Asia: home to 60% of the world’s population! Being the most populated region globally, Asia boasts various ethnic groups with distinct cultures, which are complemented by the diverse natural landscapes and attractive cities found within its countries.
The continent is also regarded as the fastest-growing economy, thanks to its rich resources and diverse prominent industries. These factors make Asia a top choice for a travel destination; as well as an ideal environment to pursue a dream career!
Asia is not only for either work or travel; anyone can experience both here. Our article today will cover the best destinations for work and travel in Asia, as well as detailed reasons why they are fit for your leisure and career purposes!
Best Asia Destinations for Work and Travel
1. Thailand
Thailand at night.
Thailand is a favorite work and travel destination for many reasons! The country, which is also referred to as the “Land of Smiles”, secured first place among the top 3 Southeast Asian destinations with the largest number of international arrivals in the first half of 2023, reaching 12.9 million visitors.
Following the achievement, Thailand won the award for “Best Destination – Asia Pacific” at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2023, further securing its reputation as Asia’s popular travel destination.
Aerial view of Thailand.
Considering such achievements, what exactly makes Thailand the go-to destination for travelers and workers? Here are some of the reasons:
- Growing economy: Thailand’s economy grew positively through 2023, which is likely to result in increased employment in the country.
- Ethnic and cultural diversity: With 70 ethnic groups, Thailand is culturally rich, meaning anyone staying in Thailand will experience a unique, unforgettable cultural exchange.
- Captivating destinations: Thousands of temples, scenic beaches in places like Phuket and Koh Samui, and the bustling city of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, never fail to attract travelers!
- Opportunities all over: Being a popular tourist destination has driven the growth of hotels and resorts in Thailand. From Thailand’s national brands like Lebua Hotels & Resorts to international ones such as Marriott Bonvoy, these prestigious hotels and resorts offer work opportunities in the hospitality sector.
- Low-cost living: Thailand is known for its affordability. Food, clothing, groceries, transportation, and accommodations are all budget-friendly here – all the more reasons why Thailand is a favorite destination for both work and travel!
2. United Arab Emirates
The UAE.
When it comes to destinations suited for a luxury lifestyle, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as one of the top choices. Located in the western part of Asia, the country is a federation of seven emirates, with Abu Dhabi as its capital and Dubai as the UAE’s largest and most populous city.
The UAE’s lavish tourist attractions, skyscrapers, and major industrial sectors are just a glimpse of the reasons why the country is a preferred destination for both workers and travelers coming from all around the globe.
Skyscrapers in the UAE.
Here are some details explaining why people choose to work and travel in the UAE:
- Warm hospitality: The Arabic concept of hospitality, known as “Diyafa” is also deeply ingrained in the UAE’s culture. It is a genuine expression of generous and extraordinary treatment that always welcomes travelers from all over the world!
- Modernity and preservation: Despite how glamorous the UAE sounds, the country maintains a balance between embracing modernity and preserving its heritage, such as seen in the Burj Khalifa which blends innovation and culture.
- Strategic location: Perfectly situated in West Asia with close proximity to Africa and Europe makes it easy for anyone working or traveling in the UAE to visit holiday destinations like Seychelles and Phuket easily!
- Job opportunities with lucrative salaries: There are thousands of job opportunities in the UAE open to foreigners. One of the UAE’s industries where foreign workers can earn high salaries is the hospitality industry, with wages starting from AED 8,000.
- Global exposure: With the diversity of jobs and employees in the UAE, there is no doubt that working in this country will provide someone with global exposure, along with numerous opportunities to gain valuable experience!
3. Vietnam
A natural landscape in Vietnam.
This timeless charming country has become an emerging tourist hotspot. In the first nine months of 2023, Vietnam successfully welcomed 8.9 million international tourists, exceeding its annual target, and it also ranked 19th among the world’s most-visited destinations in summer 2023!
There are several factors contributing to why Vietnam has recently become a favorite among travelers. However, the multicultural country doesn’t just attract tourists; it also draws professionals looking for job opportunities.
Aerial view of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Some of the reasons why Vietnam is a worthy for work and travel are listed below:
- Friendly and hospitable people: Vietnamese people are what you would call the embodiment of Asia’s warm hospitality. Whether or not you are familiar with them, the Vietnamese will always welcome you with open arms to their country.
- Memorable travel experience: This is what every traveler seeks when visiting Vietnam; a memorable travel experience amidst the country’s natural landscapes and fascinating cities. With Vietnam’s diverse collection of natural and urban tourist destinations, anyone will surely have a unique travel experience in the country!
- Chances to explore further: Vietnam’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it a gateway to its neighboring countries and other Asian countries like China and Japan, meaning there’s always an opportunity for you to visit those destinations from Vietnam!
- Fresh job opportunities and frequent expat communities: As Vietnam steadily sustains impressive economic growth, numerous job opportunities for foreigners are becoming more common, especially for those who can speak English. A prime example is the growth in the tourism industry in Vietnam, which has driven the expansion of hotels and resorts, leading to increased demand for a workforce. Moreover, it’s relatively easy for foreigners to work in Vietnam due to the presence of active expat communities in each city, which can be helpful for foreign workers to network and connect with each other.
- Affordability: Another ultimate reason is how affordable Vietnam is. Cheap yet tasty food, budget-friendly accommodations, and other cost-effective living essentials are what make Vietnam a new favorite for a work and travel destination.
4. The Maldives
The Maldives.
The Maldives is often considered one of the most romantic places in the world, thanks to its tropical paradise comprising a thousand stunning islands spread across a narrow chain of coral atolls, as well as unique cities and pristine beaches teeming with a myriad of marine life!
With such enchanting factors, it’s no wonder that the Maldives is popular among international tourists – especially those who are fans of water adventure. Now, this exotic retreat is also a choice to consider for expats looking for work!
Peaceful work environment in the Maldives.
Here’s why the Maldives is a suitable place for both work and travel:
- Heartwarming Maldivian hospitality: For a long time, Maldivians have believed that their existence amidst the vast surrounding oceans can only continue through unity and compassion, which they practice in how they treat visitors: with heartfelt and warm welcomes.
- A breather from a busy life: The tranquility and serenity of the Maldives are what pull anyone from their busy lives to take a break and enjoy the moment!
- Growth and stability: The Maldives’ reputation as a popular tourist destination has led to the rapid expansion of its hospitality industry. Working in the Maldives’ hospitality industry is the best choice for job seekers, as it provides financial stability and opportunities for career growth.
- Peaceful work environment: With its tropical beauty, working in the Maldives offers a completely distinct experience. For instance, the work environment is harmonious, providing workers with a sense of peace!
- Networking and cultural exchange: If you work in the hospitality industry, you will get to meet people of different backgrounds who visit the Maldives for either leisure or business purposes – meaning the opportunity to broaden your network and experience cultural exchanges is right in your hands.
5. Hong Kong
Hong Kong.
What comes to your mind when you hear about Hong Kong? Is it the collection of iconic skyscrapers? Or maybe the international-scale industries? Either way, this special administrative region in China has always been famous as both a work and travel destination!
Hong Kong’s buildings.
There are more reasons why Hong Kong is among the people’s choice for career and leisure. So, what exactly are they? Check out the details below:
- Seamless transportation: The city’s airport, Hong Kong International Airport, offers direct flights to and from many major cities worldwide, making Hong Kong very accessible. Not to mention, Hong Kong boasts one of the world’s best subway systems, placing the city at a top level in terms of transportation.
- Visa-free visits: Many foreign passport holders can enjoy a 90-day up to 180-day visa-free stay in Hong Kong, all the more reason why tourists love to travel to this city!
- Multicultural environment: Hong Kong is a city where modernism blends with tradition, and it’s a place where people from different backgrounds come together. This multicultural, heterogeneous environment is undoubtedly a plus point for expats who choose to work and travel here!
- Thriving industries with plenty of job opportunities: The rapid growth of industries in Hong Kong opens up opportunities for foreigners who wish to work in the city, such as in the hospitality and tourism sector. While a high level of skills is guaranteed to make expats get hired here, having some knowledge of Mandarin or Cantonese can help secure a job as well.
- High-income potentials: Hong Kong is expected to offer the highest salary increase in the Asia Pacific in 2023, with a forecasted increase of 4.2%. As a result, more professionals are considering Hong Kong as their work destination, attracted by the promise of higher salaries and career growth opportunities. If these are what you are looking for, Hong Kong is surely the ideal place for you!
Wrapping Up
Wherever you come from, Asia will always welcome you with its exceptional hospitality. Asia’s variety of landscapes and attractions, along with its myriad job opportunities, make this vast region your best choice for career and adventure. This is especially true in these five destinations, where you will undoubtedly experience a unique blend of working and traveling!
While you might be wondering what one should do to work and travel in Asia, remember that all roads lead to Rome! Meaning, there are many ways to achieve this, one of them is by joining Cultural Exchange Programs by RMC Asia.
Cultural Exchange Programs are internship and management training opportunities focused on Asia’s hospitality industry. These programs take place in RMC Asia’s partners of prestigious hotels and resorts across the region, ultimately in Thailand, the UAE, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Hong Kong!
Think you’re a good fit? Find your desired positions here and join our successful participants today!
Recommended: The ABCs of Visas: From Application to Visa-Free Destinations in Asia!
