At first glance, it may appear that digital nomads live an easygoing lifestyle, at least from common employees’ perspective. However, this is not necessarily the case.
Digital nomadism isn’t for people without savings as there are many circumstances in different countries first-time comers aren’t familiar with. It’s not just taxes, either. There may be hidden costs and unexpected developments.
If you have money to spare, the UK is probably the best place to run a business from. Ask expats living in the UK! The entire city-state is determined to serve its people, making even the most difficult of endeavors an easy task.
However, some countries are offering different incentives to attract digital nomads, including special visa programs and tax incentives. There’s usually a minimum monthly wage requirement, which may be problematic for freelancers with no long-term contracts.
Some digital nomads continually travel from country to country but this is not so common a practice. The majority of these people first relocate somewhere, establish a sole proprietorship, build a base of returning clients, and only then start traveling.
How to choose where to start should be the first major question.
Normally, there are three factors to consider:
- Cost-effectiveness
- Internet access
- Local lifestyle
Keeping these factors in mind, let’s go through some of the most favorite destinations to consider.
1. Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia is one of the most cost-efficient countries in the world. Backpackers know this fact well but not all digital nomads to-be do. Georgia lies on the crossroads between Europe and Asia; it borders Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Because of its location, the country provides a blend of influences.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
When people think of Thailand, the first thing that comes to mind is the country’s rich cuisine. The next thing is the vista (Phi Phi Island, anyone?). For some reason, Bangkok is usually the first choice of digital nomads, but we beg to differ.
There’s a hidden gem you simply must discover: Chiang Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you’re looking for tranquility, Chiang Mai is the place! The city is a study in history: pristine nature, ancient temples, and bustling city life all come together in Chiang Mai. In addition, it is considerably cheaper than Bangkok!
3. Canggu, Bali
Bali is one of the best-loved destinations for similar reasons Thailand is. The country is stunning but it is not for digital nomads on a tight budget. Countries with stunning seasides tend to be rather expensive.
Another downside is that Bali doesn’t permit the entry of pets, with no exceptions.
Since 2012, Bali has witnessed the digital nomad boom due to the incentives it offers. Canggu is among the most popular destination thanks to its bustling city life and cheap shared offices.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City has long been one of the favorite destinations for expats, freelancers, and digital nomads. The business climate is flourishing, with startups popping up out of nowhere all the time. The city also happens to be the oldest capital city in the Americas, offering many memorable experiences.
5. San José, Costa Rica
Costa Rica's digital nomad visa was announced in October of 2021 and after many vicissitudes, it finally became fully available in July 2022.
International residents now can work remotely by extending their 90-day tourist visa to a full year, with the option to renew for an additional year.
Americans living in Costa Rica are numerous. Should you wish to travel to this stunning country, make sure to connect with the local expats. Capital San José is rather popular but there are many other cities to experience!
6. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina is another popular spot for digital nomads. Latino peoples are traditionally hospitable and the country itself — cost-efficient and enjoyable.
The capital Buenos Aires is a bustling city of some 15.6 million people, which offers all kinds of entertainment venues, but that’s not all!
The city also offers affordable working spaces as many digital nomads will tell you. If you like subtropical climate, Buenos Aires just might be the place for you!
7. Medellin, Colombia
Medellin, Colombia has invested heavily in technology and infrastructure, making it an ideal place for residents and digital nomads alike.
The city is affordable for digital nomads from the States and offers a range of benefits including beaches, mountains and a vivid nightlife.
8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Southeast Asia has always been attractive to Europeans and Americans but some destinations are more popular than others.
Ho Chi Minh City is rarely the first choice of rich Westerners exploring this corner of the world, but digital nomads know better!
Vietnam is one of the most attractive countries to digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, beautiful vistas, and intriguing culture.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a beautiful city. It’s been attracting foreigners from rich Western countries for decades. However, due to this trend (and also due to some other conundrums going on in Europe presently), the city has become rather expensive for average Joes.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is another beautiful European city to be explored. Hungary is different from its neighboring countries in that it has a unique culture for the area. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful European capitals and is cheaper than other popular European destinations.
The city offers a range of cafes and office spaces and has one of the lowest tax rates for freelancers, digital nomads, and businesses — only 10%!
The Main Catch
As you can see, there are plenty of choices for digital nomads and this is just the tip of the iceberg!
However, one huge item not to be overlooked is health insurance. EU countries, for example, don’t favor digital nomads from outside the block. They require substantial sums to be paid in advance for health insurance, making them rather expensive for many non-Europeans. Unless you’re filthy rich: in that case, you’re more than welcome to come and spend your wealth in any way you see fit. More or less, the entire pro-Western block is turning into such a place, so better look into Asia and Latin America first!
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