How to Stay Productive When Working from Exotic Locations

When I first started working from new and exotic locations, it was an incredibly exciting time—but also a challenge to stay productive. From new distractions to adjusting to different time zones, it’s easy to get off track. Over the years, I’ve developed a few strategies that help me stay focused on work while still soaking in the culture and beauty of each new place. Here are my go-to tips for staying productive, even from paradise

1. Find the Right Rhythm for Both Your Tasks and Your Location

One of the best parts about working from a remote, beautiful location is the freedom to set your own schedule. But this flexibility can also be a double-edged sword if you don’t establish some kind of routine. I’ve learned that I need to adapt to the rhythm of the place I’m in, rather than trying to stick to my usual habits.

For example, if I’m in a location where the evenings are lively and bustling, I might shift my work hours to the early mornings so I have time to enjoy the local culture later in the day. When I was in Bali, I found it ideal to work either in the early morning or in the late evening, as the midday heat made it harder to focus.

Tip: Spend your first few days feeling out the local pace, and then adapt your work hours to align with both the local vibe and your most productive times.

2. Create a Productive Workspace Wherever You Are

No matter how stunning your surroundings are, it’s tough to stay focused without a proper workspace. I’ve found that finding a quiet, comfortable setup is essential. If I’m in a busy city or a beachside town, I’ll scout out local co-working spaces or quiet cafes with strong Wi-Fi. It’s worth spending time to find a spot where you can get into “work mode.”

A small ritual that’s helped me is setting up my workspace the same way I would at home. I bring along a few essentials like headphones, a travel laptop stand, and a portable charger. These small things help create consistency and keep me grounded, even when I’m far from my usual desk.

3. Stick to a Daily Routine with Clear Breaks

When I first started remote work while traveling, I made the mistake of working sporadically throughout the day, trying to squeeze in tasks whenever I could. But I realized that having a clear routine with set work hours and intentional breaks actually makes me more productive. Now, I set designated work hours and make sure to schedule breaks to explore and relax.

Taking breaks has a huge benefit: it lets me enjoy where I am instead of feeling guilty for “slacking.” For instance, I might work for a few hours in the morning, then take a long lunch break to explore, and return to work in the late afternoon. Having structured breaks keeps my energy up and prevents burnout.

4. Manage Time Zones for Clients and Collaborators

One of the trickiest parts of working from different time zones is managing schedules, especially if I have clients or colleagues back home. I make it a habit to check the time difference and adjust my calendar accordingly, so I can respond and attend meetings at reasonable hours.

To avoid confusion, I use tools like World Time Buddy to schedule calls that work for everyone involved. If I’m somewhere with a huge time difference, I might block a few hours in the evening to match my clients’ time zone. It’s a small adjustment, but it makes a big difference in maintaining professional relationships.

5. Embrace the Experience Without Guilt

Finally, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to enjoy the experience. In the beginning, I used to feel guilty if I took time away from work to explore. But traveling isn’t just about working from new places; it’s about growing, learning, and experiencing different cultures. Embracing the experience has actually helped me come back to work more inspired and refreshed.

I remind myself that productivity isn’t about working every single hour—it’s about making those hours count. Taking time to explore and recharge makes me more effective in the long run.

Conclusion: Balance is Key

Working from exotic locations has its unique challenges, but it’s all about finding a balance that lets you be both productive and present. Whether you’re working by the beach or from a busy city halfway across the world, remember to stay flexible, create a structure that suits your needs, and let yourself enjoy the journey.