The digital nomad lifestyle is rapidly growing, with estimates predicting up to one billion digital nomads by 2035.

Some countries, like Croatia and Norway, offer special digital nomad visas designed for temporary, not permanent, stays; these cannot be extended into longer-term residency or tourist permits.

For example, Steve Tsentserensky, a copywriter from Ohio, received a Croatian digital nomad visa, fell in love with Zagreb, but found no legal way to stay longer after his visa expired.

Norway offers an independent contractor visa, renewable every two years for up to six years, requiring a valid passport and, often, employment in IT or the digital sector with a minimum annual income (sometimes $24,000 USD).

Digital nomad visas attract global talent and tax revenue, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, but restrictions often apply to stay length and job type.

It is important to realistically assess if this lifestyle matches your personal and professional needs before making the change.

Effective time management is essential for balancing work, life, and, if relevant, educational commitments, to avoid burnout.

Choosing work that aligns with your skills and interests is key to maintaining motivation and personal fulfillment.

Popular nomad destinations include Pipa and Itacaré in Brazil, both known for their natural beauty and suitable infrastructure for remote work.

Living as a digital nomad can mean embracing unconventional living arrangements, such as converting a bus into a mobile home, a trend growing due to the pandemic and increased remote work opportunities.

The lifestyle encourages reflection on environmental and personal life choices, as illustrated by individuals like Kyle Anderson who adapted bus living to suit evolving needs.

Cities like Malaga, Spain, are increasingly ranked as top remote work destinations due to quality of life and infrastructure, but rising housing demand also presents challenges in affordable availability.

The digital nomad lifestyle is rapidly growing, with estimates predicting up to one billion digital nomads by 2035.

Title:

Content: Thousands of digital nomads staying in Croatia, longer stay problematic

NEWS 12.02.2023 15:31

Croatia, a country with a dwindling population, has become a hot destination for digital nomads - mostly young, highly educated and rich foreigners. Thousands of them are staying in the country, but the small number of those wishing to stay longer have to be resourceful as the law does not allow a stay of more than one year.

The global number of digital nomads is estimated at around 35 million. According to some estimates, that number is expected to reach one billion by 2035.

Croatia ranks high on the list of digital nomads’ favourite destinations. Even though data vary, depending on the source of information, a survey conducted by the Nomad List platform shows Croatia is globally the most attractive destination for digital nomads.

Croatia is a small country but what it offers is diverse so it attracts different groups of digital nomads, says Jan de Jong, founder of the Digital Nomads Croatia association.

The Dutch, who lives in Croatia, in 2020 launched amendment of the relevant laws owing to which Croatia introduced, as one of the first European countries to do so, a visa for digital nomads, enabling citizens of third countries to stay in the country for up to one year.

10,000 digital nomads staying in Croatia on a monthly basis

De Jong notes that one of the main reasons why digital nomads come to Croatia, besides infrastructure, which mostly includes the need for a good internet connection and an established community of digital nomads, is the lifestyle Croatia offers, which, in an addition to everything else, is very affordable.

That lifestyle seems to be very affordable to digital nomads, as an average digital nomad makes around €6,500 a month, according to Nomad List.

At the end of January 2023, there were 595 valid visas for digital nomads in Croatia, according to data from the Ministry of the Interior, however, that figure is much below the actual number of digital nomads staying in Croatia because it refers only to third-country citizens staying here for more than three months.

To get a complete picture of the situation, one should take into account EU citizens, who move freely throughout EU territory, including Croatia, without time limitations, as well as the large number of digital nomads from third countries staying in Croatia for less than a month.

The Ministry of the Interior says that it does not keep a record of the latter two categories of digital nomads, so their number can only be estimated.

Judging by trends for individual cities, including Zadar, Split and Zagreb, on the Nomad List platform, de Jong concludes that roughly 5,000 digital nomads arrive in Croatia a month. If every digital nomad is estimated to stay in Croatia for two months, one can say that around 10,000 digital nomads are staying in Croatia every month.

Meanwhile, after Croatia was one of the first European countries to introduce visas for digital nomads, other European countries have followed suit.

In addition to the basic requirements, such as remote work or self-employment and a certain minimum monthly income, which in Croatia amounts to €2,300, while in Iceland it is more than €6,000 – the visa for digital nomads also regulates the longest allowed stay in the country.

Croatia is one of the countries with more restrictive rules because if a digital nomad likes the country and wants to stay for more than a year, they must leave the country for at least six months in order to be able to apply for a visa again.

On the other hand, in other European countries the visa can mostly be extended, depending on the country, for example, in the Czech Republic a digital nomad visa can be extended for a period of three years in total.

Purpose of visa country’s tourist promotion

Even though de Jong says that the purpose of the visa for digital nomads was never to allow permanent stays, he notes that a certain number of digital nomads contact his association looking for advice on what to do if they want to stay in the country.

Asked if there is a legal way to extend the visa, the Ministry of the Interior says that that option does not exist and that it cannot even be extended with a permit for extended tourist stay.

The ministry explains this with the fact that the sole purpose of visas for digital nomads was “Croatia’s tourism promotion.”

One of those who got caught in that legal limbo is Steve Tsentserensky, a copywriter from Ohio, USA, who was among the first digital nomads to get a visa in Croatia.

During his six-month stay in Zagreb, he fell so much in love with the city that he decided to return for a longer period of time.

Asked how he would do that, because the law restricts his stay, unless he marries a Croat, establishes a company or finds employment, he says that he will do what is feasible to regulate his stay and probably again apply for a visa for digital nomads.

He stresses, however, that it would be good if the visa could be extended for a longer period of time, without applicants having to leave the country because they all have the possibility to reapply after the expiry of the six-month period, and the conditions are completely the same.

Another digital nomad, a woman from the USA, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that after the expiry of her visa she did not want to leave the country and that, even though she kept the same job for which she receives a US salary, she found the solution in a fictitious employment contract.

Somebody offered me a work permit, she says cautiously. She considered other ways as well, such as starting a business, and was also advised to marry, but she believes that with the work permit she has also found a way to contribute to the community she lives in by paying taxes, because as a digital nomad she does not have to do it.

Both Americans like the relaxed lifestyle of Zagreb residents, which is why they want to stay for some time.

They did not say how long, but the woman said that she is actively learning Croatian and not thinking about leaving the country.

When they stay longer, they become immigrants

Caroline Hornstein-Tomic, a researcher at the Ivo Pilar Institute of Social Sciences, says that digital nomads are usually highly educated people, mostly in their 30s, who are also excellent consumers.

“If they decide to stay longer, they become a kind of immigrants,” she says and adds that there is still no research in Croatia on how digital nomads impact local communities, but that that impact certainly exists.

They boost tourism as well as other sectors of the economy, they have encouraged the development of infrastructure and the establishment of numerous hubs, as well as services that meet their need to get along in the new country, she says.

Hornstein-Tomic says that she has interviewed some of the nomads who have been staying on Dalmatian islands, and that she has heard about their positive experiences with the local community.

“Those who have decided to stay longer are interested in local jobs or business development, and they also do volunteer work, so apart from financial resources, they also have knowledge that they like to share,” says Hornstein-Tomic.

Commenting on the demographic potential of that group, de Jong says that digital nomads follow new trends and no longer go to countries where they have better-paying jobs but rather those where they like the lifestyle, bringing their well-paid jobs with them.

He thinks that the current remote work revolution will continue and that a reversal of the trend is not likely.

That trend can be the biggest opportunity for Croatia, from where around half a million people have emigrated over the past ten years looking for better-paying jobs, says de Jong, who has lived in Croatia for the past 16 years.

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Some countries, like Croatia and Norway, offer special digital nomad visas designed for temporary, not permanent, stays; these cannot be extended into longer-term residency or tourist permits.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

A digital nomad visa program or the equivalent

For example, Steve Tsentserensky, a copywriter from Ohio, received a Croatian digital nomad visa, fell in love with Zagreb, but found no legal way to stay longer after his visa expired.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

Norway offers an independent contractor visa, renewable every two years for up to six years, requiring a valid passport and, often, employment in IT or the digital sector with a minimum annual income (sometimes $24,000 USD).

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Working in Norway For Members

Is Norway's independent contractor visa a good fit for digital nomads?

Robin-Ivan Capar - [email protected]

Digital nomads have been showing an increased interest in Norway in recent years. But what are the visa options best suited to working remotely from Norway, and is the independent contractor visa an option?

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The digital nomad lifestyle offers modern professionals the opportunity to visit different countries while maintaining a steady line of income.

With its pristine nature, fascinating fjords, and rugged wilderness, Norway has started attracting more and more interest among the digital nomad community in recent years.

But what are the best visa options for digital nomads in a country that is known for making remote work difficult?

Most international professionals often point to two visas: the Svalbard digital nomad visa and the independent contractor visa.

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The digital nomad visa – limited to Svalbard

You should know that Norway does have a digital nomad visa in place. Unfortunately, the program is limited to the Svalbard archipelago – situated in the Arctic Ocean, between mainland Norway and the North Pole.

The current digital nomad scheme allows foreign citizens who meet set criteria to establish themselves on Svalbard Island and carry out their business from there.

However, as legal experts at LawyersNorway.eu point out, if you successfully establish yourself there, you will be able to move to other parts of Norway later on.

If moving to Svalbard is not a deal-breaker for you, keep in mind that you'll also need to fulfil the following requirements:

  • You'll need to have a valid passport;
  • You'll need to submit the digital nomad visa application form.
  • Authorities will ask you to provide documentation that proves that you're self-employed or working for a non-Norwegian company, as well as documentation related to your education and vocational qualifications;
  • You will also be required to prove that you can sustain yourself in Norway and have a minimum gross income of around 360,000 kroner annually (expect the authorities to request bank statements);
  • You'll need to have valid health insurance;
  • You'll also need to provide Norwegian authorities with a contract with at least one Norwegian client, which must explicate that your minimum salary as a skilled employee is at least 189,39 kroner per hour;
  • You'll need to show proof of having accommodation in Svalbard.

Note that there is also a processing fee for the digital nomad visa, which is set at around 6,000 kroner.

If, on the other hand, you're not that keen to move to Svalbard, the independent contractor visa might be a better fit.

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The independent contractor visa

Norway's independent contractor visa is intended for non-European Union citizens, and it's somewhat similar to the Svalbard visa for digital nomads.

Some people tend to recommend it to self-employed professionals who plan to stay in Norway for at least a couple of years.

To be exact, the independent contractor visa is a residence permit issued to eligible remote workers, giving them the right to work remotely in Norway for two years.

You can be granted this permit for two years at a time, and you can have this permit for up to six years. The idea behind this visa was to attract international professionals to move to Norway.

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Digital nomads looking to take advantage of this opportunity need to meet multiple requirements. The trickiest one is that they need to have at least one corporate client based in Norway to apply (as is the case with the Svalbard digital nomad visa - notice the pattern?).

In order to qualify for the Norwegian independent contractor visa, you'll need to meet the following requirements:

  • Required education/qualification level: The full list of requirements relating to education or special qualifications can be found on the website of the Norwegian Immigration Directorate (UDI) here.
  • At least one Norwegian client: You will need at least one Norwegian corporate client to be eligible for this type of visa. Expect the authorities to require a contract with the client as proof.
  • A valid passport and an address in Norway: First off, you need to have a valid passport. You also need to have your accommodation in Norway taken care of, as you'll be asked to provide an address. You'll likely need to provide a tenancy contract as proof.
  • Proof of self-employment and proof of income: You will be asked to provide proof of business establishment and activity outside of Norway, and the authorities will also verify whether your income allows you to move to and live in Norway.

Note that the minimum annual income you'll need is around 360,000 kroner, and you'll be required to provide bank slips or statements to prove you earn that income each year.

You can apply for the independent contractor visa through the UDI's wizard here. The visa processing fees are listed here.

In conclusion, is the independent contractor visa a good fit for digital nomads? If you plan to stay in Norway for at least two years, then the answer is likely yes.

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Digital nomads, pay attention! If you plan to carry out work assignments different than those described in the contract you presented to the authorities, or if you plan to work for another company, you will need to apply for a new residence permit.

To get more information on the rights and obligations related to the independent contractor visa, consult the UDI's website here.

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See Also

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

A digital nomad visa program or the equivalent

Digital nomad visas attract global talent and tax revenue, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, but restrictions often apply to stay length and job type.

Title:

Content: Digital Nomad Visa Programs: An APAC Update

K
Klasko

Contributor

Klasko Immigration Law Partners is dedicated to providing industry-leading employment-based, investment-based, and litigation immigration services to our clients. We help our clients achieve their goals by providing comprehensive immigration legal services. We have a reputation for creative solutions to difficult immigration problems through cutting-edge strategies. Our clients value our extreme responsiveness and our innovative, practical, and effective immigration strategies.
Digital nomad visa programs have grown increasingly popular. Seen as a means of attracting top-tier, global talent and tax revenue, this trend is especially prevalent in the Asian Pacific region.
United States Employment and HR
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Digital nomad visa programs have grown increasingly popular. Seen as a means of attracting top-tier, global talent and tax revenue, this trend is especially prevalent in the Asian Pacific region. Indeed, Japan recently announced it joined the digital nomad visa party – its policy to be officially rolled out in early April 2024. Below, we discuss this new development and provide a summary of the current state of digital nomad programs in the APAC region.

Japan's new digital nomad visa program: a sumo-sized development

Japan's Ministry of Justice announced that Japan created a digital nomad visa. Situated as the 4th largest economy in the world, Japan began issuing digital nomad visas at the beginning of April 2024 to the citizens of 50 countries and territories.

The short-list of eligible countries includes at least the United States, Australia, and Singapore. The visas are valid for up to six months and available to those earning more than ¥10 million (app. $68,300) per year. Nomads may work from anywhere in the country and bring their spouses and children with them. Their work must be tied to "a sales contract or non-provision contract...with a public or private company in a foreign country". Carrying private health insurance will be obligatory to participate in the program.

Behind only China and Thailand, Japan is consistently ranked as one of the largest recipients of international visitors in APAC. In 2024 alone, it is forecasted that Japan will receive a total of 33.1 million visitors. With the aperture of this new program, coupled with sustained global interest in Japan's rich cultural heritage, the country is projected to receive thousands of digital nomads for years to come.

Thai-tanic-sized companies are welcomed in the Kingdom

Visa options for digital nomads in Thailand remain limited. Whereas the B visa program allows visitors to enter the Kingdom for up to 90 days to engage in a short list of activities, the government has gone to greater lengths to attract international corporate investment.

Indeed, under its "Remote Workers for Well-Established Overseas Companies" program, employees of publicly traded companies (or private companies with combined revenue of over $150 million in the last three years) will be able to apply for a 10-year long resident permit. The employee must (i) make an annual salary of at least $80,000.00 USD per year for two consecutive years or (ii) if holding a master's degree, make no less than $40,000 USD for the last two years. Alternatively, the individual may be self-employed provided they own productive intellectual property or have received Series A funding of no less than $1 million USD. Like Japan, visa applicants must carry personal health insurance.

With some of the lowest corporate tax rates in all of APAC, Thailand is situating itself as one of the region's premier hotbeds for foreign investment and, consequently, international talent.

Malaysia welcomes entrepreneurs from backgrounds as diverse as their landscapes

Maylasia arguably presents one of the most agile digital nomad visa programs in APAC. Offering temporary residence through the "De Rantau Nomad" program, employees of local or foreign employers, freelancers, and independent contractors are welcome. The nomad must be coming to work in an IT or digital space and earn at least $24,000 USD per year.

Pursuing a K-drama storyline in South Korea remains tricky

Early this year, South Korea made a splash on the global stage by launching its own version of a digital nomad visa: the "Workcation" visa. Whereas the visa program does offer a two-year period of validity, it is available only under a niche set of circumstances. For example, the minimum income threshold is KRW 85,000,000, or approximately $63,683.53. Digital nomads availing themselves must not only refrain from assuming gainful employment in South Korea, but must also refrain from earning money in South Korea associated with the South Korean economy (e.g., entering contracts with local businesses). In addition to having at least one year of work experience, nomads must also carry health insurance coverage valued at KRW 100 million, or about $75,000 USD. Given these restrictions, we anticipate S. Korea's digital nomad visa program to be leveraged only by the truest of K-POP fans.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

Digital Nomad Visa Programs: An APAC Update

United States Employment and HR

Contributor

Klasko Immigration Law Partners is dedicated to providing industry-leading employment-based, investment-based, and litigation immigration services to our clients. We help our clients achieve their goals by providing comprehensive immigration legal services. We have a reputation for creative solutions to difficult immigration problems through cutting-edge strategies. Our clients value our extreme responsiveness and our innovative, practical, and effective immigration strategies.
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What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

It is important to realistically assess if this lifestyle matches your personal and professional needs before making the change.

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Content:   • Your one stop for college news and resources!
Featured, Features, Study Abroad

A Guide for College Students Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely and travels often. Their work doesn’t require them to report to an office or adhere to a strict schedule. Instead, they can work anywhere in the world, doing the job they love.

It’s no wonder this lifestyle is appealing more to college students. They can travel the world while studying and working abroad. That said, being a college student and a digital nomad is a challenge. It’s not like a vacation where all you have to worry about is enjoying yourself.

You have to learn how to balance the fun of traveling with work and school commitments. The following tips will help you do just that.

Understand What the Digital Nomad Lifestyle Will Be Like

You have to understand what the digital nomad lifestyle will be like if you want it to work out. You can assess whether this life is for you, and better prepare for it if you decide that it is.

Here are some critical points to consider about the digital nomad lifestyle:

  • A work-life balance is a must
  • Traveling often can be exhausting
  • You must ensure access to healthcare
  • You need a plan for financial stability
  • You’ll have to adapt to new cultures and languages
  • Knowing visa requirements and other legal requirements is essential
  • You might experience homesickness, especially if you go international
  • Balancing school with work and life in a new place is a big commitment

Dig into these factors and research all you’ll have to do and give up to be a digital nomad. Then, you can make an informed decision about moving forward.

Master Time Management

You’ll have to take your time management up a few notches if you want to be a digital nomad.

It’s one thing to balance life and school. It’s another to balance life, school, traveling, and potentially, work. You must learn how to divide your days so that you pay each of these things the attention they need. In addition, time management will ensure you don’t burn out.

Start with a routine to build some consistency into your days. Wake up at the same time regardless of your schedule and get ready for your days the same way.

You can establish priority tasks the night before, like your classes, if you’re working, and when you’ll study. Set aside time for breaks, meals, and leisure time as well. Building these activities into your schedule will ensure you actually do them.

Attach times to each task and activity. For example, you have classes from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Next, you’ll have lunch from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. After that, you have work from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Then, you’ll study from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the rest of the night is yours.

Manage your time wisely and you can achieve everything you set out for each day.

Learn How to Stay Productive

One of the biggest challenges digital nomads run into is staying productive. All of the fun activities you can do when you travel to a new place can be distracting. It might be hard to stay motivated when you’re homesick. Technical and logistical issues can impact your productivity as well.

So, learning how to maintain peak productivity while studying and working on the road is essential.

Adhering to the routine we mentioned above will help keep you focused. Eliminate distractions while working by turning your phone on Do Not Disturb and muting social media apps. Create a designated workspace. You could also incentivize productivity by promising yourself a fun activity after you complete your work.

Secure your tech setup as well to maintain optimal productivity. Make sure you have the basics, like a good laptop set up with the proper work and school software and noise-canceling headphones.

Another crucial tool to have is a mobile hotspot. A hotspot ensures you can connect to the internet wirelessly on your mobile devices from virtually anywhere. This will come in handy when you travel internationally or to places with spotty internet connections. No matter where you are, you can still access your studies and any work you’re doing online.

Equip yourself with the right tools and techniques to stay productive as a digital nomad.

Choose Work That Aligns With Your Studies and Interests

Digital nomads are known to take many different directions with their work. You have options and can easily make a living while studying and traveling abroad. The key is ensuring the work you do doesn’t distract from your education and pull you away from who you are.

You’ll have a much better experience as a digital nomad if you choose work that aligns with your studies and interests. Rather than taking the barista job at the local cafe, work with your school to see if there are any work-study opportunities where you’re traveling.

You can also take the job search into your own hands. Search for job openings before you head to your destination through online job boards. Ask for referrals from fellow students.

Consider fully remote positions as well. There are many work-from-home jobs available that can accommodate a college student’s digital nomad lifestyle, such as being a tutor or a content writer for subjects related to your major.

Whatever work you decide to do, make sure it doesn’t take away from your studies and aligns with who you are and what you want to be.

Conclusion

Many college students are attracted to the digital nomad lifestyle because it allows them to travel freely while studying and working where they want to. As enticing as this life is, being a digital nomad isn’t void of challenges.

Make sure you understand what you’re getting into, master time management, learn to stay productive, and choose work that aligns with your studies and interests to give yourself a real chance at a successful digital nomad life.

SEE ALSO: How to Choose the Right Student Housing in the U.S.

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What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Effective time management is essential for balancing work, life, and, if relevant, educational commitments, to avoid burnout.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

work-life balance
balancing possible education with work

Choosing work that aligns with your skills and interests is key to maintaining motivation and personal fulfillment.

Popular nomad destinations include Pipa and Itacaré in Brazil, both known for their natural beauty and suitable infrastructure for remote work.

Title:

Content:
Five Perfect Brazilian Destinations For Digital Nomads

(MENAFN- The Rio Times) Brazil offers special visas for immigrants with no employment relationship in the country, whose work can be done remotely.

In addition to its landscapes with a good Internet connection, the authorities are negotiating agreements with international organizations specialized in setting up service networks for digital nomads to settle in the country.

It is estimated that there are 35 million digital nomads worldwide, i.e., people who combine remote work and travel between countries and continents for various periods.

The Brazilian Agency for International Tourism Promotion, Embratur, announced that it would partner with the Portuguese company NomadX to stimulate the creation of coworking focused on foreigners who want to travel to Brazil and work remotely at the same time (the so-called "digital nomads").

"The new Embratur will focus on innovation and technology to bring more foreigners to our country and improve the experience of those visiting us."

"NomadX is already in Pipa, in Rio Grande do Norte. We want to expand this network to receive more tourists in Brazil", said Embratur's president, Marcelo Freixo.

ITACARÉ

Itacaré in Bahia is one of those places that's somehow more than you expect.

There must be hundreds of gorgeous tropical beaches and fishing villages in the northeast of Brazil; what's so special about this one?

This place is magic and one of Brazil's best-kept secrets.

While most of the beautiful areas near the sea in Brazil are completely built up, Itacaré and its surroundings are full of Mata Atlantica, the Atlantic jungle. Jungle all the way to the sea and a paradise for surfers and party lovers.

If Colombia is the home of magic realism, Itacaré will give it a good run for its money.

Tiny marmoset monkeys run along the telegraph wires, bullfrogs that sound more like meowing cats sit in ponds, capoeira is a way of life, and there's something about the place that makes it hard to leave.

It's relaxed enough to feel like an escape from the world, but don't mistake it for the kind of place where nothing ever happens.

Summer has more than enough bars and beach parties to keep you happy.

That is why whether on saltwater or freshwater beaches, the digital nomad or the remote worker traveling in Brazil must stop in Itacaré , one of the most beautiful destinations on the coast of Bahia, covered by the Atlantic forest and with practically deserted beaches.

There, the hard-working traveler comes into contact with the tranquility offered by the region, where it is possible to visit the attractions on foot.

The climate (warm all year round) is that of a small city with an ideal infrastructure for work.

NOMAD VILLAGE

In the paradisiacal Pipa Beach, in Tibau do Sul (Rio Grande do Norte), an official initiative is building the Nomad Village, the first special city for nomadic workers in South America.

The place - in partnership between the Ministry of Tourism and the Portuguese Nomadx, one of the largest companies in the segment in the world - was chosen for being a destination that combines nature, good internet connection, security, tranquility, and good weather, all year round to enjoy its characteristic beaches and dunes.

FLORIANÓPOLIS

The capital of Santa Catarina is known as the "Magic Island" and lives up to its name for its variety of clubs, good restaurants, a hundred beaches and islands to enjoy, a mild winter, and good connections that facilitate digital work.

With the country's most extensive circuit of urban mountain trails, "Floripa" combines the refinement of a big city with an exuberant natural environment.

GUARAMIRANGA

Another paradise that leaves its mark on the experience of nomadic life is Guaramiranga (Ceará).

With a colonial style reminiscent of Swiss architecture (that is why it is known as the "Switzerland of Ceará"), Guaramiranga arouses curiosity for having that European air, with cold weather and fine rain, in the state of Ceará, known for being a traditional destination of sun and beach.

In Guaramiranga the traveler also finds lush forests.

OURO PRETO

For nomads who enjoy history, nothing is better than installing the "office" in the colonial city of Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais).

The scenario of the Inconfidência Mineira (Mining Conspiracy) and full of monuments, the city breathes history, and the nomad who sits in a cafe or restaurant or walks the streets of Ouro Preto will go back in time and realize the greatness of a historical period during which mining was crucial for the growth of the region.

The largest baroque ensemble in the world and one of the main regions of the gold cycle, the city is an open-air museum and was the first Brazilian destination to be considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

NomadX currently brings together a community of some 20,000 digital nomads who travel the world.

The company has locations in Lisbon, Caparica, Madeira, Cape Verde, and Pipa.

"Today, we have a community of about 50 people using our space in Pipa. A digital nomad spends an average of €1,800 monthly and about 2 months in each location."

"We are talking about young people between 25 and 35 years old who earn between €3,000 and €5,000."

"It has an important impact on the economy of small cities," explained NomadX CEO Gonçalo Hall.

Some of the Brazilian cities that have expressed interest in receiving digital nomads are João Pessoa (PB), São Miguel do Gostoso (RN), Recife (PE), Maceió (AL), Santos (SP), and Florianópolis (SC).

Gonçalo explained that this type of visitor is not just interested in enjoying tourist attractions.

According to the director, they seek to insert themselves and live experiences in the community as if they were locals.

"They consume in the establishments that the residents like to go to, they want to learn the local culture, and some end up teaching foreign languages to the children."

"It's an immersion experience with many spin-offs for small towns," he concluded.

With information from El Mostrador

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Living as a digital nomad can mean embracing unconventional living arrangements, such as converting a bus into a mobile home, a trend growing due to the pandemic and increased remote work opportunities.

The lifestyle encourages reflection on environmental and personal life choices, as illustrated by individuals like Kyle Anderson who adapted bus living to suit evolving needs.

Title:

Content: TRAVERSE CITY — Kyle Anderson seems to meander through his 40-foot blue school bus still in awe of what he’s created. With a large, callused hand he gives his shaggy Irish wolfhound a pat on the head as she snoozes away on the couch.

Yes, the couch is inside the school bus — among many other things like a sink, stove, toilet, and a queen-sized bed. It’s the culmination of work stretched nearly two years.

Anderson was back in Traverse City, his hometown, just for a while before setting out on his next adventure. His bus has become somewhat of a spectacle in the area, he says. When it drives down Front Street the trees and mountains painted on its side stand taller than most cars.

The bus wears its name above its front and rear windows, “Makwaden” — aka “The Bear Den.” It’s the combination of English and Anderson’s native language which is used by the bear clan of Grand Traverse band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Anderson said he has had the idea to live in a bus since his school years.

“It just made sense,” he said. “Having a school bus being one of the safest vehicles on the road, transporting children, that why not build [a home] inside of that bus? These engines are made to be robust and travel long distances.”

He bought the retired bus from Anchor Bay School District for $1,800 with the goal of renovating the whole thing for under $10,000.

Of course, Anderson isn’t the first to convert a school bus to a mobile home. He said much of his vision came from following other projects on social media, mainly Instagram.

When a bus turns into a home, it’s called a “skoolie,” and, according to Anderson, there are hundreds of skoolie enthusiasts occupying American roads.

Anderson said his most memorable pilgrimage was to a Skoolie-Palooza in Arizona where more than 200 buses congregated in the dessert.

One of these meetups was held for the first time in the Upper Peninsula last month, organized by fellow nomad who lived on the road with her family for more than six years.

As the nomadic lifestyle becomes popular, the skoolie community grows. she said.

“When we first started out in the nomadic life we had to almost hide it because people didn’t understand it,” Walenski said. “Now it has come into the spotlight thanks to the pandemic and the internet has absolutely opened up a world that you can’t even imagine.”

Research from MBO Partners, a Virginia-based consulting agency, suggests “digital nomads” are increasingly populating campgrounds and public lands. A digital nomad is someone who can take their work anywhere, anytime — if they have an internet connection.

7.3 million Americans described themselves as digital nomads in 2019, which is 2.5 million more people than the previous year, according to MBO Partners. That number is expected to hike as the COVID-19 pandemic normalizes remote work.

Anderson is one such digital nomad. He’s a tech entrepreneur and IT professional for his own consulting company called Makwa USA. After working in Los Angeles during his early 30s, he moved back to Michigan and began working closely with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians — his father’s tribe.

He sat on the Grand Traverse Band LLC board, the non-gaming side of the tribe, then worked to start Arrowhead Incubator, a Traverse City-based nonprofit.

During this time, Anderson said minimalism became one of the most important aspects of his life, in addition to environmental protection.

“We’re driven in this time right now to buy, buy, buy, and consume, consume, consume,” Anderson said. “I think we need to take a step back and ask, ‘what are we doing with this planet right now in our time? Are we making decisions right now for the next seven generations?’”

In the two years since Anderson first bought Makwaden in August 2019 and designed it to be a bachelor pad, he has taken on new responsibilities. He now takes care of a family, putting their safety and happiness at the forefront.

That does not mean giving up the bus life, he said. More people means another Makwaden.

“The first bus was my proof of concept,” Anderson said. “It was really just a bus to give me an idea of what I wanted to do for the next one before I dropped a lot of money into it. I’m really excited to get it done and see where we go with this bus.”

Anderson has been documenting the Makwaden v2 build along with all his camping adventures on his Instagram page.

His travels and lifestyle, he said, has taught him things about himself and the world around him. While he understands the nomadic lifestyle isn’t feasible for everyone, he hopes to inspire people to take a leap of faith.

“Most of us base our lives off the experiences that we gain,” Anderson said. “You have to dare to cut that rope and be free.”

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Cities like Malaga, Spain, are increasingly ranked as top remote work destinations due to quality of life and infrastructure, but rising housing demand also presents challenges in affordable availability.

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Content: Delete
Digital nomads

Malaga, voted the second best city in the world for remote working

The city bursts onto the Executive Nomad Index ranking, headed by Dubai, with quality of life as its main asset

Nuria Triguero

Malaga

Saturday, 19 August 2023, 21:50

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The pandemic and the digital revolution have ignited the phenomenon of digital nomads. The possibility of living and working from anywhere in the world is no longer a privilege of some professionals in the technology sector; now many workers and managers in all types of sectors have become expatriates.

The Executive Nomad Index report, a ranking of the most attractive cities or regions in the world for high-level remote workers, produced annually by the real estate consultancy Savills, focuses specifically on nomadic executives. Malaga city breaks into this list for the first time, in second position, after Dubai and above Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca.

The ranking of the twenty best locations in the world for remote workers is: Dubai, Malaga, Miami, Abu Dhabi, Lisbon, Barbados, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Algarve, Saint Lucia, Cayman Islands, Dubrovnik, Malta, Antigua, Côte d'Azur, Mauritius, Athens, Cyprus, Bahamas and Tuscany.

The visibility gained by Malaga as a result of Google's commitment to the cirt and the knock-on effect it has had on other multinationals (Vodafone, Citi, Globant, among many others) is key to understanding its dazzling entry into this international ranking. But apart from the obvious hype, the city offers solid reasons to attract the "wave of executives converted into digital nomads since the pandemic" cited in the report.

The Executive Nomad Index gives each city a score in five sections: speed of internet connection, quality of life, climate, air connectivity and price of high-end rental housing. Malaga achieved a total score of 32.38 points, only two points less than the number one city in the ranking, Dubai. Malaga scored the highest score of the entire list (10.38) for quality of life. Its score was also high (8.06) for internet connection and in competitiveness of prime rentals (5.26). Climate scored an average (4.45), above Dubai or Abu Dhabi but below tropical destinations such as Barbados, Cayman Islands, St Lucia or Miami.

All the locations included in this ranking have "a digital nomad visa programme or equivalent, or are already part of a large economic bloc that allows the free movement of people to live or work; they offer favourable climates all year round, a high quality of life and have established, first class, residential markets", according to Savills.

The report highlighted how Malaga has been "upping the ante in recent years as a major cultural and tourist destination, known for its superlative museums and beautiful old city". "The arrival of high-profile companies such as Google has given Malaga the seal of approval. All these companies say Malaga is the place to be and their reputation spreads by word of mouth," said José Félix Pérez-Peña, director of Savills Andalucía.

The report noted that the launch of Spain's digital nomad visa in 2022 "has undoubtedly helped propel Malaga" to break into second place in the ranking. "The city's attractive climate, beaches, culture and gastronomy are big plus points, but so is its comparatively affordable rental market; costs are half those of its European competitors in the index. Malaga's international airport is within easy reach of the city centre, an added bonus for executive nomads who rely on regular travel. Savills reminded that a direct flight from New York to Malaga was launched earlier this year.

Restaurant prices, rents and everyday life in Malaga remain cheap compared to other major European cities, and people feel "safe" in the city, Pérez-Peña added.

While the upper classes have traditionally gravitated towards large villas in the eastern part of the city, the western coast has become "the new focus of regeneration and flagship developments", according to Savills, which cites Sierra Blanca Tower, whose prices have set a new benchmark for Malaga at around 10,000 euros per square metre. The report specified that typical prime residential rents are 15-22 euros per square metre, but admitted that there are not enough homes in this range to meet demand.

"Executive nomads want everything to be ready when they move in, including furniture and internet connection," said Pérez-Peña. "We are seeing a lot of start-ups now catering to this market, but there are not enough properties available," he added.

Pérez-Peña said that there is also a shortage of high-quality offices and coworking spaces to cater for all the nomadic workers who are turning their sights on Malaga. "We haven't been building enough to meet the demand," he said.

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What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

Why are some local communities resisting digital nomads?


The digital nomad lifestyle involves living and working remotely from different locations and does not require reporting to an office or adhering to a strict schedule.

Many people choose this lifestyle so they can travel the world, study, and work abroad, but it is important to understand what life as a digital nomad will require before making the shift.

Balancing school, work, and daily living in a new place is a big commitment, and time management is critical to prevent burnout.

Setting routines, including regular wake-up times, breaks, and leisure periods, helps digital nomads manage their work-life balance.

Choosing work that aligns with personal studies and interests is advised, and job searching can be conducted independently.

To work efficiently on the move, digital nomads often set up a mobile office with essential tools such as a WiFi hotspot that works in over 140 countries, smartphones with tethering capability, work desks, earbuds that last up to eight hours with portable charging cases, and wireless mice.

Communities of digital nomads are forming in attractive destinations like Itacaré in Bahia and Pipa, where people connect and work together.

Experience from people like Kyle Anderson shows that the digital nomad lifestyle can lead to personal discovery, although it presents challenges such as managing small spaces, sleep deprivation, and the uncertainty of future locations.

Some nomads develop a strong connection to certain cities during their stays and consider returning for longer periods, but digital nomad visas were not intended for permanent residence and some seek advice for extended stays.

Flexibility, adaptability, and thoughtful routines are critical for overcoming the unpredictability and stress that can affect productivity and well-being.

Many digital nomads find the experience transformative, as it allows freedom and self-discovery while contributing positively to the world by engaging with different communities and cultures.

The digital nomad lifestyle involves living and working remotely from different locations and does not require reporting to an office or adhering to a strict schedule.

Title:

Content: Here’s How You Can Do Good As A Digital Nomad

by Femina Travel | Sep 29, 2023, 20:38 IST

Being a digital nomad can be great for the remote worker but, with the right attitude, you can do good for others too

Not everyone loves digital nomads. Although so many countries across the world now offer special visas for digital nomads (Dubai, Colombia,  Estonia, Bermuda, Portugal, Spain, Croatia and Cayman Islands, to name just a few), they often get a bad rap from local residents. They believe that digital nomads push housing costs higher and out of reach of the locals, and strain the community by just ‘dropping’ into places rather than trying to fit into the fabric of society at their new temporary homes. It is an undeniable fact, however, that foreign workers can infuse a financial boost into the arm of the host country, and it works out well for them because living costs are usually lower than in their home country.

How can digital nomads do good rather than spark suspicion in their new home areas? Here are simple ways to consider if you want your impact to be positive, and your being there actually being good for the local community:

  • Spend Money To Benefit Local Businesses

Prioritise shopping in smaller local shops rather than at big supermarkets, eat in non-touristy restaurants alongside locals, and tip delivery and cleaning people generously.

  • Engage In An Intellectual Exchange

If you have transferable skills as part of your job description, it would be great to help locals in whatever capacity you can. A healthy exchange of ideas can spur local entrepreneurship and potentially improve the lives of the people amid whom you live.

  • Volunteer In Your Free Time

There’s no better way to get under the skin of a new destination – here, your new home for a period of time – than by offering the help you can. Perhaps you could offer to help local kids with spoken English, or give some time to a nearby soup kitchen.

  • Be Social

Don’t spend all your time working in your home. The point of working away from home is that you live in another place. Go out and immerse yourself in life outside; once your neighbours and people in the locality realise that you’re friendly, they, too, will get more used to you and less resentful of your presence in their midst. Keeping to yourself is an invitation to be isolated. Don’t let your reticence be misinterpreted as arrogance. Embrace your new temporary home country and, in time,  you will go a long way in overturning suspicions against digital nomads.

Images: Shutterstock

Also Read: The Definitive Guide To Choosing A Hostel For Your Next Trip

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Many people choose this lifestyle so they can travel the world, study, and work abroad, but it is important to understand what life as a digital nomad will require before making the shift.

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Content:   • Your one stop for college news and resources!
Featured, Features, Study Abroad

A Guide for College Students Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely and travels often. Their work doesn’t require them to report to an office or adhere to a strict schedule. Instead, they can work anywhere in the world, doing the job they love.

It’s no wonder this lifestyle is appealing more to college students. They can travel the world while studying and working abroad. That said, being a college student and a digital nomad is a challenge. It’s not like a vacation where all you have to worry about is enjoying yourself.

You have to learn how to balance the fun of traveling with work and school commitments. The following tips will help you do just that.

Understand What the Digital Nomad Lifestyle Will Be Like

You have to understand what the digital nomad lifestyle will be like if you want it to work out. You can assess whether this life is for you, and better prepare for it if you decide that it is.

Here are some critical points to consider about the digital nomad lifestyle:

  • A work-life balance is a must
  • Traveling often can be exhausting
  • You must ensure access to healthcare
  • You need a plan for financial stability
  • You’ll have to adapt to new cultures and languages
  • Knowing visa requirements and other legal requirements is essential
  • You might experience homesickness, especially if you go international
  • Balancing school with work and life in a new place is a big commitment

Dig into these factors and research all you’ll have to do and give up to be a digital nomad. Then, you can make an informed decision about moving forward.

Master Time Management

You’ll have to take your time management up a few notches if you want to be a digital nomad.

It’s one thing to balance life and school. It’s another to balance life, school, traveling, and potentially, work. You must learn how to divide your days so that you pay each of these things the attention they need. In addition, time management will ensure you don’t burn out.

Start with a routine to build some consistency into your days. Wake up at the same time regardless of your schedule and get ready for your days the same way.

You can establish priority tasks the night before, like your classes, if you’re working, and when you’ll study. Set aside time for breaks, meals, and leisure time as well. Building these activities into your schedule will ensure you actually do them.

Attach times to each task and activity. For example, you have classes from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Next, you’ll have lunch from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. After that, you have work from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Then, you’ll study from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the rest of the night is yours.

Manage your time wisely and you can achieve everything you set out for each day.

Learn How to Stay Productive

One of the biggest challenges digital nomads run into is staying productive. All of the fun activities you can do when you travel to a new place can be distracting. It might be hard to stay motivated when you’re homesick. Technical and logistical issues can impact your productivity as well.

So, learning how to maintain peak productivity while studying and working on the road is essential.

Adhering to the routine we mentioned above will help keep you focused. Eliminate distractions while working by turning your phone on Do Not Disturb and muting social media apps. Create a designated workspace. You could also incentivize productivity by promising yourself a fun activity after you complete your work.

Secure your tech setup as well to maintain optimal productivity. Make sure you have the basics, like a good laptop set up with the proper work and school software and noise-canceling headphones.

Another crucial tool to have is a mobile hotspot. A hotspot ensures you can connect to the internet wirelessly on your mobile devices from virtually anywhere. This will come in handy when you travel internationally or to places with spotty internet connections. No matter where you are, you can still access your studies and any work you’re doing online.

Equip yourself with the right tools and techniques to stay productive as a digital nomad.

Choose Work That Aligns With Your Studies and Interests

Digital nomads are known to take many different directions with their work. You have options and can easily make a living while studying and traveling abroad. The key is ensuring the work you do doesn’t distract from your education and pull you away from who you are.

You’ll have a much better experience as a digital nomad if you choose work that aligns with your studies and interests. Rather than taking the barista job at the local cafe, work with your school to see if there are any work-study opportunities where you’re traveling.

You can also take the job search into your own hands. Search for job openings before you head to your destination through online job boards. Ask for referrals from fellow students.

Consider fully remote positions as well. There are many work-from-home jobs available that can accommodate a college student’s digital nomad lifestyle, such as being a tutor or a content writer for subjects related to your major.

Whatever work you decide to do, make sure it doesn’t take away from your studies and aligns with who you are and what you want to be.

Conclusion

Many college students are attracted to the digital nomad lifestyle because it allows them to travel freely while studying and working where they want to. As enticing as this life is, being a digital nomad isn’t void of challenges.

Make sure you understand what you’re getting into, master time management, learn to stay productive, and choose work that aligns with your studies and interests to give yourself a real chance at a successful digital nomad life.

SEE ALSO: How to Choose the Right Student Housing in the U.S.

Previous ArticleNext Article

Balancing school, work, and daily living in a new place is a big commitment, and time management is critical to prevent burnout.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

work-life balance
balancing possible education with work

Setting routines, including regular wake-up times, breaks, and leisure periods, helps digital nomads manage their work-life balance.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Choosing work that aligns with personal studies and interests is advised, and job searching can be conducted independently.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

To work efficiently on the move, digital nomads often set up a mobile office with essential tools such as a WiFi hotspot that works in over 140 countries, smartphones with tethering capability, work desks, earbuds that last up to eight hours with portable charging cases, and wireless mice.

Title:

Content: How to setup a mobile office and live the life of a nomad

The first step towards becoming a digital nomad!
Mobile office essentials

Amazon

The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic all but accelerated the transition to the remote work lifestyle, and now that the pandemic has just about subsided, most of us have become used to the work-from-home routine. As a matter of fact, many full-time work-from-home professionals have grown to love this way of life since it affords them more time with family members and an opportunity to travel while they work.

The prospect of being a digital nomad is a pretty enthralling one. Exploring different destinations while also managing your work routine is a luxury only afforded to a few. However, a nomadic work lifestyle isn't all about merry-making and enjoying destinations. There needs to be a proper setup that allows you to ensure your travel lifestyle doesn't affect your work and productivity.

That's precisely why having a mobile office with the right gadgets in your kit is a necessity that cannot be overlooked. Here's taking a peek at some of the most essential gadgets that need to make it to your working kit if you aspire to be a digital nomad.

1. A lightweight laptop

Microsoft Surface 4 Pro

The Microsoft Surface 4 Pro checks all the boxes as the perfect travel laptop. It's a lightweight, compact tablet that offers you the powers of a laptop. You can also use a stylus pen for more comfortable and convenient navigation.

The device in which all things start and come to an end; you simply can't set up without one. If you're looking for a laptop that suits a nomadic lifestyle, the weight and compactness of the device carry as much importance as your configurational choices.

For this specific purpose, we'd recommend going with the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4. It weighs only 2.79 lbs - the ideal weight to go for if you're a frequent traveler. Also, the screen size is perfect, as it contributes massively to the overall size of the laptop. Also, you can use this as a tablet with a stylus pen for even more convenience.

2. A WiFi hotspot

GlocalMe U3 WiFi Hotspot

The GlocalMe Wifi Hotspot boasts a 3000mAh battery life along with 13 hours of use. It can be used in over 140 countries and provides and adds tremendous stability to your work by providing a stable internet connection during travel. Also, you need not pay any roaming fees to use this hotspot.

The internet is the next most important thing to consider after a laptop. A WiFi hotspot goes a long way in delivering internet at impressive speed so you can focus on work without any hassle. Now, the best solution would be to use the hotspot from your phone. Why spend on a device when you can do it from a phone that you already have?

Well, a wireless WiFi hotspot adds more convenience to your travel. You don't need a SIM card for it, and the device can also deliver fast internet by smartly selecting a fast network. Secondly, you're not paying for any roaming charges; it's a pay-as-you-go WiFi facility. Also, wireless WiFi hotspots have advanced security features, so rest assured your data is in safe hands! We recommend going for the GlocalMe U3 Mobile Wireless Hotspot if you decide on getting one.

3. A USB charging station

Baseus PowerCombo USB-C Charger

The Baseus PowerCombo can charge up to 6 devices simultaneously. It's also compatible with a host of laptops, phones, and tablets, so you can have all the charging requirements in one place. Also, it offers overpower protection.

A power station is a basic need for any digital nomad who wishes to save desk space. It's a one-size-fits-all solution that can power up multiple tech devices all at once. Be it a tablet, laptop, or phone — a multiport charging station will leave you in awe in terms of the convenience it brings to your life.

The Baseus PowerCombo USB-C charging station is a great choice at a reasonable price tag that can charge all your devices simultaneously. It'll ensure you don't need to clean up the clutter of tangled wires around your desk — say goodbye to tangled wires affecting your productivity when you have this device at your aid!

4. A work desk

Worky Home Office

The Home Office desk is an innovative solution to clearing clutter on a desk and embracing an organized approach to work. Apart from holding your stationery items and laptop, it also offers desk storage for some more. There are many other exciting features that make it a must-have for any nomad or a frequent traveler.

What if we tell you it's possible to carry your entire office setup in a bag? When we say 'work desk,' the usual laptop elevator lap desk comes to our mind. But that'd be too bulky to carry when you're traveling. After all, convenient travel is all about carrying stuff that doesn't take up a lot of space, and hence, traditional lap desks don't make the cut here.

Instead, this innovative Home Office portable workstation by Worky is all you need to have with you when setting out for your next workstation. It can hold a laptop and stationery items and also comes with built-in charging ports. There's also a video conferencing light that is useful for illuminating your workspace during meetings.

The most striking feature here is you can store all of these in the briefcase and set out for your next destination without having to worry about packing each item separately. It's lightweight and portable enough, so you can easily carry it during travel.

5. Noise-cancelling headphones

Beats Studio Earbuds

The Beats Studio buds offer a powerful and balanced sound output. They're a great choice to go for if you're looking for earbuds that'll last for a long time and provide quality output. The lightweight and compact design of the earbuds means you won't need to compromise on your backpack storage space. Also, they are available in five different colors.

Work-from-home, as much as it does allow you to explore new places, you simply cannot cut off contact with your colleagues. Collaborations are important, and a pair of the correct noise-canceling headphones can help you have smooth and seamless communication with them. You can also get a pair of headphones in this case, but we'd specifically recommend earbuds to align more with the objective of using products that take up minimal space in your luggage.

The Beats Studio earbuds deliver a powerful and well-balanced sound and also come with two distinct listening modes: Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode. In terms of performance, these earbuds offer up to 8 hours of use. They come with a charging case, so your earbuds will keep on charging when you store them.

What's more, the Beats Studio earbuds are also IPX4 sweat and water-resistant. You can connect them to your laptop via Bluetooth. All in all, they're a great choice if you're looking for quality earbuds that ooze quality and can last for a long time.

6. A Portable wireless mouse

FENIFOX Flat Wireless Mouse

An ultra-thin and slim wireless mouse that's easy to carry anywhere. It also takes up very little safe in contrast to the traditional mouse and is very easy to operate. . Also, it comes with a low-decibel button that is suitable for coffee shops, libraries, and other occasions.

A portable wireless mouse can allow you to navigate easily if you're uncomfortable using the laptop mousepad. In this case, we would recommend going for the FENIFOX slim and portable wireless mouse.

It's a pretty compact and lightweight mouse that looks so thin you'd feel as if it's very much aligned with the surface. It boasts compatibility with a wide array of devices and is an environment-friendly and energy-saving device.

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Communities of digital nomads are forming in attractive destinations like Itacaré in Bahia and Pipa, where people connect and work together.

Experience from people like Kyle Anderson shows that the digital nomad lifestyle can lead to personal discovery, although it presents challenges such as managing small spaces, sleep deprivation, and the uncertainty of future locations.

Some nomads develop a strong connection to certain cities during their stays and consider returning for longer periods, but digital nomad visas were not intended for permanent residence and some seek advice for extended stays.

Title:

Content: Thousands of digital nomads staying in Croatia, longer stay problematic

NEWS 12.02.2023 15:31

Croatia, a country with a dwindling population, has become a hot destination for digital nomads - mostly young, highly educated and rich foreigners. Thousands of them are staying in the country, but the small number of those wishing to stay longer have to be resourceful as the law does not allow a stay of more than one year.

The global number of digital nomads is estimated at around 35 million. According to some estimates, that number is expected to reach one billion by 2035.

Croatia ranks high on the list of digital nomads’ favourite destinations. Even though data vary, depending on the source of information, a survey conducted by the Nomad List platform shows Croatia is globally the most attractive destination for digital nomads.

Croatia is a small country but what it offers is diverse so it attracts different groups of digital nomads, says Jan de Jong, founder of the Digital Nomads Croatia association.

The Dutch, who lives in Croatia, in 2020 launched amendment of the relevant laws owing to which Croatia introduced, as one of the first European countries to do so, a visa for digital nomads, enabling citizens of third countries to stay in the country for up to one year.

10,000 digital nomads staying in Croatia on a monthly basis

De Jong notes that one of the main reasons why digital nomads come to Croatia, besides infrastructure, which mostly includes the need for a good internet connection and an established community of digital nomads, is the lifestyle Croatia offers, which, in an addition to everything else, is very affordable.

That lifestyle seems to be very affordable to digital nomads, as an average digital nomad makes around €6,500 a month, according to Nomad List.

At the end of January 2023, there were 595 valid visas for digital nomads in Croatia, according to data from the Ministry of the Interior, however, that figure is much below the actual number of digital nomads staying in Croatia because it refers only to third-country citizens staying here for more than three months.

To get a complete picture of the situation, one should take into account EU citizens, who move freely throughout EU territory, including Croatia, without time limitations, as well as the large number of digital nomads from third countries staying in Croatia for less than a month.

The Ministry of the Interior says that it does not keep a record of the latter two categories of digital nomads, so their number can only be estimated.

Judging by trends for individual cities, including Zadar, Split and Zagreb, on the Nomad List platform, de Jong concludes that roughly 5,000 digital nomads arrive in Croatia a month. If every digital nomad is estimated to stay in Croatia for two months, one can say that around 10,000 digital nomads are staying in Croatia every month.

Meanwhile, after Croatia was one of the first European countries to introduce visas for digital nomads, other European countries have followed suit.

In addition to the basic requirements, such as remote work or self-employment and a certain minimum monthly income, which in Croatia amounts to €2,300, while in Iceland it is more than €6,000 – the visa for digital nomads also regulates the longest allowed stay in the country.

Croatia is one of the countries with more restrictive rules because if a digital nomad likes the country and wants to stay for more than a year, they must leave the country for at least six months in order to be able to apply for a visa again.

On the other hand, in other European countries the visa can mostly be extended, depending on the country, for example, in the Czech Republic a digital nomad visa can be extended for a period of three years in total.

Purpose of visa country’s tourist promotion

Even though de Jong says that the purpose of the visa for digital nomads was never to allow permanent stays, he notes that a certain number of digital nomads contact his association looking for advice on what to do if they want to stay in the country.

Asked if there is a legal way to extend the visa, the Ministry of the Interior says that that option does not exist and that it cannot even be extended with a permit for extended tourist stay.

The ministry explains this with the fact that the sole purpose of visas for digital nomads was “Croatia’s tourism promotion.”

One of those who got caught in that legal limbo is Steve Tsentserensky, a copywriter from Ohio, USA, who was among the first digital nomads to get a visa in Croatia.

During his six-month stay in Zagreb, he fell so much in love with the city that he decided to return for a longer period of time.

Asked how he would do that, because the law restricts his stay, unless he marries a Croat, establishes a company or finds employment, he says that he will do what is feasible to regulate his stay and probably again apply for a visa for digital nomads.

He stresses, however, that it would be good if the visa could be extended for a longer period of time, without applicants having to leave the country because they all have the possibility to reapply after the expiry of the six-month period, and the conditions are completely the same.

Another digital nomad, a woman from the USA, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that after the expiry of her visa she did not want to leave the country and that, even though she kept the same job for which she receives a US salary, she found the solution in a fictitious employment contract.

Somebody offered me a work permit, she says cautiously. She considered other ways as well, such as starting a business, and was also advised to marry, but she believes that with the work permit she has also found a way to contribute to the community she lives in by paying taxes, because as a digital nomad she does not have to do it.

Both Americans like the relaxed lifestyle of Zagreb residents, which is why they want to stay for some time.

They did not say how long, but the woman said that she is actively learning Croatian and not thinking about leaving the country.

When they stay longer, they become immigrants

Caroline Hornstein-Tomic, a researcher at the Ivo Pilar Institute of Social Sciences, says that digital nomads are usually highly educated people, mostly in their 30s, who are also excellent consumers.

“If they decide to stay longer, they become a kind of immigrants,” she says and adds that there is still no research in Croatia on how digital nomads impact local communities, but that that impact certainly exists.

They boost tourism as well as other sectors of the economy, they have encouraged the development of infrastructure and the establishment of numerous hubs, as well as services that meet their need to get along in the new country, she says.

Hornstein-Tomic says that she has interviewed some of the nomads who have been staying on Dalmatian islands, and that she has heard about their positive experiences with the local community.

“Those who have decided to stay longer are interested in local jobs or business development, and they also do volunteer work, so apart from financial resources, they also have knowledge that they like to share,” says Hornstein-Tomic.

Commenting on the demographic potential of that group, de Jong says that digital nomads follow new trends and no longer go to countries where they have better-paying jobs but rather those where they like the lifestyle, bringing their well-paid jobs with them.

He thinks that the current remote work revolution will continue and that a reversal of the trend is not likely.

That trend can be the biggest opportunity for Croatia, from where around half a million people have emigrated over the past ten years looking for better-paying jobs, says de Jong, who has lived in Croatia for the past 16 years.

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