I keep coming across the question: What is a Digital Nomad? Even some of the expats I meet aren’t quite sure. The biggest misconception is that a Digital Nomad is a profession. This idea is funny but not true at all. In this blog article, I want to clear up the myth and explain what exactly makes a Digital Nomad.
What is a Digital Nomad?
Let’s start with some basics! In my opinion, Digital Nomads are people who don’t fit into the “system”. They are looking for more freedom, seeking the way out of 9-5, and want to see the world. But here’s what the dictionary says:
noun: A person who earns a living working online in various locations of their choosing (rather than a fixed business location).
Picture this: you’re typing away on a beach in Thailand, attending a Zoom meeting in a Parisian café, or coding from a co-working space in Medellin. Digital Nomads are individuals who leverage technology to work remotely while exploring the world. They’re not tied to a single location and often move from one place to another, blending work and travel seamlessly.
Diverse Types of Digital Nomads
Freelancers: These Digital Nomads work remotely for various clients or companies. They often have a specific skill set, such as writing, coding, graphic design, or marketing, which allows them to offer their services online.
Remote Employees: Some Digital Nomads work full-time for a company but have the flexibility to work from anywhere. They typically have jobs that can be done remotely, such as customer support, software development, or project management.
Online Entrepreneurs: These Digital Nomads run their own online businesses. They may sell products or services, create and monetize a blog or YouTube channel, or run an e-commerce store. They have the freedom to work on their own terms and travel while managing their business remotely.
Early Retirees: Some very lucky (and disciplined) Digital Nomads have saved up so much money in their lives so far that they can live off their savings. For example, through smart investments, passive income streams, real estate income, or inheritances. They now only work “for fun”. This movement is called Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE).
Nomads vs. Slowmads
While fast-traveling Digital Nomads prioritize flexibility and the ability to explore different places, slowmads prioritize a deeper connection with the local culture and a more settled lifestyle.
- Slowmads stay longer in one place, for example, between 3 months and up to a year. Digital Nomads usually change places in less than three months.
- Besides the way they earn money, Digital Nomads also differ in the speed of their travel.
- Currently, more and more Digital Nomads have become Slowmads because it’s less stressful, more budget-friendly, and allows you to feel less like a tourist and more like a local.
Demographics: Who are they?
The Digital Nomad community is as varied as the destinations they frequent. Most are aged between 30-39 (52.6%), revealing a maturity and career stability that supports the nomadic lifestyle. According to a report by Flatio, a significant 25% are over 40, proving it’s never too late to embark on this adventure. The report indicates a broad international mix, with the majority hailing from the USA (37.4%), followed by the UK, Germany, and beyond.
Work, Earnings, and Industries
With a spectrum ranging from tech gurus to creative freelancers, Digital Nomads thrive in diverse fields. IT & Technology (19.3%) and Media & Marketing (19.3%) top the charts, reflecting industries conducive to remote work. When it comes to earnings, a large portion earns between 33k – 54k USD annually, with their income reflecting their skilled professions and the flexibility to choose lucrative projects.
The world is truly their oyster! Portugal emerges as a hot favorite, loved for its friendly vibe, affordable living, and beautiful landscapes. Spain, Brazil, and Thailand are also among the top picks, each offering unique appeals like vibrant culture, tropical weather, or culinary delights. But it’s not just about the destination. Factors like cost, safety, and Wi-Fi quality heavily influence their choices.
Digital Nomad-friendly Countries
Some countries are rolling out the welcome mat for Digi Nomads with special visas. These visas are great because they help nomads stay longer and sometimes even offer sweet perks. Here are a few spots known for their Digital Nomad-friendly visas:
Estonia: Estonia was one of the first to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa. It’s cool because it lets you live in Estonia and legally work for your international employer or your own company registered abroad.
Portugal: Portugal offers a Temporary Stay Visa for Digital Nomads that’s good for a year and can be renewed. Plus, Portugal’s known for its beautiful landscapes, awesome internet, and friendly communities.
Bali (Indonesia): Bali’s been a hotspot for Digital Nomads, and Indonesia is planning to introduce a special visa that allows nomads to stay tax-free for five years, as long as they don’t earn income from Indonesian companies.
Barbados: Barbados came up with the “Barbados Welcome Stamp,” which lets you live and work on this gorgeous island for up to 12 months. It’s perfect for folks who dream of working with a beach view.
Mexico: Mexico has a Temporary Resident Visa suited for Digital Nomads. It lets you stay for a year and can be extended for up to three more years. Mexico is loved for its culture, food, and affordability.
Czech Republic: For those looking into Europe, the Czech Republic offers a “Zivno” visa, which is kind of like a freelance or business visa. It’s a bit of paperwork, but it’s worth it for the chance to explore Central Europe.
Georgia: The “Remotely from Georgia” program invites freelancers and Digital Nomads to live and work in Georgia for up to one year. It’s a great pick for those looking to experience its rich culture and history.
Spain: Spain is working on a Digital Nomad visa as part of its Startups Law, aimed at attracting remote workers and entrepreneurs. The country is known for its rich culture, delicious food, and sunny weather.
Costa Rica: With the “Rentista Visa,” you can live in Costa Rica if you can prove a stable income from abroad. Costa Rica’s appeal lies in its stunning natural beauty, from beaches to rainforests.
Iceland: Iceland offers a long-term visa for remote workers from non-EU/EEA countries. It’s an incredible place for nature lovers, with its unique landscapes of volcanoes, hot springs, and glaciers.
Croatia: Croatia’s Digital Nomad visa allows remote workers to stay for up to a year. With its beautiful coastlines, historic sites, and affordable living costs, Croatia is an attractive option for many.
Malta: Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit is available to non-EU nationals who can work remotely using telecommunications technology. This sunny, English-speaking island in the Mediterranean is known for its history, culture, and sea views.
Dubai (UAE): Dubai’s one-year virtual working program lets you live there while working for an overseas employer. With its futuristic cities, vibrant expat community, and tax-free income, Dubai is a hub for Digital Nomads.
Greece: Greece is planning to introduce a Digital Nomad visa, offering the allure of living in a country known for its ancient history, stunning islands, and delicious cuisine.
Norway: Specifically, the Svalbard archipelago in Norway is an interesting case. There’s no visa required for living in Svalbard, and it’s known for its remote beauty, though the harsh Arctic conditions might not be for everyone.
Mauritius: The Mauritius Premium Visa is a renewable one-year visa for non-citizens who intend to stay in Mauritius to work, retire, or as a tourist. The island’s beaches, lagoons, and reefs make it a picturesque place to work remotely.
The Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Being a Digital Nomad isn’t all about sipping coconut water by the sea; it comes with its set of challenges and rewards. Let’s break it down:
- Accommodation: Over a quarter spend less than 750 USD a month on accommodation, seeking value in every stay. They use platforms like Airbnb, Flatio, and local FB Marketplace to find their next home.
- Work Spaces: While the home is the most preferred work setting, co-working spaces, and cafes are also popular for their social and networking opportunities.
- Social Causes: They’re not just travelers; they’re conscious citizens of the world. A significant 81.9% consider their impact on local communities, and 42.5% are deeply concerned about climate change.
- Challenges: Finding accommodation and building a social life are top frustrations. Dealing with tax issues and healthcare also adds to their worries.
What About the Term ‘Digital Nomad’?
While the majority (74.1%) embrace the ‘Digital Nomad’ label, a notable 25.9% prefer not to use it. Why is that? I believe that there are still far too many misunderstandings and false beliefs on the subject. People think that Digital Nomads bypass rules and simply travel around without respect. Yes, there are some, but I would like to think that the proportion of “bad” Digital Nomads is very small. I believe that over time, more and more people will understand that digital nomads are also hard-working people who have simply chosen a different lifestyle. Then the term “Digital Nomad” will no longer be associated with so many negative connotations.
Critics That Digital Nomads Face
We have heard a lot of criticism in the past few years. Some were justified; others were not. Here’s a breakdown of some common critiques:
Impact on Local Communities: There’s a bit of talk about how Digital Nomads can affect the places they visit. Some worry that they might drive up prices or change the local vibe, especially in smaller towns or cities. If you look at places like Bali, you’ll see that this can be absolutely true (even though I think it’s more likely that it’s Western immigrants who are overrunning the island than Digital Nomads).
Environmental Footprint: With all the traveling, there’s concern about the environmental impact. The carbon footprint from frequent flights and moving around can add up, raising questions about sustainability.
Productivity and Professionalism: Some skeptics question if Digital Nomads can be as productive and professional as those working in traditional office settings. They wonder if being in a more casual or changing environment might distract them from work.
How To Be a ‘Good’ Digital Nomad
Being a good Digital Nomad is all about traveling with care and respect for the places you visit and the people you meet. Here are some tips to be a responsible and positive Digital Nomad:
Respect Local Cultures
- Take time to learn about the local customs, traditions, and etiquette of the places you visit. This shows respect and helps you blend in better.
- Try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. It’s a great way to show respect and make connections with local people.
Support Local Businesses
- When you can, choose local cafes, coworking spaces, and small businesses. This helps keep the local economy buzzing and gives you a real taste of local life.
- Shop from local markets and artisans for your daily needs and souvenirs. It’s a great way to support the community and find unique items.
Be Environmentally Conscious
- Carry reusable items like water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags to limit your use of single-use plastics.
- Consider overland travel options or longer stays in one place to reduce your carbon footprint from frequent flying.
Engage in Community
- Join local events or groups to meet new people and contribute positively to the community.
- Consider volunteering your skills or time to local causes or organizations that could benefit from your expertise.
Leave No Trace
- Be mindful of your environmental impact. Dispose of waste properly and respect wildlife and natural landscapes.
- In natural settings, stick to marked trails and guidelines to preserve the area for future visitors.
Share Your Experiences Respectfully
- When sharing your travels online, stay real. It doesn’t help anyone if the image of a perfect Insta-place is presented, but the place actually looks completely different.
- Be mindful of the images and stories you share, ensuring they’re respectful of local cultures and communities.
Be Open and Adaptable
- Embrace the differences you encounter and be willing to adapt your habits and behaviors in consideration of local norms and expectations.
- Remember that being a guest in another country is a privilege. Approach each experience with an open heart and mind.
Practice Fair Negotiations
- While bargaining can be part of the local culture, it’s important to do so fairly and respectfully, understanding the value of goods and services.
What are your thoughts on this? Are you thinking of becoming a Digital Nomad yourself? Let me know in the comments! Thank you for reading!
This is an amazing and enlightening read 😃!
I’m aspiring to be a digital nomad (more on the slowmad side) as it’s exciting and I really want to see the world!
Your blog website is simple and easy to navigate. Off to read more 💃…
Hi Mark, thank you so much for your positive feedback! Made my day! 🥹 Yes, we’re also Slowmads. Let me know if you have any questions! Happy day!