Best Countries for Remote Work and Travel in 2025

Introduction

If you’re a digital nomad, freelancer, or remote worker, you know how tough it can be to find a destination that checks all the boxes: strong Wi-Fi, affordable living, vibrant community, and, of course, beautiful scenery. The truth is, not every country is equally suited for remote work and travel. Some places may be cheap but lack infrastructure, while others are stunning but come with sky-high costs.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the best countries for remote work and travel in 2025. We’ll cover top destinations, what makes them special, and give you the insider pros and cons to help you choose wisely. Plus, we’ll show you how to find the best flight and hotel deals using Trip.com so you can plan smarter, not harder.

Let’s dive in.

What are the Best Countries for Remote Work and Travel in 2025?

Below you’ll find the top countries for remote workers based on affordability, lifestyle, visa options, and digital infrastructure.

1. Portugal — The Digital Nomad’s Paradise

Portugal has quickly become a hotspot for remote workers, thanks to its sunny climate, laid-back culture, and affordable cost of living compared to the rest of Western Europe. Lisbon and Porto are thriving with coworking spaces, while smaller towns like Lagos and Madeira offer scenic escapes.

Key Features:

• Strong expat and digital nomad community
• Reliable internet (especially in Lisbon & Porto)
• Affordable food, wine, and transport

Pros:

• Friendly locals and English widely spoken
• Great weather year-round
• Digital nomad visa available

Cons:

• Big cities can be crowded in peak season
• Some rural areas lack fast internet

Ideal For: Remote workers seeking a mix of work-life balance with European culture.

👉 Check flight deals to Portugal on Trip.com

2. Thailand — Affordable and Exotic

Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations for remote workers, with hotspots like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Koh Phangan. It’s affordable, diverse, and offers a mix of buzzing city life and tranquil islands.

Key Features:

• Super affordable living costs
• Popular nomad hubs with coworking spaces
• Great food and nightlife

Pros:

• Stunning beaches and mountains
• Welcoming culture
• Thriving digital nomad communities

Cons:

• Internet speed can vary in remote islands
• Visa regulations can be tricky long-term

Ideal For: Digital nomads on a budget who love tropical vibes.

👉 See top hotels in Thailand on Trip.com

3. Spain — Work Meets Lifestyle

Spain is another European favorite, with cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia attracting remote workers. Spain’s “Digital Nomad Visa” also makes it easier to stay long-term.

Key Features:

• Mediterranean lifestyle with great food and weather
• Good internet and coworking options
• Affordable compared to Northern Europe

Pros:

• Rich culture, history, and art
• Strong healthcare system
• Large expat community

Cons:

• Language barrier outside major cities
• Bureaucracy for visas can be slow

Ideal For: Remote workers who want work-life balance with a European flair.

👉 Book your Spain trip now on Trip.com

4. Mexico — Vibrant Culture and Affordability

From Mexico City’s urban vibe to Tulum’s beaches and Oaxaca’s cultural richness, Mexico offers variety at a budget-friendly price.

Key Features:

• Growing digital nomad communities in CDMX and Playa del Carmen
• Affordable housing and food
• Decent internet in cities

Pros:

• Vibrant culture and food scene
• Time zone convenient for US workers
• Warm weather year-round

Cons:

• Safety varies by region
• Healthcare outside big cities may be limited

Ideal For: North Americans looking for a nearby and affordable base.

👉 Check Mexico flight and hotel deals here

5. Estonia — Digital Nomad Innovator

Estonia pioneered the Digital Nomad Visa, making it a top destination for location-independent workers. Tallinn is the main hub, combining medieval charm with modern digital infrastructure.

Key Features:

• First country to offer an official digital nomad visa
• Strong internet and e-residency options
• European Union member

Pros:

• Reliable infrastructure for remote work
• Safe and clean environment
• Thriving startup ecosystem

Cons:

• Cold winters
• Higher costs than Southeast Asia

Ideal For: Tech-savvy nomads who want a European base.

👉 Plan your Estonia trip with Trip.com

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Remote Work Destination?

Before booking your next trip, consider these key factors to ensure your destination supports both productivity and adventure:

1. Internet Speed & Reliability

A must-have for video calls, uploads, and smooth workdays.

Always check hotel or Airbnb reviews for Wi-Fi ratings.

2. Visa Options

Countries like Portugal and Spain now offer Digital Nomad Visas.

Some destinations only allow 30–90 days, so plan ahead.

3. Cost of Living

Balance affordability with quality of life.

Southeast Asia is cheap, while Europe offers lifestyle perks.

4. Community & Networking

Cities like Lisbon, Chiang Mai, and Playa del Carmen have thriving nomad groups.

Helps avoid loneliness and opens collaboration opportunities.

5. Quality of Life

Safety, healthcare, and transport should be part of your decision.

👉 Find remote-work friendly hotels and flights with Trip.com

FAQ About Remote Work and Travel

1. Do I need a special visa to work remotely in another country?

Not always. Many remote workers enter on tourist visas, but several countries now offer digital nomad visas that allow longer stays legally.

2. What are the cheapest countries for digital nomads in 2025?

Thailand, Mexico, and parts of Eastern Europe (like Romania or Bulgaria) remain budget-friendly options for remote workers.

3. How can I find affordable flights and accommodation for remote work travel?

Use platforms like Trip.com to compare prices, find flexible bookings, and secure affordable deals.

Conclusion

Choosing the best country for remote work and travel in 2025 depends on your budget, lifestyle, and goals. For affordability and tropical vibes, Thailand is unbeatable. For culture and European lifestyle, Portugal and Spain shine. Mexico is perfect for North Americans, while Estonia leads in digital nomad innovation.

No matter where you go, planning ahead makes all the difference.

👉 Ready to start your digital nomad journey? Book your next trip with Trip.com today and find the perfect balance of work and travel.