As a digital nomad, you have the freedom to travel all over the world and make money, as long as you have internet access. There was a point in time where this freedom was a little more of a hassle than it was worth. Imagine trying to travel to China to try and do some freelance work and have to tote around a heavy computer with tons of cables. Thank goodness for innovative technology with the invention of laptops and wifi. Those days can all be put behind us now. Today, to be a digital nomad, all you have to do is decide to do it.
As you already know, one of the best parts of being a digital nomad is the fact that you can earn an income doing whatever you want. Most people will use the web hosting platform shopify.com to build an e-commerce store and sell products online, but you also have the option to offer services as well. According to digitalnomadpack.com, you can be a tutor, a virtual assistant, a freelance writer, or a remote worker. All of those are great perks of being a digital nomad, but the best aspect has the freedom to work from anywhere!
One thing to keep in mind is you have to do your research on the locations you choose to work in. Sure, you have the freedom to work from anywhere, but you have to look at a few factors about that country because going to the wrong state can negatively impact your work or business.
Some countries have gorgeous cities, and you’ve always wanted to go there. Still, you also have to understand some states don’t have the internet speed or access you need to earn income, nor do they have the ideal environment or legislation, for that matter, that’s necessary for digital nomads. Certain parts of Russia and South Africa are terrible locations for digital nomads.
One issue digital nomads run into on occasion is the issue of visas. Typically a digital nomad will travel and work under a tourist visa. It’s usually fine to work under a tourist visa as long as you’re not taking a job away from a local. According to the Interaction Design Foundation, local authorities will look past it. Still, the moment you get into some trouble working under your visa, you can incur fines, jail time, and even deportation. Just make sure to do proper research on your destination’s laws and customs to determine if it’s the right place for you to work and live.
So remember, there’s nothing to becoming a digital nomad except actually deciding to do it. Once you’ve decided to become one, you can start your nomadic journeys! But before you hop on a plane and travel the world, first, be sure to do your research on what countries will benefit you most as a digital nomad.
To save you some of the leg work and get your journey off to a good start, take a look at some of the best countries to live and work as a digital nomad.
1. Spain
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Not only is Spain one of the top 10 European countries to visit by Earth & World, but it’s also one of the best countries to live and work in for digital nomads! Spain is a country full of daily inspirations. You could be walking to a local coffee shop or commuting a short distance, and you’ll be in awe of the beautiful landscapes, the breathtaking architecture, and the overall rich history you’re intaking.
Not only is the environment captivating, but the country is leading the way for upcoming small business owners and freelancers every day. Not only will you be able to find co-working and co-living spaces throughout the country, but you’ll also be able to find digital nomad communities there as well, all you have to do is search for them.
2. Costa Rica
Embracing the digital nomad lifestyle is an enriching journey, and Costa Rica offers an ideal destination. The country boasts an affordable cost of living, making it a paradise for budget-conscious nomads. The food, accommodations, and travel experiences come at prices that won’t break the bank.
Costa Rica’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a playground for nature lovers. From exploring lush rainforests to surfing azure waves, the opportunities for adventure are endless. But the nomad life isn’t just about play; work is equally essential. Thankfully, Costa Rica offers stable internet connectivity, facilitating remote work without hitches which is ideal if you’re employed by companies such as Wishup and similar outlets.
One of the significant advantages of Costa Rica for digital nomads is its vibrant community and networking opportunities. You can interact with like-minded individuals, share insights, or simply enjoy the social scene. Costa Rica’s emphasis on “pura vida” or “pure life” encourages work-life balance and wellness, promoting a healthier and more satisfying nomadic lifestyle.
3. Mexico
Mexico’s rich culture, warm climate, and affordability make it a haven for digital nomads. The country is known for its vibrant traditions, history, and mouth-watering cuisine, offering a feast for the senses and the soul.
Cities like Mexico City and Playa del Carmen are thriving hubs for remote work. With affordable living costs, robust internet connectivity, and an array of co-working spaces, these cities are drawing digital nomads from around the globe.
But the allure of Mexico isn’t confined to work alone. A vibrant digital nomad community offers networking opportunities, companionship, and a shared understanding of the joys and challenges of nomadic life. Furthermore, exploring local cuisine and historical sites provides immersive experiences, enriching your time in this captivating country.
In essence, both Costa Rica and Mexico offer unique yet fulfilling experiences for digital nomads, striking the perfect balance between work and leisure, connectivity and exploration, and community and solitude.
4. Thailand
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Why is Thailand so great for digital nomads? Well, its cost of living plays a significant role in all of it. You know that as a digital nomad, you work as little or as often as you want, but to earn an income, you have to work. Still, because Thailand’s cost of living is so affordable, you don’t have to stress yourself trying to do as much as possible to pay your rent or accommodations.
Thailand also has lots of house sitting opportunities as well, so instead of paying rent at all, you can get paid to house sit and work on your online business as well. House sitting in itself is payment enough, allowing you not to have to pay for a hotel or hostel.
Then there’s the food. No more ordering Thai food because when you move to Thailand, you’re just ordering food! Not only is the food in Thailand delicious, but it’s authentic and affordable! The food and price of food alone is a digital nomad’s dream come true!
5. Vietnam
Vietnam isn’t just great for digital nomads because of its rich culture and history. It’s also great because of its better transportation system, affordable living, and its excellent communications infrastructure. Those aspects alone make Vietnam’s capital, Ho Chi Minh, the fastest growing cities in Southeast Asia.
In addition to its affordable living and fast-growing economy, Vietnam is also one of the friendliest countries as well. As a digital nomad traveling from country to country, there are going to be plenty of places where you’re not going to know or understand the language. Some locals get impatient with that, and some don’t, but in Vietnam, the people are very hospitable and friendly.
Their positive attitude and welcoming hospitality will help you overcome the stress of culture shock. You’ll be blending in with the locals before you know it!
6. Czech Republic
Image source: theculturetrip.com
The Czech Republic is notorious for being a hub among entrepreneurs, freelancers, and, of course, digital nomads. Much like Spain, the Czech Republic has fantastic public wifi and tons of co-working spaces. Here, coffee houses are much more than just coffee houses. they’re a commonplace for networking and building and establishing positive professional relationships.
7. Hungary
Image source: cnn.com
Not only is Hungary a fast-growing country, but from an affordability standpoint, Hungary is a digital nomad’s dream. Did you know that you can rent an apartment in the city’s center for around $500 to $600 a month, give or take? Because of its affordable cost of living, there are tons of digital nomads and like-minded individuals that live there. So if feelings of loneliness ever overwhelm you during your stay, check out the digital nomad communities in the area. It’s pretty significant.
