I am a digital nomad. I travel full time and try to sustain myself while travelling. For digital nomads, it is extremely important to know where you can live abroad, where the internet speed is sufficient, where it’s overall safe, affordable and well, fun. I compiled a list of 5 cities that I found most appealing as a digital nomad. This is a subjective list so it will probably vary greatly from what you have seen online. I only included cities that I have personally been to.

1. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

I love Playa del Carmen. It is a hotspot for people that are into trading and cryptocurrencies but overall it is a great place for artists, digital nomads and expats. Although it has recently become more expensive to live in Playa, it is still fair affordable. You have a great nightlife on the 5th avenue and stunning beaches with hot weather all year round. What more do you need?

2. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A classic that I can’t possibly not include in the list. It is one of the most international cities nowadays and an amazing place to network with expats from around the world. People that live in Dubai naturally have a progressive mindset and value business, cooperation, innovation, technology and ideas. Many people think it is too expensive, but it really depends on where you go. You can get a falafel sandwich anywhere from $0.80 to $20. As there is so much competition between 5 star hotels, last minute luxury accommodations can be as little as $20 per night!

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is my favourite country in Europe. Lisbon my favourite city. I always call Portugal the “Brazil of Europe” and in a weird way, it is. People are so relaxed and chill, it gives an amazing vibe. On top of this, Portugal is super affordable when you compare it to western European countries. If you have a mobile data plan from the EU, you can obviously use it in Portugal without paying any roaming fees. So that’s a bonus for me as a German. If you have never been to Lisbon, go there, you will love it!

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

As for Malaysia, I absolutely love how affordable it is compared to European prices. You can literally live in a 5 star apartment with view over the skyline for the price of a normal hotel in Europe. In a sense, the situation is similar to Dubai. I would argue though that Malaysia has a bit more of a tradition-based society. You have a big Arab influence as well and some amazing restaurants – a fusion between Asian and Arabic cuisine. And the people are extremely friendly, welcoming and curious. The capital city Kuala Lumpur is a great city to spend some time as a digital nomad

5. Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is a hipster’s dream place. Amazing vegan restaurants wherever you look, stunning street arts, endless beaches, nightlife and some of the friendliest people in the world. If you want a special recommendation, go to the Kaspi restaurant on the Ben Yehuda street ;) The only negative thing about Tel Aviv is that it is quite pricey compared to the other cities I listed. But hey, living in a hipster’s paradise has its price…


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