Top 11 Destinations For Digital Nomads

Indonesia

Around 2012 Bali, Indonesia began booming as a digital nomad destination. Surely gorgeous beaches are the top image that comes to mind when thinking of Bali, however there are a number of additional reasons to head to Bali when mixing work and play. Bali is big on co-working spaces that can easily be rented, offering not only reliable internet but also some human company. Some say Bali has piqued as far as the digital nomad trend, out-pricing itself.

However, Bali is the type of place where you can definitely live on a big or small budget, depending on the lifestyle choices you make. Canggu and Ubud are top spots for digital nomads, with a plethora of options to choose from as far as work-locations go.

Thailand

Thailand consistently comes in as one of the top locations for digital nomads. With cheap food, 24-hour cafes, and short-term housing rentals, it is easy to see why digital nomads consistently flock to this beautiful spot. Chiang Mai is the place to be as a digital nomad, with an abundance of co-working spaces, and the most affordable living for a Thai city. Set in the north, it is also easy on the eyes with ancient temples and natural wonders abound, and with perks such as free yoga sessions throughout the city.

If you’re seeking to be truly off the beaten path, look to Koh Lanta which is truly an island paradise. Expect to pay about 300 USD per month for housing in Koh Lanta. Do note if you can’t stand the heat and humidity, Thailand might not be for you. Additionally, English is not widely spoken, so do brush up on a little Thai before hitting the road.

Mexico

Mexico is a diverse country with something to explore in every pocket. However, top destinations for digital nomads here include Mexico City and Oaxaca; two very different places, each with their own appeal. Mexico City is steeped in history and architecture, and is currently blossoming as a hub for start-ups and launching businesses. Though it has a notorious reputation for being unsafe, most places in Mexico City can be navigated with some proper street-smarts.

Mexico City’s cost of living varies; housing can be mid-range, but street food is always on the cheap. Oaxaca is the opposite of being in the city, and offers a beachy-vibe to soak up while working. Puerto Escondido is the top place to work in Oaxaca, and is easy to access with a major airport nearby servicing daily flights from L.A. and New York. Enjoy the waves and sun, while you work away. Playa del Carmen is an additional Mexican beach town that digital nomads love, and is known for being especially beloved by foodies.

Portugal

If being in Europe is desirable for you, consider Portugal which has all the charm of other popular European countries at nearly half the cost. With friendly locals, Porto, Portugal, is one option to consider. Affordable but delicious foods and wines are all at your fingertips in Portugal. Lisbon is a bit larger in size (actually about double the size of Porto), and is another wonderful choice when looking for your WiFi hook up, as well as high walk-ability factors.

Numerous options exist for work spaces including cafes, luxurious office spaces, and something called “Creative Artistic Hubs” meant to help inspire the creative muse. Portugal does have a proper winter that usually looks wet and cold, which might set some digital nomads looking elsewhere. Certainly more expensive than Asian countries, you’ll still get a lot of bang for your buck with nightlife, beaches, food, and accessibility to the rest of Europe.

Vietnam

Ho Chi Min, Vietnam, is the place to be for up and coming start-up companies, and the energy of the city right now is contagious. With free WiFi circulating throughout the city, you’ll never be disconnected from your work. Cost of living is quite reasonable at about 450 USD/month for an apartment, and you’ll never have to spend too much on food. It’s easy to find street food for as little as 1 USD a meal. Somewhat of an adventure, Ho Chi Min is vibrant and pulsing; perhaps the vibe you’re looking for to bang out some important work while also being immersed in an incredible culture. Additionally, Ho Chi Min offers many mixers for digital nomads, making it easy to make friends in this Vietnamese city.

Spain

Enchanting Spain barely needs an explanation. However, sunny days, fabulous food and drink, and livability factors make Spain a great option when hitting the road. Though Spain is not the cheapest option (cost of living per month averages about 1,600-2,000 USD), it is attractive for a variety of reasons. Tenerife, Valencia, and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria are all top destinations for digital nomads, each with unique charm.

Head to the beach or hit up historic spots to get down to a day’s work. Being able to bike or walk to many locations makes Spain approachable, and there are many other expats in Spain, so you will not go at it alone. Rich in natural scenery and culture, Spain is a great choice for those who adore sunshine in the Old World.

Colombia

Medellin, Colombia, is at the top of the list for digital nomads with a growing start up scene, ample WiFi, and an incredible culture. Within the same time zone as central North America, it’s easy to do business with hubs such as Chicago while abroad. For easily less than 1,000 USD a month, bask in a glorious Airbnb apartment, as well as taking advantage of cooking at home (eating out can get pricey). Dancing, hiking, and a temperate year-round climate are additional reasons to love Medellin.

Medellin’s safety is ever-improving, and continues to rise in popularity for solo female travelers. With many co-working spaces popping up, you don’t have to be isolated when working, and may even make some interesting local and digital nomad friends while in Colombia.

Estonia

It may seem that Estonia is off-the-beaten path, however when it comes to the digital world, Estonia is world-renowned. Known as the “world’s most advanced digital society,” major contributions such as the creation of Skype and TransferWise were launched here. Estonia is also a great place to head, as it recently rolled out the first e-residency, which offers access to Estonia’s digital business environment.

You can find the application online at Estonia’s government website, and it is an incredible opportunity to be part of the EU’s online community. As far as actually living and working in Estonia, it’s easy to get work done with a vast net of coverage including throughout rural areas.

Argentina

South America offers not one but two incredible choices when roaming as a digital nomad. Argentina, especially the capital city, Buenos Aires, is a dream for those who adore stunning architecture, a vibrant nightlife, and endless neighborhoods to explore. Buenos Aires definitely provides numerous cafes to work in, all with WiFi.

It’s also the type of place where surviving on a shoe-string is possible, though certainly not the only choice; mid-to-high end lifestyles are all available here. Come to Buenos Aires to get some work done, all while learning how to dance, indulging in delicious food, and taking in live sports.

Hungary

Last but not least is Hungary, whose gorgeous Budapest is known as one of the prettiest cities in Europe. Hungary is a steal as it offers the European lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of other Western European countries. Safe,

Budapest is a great choice for those looking for a unique experience that does not require you to be on your guard. It’s easy to walk to everywhere, work at a cafe or in co-working spaces that continue to open throughout the city. Rent is affordable at about 600 USD for a 1-bedroom in a central location.

Dreaming of the digital nomad life

If this list hasn’t whet your appetite for the digital nomad lifestyle, I don’t know what will. From beaches to quaint European streets, there is a digital nomad dream of every variety. Head to your locale of choice, or see how many you can cross off. With the digital nomad lifestyle, it’s easy to work and play while discovering the world.