World Of Wanderlust

Are you thinking about where to work remotely during the winter? Transitioning back to your home office is already a big shift in your routine, but working while traveling is a whole new adventure. If you have the chance to work remotely from a place other than your office or home, take it!

First, make sure you know your company’s rules for remote work and whether you can work from anywhere worldwide. Let’s dive into some top destinations where you and your coworking buddies can work and travel this winter.

Best Destinations for Remote Work in Winter:
1. Canary Islands, Spain
2. Algarve, Portugal
3. Lisbon, Portugal
4. Crete, Greece
5. Sweden
6. Iceland

Canary Islands – A Summer Paradise in Winter
The Canary Islands are famous for their lovely climate, especially during winter. Many people from northern Europe head there to escape the cold because it remains warm and sunny. The Canary Islands consist of eight inhabited islands and many smaller uninhabited ones. The most popular are Gran Canaria and Tenerife, offering numerous coworking spaces and vacation homes, allowing you to choose how to balance work and travel.

There’s a ton to do after work and on weekends, making it a dream come true for remote work in winter.
– Gran Canaria: In Las Palmas, the capital, you can explore Spanish-style houses, museums with Spanish art, and the Castillo de la Luz, an old castle dating back to 1541.
– Tenerife: Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, including volcanic landscapes. The Pico de Teide, the third-largest island volcano in the world, is a must-see, along with the black sand beaches formed by volcanic rock like Playa Jardín and Playa de el Bollullo.

Madeira – The Winter Flower Paradise
Madeira is another great spot for those who wish to enjoy a warm winter while working remotely. With daytime temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius, this island offers a perfect balance of work and relaxation. Funchal, the capital, boasts a variety of coworking spaces with fast internet and stylish designs. For those who prefer working from home, renting a large vacation house with friends is a fantastic option.

After work, take in the local culture, food, and attractions. Visit the botanical garden for its unique flower designs and enjoy a 360-degree city view from Pico dos Barcelos. Weekends can be spent hiking to Pico Ruivo, a three-hour ascent featuring secure steps and amazing views.

Algarve and Its Cozy Winter Climate
The Algarve, on Portugal’s southern coast, is a favorite for remote working in Europe’s winter. Digital nomads flock here, making it easy to find a like-minded community. There are plenty of options, from coworking spaces in the larger cities to private vacation homes.
– Lagos: This small town offers many affordable vacation rental options and interesting activities. You can watch the sunset at Ponta da Piedade, explore hidden bays, or wander through the historic Castle of Lagos.
– Faro: As the capital of the Algarve region, Faro has numerous coworking spaces. Its landscape includes long islands perfect for day trips. Barreta Island is a great place to spend an entire day, while the city itself offers beautiful sunsets and historic architecture.

Sweden – A Winter Wonderland
For those who prefer a snowy winter over sun and sand, Sweden is an ideal destination for remote work. Currently, some regions of Sweden are relatively unaffected by the pandemic, especially the smaller municipalities away from big cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg.
– Blekinge: This southeastern province is small, quiet, and stunningly beautiful, ideal for those seeking peace. It has breathtaking natural beauty with lush gardens, lakes, rivers, and quaint coastal islands like Ytterön.
– Öland: Known for its 400 windmills and rich history dating back to 7000 BC, Öland promises a snowy winter, especially in December and January. The island is also the summer residence for the Swedish royal family.

Iceland – A Winter Escapade
Iceland’s winter charm is unmatched, with fewer tourists and a magical landscape of snow-covered lands and icy mountains. Reykjavik, its capital, is a hub for coworking spaces filled with digital nomads.
– Thingeyri: This northern town offers a coworking space with breathtaking fjord views, perfect for inspiration.
In Reykjavik, you can explore despite potential pandemic restrictions, including a trip to Videy Island for a clear view of the northern lights. Just be aware that winter weather can cause road closures, so plan any trips accordingly.

Though winter in Germany might be grey and cold, Europe offers plenty of brighter alternatives for remote work. Always check travel advisories to ensure your destination remains safe.