Driven by soaring office rental costs, and accelerated by the COVID-19 outbreak, many companies are downsizing their physical footprint and offering permanent WFH options. With the ubiquity of high-speed internet, WFH no longer restricts staff to a particular geographical location.
So, as we start to return to the office, how can HR teams accommodate this desire for flexibility and choose the best overseas locations? A June 2020 global study by Carphone Warehouse finds some countries have adapted better than others.
Thailand – Chiang Mai scores highly for commuting and healthcare. It also scores well for monthly rent, leisure activities and internet speed (136 Mbps) but lacks sufficient co-working spaces.
Australia – famous for leisure activities and the Aussie way of life, Melbourne also has strong commute satisfaction and healthcare figures, but, at only 43 Mbps, is let down by internet speed.
New Zealand – New Zealand’s Auckland scores well for commute satisfaction, quality of life and healthcare. Downsides are a high cost of living and low number of co-working spaces.
Hong Kong – At 169 Mbps, Hong Kong boasts the highest internet speed of all 30 countries assessed. Despite an excellent transit system, the high cost of living means Hong Kong falls down for quality of life.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
