I’ve been a digital nomad for the final three years and have labored in lots of locations all over the world. Some had been glorious, others… not a lot. I’m completely satisfied to share with you 5 of my favourite cities for distant working.
Having quick and dependable web is likely one of the most crucial issues to contemplate when deciding the place to base your self as a digital nomad. It may be – and, in my expertise, typically is – the distinction between a dream distant working expertise and a digital-induced nightmare.
I’ve accomplished my finest to incorporate a variety of areas internationally for this listing. I thought of a number of vital elements, together with web pace and reliability, value of residing, entry to high quality coworking areas and cafes, meals scene, issues to do, transport hyperlinks, and general way of life and livability.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
It’s not tough to see why Chiang Mai has been a favourite amongst digital nomads ever since digital nomads had been a factor. The web right here is quick and dependable, with common speeds near 100 Mbps. Many coworking areas provide even quicker non-public connections, so it’s an excellent place to get stuff accomplished.
Chiang Mai has a big digital nomad group making it straightforward to fulfill and socialize with different distant staff. The climate is scorching year-round, costs are nonetheless comparatively low (though fairly a bit increased than after I first visited 15 years in the past!), and Thai meals is totally scrumptious.
As you’d count on, there are various high-quality coworking areas in Chiang Mai, though Yellow Coworking House is a very good one. Whenever you’re not working, I extremely advocate renting a scooter and exploring the encompassing mountains and temples – they’re beautiful.
Common web pace: 93 Mbps obtain / 88 Mbps add
2. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a good selection for digital nomads who need to be based mostly in Europe however with out the excessive costs of cities corresponding to Paris and London. Hungary is likely one of the nations with the quickest web on the earth, and the town is filled with tradition and has a rising digital nomad group.
With lightning-fast speeds of as much as 220 Mbps, it’s straightforward to remain related right here whether or not you’re working from a coworking house or a restaurant. KAPTÁR is likely one of the hottest coworking areas within the metropolis, though I discovered that web speeds are nice just about in all places.
Budapest’s location in central Europe additionally makes it an ideal base to discover extra of the continent. There are glorious highway and rail hyperlinks to neighboring nations (corresponding to Austria, Romania, and Croatia). Inexpensive flights on the Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air make it straightforward to journey additional afield, too.
Common web pace: 220 Mbps obtain / 41 Mbps add
3. Lisbon, Portugal
One other unbelievable European capital metropolis, Lisbon gives year-round sunshine, historical past, tradition, and – crucially – dependable web. With common speeds of 120 Mbps, you’ll don’t have any hassle staying related right here. There are many coworking areas (Heden Santa Apolónia is tremendous) and cafes to make your distant workplace too.
I’ve been to Lisbon twice and love the town’s artistic, fun-loving environment. Taking breaks from work to wander the town or watch the sundown over the Tagus River by no means will get outdated. There are some nice seashores positioned a brief distance from the town which might be good for a soothing weekend break.
Costs are steadily rising in Lisbon – partly resulting from its recognition amongst digital nomads – nevertheless it’s nonetheless comparatively inexpensive in comparison with many different European capitals. There’s a powerful cafe tradition right here too, plus a various group of nomads from all over the world, so that you gained’t wrestle to make new pals.
Common web pace: 120 Mbps obtain / 81 Mbps add.
4. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is likely one of the high digital nomad locations in Latin America. The web could be very quick right here with speeds averaging round 165 Mbps obtain. The mountains surrounding the town are stunning (and wonderful for climbing), and there are many coworking areas and cafes.
Often known as the “Metropolis of Everlasting Spring”, Medellín has wonderful climate year-round. I spent a while in Medellín earlier this 12 months and based mostly myself within the El Poblado neighborhood. My favourite cafe was Pergamino, which serves among the finest espresso within the metropolis – no imply feat. They serve up tasty meals, too.
When it comes to security, Medellín has made big enhancements in the previous couple of years, nevertheless it nonetheless pays to be smart. To me, El Poblado felt completely protected each through the day and at night time. Different elements of the town felt distinctly sketchier after darkish, however Uber is reasonable and available.
Common web pace: 165 Mbps obtain / 37 Mbps add
5. Mexico Metropolis, Mexico
Mexico Metropolis was one of many first cities I lived and labored in after I first turned a digital nomad. It’s an unlimited metropolis made up of many alternative districts and neighborhoods, every with its personal distinct vibe.
There’s no scarcity of coworking areas, and neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa are filled with cafes with robust WiFi and even stronger espresso. I based mostly myself in Condesa and cherished the leafy streets, tranquil parks, and pleasant environment. Mix Station was my go-to espresso place.
Mexico Metropolis can also be a world-class foodie vacation spot, from easy road meals stalls serving up one of the best tacos you’ll ever eat to swanky Michelin-starred eating places, and all the pieces in between. There’s a lot to see and do right here, too – you’ll by no means be bored.
Common web pace: 93 Mbps obtain / 41 Mbps add
In Conclusion
Having dependable web could make or break your expertise as a digital nomad. All of those cities provide quick speeds, secure connections, nice coworking areas, and plenty of different distinctive perks that make them good locations to stay and work remotely.
For me, Lisbon and Chiang Mai are each fairly exhausting to beat. They’re very totally different in some ways, however each have unbelievable meals, an incredible local weather, and a chilled-out tempo of life. I plan to spend extra time in each locations sooner or later – perhaps I’ll see you there!
