The term Digital nomads – which has grown very popular recently- refers to those who work remotely while traveling to various locations. But how do they choose the best destinations and based on what conditions?
There are a few key criteria that digital nomads consider when choosing destinations:
- Internet connectivity: Digital nomads rely on the internet to do their work, so it’s important that the destination has reliable and fast internet access.
- Cost of living: Digital nomads often choose destinations with a lower cost of living, as they may not have a traditional job with a steady income.
- Visas and immigration: Some areas are more welcoming to digital nomads and offer visa options that allow for long-term stays, while others have stricter immigration policies. To learn more about Visas.
- Cultural experiences: Many digital nomads are drawn to destinations with rich cultural experiences and opportunities to immerse themselves in new cultures.
- Safety: Safety is always a concern, especially for solo travelers, so digital nomads may prioritize places with a low crime rate and good overall safety record.
- Community: Digital nomads often look for destinations with a strong community of other nomads, as this can provide a sense of support and connection while they are on the road.
- Work opportunities: Digital nomads may also consider cities with a strong economy and good opportunities for finding freelance or remote work.
1. Madeira, Portugal
Madeira is a beautiful island city located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Portugal. It has a warm and mild climate year-round, making it a popular destination for travelers and digital nomads. The city has a rich culture and history, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its lush forests and rugged coastline. Madeira is also home to a vibrant tech community, with many coworking spaces and cafes that offer fast and reliable internet, making it an ideal location for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking to explore the island’s natural beauty, immerse yourself in its culture, or work from a picturesque location, Madeira has something to offer for everyone.
Pros:
- Weather
- The nomad community
- Lots of English speakers
- Diverse nature
Cons:
- Humidity
Coworking spaces:
Pro tip:
For longer than six months, lawyers can assist you in applying for non-tourist visas like Portugal’s Golden Visa and D7 resident card for a decent fee.
2. Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand
Ko Pha Ngan is a small island city located in the Gulf of Thailand, near the larger island of Ko Samui. It is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, with the famous Full Moon Party held on Haad Rin Beach every month. The island has a laid-back atmosphere and a strong sense of community, making it a popular destination for digital nomads. There are many coworking spaces and cafes on the island that offer fast and reliable internet, allowing digital nomads to work comfortably and productively. In addition to its beautiful beaches, the island is also home to a number of natural attractions, including waterfalls and forests, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Affordable
- A night market
- Great coworking options
Cons:
- The island has no airport, a boat trip is needed.
Coworking places:
Pro tip:
AIS Fibre / 3BB are the best internet providers
3. Bucharest, Romania
Located in the southeastern part of Romania. It is a vibrant and dynamic capital city with a rich culture and history. Bucharest is a popular destination for digital nomads, with a growing number of coworking spaces and cafés that provide fast and reliable internet. The city is also home to a number of universities, which means there is a large community of young professionals and entrepreneurs. In addition to its thriving tech scene, Bucharest also has a number of beautiful parks and gardens, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a day of work. Overall, Bucharest is an attractive destination for digital nomads, offering a good balance of work and play.
Pros:
- Walkability
- Favorable business environment
- High education
- Family friendly
Cons:
- Not LGBTQ+ friendly
Coworking spaces:
4. Mexico City
Mexico City is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and growing startup scene. The city offers a great balance between the hustle and bustle of urban life and the laid-back atmosphere of a tropical destination. It is also known for its rich history and delicious cuisine, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food markets to explore. Additionally, the city has a large expat community, making it easy for digital nomads to connect with like-minded individuals.
Pros:
- Convenient transport
- Easy to meet new people
- Food
- Multicultural
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Nightlife
Cons:
- Elevation sickness : 2250m above sea
- High Levels of petty crime in certain neighborhood
Coworking spaces:
5. Canggu, Bali:
Canggu is a coastal town in Bali, Indonesia, known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, vibrant expat community, and great weather. The town has a growing number of co-working spaces and cafes that offer reliable internet and a comfortable place to work. In addition to its many cafes and restaurants, Canggu is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a day of work.
Pros:
- Scenery (one of the most beautiful places in the planet)
- Friendly
- Nightlife
- Safety
- Lots of fun & activities
Cons:
- Slow Wi-Fi
- Too social
Coworking spaces:
Pro tip:
Learn some local lingo, a few basic words of Bahasa Indonesia will take you a long way in Bali.
6. Gran Canaria, Canary islands
The Canary Islands are a group of Spanish islands located off the coast of Africa. They are a popular destination for digital nomads due to their year-round warm climate, beautiful beaches, and affordable cost of living. The islands are known for their unique blend of Spanish and African cultures, with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore. Not to forget the comfortable places and the reliable internet to work. Overall, the Canary Islands offer digital nomads a great combination of relaxation, adventure, and productivity.
Pros:
- Nomad communities
- Spacious & not crowded
- Safety
- Warm all year around
- Good quality of life
Cons:
- Few local English speakers
Coworking spaces:
Pro tip:
Avoid drinking tap water.
7. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan and a popular destination for remote workers. The city is known for its bustling night markets, skyscrapers, and temples, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Taipei has a growing startup scene and a large expat community, which facilitates for remote workers to connect with like-minded individuals. The city is also known for its affordable cost of living and great public transportation system, making it easy to get around and explore. Along with its many cafés and restaurants, Taipei also offers a variety of outdoor activities and cultural attractions, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a day of work.
Pros:
- Good weather
- Easy to do business
- Friendly
- Easy to find new people
Cons:
- Not much to do
Coworking spaces:
8. Dubai
Dubai is a vibrant and modern city that has become a popular destination for remote workers. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, reliable internet connectivity, and a thriving business environment, it offers a great opportunity for those looking to work remotely. The city also offers a high standard of living, with comfortable and affordable housing options, world-class health care, and a wide range of entertainment and recreational activities. Additionally, its tax-free status makes it an attractive location for those looking to save on their income taxes. Overall, Dubai is an excellent choice for remote workers who want to enjoy a high-quality lifestyle while staying connected to the global economy.
Pros:
- Very safe
- Modern
- Hospitality & friendliness
- Tax free
Cons:
- Can be too hot
Coworking spaces:
9. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul has gained popularity as a travel destination for digital nomads because of its extensive cultural heritage and history. It provides a unique blend of the old and new, thereby making it the ideal spot for those looking to work and explore simultaneously. The city has a thriving digital economy, with a large selection of co-working spaces, cafes, and other facilities that cater to the needs of remote workers. It is also well-connected, with reliable internet connectivity and easy access to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Likewise, the cost of living in Istanbul is relatively low, making it an affordable option for digital nomads. Overall, Istanbul is an excellent choice for those looking to combine work and travel in an exciting and dynamic city.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Rich culture
- Good food
- Diversity
Cons:
- Language barrier
- Few digital nomads
- Very humid
- Hard to get around/lots of traffic
Coworking spaces:
10. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is a great destination for remote workers, with an affordable cost of living compared to other European cities, high-quality infrastructure including reliable internet and good public transportation, and a rich history and culture with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. The city also offers a mild climate with four distinct seasons, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities and events throughout the year. Additionally, its central location within Europe makes it easy to travel to other countries for work or leisure. Sofia also has a strong education system and a vibrant startup ecosystem, providing access to a well-trained workforce and resources to support the growth of small businesses and online ventures. The population is welcoming and diverse, and the city offers a high quality of life with a wide range of recreational activities.
Pros:
- Non-Schengen Nation
- Great value & affordability
- Active coworking scene
- Good quality of life
- Many things to do
- Lots of nature activities to do nearby
Cons:
- Lots of smokers
- Language barrier
Coworking spaces:
In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right destination for your nomadic lifestyle. Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or simply looking for a change of scenery, there are plenty of destinations around the world that can accommodate your needs and help you to achieve your goals. So why wait? Start exploring your options and find the perfect place to call home, at least for a little while.
Blog by Imad El Kartit