibilities of working remotely!

Mumbai, Indiainfo-icon

Mumbai is a huge and diverse city, and is filled with lots of free WiFi.

Confession time: in addition to working as a freelance writer, I am also a yoga teacher. So, naturally, I’ve always had a bit of a crush on India and the vibrant colors, tastes, music, and sights that make this country so amazing. Regardless of what draws you to this beautiful travel destination in Asia, you will find an abundance of special spots in Mumbai to hunker down and get some work done whenever you need to do so!

Read more: Why is Work-Life Balance Important?

With over 15 brand new and super cool co-working spaces in Mumbai to choose from, you will never be caught relying on some hotel’s dodgy business center to get your work done again. Mumbai also has some amazing options when it comes to free Wi-Fi! From Starbucks to local restaurants, hotels to public spaces, and everything in between, you can plop down for a few productive hours in Mumbai regardless of wherever your tourist travels may have taken you earlier in the day!


With such an amazing assortment of best places to work in Asia to choose from, there is only one remaining question left. How long it will take you to pack a suitcase and get yourself to the airport?

Happy Travels!

Elizabeth Murray freelance content writer at aSabbatical.com
Traveling is about expanding your mindset and challenging every custom, tradition, and way of life you thought you knew.