Many of us are no longer tied to a real office or a single zip code, and this freedom to move around has led to an interesting spread of digital nomads, people who have found the best way to combine the mental focus of work with the physical joys of travel. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to work and travel, this guide can help you figure out where you want to live next in a world that is both confusingly big and surprisingly available to all digital nomads.
Bali, Indonesia–the tropical paradise
First, we’re going to Bali, which is almost a synonym for the digital nomad lifestyle in Southeast Asia. This island in Indonesia has beautiful beaches, great surf, and rice fields that look great on Instagram. Bali has something for everyone, whether you like the chill beach sounds of Canggu or the spiritual vibes of Ubud. Coworking spots like Dojo Bali in Canggu or Outpost in Ubud are full of people with similar goals and offer a place to work together and get ideas. The cost of living is very low, the WiFi is good enough for Zoom calls, and the people in the area are friendly. Yoga lessons, smoothie bowls, and beach parties at the end of the day? You’re right!
Tbilisi, Georgia–the off-the-beaten-path gem
Have you ever wished you could live in a super cool city that’s still a bit of a secret? Well, say hello to Tbilisi! Not only does this city have a lot of history and architecture that will blow your mind, but the Georgian government also has a special visa program to attract digital nomads. If you crave less red tape and lower taxes, that’s exactly what you can get here. Co-working places are popping up all over the city, and they often have cool features like coffee bars and rooftop terraces. When you add in the amazing local food (hello, khachapuri!) and some of the best wines in the world, you have a secret gem that is ready to be discovered.
North Carolina, USA–the up-and-coming business center
You probably didn’t expect to see a place in the U.S. on this list, did you? Well, don’t think too little of North Carolina! As a new tech hub, it has a lot of cool cities like Raleigh, which all have super-fast internet and all the comforts you could want. And what about accommodation and small luxuries you’re used to? No big deal. The features of luxury apartments in Raleigh will make you feel like you’ve made it to the big leagues. Plus, Raleigh’s art galleries, craft breweries, and music events will make you wonder why you ever thought the States are no place for digital nomads.
Chiang Mai, Thailand–the budget-friendly haven
Next on the list is Chiang Mai, which is very easy on the wallet. This Thai city is a mix of culture and ease, with temples that are hundreds of years old mixed in with modern luxuries. Co-working spaces are available, and very interesting. They are international hubs where you can meet young travelers like yourself, take workshops, and even start a new business. There are a lot of digital nomads in Chiang Mai, so it’s easy to meet up with other tourists as well. The best thing? The local shops are full of delicious Thai food, and the cost of living is so low that you can get a massage every week without going broke.
Medellin, Colombia–the city of eternal spring
Last but not least, let’s fly to Medellin, Colombia, which is called the City of Eternal Spring because the weather is so nice there. You don’t have to work inside because the weather is perfect for taking your laptop to a café with outdoor seats and working while taking in the view. Coworking spaces in Medellin have conference rooms and fast internet, but they also have active groups of both nomads and locals. After work, you can dive into the city’s lively culture, which includes salsa clubs, art installations, and coffee farms that give you a real “farm-to-cup” experience.
Our ideas about work have changed a lot. We’ve moved away from the static cubicle and toward an active global stage. But while digital nomadism gives you a lot of freedom, it also requires you to learn a new set of skills, such as how to pick places that not only inspire you but also have the infrastructure and communities you need to live a perfect life. Hopefully, you’ll find what you’re looking for in these five destinations!
