One of the many liberations that the internet has brought us is the ability to work remotely, pretty much from wherever you want. These people are often referred to as digital nomads, and whilst many may be gap year students, or young adults, anyone can be a digital nomad. Of course, if you are going to choose somewhere in the world from where to work, you’re going to want to choose somewhere beautiful. The thought of spending your working day close to a paradise beach is very appealing, but there are a couple of considerations for the digital nomad. Can you afford to live there? And will the internet be fast enough?
Barbados
This Caribbean cruise ship destination is synonymous with the idea of a paradise island. It’s a tiny island, just 20 miles long and only 15 miles across at its widest point. It’s got a big expat community and English is the official language, so you’ll find it easy to settle in. The government is encouraging remote working with its ‘Barbados Welcome Stamp’ scheme which for the price of 2000 USD will allow you to work on the island for one year without having to pay taxes. The Internet speed is the fastest in the Caribbean. The big drawback to living on the island is that because everything has to be imported, the cost of living is quite high. Rent, however, is cheap; a one-bed apartment in the city centre costs around 390 GBP per month.
Phuket, Thailand
Thailand’s largest island is famous for its lush beaches, lively nightlife, scuba diving and seafood. It’s the most expensive area of Thailand, but, having said that, it’s still 48% cheaper than living in New York, and you can get decent accommodation for between 200 and 300 GBP per month. The Internet coverage is much improved in recent years and is now fast, reliable and reasonably priced.
The Canary Islands, Spain
These eight volcanic islands, off the coast of Northwest Africa are famous for their glorious black and white sandy beaches. As well as beach life, the islands offer plenty of opportunities for adventure sports and hiking and, as you would expect from a tourist destination, no shortage of fine dining. There’s plenty of rental accommodation available on the islands for around 300 – 400 euros for one bedroom accommodation. As of March 2021, Spain ranked 13th in the world for broadband speeds.
Hoi An, Vietnam
The name translates as ‘peaceful meeting place’ and this dreamy destination has certainly become just that for increasing numbers of digital nomads. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a delightful assemblage of ancient architecture and serves as a great base from which to explore the local beaches and mountains. The food is incredible, the Internet fast and a 2-bedroom house will cost you around 360 GBP per month.
The Azores, Portugal
Portuguese territory, but this group of nine islands is situated mid-Atlantic and a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Lisbon. If you are really looking to get away from it all this might just be the place for you. One of the best places in the world to watch whales or swim with dolphins, the islands’ remote location has protected them from the worst effects of tourism. Spectacularly beautiful, with clear water and clean air this might just be the perfect remote working location. Internet speed is fast, and accommodation is a fraction of the cost of Lisbon or Porto.
