#digital-nomads

#digital-nomads

Having the opportunity to travel and work at the same time is a great privilege and one I enjoy immensely. However, unlike 'normal' travelers or vacationers, as a digital nomad, you have to be a bit more selective about where you go. Will the area have good WiFi? Are there co-working spots or cafés quiet enough where you can make a call? Is the cost of living manageable in the long run?

For more and more Americans, living abroad isn't just a fantasy-it's becoming a practical, affordable lifestyle choice. Whether you're a digital nomad, a gap-year adventurer, or someone simply seeking a reset, spending a year abroad can be transformative. And the best part? There are over a dozen countries that offer visa-free or long-stay entry for U.S. citizens for up to a year.

The digital nomad lifestyle may look chaotic from the outside, but it really comes down to mastering two things: planning ahead and having the right tools. From a versatile backpack and reliable power bank to a VPN, noise-cancelling headphones, portable displays, and external storage, these essentials make it possible to stay productive anywhere while keeping work secure, comfortable, and stress-free.

THE CATALAN capital of Barcelona has been named one of the world's top five destinations for a so-called 'work holiday,' a lifestyle that fuses working remotely with travelling. According to a global ranking reported by the International Workplace Group, or IWG, Barcelona, which has famously been a magnet for digital nomads, ranks in the highly competitive fifth position, under global tourism hotspots like Japan and Brazil.

Cannes has banned large cruise ships and excess tourists from entering the city, while Italy has slapped entry fees to access Venice and imposed stricter check-in rules for Airbnb users.

Tokyo tops the list of best cities for workcations, praised for its fast broadband, efficient transport system, safety, and access to nature.

"Since its launch on July 15 last year, the DTV has attracted more than 35,000 applicants, according to official figures - a rare policy success for a government struggling to kick-start economic growth amid political and external headwinds."

Malta, Cyprus, and Spain are ranked as the sunniest countries in Europe for 2024, each enjoying over 300 sunny days, ideal for travelers and digital nomads.

A major mistake is failing to track which states or countries they spend time in. This can unintentionally create tax residency in multiple jurisdictions.

Digital nomads are ditching long-term phone plans for eSIM free trials that offer flexibility and instant connectivity, enhancing their travel experience.

"I never really fit the mold, and martial arts is one of the very few things in my life besides music and art that made sense to me."

Always check the weather and the season you are traveling in to avoid packing inappropriate clothes, as destinations can have vastly different climates.

Panama is an ideal choice for Americans seeking to relocate, with affordable living, a 9-month digital nomad visa, and American dollars accepted.

Bunq is re-entering the U.K. market to target the large population of digital nomads, emphasizing its services aimed at this demographic.