Digital Nomad Guides
A collection of reviews from locations we’ve stayed in for at least a month
Many travel guides skim the surface—highlighting the popular tourist spots and activities. But that’s not how life works when you’re a digital nomad. These guides go beyond the usual travel recommendations to give you a genuine understanding of what life is like in each destination after you’ve settled in. They’re meant to be practical, honest, and—most importantly—based on real-life experience.
The Digital Nomad Leaderboard
The current leaderboard of destinations where we’ve stayed for at least a month as digital nomads, check out the full posts for all the information!
| Destination | Country | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|
| Paros | Greece | 8.2 |
| Puerto Morelos | Mexico | 7.45 |
| Cusco | Peru | 7.25 |
| Bariloche | Argentina | 7.2 |
How I Rank Destinations
Each location is ranked based on my personal experience, and the categories I consider most important as a digital nomad. These include:
- Food: Eating well is essential, and I look at everything from the availability of local cuisine to international options. Whether it’s street food or dining in a cafe, I rate the food scene based on quality, variety, and affordability.
- Prices: Budgeting is key when you’re staying somewhere for an extended period. I assess the overall cost of living, from accommodation to daily expenses like transportation and groceries. I try to highlight places that offer great value for money.
- Fun Activities: When you’re not working, it’s important to have ways to unwind. I look for destinations with diverse recreational options—whether that’s outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or nightlife.
- Beauty: A location’s natural or architectural beauty can make a big difference in your day-to-day enjoyment. From scenic landscapes to charming city streets, I rate how visually appealing the surroundings are.
- Safety: Feeling safe is critical, especially when you’re living in a new place. I evaluate the overall safety, considering factors like crime rates, personal experiences, and local advice.
- Public Transport: Getting around easily is another important factor. I check how reliable and accessible public transportation is, whether it’s buses, trains, or ridesharing services, and how affordable they are.
- Communication: Language barriers can be challenging. I assess how easy it is to communicate with locals, especially for those who might not speak the local language. I also take into account how widely English is spoken.
- Weather: The climate can have a significant impact on your experience. I evaluate the general weather conditions—whether it’s comfortable year-round, or if there are extreme temperatures or rainy seasons that could affect your stay.
- Quietness: Working remotely often requires a peaceful environment. I consider how noisy or quiet a location is, especially in the areas where you might want to live or work.
- Supermarkets: Access to well-stocked supermarkets is essential for convenience and cost savings. I rate how easy it is to find affordable groceries and whether local markets offer a good range of products for daily needs.
Digital Nomad Reviews
FAQs
What is a Digital Nomad?
In my own words, being a digital nomad means having the freedom to work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. It’s about more than just travelling—it’s about making a life in new places, even if that life is temporary. The ability to explore different cultures while maintaining a career is what makes this lifestyle so unique. It’s a balancing act between work and adventure, and while it’s not always glamorous, the rewards are worth it.
How do you choose the destinations for your reviews?
Most of the places I’ve reviewed are ones I was naturally drawn to—whether it was because of the weather, the culture, or just sheer curiosity. Some were recommended by other nomads I met along the way, and a few came from readers who suggested great places I hadn’t even considered! I tend to choose destinations that are either popular with other digital nomads or offer a unique appeal, like affordable living or breathtaking scenery.
Are the reviews based on personal experiences?
Absolutely. I believe that personal experience is what makes these reviews so valuable. I stay in each destination for at least a month, giving me enough time to really get to know the place. I experience everything from working remotely to navigating public transportation, and I try to document all the highs and lows. These reviews are not sponsored, and I aim to keep them as authentic as possible.
What are some challenges of living as a digital nomad?
The nomadic lifestyle isn’t all sunsets and beachside workspaces. Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced include poor internet connections (even in big cities), loneliness when you’re constantly moving, and adjusting to different time zones, especially when working with clients or teams in other countries. Another challenge is maintaining a work-life balance when every day feels like an adventure—it’s easy to forget to switch off!
How do I prepare for a long-term stay in a new country?
Preparation is key, and I’ve developed a bit of a routine over time. Before arriving in a new country, I make sure to check visa requirements, look into local customs, and research places to stay (I usually opt for Airbnb). I also sort out my travel insurance and make sure I know where the nearest healthcare facilities are. Packing light but smart is another essential—things like universal chargers and portable WiFi devices are lifesavers.
How do digital nomads handle visas and taxes?
Visas and taxes are probably the least glamorous part of the digital nomad life. The rules can vary greatly depending on where you’re staying, and it can be a headache to navigate. Personally, I tend to rely on a combination of tourist visas and professional help for taxes. I recommend doing your homework or consulting a tax professional to stay on the right side of the law. There are also services designed to help nomads manage their visas and taxes more easily.