GUEST POST ALERT! This post is written by the wonderful Johannes from Webworktravel. Johannes is currently working on a destination guide for digital nomads. Here he shares some of his favourite places…
If you consider the typical digital nomad destinations, Bali, Chiang Mai and Buenos Aires will probably be the first places that come to mind.
I’ve visited all three, and although I like them, there are loads more amazing places on earth that offer fantastic value for money and unique experiences (when you’re not working).
I personally think many places don’t get enough credit for being dream destinations for digital nomads – which is why I’d like to share five amazing places that I’ve visited in the last two years.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Indonesia’s cultural hub, Yogyakarta, is located on the island of Java and is likened by many to Chiang Mai 20 years ago. To some extent this is true – except for the fact that Yogyakarta’s technology has advanced in line with its traffic! Just like Chiang Mai it offers exceptional value for money and a unique cultural experience. But you can also prepare yourself for adventure you won’t find anywhere in Chiang Mai.
You can try your hand at caving, tubing, or even climbing one of the volcanoes nearby. On weekends you can go surfing in the south of Java or take a trip to Karimunjawa, an archipelago of 27 islands. Karimunjawa is veritable paradise on earth, where you can take a boat trip or go snorkelling with sharks. Because the area is off the usual tourist track (think Thailand 20 years ago), it’s not unusual to have an island entirely to yourself.
Some advice: If you want to base yourself in ”Jogja” for a while but don’t feel like renting an apartment, head for Jalan Prawirotaman or Tirtudipuran. There you will find plenty of accommodation to suit your budget as well as some great wifi cafes (like the famous ViaVia Cafe, which has tables with power plugs and exceptional food).
Tanzania, Zanzibar – African paradise with world-class beaches
Zanzibar is another place every digital nomad should consider calling home for a while. It’s one of the best places to go if you want to experience some of Africa’s highlights while enjoying the comforts of a popular tourist destination – all the while surrounded by awesome beaches.
On your days off there are plenty of adventures to keep you entertained. Zanzibar is a fantastic destination to learn kitesurfing or diving, and if you’ve got the time, you can also consider a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro or a safari on the Serengeti.
Some advice: Given the island’s history and political tensions, it’s advisable to check for up-to-date information before travelling. Make unique Stone Town (the historic centre of the island) your base and explore the island from there. You’re more likely to find cheaper accommodation here, along with the best infrastructure for getting some work done if you need to.
Bolivia, La Paz – Live the high life (literally) on a shoestring
La Paz is the highest national capital in the world. Set in a mind-blowing location over 4,000 metres above sea level in the South American Andes, it’s a must-visit adventure destination for digital nomads. The city offers great value for money and ample adventure activities to enjoy during your spare time. There’s probably no cheaper place on earth to join tours that scale the summits of 6,000-metre-high mountains, and see you cycling down the world’s most dangerous road (dangerous but super-fun!).
On weekends you can take affordable three-day trips into the Amazonas jungle or boat trips through the Pampas for a taste of Piranha fishing, crocodile spotting and even seeing Anacondas if you are lucky.
Be aware: The internet can be a bit slow here. You’ll only notice it if you’re the type of person to have heaps of browser tabs and extensions on the go though.
Koh Tao, Thailand – Divers’ paradise
Ask any backpacker returning from their around-the-world trip where they learnt to scuba dive, and chances are they’ll give the answer “Koh Tao”. This former island boasts perfect conditions for beginners and with so many diving schools to choose from, high competition is keeping prices consistently low. Because of this diving boom, Koh Tao has developed good infrastructure for digital nomads looking to earn a living while spending time on some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches.
Even if diving isn’t your thing, there are loads of other reasons to consider making Koh Tao your home.
Accommodation prices tend to be a bit higher here than on the mainland, but it starts to get affordable if you’re willing to look just 200 metres back from the front line: there are lots of guest houses offering monthly deals for rooms with wifi included – look out for signs as you explore the island.
South Africa, Cape Town – Adventure city with an entrepreneurial vibe
Cape Town is known as one of the adventure capitals of the world, but in my opinion it doesn’t receive enough credit for being one of the best digital nomad destinations. It’s one of my personal favourites, and my current winter escape.
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, set against an unmatchable backdrop of cobalt waters, Table Mountain and sunny skies.
You definitely won’t be bored here: there’s just so much to do in and around the city. When you’re not working, you can go surfing, mountain biking, paragliding, climbing, rafting and kitesurfing – among others. The city makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding wine lands, go great white shark diving or whale watching.
Cape Town is also home to a large community of tech-savvy entrepreneurs (WooThemes is just one company that’s based here), cool co-working spaces and lots of cafes where you can get things done. There are plenty of regular meet ups offering the chance to meet up with lots of like-minded people.
Some advice: If you want to stay here for a bit longer (depending on your nationality you can usually get tourist visas for three months) check out Gumtree to find long-term accommodation.
–
What are your thoughts on the above destinations? Which “adventure digital nomad destinations” would you add here – places that offer both exceptional value for money and plenty of cool things to do?
–
If you enjoyed this article, you might want to check out the Webworktravel guide or a few more selected digital nomad destinations from Webworktravel. Webworktravel includes some of the best destinations and travel advice for those who want explore this awesome planet while working online.