As we become technically more advanced and more flexible with how we think about work, it’s believed that one in three employees will be working remotely in the future.
For the 35 million digital nomads currently roaming the globe and typically residing in a location for three to nine months, there are multiple considerations that are often underrated by those who are yet to adopt this lifestyle.
While you may have secured accommodation for a few weeks, meeting kindred spirits and finding a solid work space with high-speed internet is paramount to access a state of flow. There’s also a strong likelihood that you’ll want to spread your wings after some time and know that there’s another destination closeby to visit.
These are the world’s best destinations for digital nomads based on cost of living, weather and lifestyle, as well as internet connectivity and availability of work spaces.
Lisbon
The Portuguese capital is renowned for its year-round warm weather, rich culture and affordable dining options compared with most other European cities. In one of the many tascas tucked away from the main tourist areas you’ll be able to experience home-style Portuguese cuisine. Whether you’re intending to make the city your home or enjoy a short workcation, Lisbon boasts a well-connected transport system and flexible rates for co-working spaces. Plus, you’ll find it easy to mingle with Lisbon’s 17,400 other remote workers through Meetup and Facebook events.
Cost of Living
As a single person, the average living cost in Lisbon is an estimated US$610 a month and renting in the city centre is around US$930 a month for a one bedroom apartment compared to just over US$644 on the outskirts. For shorter stays, the average amount for a one-bedroom apartment through Airbnb is around US$58 a night. If you’re planning to take public transport you can expect to pay US$43 for a monthly pass. This is considerably more affordable than European cities like London where rent can be up to US$2,230 a month in the city centre and where other expenses, including groceries, consumer goods and dining out are generally higher.
Weather and Lifestyle
Lisbon has 350 hours of sunshine during July – the hottest month of the year. Compared with Berlin, which has around 230 sunshine hours in the same month, Lisbon is clearly the destination for sun lovers. December is generally the wettest month while January is the coldest time to stay in Lisbon, as the temperature drops to an average of eight degrees at night. The city’s mild climate provides the best conditions to explore street art, wander through the historic Alfama district, view a breathtaking sunset from one of many vantage points or visit a nearby beach.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Saldanha is an upmarket leafy neighbourhood teeming with inviting co-working spaces offering daily, weekly or monthly memberships (usually between US$100–200 a month). However, many cafes also offer wi-fi for those looking to enjoy a cup of bica – espresso coffee – while catching up on some industry news. This can cost as little as US$0.54.
Bangkok
With its tropical climate, vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, Bangkok is among the top most visited cities in the world and it’s also a popular destination for digital nomads. Located in the centre of Southeast Asia, travelling to neighbouring countries – Vietnam, Hong Kong, Bali and Malaysia – is a great incentive, as flights can be very affordable. Why not break up your work routine with a new setting?
Cost of Living
For digital nomads Bangkok offers a variety of accommodation options: Airbnb’s, hotels and hostels with high-speed wi-fi. While prices vary, you can find hotels for as little as US$40 a night, or if you’re planning to stay longer, a one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city can be around US$560 a month. However, you may be required to obtain a work permit depending on the kind of work you undertake as a digital nomad. You can find popular Thai dishes for US$2 and reasonably priced alcoholic beverages compared to western cities, and if you’re planning to use public transport the BTS Skytrain is evidence for the city’s developing infrastructure.
Weather and Lifestyle
Bangkok has a wet season (May to October) and a dry season (January to May) with September being the most humid month of the year. Given that the average annual humidity percentage is 73 per cent, it may be best to avoid the wet season. Despite the city’s hazardous roads and poor air quality, it’s known for its nightlife, markets and shopping centres, including the CentralWorld – the largest mall in Southeast Asia. Bangkok is also home to more than 400 wats (temples) worth exploring.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Numerous public places in Bangkok offer free wi-fi (approximately 450,000) with a good internet speed. Purchasing a Thai SIM card or a phone with a local SIM card, if your phone is locked, are good options. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer or executive nomad, some of Bangkok’s top co-working spaces include Growth Cafe & Co, Cluster Office, The Work Loft and Poolsub Space.
Thessaloniki
Frequently overlooked by the capital Athens, Thessaloniki is a charming city in northern Greece with a rugged landscape dotted with forest reserves. With an international airport, the city is also well connected.
Cost of Living
With the exception of eating out, groceries and rent are generally higher in Bangkok compared to Thessaloniki, where you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for around US$430 a month or a one-bedroom Airbnb apartment for US$34 a night. Buses are the only public transport option and for those late nights when intending to travel in more comfort consider using the Beat app – the equivalent to Uber.
Weather and Lifestyle
If you plan to avoid the cold it’s best not to arrive in Thessaloniki between December to March when the temperature can fall as low as five degree celsius. On the other hand, July and August are considered the best months for swimming with an average temperature of 25 degrees celsius. Thessaloniki is a port city with a waterfront that is best visited at sunset to enjoy the serene atmosphere and oceanic view. There are also plenty of nearby beaches to dip your toes into during the summer. And, while the city might not be compatible for shopping addicts, foodies will appreciate the Greek foods to be found at the Modiano Market. The city additionally boasts a great selection of vegan and vegetarian options for health conscious nomads.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Many of Thessaloniki’s cafes offer free wi-fi with reliable internet. However, if you’re looking for a co-working space, i4G Pro, Coho and Office Club are a few of the options. At Coho the daily rate is around US$16 or approximately US$160 euros a month if you plan to stay longer.
Dallas
With one of the busiest international airports and more than 30 Fortune 500 companies, Dallas is the centre of commercial activity in Texas. It’s home to a range of meetup groups and festivals, particularly for young professionals who are attracted to the city for career opportunities and reasonable living costs. If you appreciate diversity in all its forms, Dallas may be your ultimate digital nomad destination with one of the biggest LGBTIQA+ communities in the US.
Cost of Living
Living expenses, including rent, are higher in Dallas compared with Lisbon where you can expect to pay US$1670 a month for a one bedroom apartment in the heart of the city compared to US$930. Public transport is also double the price for a monthly pass. For those looking to stay longer than a week or two, in which Airbnb would suffice, Anytime is a accommodation platform specifically designed for digital nomads who prefer a more flexible contract.
Weather and Lifestyle
It’s not uncommon for summer temperatures in July and August to reach 40 degrees celsius in Dallas, which is why autumn (September – November) provides milder temperatures without the thunderstorms that occur during spring. However, winters are generally mild compared to European cities. If you’re looking to meet other digital nomads in Dallas you may want to consider joining Cocohub. Some of the city’s top attractions include the Dallas Arts District and the State Fair of Texas, which is the nation’s longest running fair in September. Arguably the best way to enjoy autumn in Dallas is through river kayaking at White Rock Lake, Trinity River or Oak Point Park.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Halcyon, Sip Stir Coffee House, Toasted Coffee + Kitchen and Cultivar Coffee Roasting Co are a few of the best cafes that offer wi-fi in Dallas. However, the Texan city also has plenty of co-working spaces available: Common Desk, Industrious Dallas, Genius Den and Nod Coworking.
San Antonio
Renowned for its scenic River Walk, annual festivals and shopping complexes, San Antonio is a Texan city with a strong Hispanic influence. It’s additionally home to the largest Mexican market in the US and authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you enjoy dining out, outdoor adventures, dancing or developing your career, San Antonio is teeming with meetup groups that cater to a variety of interests. As a former Spanish colonial outpost the city has a unique flair to it and an international scene worth investigating.
Cost of Living
Slightly more affordable than other US cities, the average price to rent an Airbnb property is US$214 a night or if you plan to stay for a month or longer Anyplace caters to remote workers who require high-speed internet and a fully furnished apartment to unleash your most productive self. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around US$15 and a monthly travel pass is US$38.
Weather and Lifestyle
San Antonio has hot, long and humid summers with July being the sunniest month of the year with more than 300 hours of sunshine. The winters are generally short and mild, rarely falling below zero degrees. The average temperature during the coldest month (January) is 17 degrees celsius. As a melting pot of different nationalities the importance of food, art and culture is expressed in the diverse dining options, art galleries, theatres and festivals. Despite its rapid growth in recent years, the city has a relaxed vibe. To experience this undertake the 24 kilometre famous River Walk or a guided tour on a river barge.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
If you’re searching for a venue with reliable high-speed internet, Merit Coffee, Barrio Barista, Olmos Perk, Local Coffee and PRESS Coffee rank high on Google according to workability and each offers complimentary wi-fi. San Antonio has a range of co-working spaces with memberships from US$50 a month at Geekdom or Space on the Fly offers a daily rate (US$30). Venture X, The Impact Guild and Venture Point StoneOak are for those with a slightly higher budget.
Seville
Renowned for its Moorish architecture and easy access to Ibiza, Barcelona, Cordoba, Granada and Portugal, Seville (Andalusia’s capital) is the ideal location for digital nomads who are keen to escape a gloomy European winter. Compared with other Spanish cities, Seville is also more affordable, but slightly higher than Valencia.
Cost of Living
In Seville, a one-bedroom apartment is approximately US$665 a month, however outside the city centre accommodation is considerably less. As the landscape is relatively flat, biking is a great way to commute with bike rental services available that have short and long-term options.
Weather and Lifestyle
Seville has a Mediterranean climate with an average temperature of 11 degrees celsius during winter and 29 degrees during the summer months. However, throughout July and August temperatures can climb to nearly 40, which can be unpleasant without a sea breeze in sight. A day trip to Cadiz via train or a weekend in Malaga are destinations worth exploring for digital nomad swimmers and surfers.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
If you plan to get some light work done while sipping on a cup of coffee and taking in Seville’s relaxed atmosphere, Gigante Bar, Viriato and Orfeo are a few cafes where you can take advantage of free wi-fi. Some of the city’s top rated co-working spaces include Arcadia Coworking and Honei Coworking, which start from US$134 a month.
Seoul
While you’ll have to become acquainted with the South Korean Won (the local currency) and the fact that English is not typically spoken, South Korea’s capital is the centre for entrepreneurship. It’s also home to some unique culture encounters – bathhouses, temples, food markets and national parks, including the stunning Bukhansan National Park in northern Seoul.
Cost of Living
Unless you’re planning to stay for a year or longer you may want to explore apartments listed on Airbnb (from US$470 a month) or apps like dabang and jikbang where you won’t be locked into paying a security deposit. With a population of 10 million and a large urban sprawl, finding the right neighbourhood according to your preferences is important. If you prefer to be surrounded by English speakers for instance, Itaewon is likely going to pique your interest while Dongdaemun is better suited to shoppers and cultural enthusiasts.
Weather and Lifestyle
South Korea has a mild climate with four distinct seasons. During the winter the temperature can fall below zero degrees celsius while the summer months are relatively short, humid and potentially wet. Nature lovers will appreciate the spring season when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. For westerners Seoul is like stepping into another reality with endless possibilities. Firstly you’ll encounter a myriad of themed cafes, Buddhist temples and palaces. However, for those who are seeking a bit more luxe, the bathhouses and spas are a must before checking out the local fashion and street food. Finally, Seoul has an incredible nightlife characterised by karaoke, nightclubs and bars.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
South Korea is a world leader when it comes to internet speed, which is good news for digital nomads. When searching for a co-working space it’s worth exploring your options on coworker.com. While prices vary, Hive Arena and Spaces offer monthly memberships around US$200.
Sydney
While more affordable than New York, Sydney’s outdoor lifestyle and natural settings attract tourists and those seeking a healthy way of life. It’s renowned for its world-class beaches, strong economy and captivating harbour. However, alongside Paris, Zurich and Tel Aviv it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Cost of Living
Without taking rent into consideration, a single person spends an average US$1,031 a month. Depending on the location you choose, accommodation through Airbnb can range from US$70 to US$215 a night. Short-term shared accommodation can be found at flatmates.com.au and Gumtree.com.au. Buses, ferries, trains and the newly built light rail comprise the main modes of transport where you can expect to pay around US$140 a month. The good news is that the NSW government offers reduced fares on Sundays using the opal card system. The main supermarkets are Woolworths, Coles and Aldi, which are affordable alternatives to dining out.
Weather and Lifestyle
Compared to many other locations around the globe, Sydney’s climate is one of its greatest assets. Summers are usually long, hot and humid while winter days are often sunny and never reach the level of darkness and low temperatures that are true for Europe and the US. The good weather lends itself to exploring the Blue Mountains, Manly or a hike in one of the city’s many national parks. While Australia isn’t the most convenient destination for digital nomads hoping to hop onto a plane to a foreign country, New Zealand can be reached within three hours.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Some of Sydney’s inner city cafes enable wi-fi access, including Well-Connected Cafe in Glebe, Roobar in Surry Hills, Cafology in Marrickville and Legend Cyber Cafe in the central business district. In terms of co-working spaces Gravity Coworking, Work Inc, Hub Hyde Park and Your Desk are just a few among many options to choose from.
Athens
As one of the sunniest countries in Europe with the 10th longest coastline in the world, Athens is a much underrated digital nomad city. The warm weather, low cost of living and friendly laid back mentality are some of the underlying reasons why remote workers would find the capital of Greece appealing. However, it’s important to be aware of the slow internet speeds and traffic congestion before rushing to book a flight to Athens.
Cost of Living
If you’re looking for an alternative to Airbnb for a short-term rental property Booking.com can be a great place to start once you have a neighbourhood in mind. As is the case in most destinations, ordering a meal in a local taverna is often under US$20. You’ll also find that coffee and Greek wine are very reasonable.
Weather and Lifestyle
If you’re heading to Greece to soak under the sun and bathe in its crystal clear waters the best time to enjoy this is August when the sea temperature is around 25 degrees celsius. However, it’s also the hottest month. Perhaps surprisingly the average temperature in January is 10 degrees. With more than 6,000 islands to choose from, you certainly won’t run out of things to do in Athens. You can easily travel by ferry to the nearby islands of Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, Kea, Spetses, Poros – assuming you’ve thoroughly immersed yourself in one of the oldest cities in the world. Plus, if you’re a foodie be sure to check out the weekly local produce markets.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
If you’re hoping to grab a great coffee and reliable wi-fi at one time the following cafes are recommended: Kick, Taf, Dope Roasting Co and Miss Tartu. Some of the best coworking spaces include Impact Hub, Selina Theatrou, Spaces Ermou and Tzaferi 16 with various packages available for different budgets.
Budapest
The currency in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint (HUF) and the city is best known for its ruin bars, thermal baths and exquisite architecture. It also has a rich history informed by both the Habsburg Empire and the communist USSR.
Cost of living
While there are plenty of Airbnbs under US$100 to choose from, you can also find short term rental properties through Hostelworld, Roommates Budapest or Facebook Groups intended for expats. Some suggestions are Budapest flats and apartments for rent, Flats for Erasmus in Budapest and Flats for rent, Budapest Apartments. In Budapest you can easily find a meal for under US$20 or if you decide to prepare your own dishes, groceries are incredibly affordable. The best method to stretch your dollars is to purchase transport tickets, that can be used on trams, buses and the metro, in bulk.
Weather and Lifestyle
Budapest has distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters that may even include snow. Perhaps the best time to relocate is in autumn or spring when there aren’t as many tourists flooding to the city to explore the Christmas markets or otherwise enjoy the sun.
Connectivity and Work Spaces
Hungary ranked sixth in the world – below the US – in terms of internet speed and free wi-fi can be found in most venues, including cafes, libraries and restaurants. If you’re looking to meet other digital nomads consider spending your days sitting at a desk in a co-working space where you may be able to participate in events that they hold. KAPTAR and IMPACT Hub, Loffice and Mosaik offer flexible membership plans.
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