The Fantastic Voyage: Vietnam, Bali and Mexico

In a world where work is no longer confined by geography, the podcast episode “The Fantastic Voyage: Vietnam, Bali and Mexico” from ETMN offers a fascinating dive into the lived realities of digital nomads. Host Scott and guest Sua unpack their journeys, sharing hard-won lessons and practical advice about brokering freedom through remote work. Their candor, humor, and deep experience will inspire anyone dreaming about swapping cubicles for coconut groves.

Freedom Begins with a Choice

The episode opens with Scott dialing in from Cape Town, South Africa, and Sua from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, fresh from Bali. This real-time global spread is emblematic of the new possibilities that technology enables. As Sua puts it, “We are not even where our clients are." Both run businesses rooted in Canada—a mortgage broker practice and a virtual assistant company—while exploring far-flung lands.

This lifestyle, however, didn’t happen overnight. Both speakers recount traditional starts—Scott as a single parent rooted in stability, Sua working for big banks in Canada. The pivot point came through intentional choices and learning from others who blazed the remote path: “It’s incredible when you’re making six figures… but able to travel and do what we love,” Sua shares.

Confronting and Conquering Remote Work Fears

The heart of the episode revolves around addressing common fears about going remote. Scott and Sua enumerate and elaborate on seven key concerns—technology, time zones, maintaining control, taxes, healthcare, scaling a business, and lifestyle changes—drawing from years of hands-on living and working in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

• Tech & Connectivity: Both acknowledge early struggles with unreliable internet in Bali, now resolved by Starlink and affordable 5G. Sua describes getting 7GB daily for under $8 a month in Vietnam—a stark contrast to Canadian rates.
• Time Zones: Managing North American clients from Asia means odd hours. Sua thrives as a night owl while Scott prefers a schedule that aligns with client availability. Adaptation is key, and naps are “critical to survival.”
• Language Barriers: Google Translate, ChatGPT, and culturally respectful language-learning foster connection. Both highlight the growing English proficiency among younger locals in tourist hotspots.
• Business Control: Tech tools like Trello, Flowfi, Calendly, and WhatsApp streamline client and team communication. Scott emphasizes the importance of agreed protocols to avoid confusion—“Pick one platform and stick to it.”
• Legal, Tax, and Visa Complexities: The hosts stress research, especially in Facebook expat groups, and consulting tax professionals before crossing borders. Each country’s approach to taxation and residency is nuanced; compliance is non-negotiable.
• Healthcare & Safety Net: Their advice: “Never travel without insurance.” Medical care abroad can be high-quality and affordable, but proper coverage is essential. Sua shares a sobering scooter accident story—a $112 ER bill in Vietnam versus financial ruin without coverage.
• Scaling and Delegation: Building systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is vital. Trusting a virtual assistant (VA) with routine tasks liberates owners for high-value work: “If you hate it or shouldn’t be doing it, get a VA.” Scott illustrates this with growth stories from clients who learned to let go.

Culture, Cost, and Quality of Life

Remote work isn’t just about working from a laptop on the beach—though that’s part of the allure. Scott and Sua highlight major lifestyle benefits:

• Cost of Living: Whether in Bali, Vietnam, or Mexico, a Western income goes much further. Meals, housing, and services can be a fraction of Canadian prices. Coffee for $1.20, full meals for $2, and affordable travel inside Asia are routine.
• Rich Local Life: The social fabric in these countries—open plazas, outdoor cafes, lively culture—is not easily found in North America, where neighbors may barely know each other. Expat groups provide community and resources.
• Banking & Money Management: They recommend multiple local bank accounts and “smart” cards like Wise to avoid fees and ease transfers. Accessing funds efficiently is as vital as earning them, particularly in countries with variable banking policies.
• Legal Work: Know the rules about remote work and local employment. Most countries are lax about foreigners working for overseas clients but can be strict about earning locally; visa and tax compliance is critical.

Building on Solid Ground

What sets this episode apart is its realism. Scott and Sua don’t sugarcoat the challenges: burnout from time zone mismanagement, bureaucratic headaches, and the discipline required for successful delegation. Yet they make clear that the rewards—autonomy, diversity, adventure—can be life-changing if approached with intention and respect for local laws.

At its core, “The Fantastic Voyage” is about more than escape: it’s a blueprint for reimagining work, wealth, and well-being in a borderless world. For anyone wondering, “Could I really work from anywhere?” this episode answers with a resounding, practical yes.

Final Thought:

The freedom to work anywhere is not about evading responsibility but embracing new ones—with planning, respect, and openness, digital nomadism offers not just a job change, but a lifestyle transformation.

Book a call with Sua or Scott if you want to learn more about their logistical playbooks and property ventures. Or just get inspired to take your first small step toward the world beyond your office window.

Statistics

• Mexico has seen a 30% decrease in employee turnover rates due to the flexibility offered by remote work arrangements.
• Over 65% of remote workers in Bali report increased job satisfaction compared to their office-based counterparts.
• The adoption of remote work in Mexico has led to a 50% increase in participation from underrepresented groups in the workforce.
• Surveys indicate that 80% of remote employees in Vietnam, Bali, and Mexico prefer continuing remote work post-pandemic.

External Links

• Bali for Digital Nomads provides insights into Bali's infrastructure and lifestyle that attract remote professionals worldwide.
• Remote Work Opportunities in Mexico highlights the best cities and sectors for remote workers looking to thrive in Mexico.
• Best Practices for Remote Work shares strategies for maintaining productivity and work-life balance while working remotely.
• Growth of Remote Work examines the factors contributing to the surge in remote work across various regions.

How To Enhance Your Remote Work Skills for Success in Mexico

Enhancing your remote work skills is essential for success in Mexico’s dynamic market. Focus on developing strong digital literacy, including proficiency in essential software and collaboration tools commonly used by remote teams. Improve your communication skills by practicing clear and concise virtual interactions, which are vital for effective teamwork and client relations. Time management is another critical skill—learn to prioritize tasks and manage your schedule efficiently to meet deadlines consistently. Additionally, cultivate adaptability by staying open to new technologies and evolving work practices. Building a robust professional network through online communities and local events can also provide support and opportunities for growth. By continuously developing these key skills, you can excel as a remote worker in Mexico.

Start Your Remote Work Adventure Today

Transform the way you work by choosing a destination that energizes and motivates you. Vietnam, Bali, and Mexico offer unique environments that make work feel like an exciting journey rather than a routine task. From morning breezes to evening explorations, every day presents new opportunities and experiences. Begin this transformative chapter by visiting escapetomexiconow.com and start your remote adventure now.