Productive Work and Travel: Top Tips for Success Abroad
Have you ever dreamed of blending work and wanderlust, setting up your laptop in a sun-drenched café in Lisbon or a vibrant co-working space in Tokyo? The idea of balancing productive work and travel might seem daunting, but I can assure you it’s one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. Here’s the story of how I managed to successfully work and travel abroad, complete with the triumphs, the challenges, and everything in between.
My Journey Begins
It all started with a decision to change the monotony of my day-to-day routine. I was yearning for a lifestyle that allowed me to experience different cultures while maintaining productivity at work. With a little planning and a lot of courage, I embarked on a journey that took me across five continents. From the cobbled streets of Prague to the sandy beaches of Bali, each destination taught me something unique about balancing work and travel.
A Personal Story: Finding My Rhythm in Lisbon
One of the most memorable stops on my journey was Lisbon, Portugal. This city, with its pastel buildings and panoramic views of the Atlantic, became a sort of haven for me. Initially, I struggled with setting a routine. The allure of the city’s charms often threatened to pull me away from my work commitments.
But over time, I found my rhythm. I would start my morning at Fábrica Coffee Roasters (Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 136, 1150-269 Lisbon, Portugal) with a perfect cup of their artisan espresso, equipped with great Wi-Fi, which turned into my office for a couple of hours. With the caffeine buzz, I’d move onto Second Home Lisboa (R. Ribeira Nova 34, 1200-109 Lisbon, Portugal). This creative and lively co-working space, nestled in the bustling Time Out Market, offered an inspiring environment that fueled my productivity.
During my time there, I managed to maintain a healthy work-life balance, often taking breaks to explore the art galleries of Belém or indulging in the famous Pastéis de Nata from Pastéis de Belém (Rua de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisbon, Portugal).
Recommendations for Work and Play in Lisbon
- Fábrica Coffee Roasters
Address: Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 136, 1150-269 Lisbon, Portugal.
Phone: +351 21 343 5179
Website: fabricacoffeeroasters.com
Price Range: €2-€10 per coffee & snacks
Booking: Walk-in - Second Home Lisboa
Address: R. Ribeira Nova 34, 1200-109 Lisbon, Portugal.
Phone: +351 21 342 0000
Website: secondhome.io
Price Range: €150-€250/month for various packages
Booking: Online or phone - Pastéis de Belém
Address: Rua de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisbon, Portugal.
Phone: +351 21 363 7423
Website: pasteisdebelem.pt
Price Range: €1.20 per pastry
Booking: Walk-in
Checklist for New Work-Travels
- Set Clear Goals: Before embarking, define what you want to achieve in terms of work and travel.
- Research Connectivity: Investigate reliable Wi-Fi options and co-working spaces beforehand.
- Adapt to Local Time: Align your work schedule to local business hours to maximize productivity.
Risks and Mistakes to Avoid
Every adventure has its pitfalls. In Bangkok, I fell victim to a common scam where a well-dressed local insisted on offering unsolicited travel advice, only to end up luring me to overpriced jewelry shops. To avoid such traps:
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Politely decline offers from strangers.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local scams and safety advisories. Travel Advisories from U.S. State Department is helpful.
- Visa and Health Checks: Check official embassy websites for visa requirements and ensure you have appropriate vaccinations.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey
Reflecting on my experiences, I realize that the blend of work and travel isn’t just viable—it’s life-changing. The people I met, the cultures I immersed myself in, and the places I got to call my temporary home have all enriched my life in ways that a conventional career trajectory could not. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a vibrant Lisbon café or navigating the tuk-tuk-filled streets of Bangkok, the world truly becomes your office.
If you’re considering embarking on a similar journey, remember to plan smartly and stay open to the wondrous surprises the world has to offer. Balancing productive work and travel is worth experiencing for anyone weary of the nine-to-five life and eager to explore the diversity of our planet.
