Turns out the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark lead the list. However, daydreaming about a winter escape and jumping straight into summer does not necessarily have to be a fantasy. Australia ranked 25.
Growth of the digital nomad and workation concept
Workations (work+vacation) are steadily growing in popularity. According to research, 93% of workers worldwide say they want the flexibility to choose where and when they work. Google searches for the term "workation" worldwide reached an all-time high in the last week of August 2023.
Regarding digital nomadism, such lifestyles continue to gain popularity despite the growing global office mandate.
Workations or digital nomadism really can be a mood, money, and, in some cases – a cybersecurity saver. That is the reason why cybersecurity company NordLayer decided to look at 107 countries and make a list of the best countries to work remotely in terms of cybersecurity, infrastructure, and economic and social saffety.
Carlos Salas, a cybersecurity expert at NordLayer, comments: “Technologies allowing people to have more flexibility are among the greatest innovations, but they are also a challenge.”
He adds: "Cybersecurity shouldn’t be forgotten when planning an individual or business trip. Being careless might sour the experience and end up being expensive.”
Infrastructure is the best in Australia
In the GRWI, Australia is number 25 and ranks six places lower than last year’s data. The nation excels in digital and physical infrastructure (18), including a top-tier e-government system (7) and physical infrastructure (12). However, challenges include a cyber safety ranking of 35th and a high cost of living (92). Social safety is in the 24th place, with concerns about personal safety (53). Addressing these areas could further enhance Australia's economic and social safety standings.
New Zealand – an advocate of personal rights
New Zealand is number 34 in the list of countries for remote work. It ranks two places higher compared to last year’s data.
New Zealand is fifth globally in economic safety, closely trailed by Australia at fourth. The nation's digital and physical infrastructure is commendable at 14th. Socially, New Zealand leads in personal rights (1) and inclusiveness (11).
Challenges include a cyber safety ranking of 62nd, with infrastructure improvement needed (47). The cost of living is a concern at the 90th place, and there is room for enhancing safety (48).
What do you need to have a perfect and safe workation?
Don't let cybersecurity matters wander off when considering New Zealand or Australia as a spot to work and relax. Since Oceania is not the start of the cybersecurity realm, more precautions are needed.
Carlos says, “As you pack your sunscreen, don’t forget to protect what's happening on your computer’s screen. Public Wi-Fi, weak passwords, and even passwords saved in the browser can expose you to hackers, and they never take a day off.”
Here are tips that will help protect your network no matter where you work from:
• Consider cloud technologies. Cloud cybersecurity will give an additional layer of security for remote workers and enterprises by helping to protect your files and passwords, as well as by limiting who can access specific documents or tools.
• Think before connecting. Avoid using public Wi-Fi without a trustworthy VPN app, and avoid plugging in any devices — be it a USB flash drive on your desk or a public charging station — to your device.
• Take care of your device. Do not leave your working computer unattended. Always lock it and use secure passwords.
