It’s not easy being a young digital nomad. I mean, the world is so big and there are so many places to live, how can you possibly choose?
Ease of access to technology and cheap flights make it possible for people to work wherever and whenever they are on vacation. And it doesn’t matter whether you wish to work while lying on pristine white sandy beaches or while enjoying a local snack in a small café. If you feel frustrated with your current lifestyle and long for a new adventure, you only need to pack your luggage, grab your laptop and within a few hours you can have access to various cities.
So, prepare your iPad or tablet and get ready to take notes, here are some of the best places in the world for you to explore while working!
1. Cape Town, South Africa: For The Adventurous Nomad
South Africa’s main tech hub, the lively Cape Town, is suitable for young techies who crave adventure. You can choose from hiking Table Mountain and watching the beautiful sunrise to game viewing safaris and water adventures. Alternatively, you can relax while drinking Cape Chardonnay at lunch in a waterfront bistro. Cape Town will keep you entertained at all times. And if the lively city is not enough, nearby cities and provinces offer various excursions like 4 x 4 riding adventures with 4x44africa.com to discovering hidden caves and swimming in the cold ocean.
When it comes to the cost of living, expect to pay at least 10,000 Rand ($766) a month and 16 Rand ($1.23) for a bottle of local beer. Car rental can go for R350 per day or grab Uber service for R50 – R400 from short trips when exploring towns.
2. Zagreb, Croatia: For The History and Art Loving Nomad
If you like walking, scenic photography, contemplating arts and rich history, and drinking lots of coffee, then Croatia’s capital, Zagreb should be your next stop. The city is quite famous for its neo-baroque buildings, antique churches, and beautiful streets. Going out of the city center, you’ll find the creations of young artists and small cafes where you can sip on local coffee or beer.
Zagreb has Airbnb rooms, hostels and hotel rooms available in all price ranges. You can find Airbnb apartment rooms in the suburbs for $300 a month or book a hostel for $20 per day. If you don’t like walking, the city also has a broad variety of public transportation to choose from with a taxi costing $0.6 per kilometer and trolleys offering a monthly ticket for $53.
3. Koh Lanta, Thailand: For The Island Paradise Loving Nomad
Thailand has long been one of the best young nomad destinations, thanks to its thriving expat scene and amazing weather. However, most of Thailand’s popular islands are booming with tourism and are becoming overrun by tourists who make it noisy, crowded, polluted and pushing up the cost of living.
If you want to avoid all of this, the beautiful island of Koh Lanta would be a good pick. This island offers hostels, hotels, and apartments at reasonable prices. Hotel rooms are around $300 per month while an entire apartment can cost up to $1,200. If you can negotiate a short-term rental, you will pay less for more space— a 1-bedroom studio rental can go for at least $300 per month. Transportation includes local taxi bikes that are called “tuk-tuks” or you can rent a motorbike for a couple of dollars per day.
4. Lisbon, Portugal: For The Trendy Nomad
Once one of the less visited and underrated cities in Western Europe, Lisbon is now getting the attention it deserves. Built on 7 hills overlooking the stunning Atlantic, the hilly, cobblestoned streets, red-tiled rooftops, and traditional Fado music will charm any young nomad who step foot in this city.
Lisbon is known for its tram system along with buses and metro system to get around. This city has an average cost of living for young nomads at $1,497 per month. And although it may seem expensive compared to Thailand, it is still cheap by Western European standards.
5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: For The Big-City Nomad
Known for its delicious street food, big markets, friendly people, lively café culture, and swarms of scooters, it is not too hard to fall in love with Ho Chi Minh or Saigon. Young nomads who wish to experience Southeast Asia with a touch of French will love it here.
You can get around in private taxis, public buses, and motorcycle taxis which are all cheap. The average cost of living is around $777 a month— rent (including utilities), laundry, and a housecleaner will cost at least $300 a month. Meals at a café or restaurant can cost from $2 - $8. Not too shabby for such a big city.