Travelers have often romanticized Europe, especially those from the United States.
Films such as The Sound of Music and Chasing Liberty portray Europe as a beautiful land of history, art, and culture. And the movies aren’t far off.
Countries such as France, Germany, and Spain have attracted visitors from all over the world. And recently, Europe has been breaking visitor records.
However, tourists aren’t all flocking to the Louvre in Paris or the Colosseum in Rome. Three unsuspecting countries have been trending when it comes to European travel.
While countries like Prague, Hungry, and Portugal have grown in popularity over the years, these aren’t the countries that are bringing in the most tourists.
If you’re curious about which countries are taking the spotlight by having the highest increase of nights spent, here are the top three trending European countries.
1. Malta
This island in the Mediterranean Sea offers three astounding things that make visitors not want to leave: sun, history, and welcoming locals.
With an average temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches year-round.
Tourists often gravitate to the Maltese coast to swim in the crystal blue waters and explore under the sea for some of Europe’s best places for diving.
But more than just the sexy beaches and beautiful coastlines, Malta brings over 6,000 years of history to its pretty exterior. Valletta, the capital city, feels like an interactive museum.
The area holds such cultural importance that its city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After admiring the cathedral and palace in the city that is all above ground, you can head below.
The Valletta tunnels were initially built as a defensive strategy but, over the years, evolved into a more advanced tunneling system for storage, waste removal, and more. Now, the tunnels are a way to step into the past and see the city from a new perspective.
Some popular places to explore include:
Comino’s Blue Lagoon
Megalithic Temples
Golden Bay
Mosta Dome
2. Cyprus
Cyprus is another island cradled by the Mediterranean Sea, a gem of a country that visitors can’t get enough of.
Situated near Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon, it draws upon these neighboring cultures to create a culture and cuisine that is unique as well as familiar.
Known as the Jewel of the Mediterranean, this country offers tranquil beaches and lush pine forests for visitors who fancy the land or the sea. Because the island is relatively small, it’s possible to travel across the whole island by car. You can visit the less-traveled Northern part of Cyprus.
Locals are known to have year-long celebrations. In fact, there are around 40 festivals celebrated throughout the year. Some popular events include the walnut festival, Agri Cyprus fair, Cyrus Rall, and Memetçik grape celebration. However, one of the largest festivals is the Limassol Wine Festival.
Some places you’ll not want to miss include:
Larnaca
Ayia Napa for the nightlife
Troodos Mountains
Akamas Peninsula for a more secluded destination
3. Slovakia
In the middle of Hungary, Ukraine, Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic is the humble country of Slovakia.
While this landlocked country doesn’t offer beaches like Malta and Cyprus, it does offer other unique attractions.
If you travel to this European country, you will undoubtedly encounter magnificent castles, flourishing nature, and an abundance of culture.
From the 9th century up until the 19th century, Slovakia received numerous attacks, and many of the castles were destroyed.
However, some ancient buildings don’t lay in ruins and still stand firm for visitors to come and admire their strength and beauty.
In addition to seemingly impenetrable castles, Slovakia has a soft side regarding its vast landscape of lush green mountains. For those who like to wander in nature, there are many hiking trails to explore for inexperienced and expert-level hikers.
Some of Slovakia’s top places to explore include:
Devin, the oldest fortress in Slovakia
Chichmany, a quaint mountain village
Okhta Cave is one of the four aragonite caves in the world
Bardejov is the oldest city in Slovakia.
If you want to visit these countries before the end of the year, make sure you use the Google Flights tool to know when to buy your ticket at the best price.
It’s becoming some travelers’ favorite time of year. The weather is cooler, the air is crisp, and Pumpkin Spice Lattes are taking over your favorite cafes.
As summer comes to an end, it’s time to look for your next trip. Some of us choose to keep the adventure going and jet off to Europe, while others prefer to stay closer to home.
Both are great choices, and it really depends on what you’re looking for in a getaway. To give an idea, Expedia recently released its Fall Travel Forecast featuring the top trending destinations in the U.S. this fall.
The data was obtained by viewing traveler’s bookings for vacation rentals on Vrbo through the end of October.
Some places may surprise you, and others you may already have on your fall travel wishlist.
These are the top 7 trending destinations in the U.S. this fall:
7 – Blue Ridge, Georgia
Google ‘Blue Ridge Georgia’ and the first image to pop up are sweeping views of rolling hills full of fall colors.
This small town tucked away just outside the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is a treasure. It makes for the perfect fall getaway to rent a cabin and enjoy the outdoors.
There are scenic hiking trails on the outskirts of town near the beautiful, calm Blue Ridge Lake. If you happen to be a wine lover, the Serenberry Vineyards is an awesome place to spend the day where visitors love the “ambiance of the outdoors”.
6 – Hamptons, New York
This celebrity hotspot may be full of unfathomable mansions, but this magical region of New York can be enjoyed by the average Joe too.
The Hamptons are a gorgeous fall escape, not only put on the map by celebrity influence but its natural beauty of colorful fall foliage and nice beaches.
Located along the coast east of New York City, the Hamptons don’t have to be your main destination. It can easily be reached for a fun-filled day trip from the Big Apple.
5 – Cape May, New Jersey
You won’t find party-going fist-pumpers here. This charming town on the southern tip of the Cape May peninsula is an awesome escape to enjoy all that fall offers.
There are stunning views of the New Jersey coasts and historic Victorian-style houses throughout the small town.
Walking around Cape May will immerse you in the town’s charm, and fall may be the best time to visit. Weather hovers between the high 50s and mid-70s, perfect to enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Latte and all the fall colors.
The Washington Street Mall and Morey’s Pier are the perfect spots to peruse the town in the cool weather.
This scenic coastal town northeast of Portland is a gem perfect to explore in the fall. This town can be a destination worth visiting on its own but also serves as a gateway into the stunning Acadia National Park.
Whether you want to enjoy the seaside cafes, indulge yourself in fresh lobster, or venture off into the gorgeous fall colors of Acadia, you can’t go wrong visiting Bar Harbor.
3 – Asheville, North Carolina
This increasingly popular artsy city west of Charlotte is absolutely breathtaking in the fall. Travelers can enjoy the art scene and beautiful architecture year-round, but the mountains come alive with color in the fall.
This region of North Carolina is one of the best to take the backroads and immerse yourself in the endless trees of red, orange, and golden-yellow leaves.
2 – Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod can be jam-packed with tourists in the summer months, so many travelers can’t wait to visit in the fall.
There are crowds, cheaper stays, and the same beautiful beaches. But these aren’t the only draws to Cape Cod in the fall.
For a charming beach town, you might be surprised by the fall vibes of this place. There are some scenic spots with eye-popping fall foliage, and the weather is just what fall travelers are seeking.
Expect temperatures in the 50s to 70s to November.
1 – Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The top trending destination for fall is the mountain town of Gatlinburg, along with nearby Pigeon Forge.
This dynamic duo offers picturesque rustic fall colors throughout the Smoky Mountains. Between the 2 towns, there are ample ways to have a fun time experiencing the fall season.
You can choose from a variety of cabins to stay in, spend the day at theme parks such as Dollywood, and stay at a fun hotel like Margaritaville.
Crowds dwindle down in the fall, and the weather gets cooler, perfect for exploring the mountain scenery and Douglas Lake.
Tourism in Asia is back with a vengeance now that travel is easier than it has been for many years.
All of the top tourist hotspots, including Indonesia’s Bali and Thailand’s Phuket, which were virtually sealed off for years, have soared in popularity once more.
With that being said, these classic resort destinations are not the only ones responsible for reviving Asia’s badly damaged tourism sector. There is a lesser-known tropical paradise that used to receive far fewer visitors in years past that is now one of the trendiest island getaways in the region.
This year, Westerners have given the beautiful Palawan a chance, and understandably so, they already can’t get enough of it:
A Hidden Gem Of Southeast Asia
The Philippines is far from being the most visited country in Southeast Asia, lagging behind the likes of Thailand and its annual 15 million tourists, the incredibly developed Singapore, and Vietnam with its extensive sandy coastline.
Overall, it is only the sixth-most visited destination in the subcontinent. That’s not to say it lacks beauty, nor that it is, in any way, inferior to its counterparts.
In fact, the Philippines can be considered one of the last surviving unspoiled tropical archipelagos in the world.
Scattered in thousands of pieces around the South China Sea, the archipelagic nation is simply jam-packed with paradisaical islands and untouched reserves, increasingly rare finds in mainland Southeast Asia, where rapid development threatens to disturb the abundant nature.
Other than its ‘metropolitan’ islands, such as Luzon, where the bustling national capital of Manila is located, or Cebu, where the sprawling Cebu City serves as a financial center, other smaller islands that make up the Philippines have retained their quaint character.
One such island is Palawan, with a population of over 900,000, distributed across the compact capital of Puerto Princesa, where around 300,000 live, and smaller settlements resting either on the coast or the mountainous, verdant inland.
Why Is Palawan So Trendy Right Now?
Puerto Princesa International Airport, the main entry point into the island, hosts only a limited number of flights, mostly domestic ones originating from within the Philippines, which helps keep tourism levels under control and preserve the island’s unique character.
It is, after all, known nationally as the Philippines’ ‘best island’, with Filipinos themselves selecting Palawan as their ‘preferred travel destination’. According to an official survey, as many as 23% of those surveyed express a desire to visit the island.
You may be wondering why that is so.
Palawan is best known for its miles on miles of unruffled sands, lapped by crystal-clear waters, exuberant marine biodiversity, and relaxed atmosphere. It is somewhere you go to escape the crazy traffic in Manila and the urbanization issues Cebu City faces.
Compared to other Southeast Asian islands, such as Thailand’s Phuket, it is a lot quieter and more peaceful, with fewer ‘entertainment zones’, and a stronger focus on ecotourism and wellness, which is sure to place Palawan at the front of Asia’s tourism rebound.
In case you have forgotten, wellness is one of the top travel trends this year.
Palawan Is A Force Of Nature
Some of the main attractions in Palawan include the capital of Puerto Princesa itself. It is traversed by a UNESCO-listed underground river and boasts some beautiful colonial-era architecture (if you need a little reminder, the Philippines was once under Spanish rule).
As these have been left virtually unscathed amid Southeast Asia’s struggle for independence from European powers, Palawan has a high concentration of historical churches, civic buildings, and monuments dating back to this period.
Its greatest asset, however, is its breathtaking nature, with long miles of sandy beaches surrounding the coast and turquoise lagoons. Travelers often describe Palawan as being ‘Avatar-like’, in reference to James Cameron’s 2009 blockbuster film, set in a fantastical world of unique geological formations.
This description is not too far off, as Palawan is home to an extensive list of natural wonders. When seeking an escape into nature, visitors often head to El Nido beach, a tranquil swimming spot bounded by the bright-blue ocean and flanked by a steep karst cliff.
Day trips to smaller islands in the wider Palawan province are also a popular activity.
Palawan Tourism Is On The Rise
As Palawan News reports, the Filipino destination is recording a record surge in tourism this year in the wake of the country’s reopening for tourism and rekindled interest in Southeast Asia among foreigners, especially those coming from the Western Hemisphere and Europe.
The partial data recorded by the Department of Tourism, or Tourism Live Inventory and Statistics of Tourist Arrivals, shortened to TOURLIST, demonstrates that a total of 765,991 visitors visited Palawan between January and June 2023, at a whopping 136% increase year-on-year.
Out of those, nearly half are foreigners. As seen here, international visitors are becoming more numerous, but Palawan’s beaches, boutique hotels, and wellness retreats are yet to be overrun by them.
Additionally, the most popular location for tourists staying in Palawan is the small town of El Nido, which attracted nearly 300,000 for the first semester, nearly 4/10 of the overall arrivals.
In second place, Puerto Princesa, the regional capital, logs 269,090, followed by Coron and its 75,756 guests, San Vincente’s 52,057, and finally, Linapacan with 16,654.
Leading the way among the destinations in Palawan is the town of El Nido, attracting the most number of visitors at 294,065, accounting for a 38.39% share of the total tourist arrivals in the province.
All of the destinations above are well-known for their proximity to nature, proving yet again those vacationing in Palawan are actively searching for nature-based activities.
The World’s Most Desirable Island
Last year, Palawan was crowned the ‘Most Desirable Island’ in the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, as voted by the public, as well as named the ‘Most Preferred Destination’ within the Philippines by locals, in a survey carried out by PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc.
Provincial Tourism Offer Maribel Buñi is recorded stating, ‘this calls for more proactive initiatives and measures to ensure that we provide excellent service and offer quality tourism products for our visitors to have a memorable experience while they are on our island.’
As Buñi noted, the goal is not only to increase the number of arrivals but also to promote longer stays and ‘bigger spending’.
Could we expect this Filipino oasis to follow in the footsteps of Bali and launch its very own Long-Stay Visa in the near future?
That is yet to be seen, but we surely would not be surprised.
Mexico seems to constantly be at the top of every list of best travel destinations. Between all the gorgeous beach destinations and underrated gems, this country is hard to pass up for any type of traveler.
However, the beautiful Mexican Caribbean is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads. Beyond the ritzy resorts and blue waters is a thriving remote work scene across the whole region.
As one might imagine, travelers working from their laptops enjoy the same vacations as anyone else.
What better place to get paid to work on the road than the Mexican Caribbean?
Here are 7 reasons why the Mexican Caribbean Is Trending With Digital Nomads:
No Need To Get Confused By Visas
Some countries digital nomad visa requirements can turn your brain into mush reading through all the requirements.
Make X amount of money, bring this many IDs, show this many bank statements and so on and so on.
Mexico, on the other hand, is very straightforward and wants to entice people to come work here and put money back into the economy.
That being said, U.S. citizens need not worry as long as they are staying in Mexico for under 6 months.
If that’s the case, the 6-month tourist visa will suffice.
Amazing Weather
Obviously, the Mexican Caribbean wouldn’t be a top beach destination without some amazing weather.
The best part is the weather is awesome year-round. Temps average about 75 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.
Of course, summer is a little hotter, but as Fall is just around the corner, digital nomads can still enjoy a beautiful day after work. Maybe even find a nice patio to enjoy the ocean breeze while getting paid for it.
Reliable Internet Connections
No matter if you are in Cancun, Tulum, or Cozumel, travelers will be able to access reliable Internet to complete their tasks.
Each city has a variety of co-working spaces and reliable cafes, including Starbucks if you need a taste of home.
With consistent speeds of 35Mbps, digital nomads don’t have to worry about lagging behind in work. Some beaches in the area will soon be equipped with public Wi-Fi making for a perfect backdrop to make your co-workers jealous on video chats.
Low Cost Of Living
Digital nomads’ paychecks can be all over the map, both literally and figuratively. There are so many jobs that can be performed remotely these days; it’s not always high-end professions.
Many freelancers and side hustlers may be able to support themselves but may not be raking in boatloads of cash.
That’s why budgeting tends to be a high priority for those who take the lounge into digital nomadism.
Mexico is known for having a low cost of living, including popular beach destinations.
Welcoming Locals
Given that this region is a travel hotspot bringing in tourists all year, the locals are accustomed to having visitors in their neck of the woods.
Digital nomads blend in and feel right at home with the warmth of friendly locals embracing them. In fact, having visitors here tends to help the economy.
The more people who come to visit, the more money is spent. Mexico thrives on the tourism industry and has many workers who rely on having travelers visit.
It’s no different from digital nomads, who tend to stay longer than the average traveler.
Endless Things To Do
No matter where you are in the Mexican Caribbean, there’re ample things to do and see to keep busy. If Tulum doesn’t pique your interest one day, it’s easy to hop over to Cancun or anywhere in between.
From amazing archeological sites spread out across the region to pristine beaches to spend the day in the sun, it’s hard to be bored here.
And just wait until the Maya train opens to make it even more efficient and fun to get around!
Excellent Long-Term Accommodations
Unless you have a garden full of money trees, it’s probably best not to book monthly stays at all-inclusive resorts, as nice as they are.
Better options are Airbnb, hostels, and other local vacation rental agencies. Many accommodations are in very convenient locations.
There are some great options that have amenities that are very beneficial to remote workers, including workstations and reliable wifi.
Is it the cheap cost of living, the magnificent tropical views, or living a life of luxury on a budget that attracts digital nomads to Southeast Asia?
No matter the reason, digital nomads are more than happy to call places like Indonesia and Thailand their temporary home.
Who doesn’t want to end their work day by exploring lush green forests and admiring ancient momentums and temples?
While Bali may have shown remote workers the beauty of Asia, it is not the continent’s only gem. And with over-tourism on the rise, it’s ideal to search for alternative places that offer the same luxuries and necessities as popular destinations.
Fortunately, there’s Vietnam. This Asian country, known for its delicious Pho, is slowly becoming a top destination for digital nomads, and here’s why.
Affordable cost of living
One of the most attractive factors of Vietnam is its low cost of living. In major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, you can find a suitable apartment for about $250 to $500 a month.
If you’re starting your remote journey, you don’t need a lot of money to live a good life in Vietnam. You can live comfortably on a monthly salary of between $1000-$1500.
The weather
Although Vietnam has a more tropical environment, the temperature and weather can vary depending on the region.
In the north, you are likely to get all four seasons. The further north you go, the cooler it can get. The central area can be hot and dry, with heavy rainfall from September through November.
Depending on the time of year, the south of Vietnam can be dry and hot or warm and wet. Heavy rainfall usually happens in June, July, and August.
Because of the varying weather climates within the regions, it’s easier to find a conducive environment to live in.
Besides laptops and an internet connection, coffee is one of the essential things for digital nomads. Fortunately, Vietnam is one of the largest producers of coffee, so there is a good chance of high-quality brew.
Besides its unique styles of coffee, such as coconut, and egg coffee, Vietnam provides unique elements to its coffee shops.
Suppose you’re a worker who can concentrate in a busy environment. In that case, you’ll enjoy unique contemporary cafes such as La Viet Coffee and Cafe Da Nang. Both places offer unique and calming aesthetics as a backdrop to a bustling cafe.
If you want to mix work and play, check out Rainforest Cafe in downtown Nha Trang, which is built in a treehouse with swings and slides.
The Hive has three locations in Ho Chi Minh. Besides the comfortable working spaces and air-conditioned rooms, the Hive Villa offers a special element. The Villa offers a swimming pool and garden for the perfect balance of work and zen.
Dreamplex
This co-working space has 12 different working rooms to meet the needs of any digital nomad. Its open space design, complimented by greenery, makes it the perfect place to feel rejuvenated and focused. This dreamy co-working space is located in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Enouvo Space
Enouvo Space is the ideal place to work and meet new people. In addition to shared working spaces, there are lounge areas where you can connect with other professionals.
Hotspots for digital nomads in Vietnam
If you’re convinced to try Vietnam, here are some trendy spots to look out for.
The work-from-anywhere movement isn’t going anywhere. Digital nomads leverage their location-independent online work to travel the world for long periods of time or even full-time.
Today there are more than 32 million digital nomads worldwide. With so many laptop-toting travelers, it’s no surprise that crowds and prices are skyrocketing in uber-popular remote work destinations like Mexico City, Lisbon, and Bali.
This has left many digital nomads feeling like they have to choose between affordability and trendy digital nomad hubs with bustling international communities.
But that’s simply not the case. There are plenty of vibrant digital nomad destinations with great work-from-anywhere infrastructure at affordable prices.
Here are the six cheapest trending digital nomad hotspots around the world:
San Cristóbal De Las Casas, Mexico
Mexico is the number one most popular country for digital nomads this year. U.S. remote workers especially flock to this country for its beautiful beaches, exciting flavors, and convenient time zone.
Mexico City usually steals the show, but there is a much more affordable nomad hub further south in the heart of Chiapas with a 30% lower cost of living than the country’s popular capital.
San Cristòbal de la Casas offers both authentic cultural immersion and an active international community at some of the lowest prices in the country.
This charming city is welcoming, walkable, and super affordable. Colorful Mexican baroque architecture, friendly locals, and romantic avenues will invite you to make San Cristóbal your home, even for a short while.
Remote workers here can enjoy a very comfortable lifestyle on less than $1,200 per month.
Digital nomads can expect a monthly cost of $300 per room or $400-500 per apartment for longer-term rentals in the center of the action (Barrio de El Cerrillo or Barrio de Guadalupe). Short-term stays average $160 per week or $23 per night.
One popular but pricier option is Co.404 Coliving & Coworking, which offers a spacious private room and coworking access for $620 per month.
Coffees cost about $2. Local tacos start at $0.80 each, and lunch menus in home-style restaurants start at $4.
San Cristóbal’s gastronomy scene is as diverse as it is delicious, so it’s definitely worth a few extra dollars to explore this city’s culinary corners. The plentiful international food inspired by Asian and European flavors will set you back around $8.
Staying connected is easy and affordable in San Cristóbal de las Casas. A basic SIM card here is about $14. An unlimited monthly coworking pass with stunning mountain views at Centralita is a steal at just $83.
Ecuador is a rising star in work-from-anywhere circles for its new digital nomad visa.
Remote workers from North America, the U.K., and most of Europe who earn at least $1,275 per month (or triple the local minimum wage) can apply to live and work in this culturally rich Latin American country for up to 2 years. This makes Ecuador one of the cheapest, easiest, and fastest options for a long stay in South America.
In Ecuador’s southern Andes mountains, the up-and-coming digital nomad hub of Cuenca is giving the capital city of Quito a run for its money.
Cuenca attracts online workers with its relaxed pace of life, spectacular cathedrals, and picturesque riverfront.
Once known for a more mature group of expats and retirees, Cuenca has recently benefited from an infusion of young, creative energy. Today, it’s generating great buzz among digital nomads. The city is a perfect home base for exploring the best nature Ecuador has to offer, from the stunning scenery of Parque Nacional El Cajas to the healing hot springs of Piedra de Agua.
A comfortable cost of living in Cuenca is less than $1,300 per month for a digital nomad.
Travelers can get their work done and network in shared offices for as little as $70 per month with Wi-Fi speeds averaging 80 mbps. The top choices are IMPAQTO, CoWorking Cuenca, and popular backpacker coliving-coworking chain Selina.
Apartment prices average $650/month or $250/week. Local menus cost $2-3 at breakfast and less than $6 at lunch; groceries are also super affordable.
Cuenca has a well-earned reputation as a coffee town. Travelers can fuel their online work with world-class java grown just a few hundred kilometers away for less than $2.
While Cuenca lacks the international airport access that some jet-setting remote workers are after, a short flight to Quito will get you connected to the world in less than an hour.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Living the dream in Europe doesn’t have to break the bank.
While some uber-popular remote work destinations like Lisbon can cost a whopping $4,000 per month, Slovenia’s capital city is one of the most affordable hubs in Europe.
Depending on your lifestyle, digital nomads can enjoy Ljubljana for as little as $2,100 per month.
Ljubljana rent costs are among the lowest in Europe and the ninth cheapest among global trending digital nomad cities. Long-term local rentals average $670 per month.
Short-term travelers will pay more but can still snag a modern one-bedroom online for $1,100 per month, $300 per week, or $60 per night. Since the capital is full of students and young creatives, work-equipped rooms in flatshares can also be a super affordable option for as low as $500 per month.
Enjoying the everyday pleasures of life in Slovenia won’t cost much, either. Digital nomads can enjoy an afternoon espresso ($1.10) or a spritz ($3.90) on the banks of the Ljubljanica River, with or without their laptops.
Over a dozen coworking spaces around the city start at $125 per month. A 7GB local SIM card from A1 costs $11.
While Ljubljana may not seem “cheap” on face value, the Slovenian capital is a great budget-friendly and on-trend option for Western Europe.
Some other living costs include:
Byrek cheese pastry – $2.30
Set lunch menu – $11
Glass of local wine – $4
Dinner in a mid-range restaurant – $12-16
Single bus fare – $1.45
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Long before office workers were able to pack up their livelihoods and hit the road, adventurous entrepreneurs and techy travelers were thriving in the northern mountains of Thailand.
This perennial Thai favorite remains one of the top trending destinations among remote working travelers – and one of the cheapest.
Chiang Mai ranks as the 8th most popular digital nomad city in the world right now. Thailand is also trending as one of the top three most geotagged locations for digital nomad social media posts this year.
Best of all, digital nomads can live comfortably in Chiang Mai on $800 per month.
A quick look at Chiang Mai makes it easy to see why foreigners flock to this low-key Thai oasis. The obvious pulls are the area’s pristine nature, spectacular motorbiking, and active global community.
Living in the middle of this mountain paradise won’t cost you much, though. Nice studio apartments range from $120 – $250 per month, while larger condos with top amenities like swimming pools and cleaning services come in closer to $350 per month. For shorter stays, expect to pay $17 per night.
With over 220 coffee shops and nearly 40 superb coworking spaces all in the city center, Chiang Mai gives digital nomads plenty of ways to stay productive and make connections. The overwhelming choice of high-quality coworking options starts at $4 per day, $23 per week, or $80 per month. You can find a high-data one-month SIM card for just $13.
From black coffee in a bag for $0.75 to artisan flat whites for $2, there’s plenty of java to fuel online workers on any budget.
Eating out in Chiang Mai also means fresh, healthy food at low prices. Street food meals can cost as little as $0.80. Lunch sets with tons of fresh vegetables, meat or tofu, and noodles or rice average $2. If you’re buried in work and can’t be bothered to cook, a Grab app delivery of local food starts at $3.50.
For those who prefer to cook at home, a grocery budget of $11 per person per week will get you plenty of fresh tropical fruits, flavorful veggies, and a wide variety of proteins.
The nomad culture here is focused on a balanced blend of productivity and health, with less hopping nightlife than in Bangkok or Phuket. For a taste of the big city or an island getaway, however, Chiang Mai visitors only need to shell out $50 for a quick 1-hour flight.
Remember to avoid digital nomad trips to Chiang Mai during the burning season from February to May. In this dry weather period, smoke from traditional agricultural burning practices and general pollution gets trapped in the valley, making for dangerously poor air quality.
Dahab, Egypt
The blue waters and desert palms of the Sinai peninsula are calling.
Dahab, Egypt is one of the cheapest beach destinations in the world. Just an hour away from the luxury and buzz of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab’s minimalism and seclusion offer an affordable, laid-back escape from hustle culture.
Living in this up-and-coming Arabian paradise will cost you less than $1,000 per month.
Digital nomads can make the most of their work-life balance with spectacular scuba diving or adventurous kitesurfing (and regular surfing) at Southeast Asia prices. Dahab’s breathtaking landscapes and a creative global community mean you’ll never be bored when you close your laptop.
A one-bedroom apartment will average $350-400 per month. For long-term stays in Dahab, it’s recommended to arrange accommodation with local providers or apartment hunt in-person on arrival. Online options here can be limited and usually far overpriced. Short-term stays booked online cost $10-25 per night or $120 per week.
Coworking from hubs like Mojo Co-Work Cafe will cost around $114 per month or $6 per day. The Wi-Fi in Dahab can be pretty hit or miss, so most bandwidth-hunting online workers prefer coworking spaces or trendy cafes like TIM’s Munch to working from home.
A $20 SIM card with a large data package from Etisalat or Orange is also a necessity; fortunately, data top-ups are dirt cheap in Egypt.
Most cafes and restaurants have free Wi-Fi and welcome visitors with laptops. A coffee will cost less than $1, while local meals will cost $2-5. Dahab is definitely a great place to enjoy fresh catch-of-the-day seafood without breaking the bank.
Best of all, the hospitality in Dahab is unparalleled. In fact, even women traveling to Dahab alone name it as their favorite destination in all of Egypt for its warm welcome and relative safety.
Digital nomads can stay on a budget and feel at home in this relaxed Egyptian beach town.
While the digital nomad community used to be a pretty small group known for its free-wheeling freelancers, post-2020 remote work policies have now brought millions of everyday employees into the digital nomad lifestyle.
2023’s growing work-from-anywhere community is as diverse as it is large. Every digital nomad is after something different. No matter what your travel style is, there are lots of affordable destinations perfect for online work waiting to be explored.
Digital nomadism is more than just a trend; it’s a movement redefining how and where we travel.
Since 2020, the amount of digital nomads has skyrocketed, in large part due to the newfound fully remote options for traditional jobs that were office-based 9-to-5 roles pre-pandemic.
With over 35 million digital nomads globally, travel-friendly online work is drawing adventurers to visit or even live in so-called “digital nomad hotspots” all over the world.
At the crossroads between Europe and Asia lies one such popular digital nomad destination: the legendary Istanbul.
Here, east meets west and tradition meets modernity. Digital nomads flock to Istanbul for the depth of culture amid modern convenience.
With so many unique neighborhoods and an inexhaustible list of amazing things to see, many location-independent travelers choose to spend extended time in this Turkish megacity.
Remote work powered by Turkish coffee with views of the Bosphorus sounds spectacular; but does the reality live up to the hype?
In some ways, Istanbul is a digital nomad mecca. However, there are a few serious pitfalls that make it less than ideal for remote work.
Here are the pros and cons of traveling to Istanbul as a digital nomad:
The Turkish Take on Café Culture
We’ve all heard about the national obsession with Turkish tea, but that doesn’t stop Istanbul from boasting some of the best coffee culture in the world.
Trendy neighborhoods like Moda and Cihangir are home to three to ten coffee shops per block, most of which are well-suited for getting work done.
These are some great Istanbul cafes for digital nomads:
Walter’s Coffee – A Breaking Bad-themed cafe designed for remote work, with outlets at every table and outstanding third wave coffee. Don’t leave without one of their decadent brownies either!
Journey Lounge – Journey’s second floor for a hidden work zone is great for a long work day, since their menu from breakfast to dinner is spectacular.
Kava Coffee Home and Kava Coffee Roasting – This trendy light-filled space has work-friendly individual seating in modern two-story spaces at both locations. Try a Chemex and buttery goodies from their bakery.
Cuma – The light and airy interior has lots of spacious sturdy tables well-suited for working.
Story Coffee & Food – A top pick for a working brunch and seasonal specialty lattes.
Tiyop – This plant-filled oasis has a sprawling communal table in the back that’s perfect for plugging in. Plus, it’s conveniently located near the main tourist sites in Galata.
Curve Cukurcuma – A hidden gem with wi-ifi as strong as its espresso, but limited seating.
Cafes in Istanbul are hubs for the thriving young professional and creative scene. Most coffee shops are open from morning until nearly midnight, since going out for coffee and tea is a critical component of the local social fabric.
There are so many amazing cafes to work from in the city that it almost makes up for the slim pickings of short-term coworking spaces – but not quite.
Unfortunately, most of Istanbul’s coworking spaces only offer monthly or yearly memberships and lack drop-in rates, making it nearly impossible to pop into an office space on a shorter remote working trip here.
If digital nomads are planning to stay longer than a month, they might have better luck. But even on a longer-term membership, a lot of spaces – for example, IDEA Kadikoy – require an application process with a waiting period and seem to be limited to mostly locals in the tech industry.
Digital nomads are limited to a 90-day tourist visa to see the whole country, so it could be tricky to stay in Istanbul long enough for these extended coworking memberships. Turkey does not currently offer a digital nomad visa. Since the start of 2023, the temporary residency visa has also become nearly impossible to acquire or renew for online workers.
The two primary exceptions to the long-term membership coworking requirement are Impact Hub, which offers 1-10 day packages, and Daire, which charges $5/hour for a pre-reserved hot desk.
Both are located about 30 minutes north of Galata by metro, which means up to an hour commute with changes for digital nomads staying in Kadiköy, Fatih, or other popular neighborhoods.
Divided City
The fingers of the Bosphorus divide the city into three main zones and make getting around a hassle.
This so-called “Golden Horn” separates Beyoğlu (including Karaköy and Galata) in the north from Fatih and Eminonü in the south. It also draws the line between Europe and Asia, with Kadıköy and Üsküdar to the east.
While commuting by ferry looks cinematic, it’s also super slow. Most of the time, getting around Istanbul means an hour underground on the metro, not enjoying the sea or strolling spice-lined streets.
The metro also doesn’t connect the Asian side very well, which means you’re waiting on vintage trams to chug along hills and get you somewhere near your destination or taking city buses through epic traffic.
On the upside, public transport is super affordable in Istanbul. Ferry, metro, bus, and tram rides all cost less than $0.80. A reloadable Istanbulkart can be purchased in all metro and ferry stations and some bus stops for about $2.
Endless Exploration
While it can be a drag to get around Istanbul, the tradeoff is that the city is so huge and diverse that you’ll always have something to see.
Digital nomads could spend weeks in Istanbul visiting a different neighborhood and working from a different café every day.
Explore the Hagia Sophia on your lunch break, or take a cruise on the Bosphorus after work. There are plenty of amazing cultural and historical sites, so you’ll definitely never be bored traveling and working online in Istanbul.
Pricy Data
Digital nomads value staying connected while out and about. Mobile data also usually doubles as backup Wi-Fi for critical work tasks.
Unfortunately, SIM card prices in Istanbul have tripled over the past few years. A short-term tourist SIM currently starts at 5-20G plans for $40-55. This means that a remote worker visiting Istanbul for a few days will pay the same price for data as someone who’s staying for a few weeks.
Turkish carriers also often throttle data speeds, even on ‘unlimited’ packages. On the upside, unlimited Whatsapp messaging is usually included.
Great International Access
A key feature of a great digital nomad city is convenient international access.
With Istanbul’s mega-hub airport, remote workers can hop around Europe and Asia without breaking a sweat. The city’s new airport metro stops also make getting to and from your flight easier than ever.
Nomads can snag flights to European destinations like Venice, Budapest, Paris, Barcelona, and Athens for $50-100. Trips to Gulf destinations like Dubai are dirt cheap, while popular Asian destinations like Thailand and the Maldives can be reached for under $200.
Istanbul also offers an overnight express train to Sofia, Bulgaria. From there, travelers can connect onward to the European rail network.
Accommodation Struggles
While travelers on workations might base from a hotel, long-term digital nomads often prefer to rent an apartment for a week or month. Unfortunately, that’s tricky in Istanbul these days.
First, Booking.com is blocked inside of Turkey, so anyone trying to book accommodation after arriving in the country will need to use a VPN.
Second, Airbnb prices have ballooned to reflect the housing shortage in the city these days. Rental sites offer very few entire apartments and list mostly private rooms in shared apartments. (Bear in mind that some Airbnb hosts in Istanbul actually sleep in the living room of the apartment and omit this information from the listing.)
As of summer 2023, digital nomads can expect to pay $150-200/week or $500-600/month for a room, and roughly double for a private apartment. While it might not seem expensive compared to U.S. prices, rents are out of proportion to the general cost of living.
Inflation, currency instability, an influx of Russian tenants, and a rapidly changing housing market mean the accommodation situation in Istanbul is subject to frequent changes, making travel to Istanbul a bit less predictable for digital nomads.
It’s true that Istanbul has a few kinks to work out for remote workers. While it may not quite live up to the hype, this Turkish megacity is still a must-see for travelers and digital nomads alike.
The Caribbean is indisputably America’s number one vacation spot, but it can be argued that it remains largely unexplored. While destinations like Cancun and Punta Cana are all awash with visitors, other lesser-known sunny spots are still flying under the radar of most travelers.
That is the case with the British Virgin Islands (BVI), an autonomous archipelago that is overseen by the United Kingdom and a direct neighbor of Puerto Rico to the East.
An up-and-coming destination, the BVI is trending among sunseekers right now.
Here are 4 reasons why you should give the Cancun-Punta Cana power duo a miss this year and be among the first to explore this British dependency:
It Feels More Exclusive
Whether you’re staying on the most populous and best-equipped island or any of the more remote paradise islets that surround it, you will be met with long stretches of virtually deserted white-sand beaches glistening against the turquoise waters and beautiful palm tree-lined promenades.
The British Virgin Islands host, on average, 83,000 tourists every year.
If you’re looking for some utter relaxation away from the hordes of holidaymakers flocking into Mexico’s gentrified mega-resorts, then the BVI will definitely feel a lot more exclusive.
According to 2019 estimates, the islands have a population of about 30,000 British subjects, and due to their relatively compact sizes – the main island, Tortola, is only 12 miles long – their capacity is reduced. In other words, expect fewer crowds.
One of a handful of five-star listings on Booking.com, the Sugar Mill Hotel has deluxe double rooms with sea views starting at US $399.
Still, within the US $400-US $500 price range, the Long Bay Beach Resort, 7 km from Road Town, the main settlement on Tortola, offers overnight stays from US $489, but if you’re on a tighter budget, you will find guesthouse stays as cheap as US $81 per night in the city center.
Tropical Vibes
As a natural world destination, the British Virgin Islands boast unique biodiversity and a truly pristine nature you are unlikely to find anywhere else in the overtouristed subgroup.
Comprising more than 50 islands, the BVI is famous for having stunning beaches lined with coral reefs, scenic coastal drives, volcanic terrain, and unspoiled rainforests serving as natural parks dotted with tourist trails and wildlife observation areas.
It is somewhere you go for disconnecting from the craziness of the modern world, placing it at the front of the ‘digital detox’ travel trend.
If lying on the warm sands all day as the Caribbean Sea caresses your feet under the bright tropical sun, notifications off, sounds like your idea of fun, these unheard-of islands are definitely where you should be headed.
As tourism isn’t as prominent in the BVI as in their Caribbean counterparts, and the islanders enjoy a high level of social development due to their status under the British flag, you are extremely unlikely to be disturbed by beach vendors or even face safety issues.
Your only job is to kick back, relax, and take in the oceanic vibes.
Unique Culture
The BVI may be primarily a resort destination, but it is also an incredibly underrated cultural site waiting to be discovered.
Originally inhabited by indigenous Americans hailing from the continent’s South, the islands were re-settled by Europeans following Christopher Columbus’ second excursion into the Americas in 1493, after which they were renamed ‘British Virgin Islands’.
Throughout the centuries, the archipelago would fall under the control of several different empires, being administered by the English, Dutch, French, the Danish, and even the Spanish, who fought their Anglo-Saxon rivals in an attempt to assert their Empire’s borders in the New World.
Ultimately, the territory would return to British control when it became an important trading hub associated with the sugar cane trade.
During this period, a large number of enslaved Africans would be forcibly brought to the BVI to work in the fields.
Today, the archipelago’s multi-ethnic populace is reflective of centuries upon centuries of racial diversity and intermarriage, though Afro-Caribbean descendants continue to form a majority. Nonetheless, all islands are British citizens.
For those interested in the complex History of the BVI, especially tourists who would like to add in some culture to their sunny break, there are four major museums in Tortola where they can learn more:
H.M. Prison Museum, the oldest building on the island, was established as early as 1794
The Old Government House, the official residence of the archipelago’s Governor, originally built in 1899
The 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works, a plantation formerly linked to slavery
The Folk Museum, chronicling the History of the islands’ native inhabitants, the Arawak and Carib peoples
Direct Flights
Finally, if you’re thinking the BVI are not worth the hassle as they are more remote than other resorts a stone’s throw away from home, you might want to reconsider upon learning that the first-ever nonstop flight between the mainland U.S. and the territory has launched recently.
Offered by American Airlines, the inaugural three-hour journey took place on June 1, linking Miami to the BVI’s main international airport on Beef Island.
Although it is not the capital or most populous island, it is connected to Tortola via the landmark Queen Elizabeth Bridge, spanning the bright-blue sea.
The daily flight will remain operational through August 14, pausing in the fall before restarting service in November.
Overall, the BVI administration estimated that more than 2,100 monthly visitors would be transported to the archipelago during active months.
The flights depart Miami at 10:07 a.m. arriving at Beef Island at 1:06 p.m. Returning to America, guests will take off at 1:47 p.m., touching down in Miami at 4:25 p.m.
Additional flights have also been added on certain June dates due to strong demand.
As stated by BVI Premier Natalio Wheatley, ‘this is the first time in history that a flight has completely sold out in such a short amount of time‘, and the administration is grateful to American Airlines for partnering with them in fulfilling this long-awaited service. ‘bringing ease and accessibility’ to the ‘treasured’ destination.
Round-trip flights from Miami start from US $998 and US $503 from San Juan in Puerto Rico.
Low-cost options are non-existent, as both seat availability and capacity are lower, but this is a more exclusive destination where you’ll be able to truly enjoy the natural wonders of the Caribbean without battling for a spot in the sun amid the raging crowds.
For some, that might be worth the extra hundred bucks.
Cabo is a popular destination in Mexico known for its many sprawling hotels and all-inclusive resorts.
But if you’re looking for a more intimate, boutique place to stay, there are also plenty of options to choose from in Cabo.
Boutique hotels are perfect for travelers who are looking for a more intimate experience with unique touches you can’t find at larger resorts.
These are 5 of the best boutique hotels in Cabo to consider for your next stay:
1. Mar Del Cabo
Mar Del Cabo is by far one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo. Located between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, this beachfront boutique hotel is full of classic Mexican charm.
The white-washed exterior of this hotel is accented with pops of color from bright blue doors and hot pink bougainvillea. Each room at this hotel is unique, and it offers a quiet respite from the crowds you would find at a massive all-inclusive resort with a quiet, intimate feeling.
The food at Mar Del Cabo is also a standout feature, with much of it being fresh and local farm-to-table fare. Guests at this hotel will enjoy amenities like a swimming pool and beachfront access that is literally just steps away.
Photo: Kashlee Kucheran
2. Drift
Drift is another one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo for travelers who don’t want a typical all-inclusive resort vacation.
This chic, minimalistic hotel has an amazing location in the center of San Jose del Cabo, within walking distance of everything in town. It’s less than 30 minutes walking to the beach or a quick 7-minute drive. You’ll also find amenities like a pool and an on-site bar and restaurant.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Cabo, this is a fantastic choice, with rooms for under $200 a night in high seasons and $100 a night in low season.
Hotel El Ganzo is another great option for travelers who are looking for a unique boutique hotel in Cabo. This hotel is tucked away in the marina of San Jose del Cabo.
This hotel places a large focus on the arts and music, with art installations from local and international artists and live music performances occurring regularly. It’s also a great destination for wellness, with spa treatments and yoga classes available.
This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a serene escape in Cabo.
If you’re looking for something different in Cabo, look no further than Acre Resort. This boutique hotel is unlike any typical resort in Cabo, offering an intimate feeling in a jungle oasis.
What’s unique about this hotel is that guests can stay in treehouse villas that combine luxury with feeling close to nature.
You’ll still only be a 10-minute drive from the beach, and you can enjoy amenities like a swimming pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and fitness center at the resort.
Finally, Bahia Hotel & Beach House is one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Cabo San Lucas.
Designed for independent travelers who aren’t looking for an all-inclusive resort, this boutique hotel offers attentive personal service with an intimate feeling.
The hotel is located right on the beach, so you can soak up the sun or take a dip in the waves. It’s also a great location for exploring the rest of what Cabo has to offer.
If you follow any travel blogs or read travel news, (and since you are here reading this, I will assume you do!) then you have undoubtedly read about Albania.
This small country located on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe has been gaining more and more attention recently for travelers looking for something different, affordable, and beautiful.
I spent five months at the start of 2021 living in Albania, and I am one of those people who won’t shut up about it.
Despite having been to many more countries since then, whenever people ask, “what country has been your favorite” or “what country left the greatest impression,” the answer is always Albania.
Here Are Some Things That Surprised Me The Most About Albania:
If you get to Berat, ask for Lili (you’re welcome)
Keep The Promise
The first thing that surprised me the most about Albania was the people.
The people you will find in this country are some of the nicest, most helpful, and most welcoming that I have ever encountered in all my years of traveling and living abroad.
You might have heard people refer to “Balkan Hospitality,” and this is absolutely a thing. Balkan people might seem a bit rough around the edges, but this is just a bit of a hard exterior that some of them have built up over the years.
I can’t tell you the number of times we have interacted with some gruff older men whom we were a bit intimidated to approach at first but ended up drinking rakia around a table with their family by the end of the conversation.
In Albania, there is a term: BESA, which means to keep the promise.
This is more of a way of life here, and the people will go out of their way to help you and make you feel welcome, allowing them to be trustworthy and keeping the promise of peace.
For example: One time we took a public bus to another city and upon reaching the destination, the driver realized we were unsure where to go. He didn’t speak any English and was shouting at us and demanding my phone, scary right?
Upon taking my phone he called our guesthouse and figured out where it was, and then proceeded to basically hold our hands and escort us there, making sure we were ok.
We were literally speechless at how out of his way he went to help us. This is the Balkan hospitality that I am talking about. Name another country where this would happen, I’ll wait.
A Not-So-Secret Secret
It’s funny because most people I speak to about Albania have never heard of it, and it seems the only ones who do know are other travelers and digital nomads.
While it used to be a bit of a secret, Albania has been growing in popularity for many reasons.
After going viral on TikTok recently, Albania is not such a top-secret destination anymore. Yet, when we arrived in Albania in January 2021, we were surprised to see so many other ex-pats living here already.
When doing our research, we assumed it was relatively unknown, but it ended up being the one country where we made so many friends quickly as there was a pretty well-established community of ex-pats and locals here. So, if Albania was a secret before social media, it wasn’t a very well-kept one.
Note: many of those we met were Americans, as we can stay a year visa-free.
An Albanian couple helped us get in here when we showed up just at closing, so nice!
From Budget To Bougie
Albania is an affordable destination, this is absolutely true, and most travelers who come already know this.
I came to Albania knowing this and was still surprised at how little you can spend here and live comfortably.
My apartment in Saranda cost under $500 a month and had sea views and a pool, not to mention high-speed wifi and smart TVs. I have friends who pay under $300 a month for their apartment because they made some good local connections, so it can be done.
You can get a beer for under a dollar at most places, and food (aside from imported items) is very cheap as well.
However, one thing to understand is that you can also splurge in Albania, and some accommodations and restaurants can run you Western prices and then some.
Pro-tip: become regulars at some of the beach bars in the early days of the opening season (springtime) and be treated to a free bowl of fresh mussels every time and everywhere you go!
Enjoying free mussels on the beach in Saranda
In the end, it’s all about how you want to live, but do keep in mind that the Albanian Riviera gets costly as the summer season approaches, so make sure to understand any rental agreements beforehand.
Many people I know had their rent doubled in the summer, so this is something to work out before signing anything.
Beach Please
Ok, let’s talk about the beaches. Most people who come to Albania in the warmer months do so in search of the Albanian Riviera, and for good reason.
Albania has the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. The rocky shores make for crystal-clear water, and the sunsets are incredible.
Saranda has some decent smaller beaches around it you can enjoy, and of course, Ksamil is becoming more and more well-known as being as beautiful as the Caribbean.
One thing to realize, though, is that while not nearly as crowded as other popular European destinations, many of Albania’s beaches are far from a secret come summer.
While stunning, I was so surprised that these places get crowded quickly, and prices start to creep up.
If you are really looking for a quiet place to escape, head north and seek out some smaller beach towns along the coast. Ask any local, and they will probably insist you join them and their family on a trip (seriously).
Bunkers Bunkers Everywhere
Postcard Perfect Views
I was, and continue to be surprised at just how beautiful Albania is. Everywhere you look, there will be a turquoise coast crashing below the cliffs, or mountains and gorges, rivers, and everything in between.
One thing that I could not believe was the crystal clear green-blue of the Vjosa river that runs from Greece across Albania and into the Adriatic Sea.
This river is so beautiful and important, in fact, that it has just become the first Wild River National Park in Europe.
If you are lucky enough to call Albania home for a while, you will likely be surprised to see how easy most of the country is to explore via public busses and, of course, by renting a car.
Yes Means No And No Means Yes
While English is widely spoken in Albania, the official language is Albanian, referred to as Shqip. When speaking Shqip, one thing to pay attention to is how people indicate yes and no.
Yes is Po, and No is Jo. Not too difficult, right?
Now comes the tricky part, Albanians indicate yes with a shake of the head, meaning they are saying Po and shaking their head, which looks and sounds like No to a foreigner.
When they mean no, they nod their head up and down and say Jo. Still with me?
If you think it’s a bit confusing to read, imagine living it. You would think it would get easier, and it did, but even after months, there were still many situations where this interaction caused some confusion.
Luckily, Albanians are understanding and patient with foreigners, so it’s all good.
I hope my experience leads you to book that ticket, bus, or even the ferry from Corfu, Greece to explore Albania and all it has to offer.
Don’t tell me I didn’t warn you about the Rakia strength, though!
But seriously, if you are looking for an interesting and unique place to explore, with wonderful people and fascinating culture… the answer is always Albania.
