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Remote work abroad. Which country should I choose?
What should you consider when choosing a country to work remotely? First of all, the cost of living there. It may turn out that our earnings will be insufficient in the new place. Assuming that remote work is not a trip for a week, but at least for a month, there is no need to get tired. It is also important whether the country offers visas for digital nomads. Just a few years ago, no one had heard of such a document. Today, more and more countries around the world are introducing it. Other important criteria are:
- Internet access
- language barrier — how common is English?
- weather in the place
- infrastructure — leisure time perspectives
Where are the most willing digital nomads to work?
If you don’t want to go outside Europe, Portugal is a good place to start. Compared to other European capitals, the cost of living in Lisbon is relatively low. At the price, we get one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and a real pearl of architecture. The city’s atmospheric bars and cafes are recommended for remote work. There are so many that it may take a few weeks to find your favorite place. Portugal offers special visas for people who want to combine coming to the country with remote work. Digital nomads are eager to take advantage of this facility.
Additionally, the world’s first village for digital nomads is operating in Madeira (a Portuguese autonomous region). Visitors can choose from a range of activities, including communal lunches or exercise classes.
Remote work in Bali. Beaches or jungle?
Bali is not only a holiday paradise but also one of the favorite destinations of digital nomads. Canggu has been high on the rankings of the best places to work remotely for several years. A growing migrant community is changing the vibe of the destination. Until recently, it was mostly surfers who came here. Currently, in addition to favorable waves, we will also find numerous coworking spaces and cafes with Wi-Fi, where free workshops are organized.
Another recommended place in Bali is Ubud, a city less than 30 km away from Canggu. Here too, the digital nomads have put their order in. There is no shortage of cafes with Internet access and places to work together. Ubud is located in the interior of the island. Surfing and beaches are replaced by yoga and lush jungle.
Bali’s popularity among working travelers has grown even more after Indonesia’s tourism minister announced a five-year visa for digital nomads and an income tax exemption.
Thailand through the eyes of digital nomads
Thailand, like Bali, is loved by both tourists and remote workers. The most popular destination is Chiang Mai, a vibrant city located in the north of the country. Digital nomads choose this destination among others because of the cost of living. Admittedly, the prices for renting accommodation are not as low as a few years ago, but they are still far from expensive Europe. Food is also cheap. Thai street food is a culinary experience that does not get boring quickly.
Because Chiang Mai is considered one of the best cities to work remotely, Bangkok is sometimes unjustifiably overlooked. The cost of living is admittedly a bit higher, but still very affordable. Thanks to the digital nomad-friendly infrastructure (co-working spaces and air-conditioned shopping malls), their group is constantly growing. Other frequently mentioned advantages of Bangkok are cheap and tasty gastronomy, including street food of course, and modern public transport.
Portugal, Bali, and Thailand have in common that digital nomads have been coming there for several years. During this time, they have managed to build strong and supportive communities. Upon arrival, the “newbies” do not feel isolated. This is important, especially if you are making a new life a few thousand kilometers from your current home.