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Escaping the Rat Race: More Than a Trend
When the daily grind feels like an endless cycle—commutes, cubicles, and the creeping sense that something’s missing—it’s easy to dream of a radical change. On the ETMN podcast episode "Remote Work, Real Freedom," host Scott chats with Sua, a seasoned entrepreneur who left behind a lucrative (but unfulfilling) finance career to build something extraordinary in Bali. Their conversation begins in a lush, tranquil setting outside Ubud—an oasis worlds away from the corporate hamster wheel.
Scott and Sua both recognize the allure of remote work, but they’re quick to note it’s about more than just swapping an office for a beach. Sua’s story transcends digital nomad clichés, centering on purpose and making a real impact. While many imagine escaping with an online business or hefty investment portfolio, Sua’s journey highlights another path: merging personal aspirations with a commitment to empower others.
A Calling, Not Just a Business
Sua’s creation, SUSI Villa (short for Sarasvati Ubud Spa Institute), wasn’t born out of some slick business plan but from a heartfelt need to give back. When Sua found himself stranded in Bali during the COVID lockdowns, he was embraced by locals who treated him like family. The contrast between Bali’s idyllic landscape and the hardship faced by residents—many without a safety net—left Sua searching for ways to return their kindness meaningfully.
It began with helping a local family in medical crisis, which eventually led Sua to acquire a small plot of rice field. Rather than develop a typical villa, he envisioned a space with social purpose—a training hub for local massage therapists. Here, women from humble backgrounds gained valuable skills, enabling them to earn far more abroad or at high-end resorts. The result was a ripple effect: economic empowerment for entire families, dignity for local workers, and a deep sense of community.
The Hidden Challenges and Ingenious Solutions
Building a retreat on a rice field wasn’t without hurdles. Internet connectivity and pesky mosquitoes—two notorious headaches for global travelers—had to be addressed. Sua approached these challenges head-on, researching and planting over 60 varieties of mosquito-repelling plants, from citronella to eucalyptus. It’s a thoughtful touch that exemplifies how deeply Sua listens to both the land and its people.
But what really makes SUSI Villa thrive isn’t just the smart infrastructure or the serene space for digital work. It’s the ecosystem of support Sua built with the surrounding village. Local architects designed the spaces, villagers were hired for the construction, and even the community’s traditions—like daily blessings from a local priest—were woven into the project. Security here isn’t about “bars and fences,” but mutual respect and a neighborhood watch rooted in real relationships.
Long-Lasting Change: From Rice Fields to Coffee Hills
Sua’s vision doesn’t stop at Bali. He’s already laying groundwork in Vietnam, specifically in Da Lat—a region famed for its coffee but often overlooked when it comes to sustainable development. By helping local farmers move beyond subsistence living (simply selling crops wholesale) and instead roasting, branding, and selling their own high-quality, organic coffee, Sua aims to unlock even greater opportunities.
It’s a model grounded in respect, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. Sua imagines digital nomads and entrepreneurs not just coming for a retreat, but bringing valuable skills, marketing savvy, and education to empower local communities. This echoes his broader philosophy: elevate others, and everyone rises together. It’s about transformation—from exploiting resources to fostering creativity, from isolation to global connectedness.
Takeaways for Would-Be Escapees
So, what does all this mean for those stuck in the rut, yearning for change? The journey won’t be instant or easy, as both Scott and Sua emphasize. It takes vision, persistence (“the positive side of stubbornness,” as Sua puts it), and a willingness to surround yourself with people who inspire you. Sua’s advice is simple but profound: find and learn from those who are already living the life you want. Get out of your comfort zone, stay committed to your goals, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn—just make sure you learn quickly.
Just as important, fulfillment doesn’t come from mere happiness or wealth, but from purpose—lifting yourself and others up along the way. Whether you’re considering remote work from a tropical paradise or a creative plunge into entrepreneurship, it pays to remember Sua’s model: combine personal dreams with a greater mission, respect and work with the local community, and always look for ways to give back. That’s the real freedom—and the bigger escape—beneath the surface of remote work.
Statistics
- Bali, Vietnam, and Mexico collectively host more than 200,000 remote workers, highlighting their significance in the remote work landscape.
- 90% of remote workers in Vietnam, Bali, and Mexico report high job satisfaction, citing flexibility and cultural experiences as key benefits.
- Reliable high-speed internet is available to 95% of remote workers in Mexico, Vietnam, and Bali, ensuring seamless connectivity for professionals worldwide.
- Vietnam has seen a 35% increase in remote work opportunities since 2020, positioning it as a key player in the global remote workforce.
External Links
- Expat.com Vietnam offers valuable insights and resources for those considering remote work in Vietnam.
- Forbes on Southeast Asia Remote Work discusses the growing trend of remote work in regions like Bali and Vietnam.
- World Bank Mexico Overview provides economic data relevant to remote workers looking to live in Mexico.
- Remote.co Mexico explores the benefits and opportunities for remote professionals in Mexico.
How To Connect with Local Communities as a Remote Worker in Vietnam, Bali, and Mexico
Building connections with local communities enhances the remote work experience and fosters a sense of belonging. In Vietnam, Bali, and Mexico, engage with expatriate groups, attend networking events, and participate in community activities to meet like-minded individuals. Utilize social media platforms and forums to find local meetups and coworking spaces that cater to remote professionals. Volunteering or taking part in local workshops can also provide opportunities to interact with residents and understand the culture better. Establishing relationships with locals can lead to valuable friendships, collaborative projects, and a deeper appreciation of your temporary home. By actively seeking out community interactions, you enrich your remote work lifestyle and create a supportive network that benefits both your personal and professional growth.
Unlock a New Way of Living
Imagine blending your professional commitments with the rich experiences of living in exotic locations like Vietnam, Bali, or Mexico. Remote work allows you to tailor your environment to inspire creativity and efficiency, all while enjoying diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. From bustling markets to serene beaches, each day presents opportunities to explore and connect. Discover how this lifestyle can enhance your well-being and career by visiting escapetomexiconow.com.
