Blog
/
Business
Article
Artículo

What is a digital nomad? Is this lifestyle worth adopting?

Orlando Osorio
CEO & Founder
Reading time:
-
Published on:
February 16, 2023
Updated on:
August 1, 2023

A digital nomad is someone who uses telecommunications technologies to earn a living and conduct their lifestyle in a nomadic manner. Many digital nomads work remotely, using Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected with their remote work as they move from place to place, often carrying only a laptop and smartphone with them.

The appeal of living this digital nomad life is that it allows for a great deal of freedom and flexibility – both in terms of where you live and work. 

The digital nomad community is full of talented and generous individuals who are more than happy to offer their advice and support. This online network is also a great place to find out about new opportunities and meet other like-minded people. So, is being part of a digital nomad community worth it? That depends on your individual circumstances and goals. But for many people, the benefits outweigh the challenges. Let’s see if it works for you!

Who are the digital nomads?

Digital nomads are individuals who have remote jobs, using technology to do so. They can be found all over the world, living a location-independent life, thanks to the Internet and advances in communication tools. Many digital nomads are freelancers, entrepreneurs, or have part-time jobs in online business; but others may also work full-time jobs that allow them to telecommute.

The freedom and flexibility of working remotely is one of the biggest draws for digital nomads. They can live in different locations and work anywhere they want for the period of time they want, as long as they have a good internet connection. The digital nomad lifestyle is growing in popularity, as more and more people find ways to make it work for them. There are many perks to being a digital nomad, including flexibility, freedom, and independence, such as:

  • Traveling: With the freedom to work from anywhere in the world, digital nomads can explore new places and cultures without worrying about where they will find work.
  • Location arbitrage: Digital nomads can take advantage of living in countries with a lower cost of living, and thus enjoy a higher quality of life for less.
  • Networking: Working remotely allows digital nomads to meet and network with like-minded professionals from around the world.
  • Inspiration: Being exposed to different cultures and ways of life can be hugely inspiring for digital nomads,  and can help spark new ideas and creative projects.

Digital nomads are no longer confined to their cubicles—they have the world at their fingertips! With the right attitude and preparation, digital nomads can turn their dreams of working from anywhere into reality.

How to become a digital nomad?

First, ask yourself if a location-independent life is really what you want. It’s not for everyone. If you crave stability and a more traditional way of life, this might not be the right choice for you. But if you’re at a point in your life where you feel like you need to shake things up a bit, read on!

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to becoming a digital nomad, but there are definitely some key steps you can take to get started on your journey. First and foremost, you'll need to have a strong internet connection and a laptop or other device that allows you to work remotely. You'll also need to be comfortable with using different types of technology and applications, as well as be able to stay organized and efficient while working from anywhere. 

You can also research the lifestyle of remote workers and make sure it’s right for you. Be prepared to pay for health insurance and travel insurance, work with time zones, and learn about visas, rentals, Airbnb, credit cards, and online businesses.

You need to organize your finances and try to generate passive income, which means money that comes in without you having to do anything for it. Storing your belongings is also a must-do, so you don’t have to lug around too many possessions while traveling. And, in order to stay afloat, you must eliminate your debt and unnecessary expenses in order to create a budget.

Set some goals and get organized. The first time it can be hard to get everything together, but with a plan you can make sure you have everything you need to have a home bases all around the world. Finally, it's important to be proactive about networking and building relationships with other digital nomads in order to create a supportive community. With all of these factors in mind, anyone can become a digital nomad!

Pros and cons of being a digital nomad

There are many pros and cons to living in a digital nomad community. On the plus side, digital nomads have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. They can often find full-time remote work that is both interesting and fulfilling, and they can make a good income while doing it. They can also be self-employed and have a strong sense of community with other like-minded people. 

The perks also include networking opportunities with other remote workers, and saving money on things like housing and transportation -since you're not paying for an office or commuting.

However, there are also some downsides to being a digital nomad. For example, it can be hard to maintain healthy social and personal relationships when constantly on the move. Additionally, there is always the possibility of running out your visa (which in some countries can be a digital nomad visa), and immigration problems when working in foreign countries.

Overall, there are both pros and cons to being a digital nomad. It is important to weigh these carefully before deciding if this lifestyle has the functionality you want in your life.

Which jobs suit a digital nomad?

There are a lot of different types of remote jobs that digital nomads can do. The most important thing is that you have a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection. You can pretty much do it from anywhere in the world. This type of career is perfect for people who are self-motivated and enjoy being their own boss. 

There are many jobs that a digital nomad can do, such as freelance writing, web development, or social media marketing. The best thing about being a digital nomad is that you can choose your own hours and work from wherever you want. This makes it the perfect job for people who want to travel and see the world.

Some of the most popular jobs for digital nomads include:

Blogger

As a blogger, there are a lot of different ways to make money. You can sell advertising on your blog, offer sponsored posts, or create an ebook or other digital product to sell.

Blogging is a great job for digital nomads because it can be done from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. And since you’re your own boss, you can work on your blog whenever and wherever you want.

Writer

Freelance writing can be done from anywhere in any foreign country that has wifi hotspots. As a freelance writer, you can write about any topic you want, which means you can really make your job suit your interests. 

You can even write about being a digital nomad and all the things people need to know about it: part-time and full-time remote work, health insurance, visas, MBO partners, internet access, low cost of living, coworking, commuting, rentals, being self-employed, travel insurance, and quality of life. However, freelancing can be a very competitive field, so you'll need to be good at marketing yourself and your work in order to succeed.

Graphic designer

Graphic designers can work remotely for companies all over the world in any of the time zones. In fact, many companies now outsource their graphic design work to freelance designers because it’s more cost-effective than hiring in-house designers. This gives you the opportunity to get a credit card and travel wherever you want.

Software developer

Software developers are in high demand all over the world. Companies are always looking for talented developers to help them create and maintain their websites and apps.

You have the perfect skill set for a digital nomad lifestyle. You can work from different locations with a laptop and internet access. The sky's the limit when it comes to earning potential as a software developer.

Virtual assistant

A virtual assistant provides administrative, creative, or technical support to clients from a remote location. Many virtual assistants work from their home base, which is why it makes it a great job for digital nomads. So if you have ever been curious about this type of work, keep that in mind!

Digital marketer

Digital marketing is a great choice for an expat. As a digital marketer, you would be responsible for creating and managing the company's online marketing campaigns. This could include things like creating website content, managing social media accounts, or running email marketing campaigns. You can also specialize in any number of different areas, such as SEO, social media marketing, or PPC advertising. 

Entrepreneur

There's no denying that being an entrepreneur is a tough gig. It takes guts, determination, and a whole lot of hard work. But it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. It can be a doorway for digital nomad visas and a location-independent lifestyle. New York could be your business hub, among many other cities.

These are just some of the many jobs that are perfect for digital nomads. If you’re interested in working remotely, you can read Digital Nomad, a book written by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners that talks about the technological possibilities that will allow us to live, work, and exist on the move.

In the book, the authors talk about how to live a nomadic lifestyle and make money online. They also discuss the pros and cons of this type of lifestyle. Overall, the book is motivating and inspiring. It is a great read for anyone considering a digital nomadic lifestyle. With a little bit of research, you’re sure to find the perfect job for your needs.

Best cities to visit as a digital nomad

There are a ton of great cities to visit as a digital nomad, but these ten stand out above the rest: 

No matter what your interests or budget may be, there’s a great city out there for you as a digital nomad. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure!

Tbilisi

The Georgian capital has everything you need to make the most of your time working online, from great coffee shops to plenty of opportunities to explore and relax.

It is an up-and-coming city with a vibrant startup scene. The cost of living is very reasonable, especially when compared to Western European capitals.

📍Google Maps

Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand, has a lot to offer digital nomads, like more established expat communities. The city is filled with energy and opportunities, and there are plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to work from. The cost of living is relatively low, and the weather is great all year round. Plus, there's a vibrant nightlife scene and plenty of things to do during your free time.

📍Google Maps

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city located in the north of Thailand. It's known as one of the best places to live as a digital nomad due to its great weather and low cost of living. 

In addition, Chiang Mai is home to some of the most beautiful temples and natural scenery in Thailand. If you're looking for an amazing and affordable place to work and travel, be sure to check out Chiang Mai!

📍Google Maps

Taipei

The city located in Taiwan is perfect for those who want to experience East Asian culture, and it is also filled with opportunities and has great nightlife. Taipei also has a lot of coworking spaces, so you’ll have no problem finding a place to work. Finally, the people of Taipei are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet new people.

📍Google Maps

Medellin

Digital nomads are always on the lookout for new and exciting places to work from, and Medellin, Colombia, is one of the best cities to visit if you’re looking for an urban environment that’s perfect for working on your laptop. From great restaurants and coffee shops to a lively nightlife scene and plenty of places to work outdoors, Medellin has everything you need to make your stay productive and enjoyable.

The city is also home to a thriving startup community, so if you’re looking to connect with other entrepreneurs, Medellin is the place to be. To know more about this life-changing experience, watch this interview to digital nomads in Medellin.

📍Google Maps

Ubud

Ubud, Bali, is often hailed as one of the best cities in the world for digital nomads. And it’s not hard to see why Ubud offers a stunning natural setting, a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, and a wide range of affordable accommodation and coworking options. It offers beautiful scenery and a more laid-back lifestyle. There are a wide range of accommodation options available in Ubud, from hostels and guesthouses to apartments and villas.

📍Google Maps

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is a city in Bulgaria that is quickly becoming a popular destination for digital nomads. It is an excellent option for budget travelers. The city is very walkable, so you can explore all it has to offer. The city is filled with history, culture, and a vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of options where you can work. 

Plovdiv is also close to some of Bulgaria’s best beaches, making it the perfect place to escape the heat in the summer. If you're looking for an affordable place to live and work as a digital nomad, Plovdiv is definitely worth considering.

📍Google Maps

Manila

It provides easy access to some of the best beaches in the world. It also offers a great quality of life at an affordable cost. The city is very easy to get around. The people are also friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to settle down for a while. 

Additionally, Manila has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history, so there's always something new to explore. The Filipino capital is an affordable, relaxed, and exciting place to live and work.

📍Google Maps

Budapest

Budapest, located in Hungary, is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Europe. It's also a great place to live and work as a digital nomad. It is a great choice for those who want to experience European culture. The city has a thriving startup scene, and the cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of things to do in your free time.

📍Google Maps

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, as it's still commonly called, is one of the best places to be a digital nomad. The city situated in the Southeast region of Vietnam is bursting with energy, has an incredibly low cost of living, and is brimming with coworking spaces and cafes perfect for getting work done.

There's also a ton to do in the city when you're not working—from exploring the colonial architecture to indulging in some of the best street food in Asia. And if you need a break from the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of green spaces to relax in.

📍Google Maps

Overall, whether or not the digital nomad lifestyle is right for you depends on your own preferences and needs. If you're someone who enjoys having flexibility and control over your work schedule, then this could be a great option. However, if you prefer face-to-face interaction or need a more structured environment, it might not be the best fit.

A digital nomad is someone who uses telecommunications technologies to earn a living and conduct their lifestyle in a nomadic manner. Many digital nomads work remotely, using Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected with their remote work as they move from place to place, often carrying only a laptop and smartphone with them.

The appeal of living this digital nomad life is that it allows for a great deal of freedom and flexibility – both in terms of where you live and work. 

The digital nomad community is full of talented and generous individuals who are more than happy to offer their advice and support. This online network is also a great place to find out about new opportunities and meet other like-minded people. So, is being part of a digital nomad community worth it? That depends on your individual circumstances and goals. But for many people, the benefits outweigh the challenges. Let’s see if it works for you!

Who are the digital nomads?

Digital nomads are individuals who have remote jobs, using technology to do so. They can be found all over the world, living a location-independent life, thanks to the Internet and advances in communication tools. Many digital nomads are freelancers, entrepreneurs, or have part-time jobs in online business; but others may also work full-time jobs that allow them to telecommute.

The freedom and flexibility of working remotely is one of the biggest draws for digital nomads. They can live in different locations and work anywhere they want for the period of time they want, as long as they have a good internet connection. The digital nomad lifestyle is growing in popularity, as more and more people find ways to make it work for them. There are many perks to being a digital nomad, including flexibility, freedom, and independence, such as:

  • Traveling: With the freedom to work from anywhere in the world, digital nomads can explore new places and cultures without worrying about where they will find work.
  • Location arbitrage: Digital nomads can take advantage of living in countries with a lower cost of living, and thus enjoy a higher quality of life for less.
  • Networking: Working remotely allows digital nomads to meet and network with like-minded professionals from around the world.
  • Inspiration: Being exposed to different cultures and ways of life can be hugely inspiring for digital nomads,  and can help spark new ideas and creative projects.

Digital nomads are no longer confined to their cubicles—they have the world at their fingertips! With the right attitude and preparation, digital nomads can turn their dreams of working from anywhere into reality.

How to become a digital nomad?

First, ask yourself if a location-independent life is really what you want. It’s not for everyone. If you crave stability and a more traditional way of life, this might not be the right choice for you. But if you’re at a point in your life where you feel like you need to shake things up a bit, read on!

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to becoming a digital nomad, but there are definitely some key steps you can take to get started on your journey. First and foremost, you'll need to have a strong internet connection and a laptop or other device that allows you to work remotely. You'll also need to be comfortable with using different types of technology and applications, as well as be able to stay organized and efficient while working from anywhere. 

You can also research the lifestyle of remote workers and make sure it’s right for you. Be prepared to pay for health insurance and travel insurance, work with time zones, and learn about visas, rentals, Airbnb, credit cards, and online businesses.

You need to organize your finances and try to generate passive income, which means money that comes in without you having to do anything for it. Storing your belongings is also a must-do, so you don’t have to lug around too many possessions while traveling. And, in order to stay afloat, you must eliminate your debt and unnecessary expenses in order to create a budget.

Set some goals and get organized. The first time it can be hard to get everything together, but with a plan you can make sure you have everything you need to have a home bases all around the world. Finally, it's important to be proactive about networking and building relationships with other digital nomads in order to create a supportive community. With all of these factors in mind, anyone can become a digital nomad!

Pros and cons of being a digital nomad

There are many pros and cons to living in a digital nomad community. On the plus side, digital nomads have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. They can often find full-time remote work that is both interesting and fulfilling, and they can make a good income while doing it. They can also be self-employed and have a strong sense of community with other like-minded people. 

The perks also include networking opportunities with other remote workers, and saving money on things like housing and transportation -since you're not paying for an office or commuting.

However, there are also some downsides to being a digital nomad. For example, it can be hard to maintain healthy social and personal relationships when constantly on the move. Additionally, there is always the possibility of running out your visa (which in some countries can be a digital nomad visa), and immigration problems when working in foreign countries.

Overall, there are both pros and cons to being a digital nomad. It is important to weigh these carefully before deciding if this lifestyle has the functionality you want in your life.

Which jobs suit a digital nomad?

There are a lot of different types of remote jobs that digital nomads can do. The most important thing is that you have a laptop or smartphone and an internet connection. You can pretty much do it from anywhere in the world. This type of career is perfect for people who are self-motivated and enjoy being their own boss. 

There are many jobs that a digital nomad can do, such as freelance writing, web development, or social media marketing. The best thing about being a digital nomad is that you can choose your own hours and work from wherever you want. This makes it the perfect job for people who want to travel and see the world.

Some of the most popular jobs for digital nomads include:

Blogger

As a blogger, there are a lot of different ways to make money. You can sell advertising on your blog, offer sponsored posts, or create an ebook or other digital product to sell.

Blogging is a great job for digital nomads because it can be done from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. And since you’re your own boss, you can work on your blog whenever and wherever you want.

Writer

Freelance writing can be done from anywhere in any foreign country that has wifi hotspots. As a freelance writer, you can write about any topic you want, which means you can really make your job suit your interests. 

You can even write about being a digital nomad and all the things people need to know about it: part-time and full-time remote work, health insurance, visas, MBO partners, internet access, low cost of living, coworking, commuting, rentals, being self-employed, travel insurance, and quality of life. However, freelancing can be a very competitive field, so you'll need to be good at marketing yourself and your work in order to succeed.

Graphic designer

Graphic designers can work remotely for companies all over the world in any of the time zones. In fact, many companies now outsource their graphic design work to freelance designers because it’s more cost-effective than hiring in-house designers. This gives you the opportunity to get a credit card and travel wherever you want.

Software developer

Software developers are in high demand all over the world. Companies are always looking for talented developers to help them create and maintain their websites and apps.

You have the perfect skill set for a digital nomad lifestyle. You can work from different locations with a laptop and internet access. The sky's the limit when it comes to earning potential as a software developer.

Virtual assistant

A virtual assistant provides administrative, creative, or technical support to clients from a remote location. Many virtual assistants work from their home base, which is why it makes it a great job for digital nomads. So if you have ever been curious about this type of work, keep that in mind!

Digital marketer

Digital marketing is a great choice for an expat. As a digital marketer, you would be responsible for creating and managing the company's online marketing campaigns. This could include things like creating website content, managing social media accounts, or running email marketing campaigns. You can also specialize in any number of different areas, such as SEO, social media marketing, or PPC advertising. 

Entrepreneur

There's no denying that being an entrepreneur is a tough gig. It takes guts, determination, and a whole lot of hard work. But it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. It can be a doorway for digital nomad visas and a location-independent lifestyle. New York could be your business hub, among many other cities.

These are just some of the many jobs that are perfect for digital nomads. If you’re interested in working remotely, you can read Digital Nomad, a book written by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners that talks about the technological possibilities that will allow us to live, work, and exist on the move.

In the book, the authors talk about how to live a nomadic lifestyle and make money online. They also discuss the pros and cons of this type of lifestyle. Overall, the book is motivating and inspiring. It is a great read for anyone considering a digital nomadic lifestyle. With a little bit of research, you’re sure to find the perfect job for your needs.

Best cities to visit as a digital nomad

There are a ton of great cities to visit as a digital nomad, but these ten stand out above the rest: 

No matter what your interests or budget may be, there’s a great city out there for you as a digital nomad. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure!

Tbilisi

The Georgian capital has everything you need to make the most of your time working online, from great coffee shops to plenty of opportunities to explore and relax.

It is an up-and-coming city with a vibrant startup scene. The cost of living is very reasonable, especially when compared to Western European capitals.

📍Google Maps

Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand, has a lot to offer digital nomads, like more established expat communities. The city is filled with energy and opportunities, and there are plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to work from. The cost of living is relatively low, and the weather is great all year round. Plus, there's a vibrant nightlife scene and plenty of things to do during your free time.

📍Google Maps

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city located in the north of Thailand. It's known as one of the best places to live as a digital nomad due to its great weather and low cost of living. 

In addition, Chiang Mai is home to some of the most beautiful temples and natural scenery in Thailand. If you're looking for an amazing and affordable place to work and travel, be sure to check out Chiang Mai!

📍Google Maps

Taipei

The city located in Taiwan is perfect for those who want to experience East Asian culture, and it is also filled with opportunities and has great nightlife. Taipei also has a lot of coworking spaces, so you’ll have no problem finding a place to work. Finally, the people of Taipei are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet new people.

📍Google Maps

Medellin

Digital nomads are always on the lookout for new and exciting places to work from, and Medellin, Colombia, is one of the best cities to visit if you’re looking for an urban environment that’s perfect for working on your laptop. From great restaurants and coffee shops to a lively nightlife scene and plenty of places to work outdoors, Medellin has everything you need to make your stay productive and enjoyable.

The city is also home to a thriving startup community, so if you’re looking to connect with other entrepreneurs, Medellin is the place to be. To know more about this life-changing experience, watch this interview to digital nomads in Medellin.

📍Google Maps

Ubud

Ubud, Bali, is often hailed as one of the best cities in the world for digital nomads. And it’s not hard to see why Ubud offers a stunning natural setting, a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, and a wide range of affordable accommodation and coworking options. It offers beautiful scenery and a more laid-back lifestyle. There are a wide range of accommodation options available in Ubud, from hostels and guesthouses to apartments and villas.

📍Google Maps

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is a city in Bulgaria that is quickly becoming a popular destination for digital nomads. It is an excellent option for budget travelers. The city is very walkable, so you can explore all it has to offer. The city is filled with history, culture, and a vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of options where you can work. 

Plovdiv is also close to some of Bulgaria’s best beaches, making it the perfect place to escape the heat in the summer. If you're looking for an affordable place to live and work as a digital nomad, Plovdiv is definitely worth considering.

📍Google Maps

Manila

It provides easy access to some of the best beaches in the world. It also offers a great quality of life at an affordable cost. The city is very easy to get around. The people are also friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to settle down for a while. 

Additionally, Manila has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history, so there's always something new to explore. The Filipino capital is an affordable, relaxed, and exciting place to live and work.

📍Google Maps

Budapest

Budapest, located in Hungary, is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Europe. It's also a great place to live and work as a digital nomad. It is a great choice for those who want to experience European culture. The city has a thriving startup scene, and the cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of things to do in your free time.

📍Google Maps

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, as it's still commonly called, is one of the best places to be a digital nomad. The city situated in the Southeast region of Vietnam is bursting with energy, has an incredibly low cost of living, and is brimming with coworking spaces and cafes perfect for getting work done.

There's also a ton to do in the city when you're not working—from exploring the colonial architecture to indulging in some of the best street food in Asia. And if you need a break from the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of green spaces to relax in.

📍Google Maps

Overall, whether or not the digital nomad lifestyle is right for you depends on your own preferences and needs. If you're someone who enjoys having flexibility and control over your work schedule, then this could be a great option. However, if you prefer face-to-face interaction or need a more structured environment, it might not be the best fit.

Orlando Osorio
CEO & Founder

8+ years in the tech industry. Has worked as a growth consultant with more than 25 startups, including unicorns and large tech companies such as Medium, Robinhood, BetterUp, Reforge, Grove, Rocketplace, Shift, PicsArt, ConsumerAffairs, and Swagbucks. Currently serves as Interim Chief of Growth for various startups.

Founded five companies (travel, wellness, and consulting). A Webflow Developer and proponent of the "No-Code" movement. Advocate for healthy work cultures and habits.