The world has changed quickly, and working remotely as a digital nomad is often considered to be the new normal. Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, many have been forced to accept remote jobs over the past two years.
People are starting to move more now that more and more employers are alright with you working remotely (as long as you have dependable Wi-Fi and are online during regular business hours). When you have access to more economical locations around the world, why stay in expensive areas?
The five most crucial factors you should take into account, according to Nomadic Matt, are Wi-Fi access, cost of living, community, activities, and transportation hub. He has been a digital nomad for more than 14 years.
These Southeast Asian locations were suggested by Nomadic Matt and By Digital Nomads. The best Wi-Fi and landscape make it the cheapest in the world and well worth the money.
1. Bangkok, Thailand
One of the most popular places worldwide for digital nomads is Bangkok. Even if many people don't enjoy it at first, after removing some of the surface layers, you'll discover a vibrant (albeit chaotic) metropolis where everything is possible. Bangkok checks all the boxes with its low cost of living, large expat population, amazing food and nightlife scenes, excellent weather, and strong transportation connections to other cities in the area and around the globe.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, which was formerly popular with backpackers, has grown to become the nation's largest hub for remote workers. Even Bangkok has been outdone. It's no longer as inexpensive (or as quiet), but it's still quite affordable and offers everything you need for a successful work/life balance. The Wi-Fi is quick, the street food is plentiful and good, and there is a sizable and friendly community of digital nomads.
The projected monthly cost of living is $950, while the average internet speed is 25 Mbps. Chiang Mai is a city with lots to explore, including a bustling night market, temples, and jungles. Additionally, it boasts a ton of fine eateries and coworking spaces.
3. Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
Canggu has quickly transformed from a vacation location to a hub for digital nomads. There are many coworking spaces, cafes, events, and workshops in the city that are geared toward digital nomads.
Surfers have long made Canggu a popular vacation spot. It is one of the most developed locations for travelers seeking a beach-town atmosphere and reliable surf.
In areas with poor connections, the average internet speed is projected to be 25 Mbps, and the average monthly cost of living is $1,350. Since the infrastructure can't keep up with the growth in traffic and population, transportation can be a problem.
4. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Less than 30 miles separate Ubud from Canggu. However, the atmosphere is very different. There is more vegetation, environment, and wildlife, and life moves at a more leisurely pace. It is a hub for yogis and a perfect location to keep occupied while living the digital nomad lifestyle and find balance.
Although there are still coworking spaces and cafes, individuals are more relaxed. For the calm the location offers, $1,200 per month for housing and 20 Mbps sounds like a fair trade-off. However, the Wi-Fi outside of coworking places might occasionally be unreliable.
5. Hoi Chi Minh City, Vietnam
For those new to the digital nomad lifestyle, the overall cost of living of $950 per month makes it extremely alluring. In addition to the 20 Mbps bandwidth, it has everything a digital nomad may need. In the largest city in Vietnam, you will come across many like-minded young creatives. The city moves quickly, the nightlife is good, but the Vietnamese cuisines are among the greatest in the world.
Source: NomadicMatt.com, ByDigitalNomads.com
