Have Remote Work, Will Travel
Increasingly, jobs that were previously in an office are becoming remote, opening a literal world of possibilities when it comes to where we choose to be. Now, all you need is a laptop, a smartphone, and a stable Wi-Fi connection and you can make your living from anywhere. Are you a remote worker looking for a change of scenery? Check out these options for the 20 best destinations for digital nomads.
1. Spain
Spain is the number one place for digital nomads, and it's not hard to see why. Most people go to Madrid where the weather is warm most of the year and prices are more reasonable than other major European cities. You can live comfortably on a yearly salary of around $50,000.
Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash
2. Portugal
Portugal is just next to Spain in terms of geography and popularity for expats. Known for its beaches, laid-back and welcoming culture, and affordability, it's become a haven for digital nomads.
3. Mexico
Although some parts of Mexico are not recommended for travel due to violence and cartel activity, other places are fabulous hubs for remote workers. For a peaceful atmosphere with amazing weather and beaches, digital nomads flock to Tulum. For action and more of a cultural experience, Mexico City is the place.
4. Japan
For adventurous nomads who are looking for something really different, Japan is the place. Living costs are high, but the amazing food, cultural exposure, vibrant cities, and natural beauty of this country are unparalleled.
5. Netherlands
Everyone who visits Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and boathouses, falls in love with it, so it's no surprise many decide to move there. The Netherlands is known for offering a high quality of life, a friendly culture, and a reasonable cost of living.
6. Malta
Although this small Mediterranean nation can be hard to find accommodation in, those who are lucky enough to do so get to live in one of the most beautiful places in Europe, known for its amazing weather and pristine, turquoise waters. Plus, they'll likely save money as Malta is about 20 percent cheaper to live in than the USA.
7. Estonia
Estonia is a popular destination for thrifty expats because it's one of the cheapest places in Europe, with monthly rent costing over 60 percent less on average than other EU countries. However, it's important to keep in mind that it's situated far north so winters are long and harsh with incredibly few hours of sunlight.
8. Malaysia
This South Asian country is known for its welcoming and safe culture, warm weather, and low cost of living compared to Western nations, making it a perfect destination for expats. Kuala Lumpur, the modern capital, offers many of the same creature comforts you'd find in Western nations for a fraction of the price.
Patrick Langwallner on Unsplash
9. Taiwan
In addition to offering breathtaking natural scenery, Taiwan is known for its friendly culture, safety, and affordability. What's more, the country has top-notch healthcare and a national health insurance plan that covers expats.
Vernon Raineil Cenzon on Unsplash
10. Latvia
If you're done with the hustle and bustle of a major city, you might want to consider moving to Latvia. It's known for its peaceful and stress-free atmosphere. The cost of living here is also much lower than in most other European countries.
Photo by Aleksejs Bergmanis on Pexels
11. Croatia
Another popular destination for people who appreciate sunny and warm weather, Croatia's coastal cities boast beautiful beaches and temperatures that rarely dip below freezing. Accommodation can be hard to come by, though, as much of it is geared towards tourists.
12. France
Francophiles from around the world have long flocked to France for its unique culture, exceptional cuisine, and high quality of life that prioritizes work-life balance. Southern cities also offer a beautiful and warm climate, beaches, and a more laid-back atmosphere than Paris; however, expect to pay high taxes for all of these benefits.
Photo by Pierre Blaché on Pexels
13. Hungary
Hungary's low cost of living and fixed income tax rate make it attractive to expats on a budget. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the stupendous scenery, and history buffs will marvel at the wealth of medieval architecture.
14. Canada
Canada is a wealthy country with a high standard of living and a diverse culture that's welcoming to different nationalities, making it attractive to expat families. The national average cost of living is also lower than in the US, and it boasts spectacular natural landscapes.
15. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic has some of the best prices in Europe and offers a high standard of living with exceptional public transport, beautiful historic cities, and lush natural scenery. Freelancers and entrepreneurs also enjoy friendly tax rates.
16. Norway
Expats in Norway benefit from the country's amazing social services which include free education, even at the university level for international students, and generous maternity and paternity leaves for new parents. The country also has beautiful natural scenery - that is, if you can stomach the cold winters.
17. Germany
Germany is known for being safe, clean, and offering a high-quality education to foreigners at a low cost. Cities like Berlin and Frankfurt boast rich cultures with vibrant arts scenes, making them attractive hubs for young people.
Maheshkumar Painam on Unsplash
18. Vietnam
Vietnam offers a warm climate, amazing landscapes, a unique living experience, and a much lower cost of living than Western countries. However, the country's city centers are highly polluted, and earthquakes pose a constant threat.
19. Thailand
With the cost of living in the USA a whopping 117 percent higher than in Thailand, expats there can expect to save a significant amount of money. They also get to experience a high quality of life in a country known for its exceptionally friendly locals, beautiful warm beaches, and delicious cuisine.
20. Costa Rica
For expats who love hot climates, Costa Rica is the place. The country is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads because of its safety, high quality of living, and affordability. Its popularity among expats has also made it an easy place to make friends and form a community.
