Top destinations for digital nomads

Considering switching to a digital nomad lifestyle as a way to see more of the world? With estimates for the number of digital nomads roaming the globe at around 35 million, many countries are offering digital nomad visas to facilitate living and working abroad. Key factors in choosing a destination are internet connectivity, the cost of living and climate, but also how easy it is to meet other remote workers. 

In our search for the ideal nomadic base, we’ve looked for places that are safe, fun, and easy to get around, with access to all the things digital nomads need, from fast internet speeds to medical services. The digital nomad cities that made the list offer a pleasant living environment with a welcoming community, affordable accommodation, and a range of co-working spaces. But life’s not all about work when you’re a digital nomad, so the destinations on our list also had to offer a variety of leisure activities and sights of interest, plus good nightlife and eating options. Here’s our selection of the top digital nomad cities, with the low-down on visas and length of stay.

Kyushu, Japan

With excellent hiking routes, beautiful beaches, and exquisite hot springs, Japan’s third-largest island offers the perfect mix of urban convenience and relaxation. Coupled with excellent transport links and a mild climate, it’s easy to see why Kyushu is a top choice for digital nomads. 

Japan’s designated digital nomad visa allows visitors from the UK, the US, Canada, and many European countries, to live and work in Japan for up to 6 months. 

Kyushu’s main city, Fukuoka, is a friendly, vibrant hub with all the facilities digital nomads are likely to need — attractive and inspiring coworker spaces, great connectivity, plus plenty to explore, from art galleries and innovative architecture to awesome street food.

Other places where you’ll find a welcoming community of digital nomads include Beppu and Yufuin, the tranquil Goto Islands, and the coastal city of Hyuga, a favorite with surfers. 

Top tip: make the most of Kyushu’s superb transport network to explore this enchanting part of Japan — Kyushu’s trains are legendary and there is also an excellent bus network. Multi-day passes are a good way to keep costs down.

Bali, Indonesia

With inexpensive living options, and a bounty of beautiful beaches across 17,000+ islands, it’s crystal clear why Indonesia is one of the top destinations for digital nomads.

Bali offers a visa for digital nomads and remote workers — the initial 60-day period can be extended up to two times, allowing for a maximum stay of 180 days.

It’s fair to say that for many of us considering going nomad, Bali is the epitome of living the dream. Think cool co-working hubs and welcoming communities in the likes of Ubud and Canggu. And that’s in addition to the wow-factor wonders that will have put Bali on your remote-working radar in the first place. 

Top tip: not to rain on your paradisiacal parade, but we recommend nomads based in Bali’s party hotspots are mindful of not burning the candle at both ends! Try to incorporate self-care into your routine. Practice yoga. Read a book. Watch a movie.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Super-affordable, Thailand is also super-rewarding for digital nomads seeking cosmopolitan convenience, rich culture, and spectacular scenery.

Want to experience life in urban Thailand? Check out Chiang Mai. This northern city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with plenty of well-priced co-working spaces.

Or, for the ultimate island experience, consider Koh Phangan. Though its days as a lesser-visited island have gone (hello, full-on Full Moon parties!), the island remains esteemed for its yoga retreats, marine park, and forest reserves. 

Valid for up to 5 years, Thailand’s digital nomad visa offers the flexibility to exit and re-enter the country every 180 days. 

Top tip: take the opportunity to learn new skills, among them Thai cooking, massage, meditation, and boxing.

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Rich in wildlife and culture, Mexico is a dream destination for digital nomads seeking exhilarating diversity. 

We’re talking about cities that pulsate with art culture, food culture, and world-class museums of ancient culture. Sparkling waters backed by swaying palm trees. Awe-inspiring cactus-dappled deserts and steamy jungles.

Puerta Vallarta and the picturesque towns dotted along the Riviera Nayarit offer the perfect combination of good connectivity and laid-back beach vibes. Adventure sports and wildlife-viewing opportunities abound, and you can even get involved in turtle conservation.

On a practical note, visitors of many nationalities (including the USA, Canada, and EU countries) can stay visa-free for up to 180 days. Oh, and accommodation and food is eminently affordable.

Top tip: don’t leave getting online to chance when you head off the beaten track. Prepaid SIM cards offer a handy way to access high-speed mobile data without incurring hefty roaming charges. 

Barcelona, Spain

In great news for folks from outside the EU, Spain offers a digital nomad visa that allows non-EU/EEA remote workers and freelancers to live and work in Spain for up to twelve months.

Spain-based nomads can find inexpensive accommodation, and eat very well for a fair price, even in big digital nomad cities like Barcelona. Cool and cultured, with a captivating coastline, Catalonia’s avant-garde capital is a top destination for remote workers.

The same is true of vibrant Valencia. Oozing style while remaining unpretentious, it’s a cosmopolitan, hands-down-handsome Mediterranean treasure.

Top tip: set on Spain? Consider Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Be careful, though — you might just forget you’re on the island to work as well as play.

Zadar, Croatia

Dynamic ancient cities, idyllic islands, and quaint villages — Croatia is exceptionally beautiful, and budget-friendly with it.

Split and Dubrovnik come recommended if you want the convenience and energy of city life. That said, being bijou, they’re easy to settle into. What’s more, being port cities, they offer easy access to Croatia’s splendid islands.

Arguably saving the best for last, Croatia has a designated digital city. Located on the Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is a magnificent melange of cliffs, coves, Roman riches, and medieval charm.

Tempted? The Digital Nomad Valley Zadar programme connects remote workers with collaborative workspaces, co-living options, and social events.

Top tip: Search online and you’ll find plenty of private rooms to let, some of which are located in a family house, but negotiating direct with the owners can bring significant savings. 

Montreal, Canada

Canada’s renowned friendliness, excellent infrastructure, and epic landscapes make it a top destination for digital nomads. Remote workers can stay for up to 6 months in Canada without the need for a work visa and are spoilt for choice when it comes to destinations. 

Our favorite Canadian digital nomad hotspot is Montreal, which has excellent connectivity, plenty of cafés and coworking spaces, and a wealth of things to see and do. Its bilingual culture sets it apart from other Canadian cities and it’s also relatively affordable.

Top tip: Canada is colossal, so factor in (at least) a few weeks to take to the open road.

Kyushu — our top digital nomad destination

If you’re looking for somewhere new and exciting, with excellent facilities and a welcoming community, top-of-the-list Kyushu ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to get to, has a good range of coworking spaces and cafés, and its welcoming community will make you feel at home.

So, there you have it — our run-down of the top digital nomad cities, with Kyushu our top choice on account of the opportunities it offers for exploration, innovation, and quality of life. Find out more about Kyushu and start planning your next remote working adventure.

 This article was brought to you in sponsorship with Travel Japan.