Photos by A Cruising Couple
Can't stand another commute to a cubicle? In need of an escape from all the political drama? Simply looking for a change of pace and environment? Then maybe it's time to try your luck as a digital nomad.
It's been a few years now that we've been able to work online and travel the world. While the lifestyle isn't for everyone, being able to crank out a day's work anywhere with a WiFi connection certainly has its perks.
If you want to give digital nomadism a try, the next big question is inevitably: Where do I go? The world is your oyster; we've met digital nomads calling all corners of the globe home. But for a bit of inspiration to get you started, here are some of our favorite places in which we've loved to live, work and explore:
Medellin, Columbia
Contrary to what many still believe, Medellin has done an excellent job cleaning up the streets since the days renowned drug lord Pablo Escobar called it home. Today, Medellin is very safe, with a thriving culture and community. The metro line running through the city makes transportation a breeze. Add in that the fact that Medellin is affordable, boasts fascinating cultural events and festivals, and has year-round weather so beautiful that it's lovingly referred to as "The City Of Eternal Spring," and it's no wonder you have a winning combination. Medellin is also a very popular destination with digital nomads, so you'll have no problem finding like-minded individuals for support and collaboration.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is a digital nomad's paradise. With more coffee shops than we could count, some of the best traditional food in all of Mexico (including mole and tamales), and lots to explore in the surrounding area, Oaxaca is one of those places you just never seem to be able to leave. And while it's true Oaxaca isn't on the coast (we find most digital nomads want to be based on the beach), there is an undeniable charm to cool temperatures and low humidity.
Uvita, Costa Rica
We may be a bit biased as this is currently where we call home, but we like to think it's for good reason. It's hard to beat this relaxed and friendly coastal community in Costa Rica with nearly endless options for secluded palm-fringed beaches. The fact that Costa Rica has no army, over 25 percent of the entire country is reserved as national parks and the country ran on 100% renewable energy for 285 days in 2015 shows how progressive Costa Rica can be. Just know that Uvita, like many destinations in Costa Rica, doesn't have the most reliable internet, which can make being a digital nomad frustrating if you don't embrace the national motto of Pura Vida.
Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is perfect for city lovers who want a little bit of everything. It's not uncommon to see locals worshiping at a temple that is hundreds of years old with a KFC just two doors down. Though Asia isn't known for having the most spacious living spaces (especially in the cities), the otherwise low cost of living makes Taipei an extremely comfortable option. When you get tired of the crowds, take a day trip on the high-speed rail to beautiful mountains, lakes, beaches, hot springs and traditional towns.
Ubud, Bali
Another Asian gem, Ubud has managed to retain its charm even while growing into a major tourist destination. If you're interested in healthy living, Ubud is the obvious choice. You'll have no shortage of yoga classes, vegetarian restaurants or green smoothies. We recommend basing yourself in the verdant rice fields just outside of the city center. Here, you're not likely to stumble upon any tourists, but the culture and convenience of downtown Ubud is never far away.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio has it all, from beautiful beaches and majestic mountains to street samba parties and the world-class cuisine. This vibrant city is ideal for digital nomads who want to work and play hard. We loved working in the hip coffee shops and then spending afternoons surfing, hiking and climbing. While crime can admittedly be a problem, we found that if you use your common sense, you'll more than likely be just fine.
Antwerp, Belgium
This hip city excels with creatives and entrepreneurs. There are lots of art galleries as well as weekly local markets selling everything from ancient artifacts to local produce. The city is small and manageable by foot or bike, so it's easy to admire the beautiful medieval architecture, indulge in the local craft beer and exercise off all those Belgian waffles and fries.
Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Cabarete is a beautiful beachside town with lots of adventure activities to keep you entertained and a solid expat community from around the world. Whether it's surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving or just watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand, Cabarete is perfect for the active expat who can't get enough of the water. This destination is on the top of our list to return to for a longer period of time in the near future.
Boquete, Panama
This mountain escape in Panama has a nice mild climate and is surrounded by coffee and chocolate plantations. If you're attracted to the accessibility of Panama but not too keen on the heat at the beach or the chaos of the city, then this is the perfect option for you.
These are just a few of our favorite places we've been as digital nomads, but there is no shortage of stunning places around the world to explore!
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