In the past 5 years life took us from one end of the world to the other, and we had the chance to experience living in some of the most amazing places on earth.
Living as an expat or a digital nomad might not be for everyone, but many people dream of this possibility.
If you are considering switching your job for a freelancing one, or are considering applying within your company to that expat role, here are 5 cities to consider as a digital nomad, based on our experience and research.
Making the move can be scary for some, but choosing the right city to live in will come with its rewards. As we’ve seen, there are plenty of things to take into consideration when looking at your dream destination, and they also depend a lot on where you are in life right now.
Here are my top 5 cities to live in as a digital nomad, based on my experience and the research I’ve done in the past.
Top 5 cities to consider as a digital nomad
Hong Kong
Hong Kong makes my list because it is the first city we’ve experienced life as an expat and absolutely loved it.
Even though in the last few years, many expats and companies left for other Asian capital cities, Hong Kong still remains a great destination, especially for young adults, but also for families with small children.
The city offers plenty of activities to enjoy, from tasting the local Cantonese cuisine to having drinks at one of the highest rooftops, spending time at the sandy beach, or even hiking your heart out.
Because of its lengthy history as an expat-friendly destination, the city still has an extensive foreign community.
Compared to other big Asian cities which have seen a rise in accommodation prices, in Hong Kong apartment prices have seen a slow decline in the past years. On the other hand, if you are not sure about staying for long, you can always choose a serviced apartment, from the vast offer available on the market.
If you are traveling with small children, many people choose Hong Kong because of the possibility of having an in-house nanny to support you with raising the kids.
Other reasons why you should look into Hong Kong as a digital nomad:
Internet connection is good
Local English-speaking skills are very high
The city has a great public transportation system that will get you anywhere in less than one hour
There are countless flights that will get you anywhere in Asia in a matter of hours
Many options for working remotely – from shared spaces to cafes, there is something for anyone
Seoul
Seoul might not come to mind as one of the first options when looking for an expat-friendly destination.
It is true that getting used to living in Seoul or South Korea can prove to be more challenging than most of the other places on this list, however, the experience is worth having.
South Korea has a plethora of places to visit and things to do, along with its rich culture and delicious food, making the country a great place for a digital nomad. Unlike many countries around Asia, South Korea has 4 seasons offering you the chance to experience the cherry bloom season and fall foliage.
Citizens coming from many countries around the world can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days on a travel visa. The country is one of the safest in the world, making it perfect even for single people to move there.
If you’re looking for a bustling metropolis with lots of activities to keep you occupied during your stay, Seoul is the place to be. From world-class shopping and dining options to historical sites and vibrant nightlife, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. Plus, there are plenty of affordable coworking spaces available throughout the city.
Even though you will be living in one of the largest metropolises in the world, getting around is not too hard thanks to the efficient public transportation system.
When it comes to technology and high-speed internet connection, Seoul is a great contestant being the home of many of the most innovative companies in the world.
Berlin
Germany is by far one of the best countries to live in, no matter if you are looking at Europe or the world. Even though most of the country is rather traditional and would require you to know at least a little bit of German, Berlin is different from the rest and is by far one of the best places for expats.
Berlin has long been a popular destination for digital nomads, thanks to its vibrant start-up scene and thriving tech industry. The city is packed with opportunities for entrepreneurs and freelancers alike, offering plenty of co-working spaces, networking events, and business opportunities.
Moreover, the city has an abundance of parks and green spaces, making it easy to relax and take some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city or work.
Known for its nightlife, the city also offers a high quality of life and would make almost anyone feel welcome.
Singapore
Singapore is a great destination for digital nomads seeking to live and work in an exciting, vibrant city.
The country boasts one of the most progressive economies in Asia, making it easy to find good jobs with salaries that are higher than the regional average.
The cost of living is also relatively low compared to many developed cities like New York or Tokyo, which means more money can be put into savings or investments. However, the cost of living is relatively high, but many people accept it due to the fact that Singapore has one of the world’s highest standards of living.
Expect the biggest chunk of your budget to go on accommodation costs, with food entertainment, and transportation at relatively low prices.
Singapore also has excellent internet speeds, making it ideal for remote work, and the country is home to a huge number of international companies.
Furthermore, Singapore offers an incredibly diverse culture with plenty of activities and attractions to explore, from its world-famous street food to its beautiful beaches and lush green parks.
Moreover, the city’s Changi Airport is one of the biggest international hubs, that has won numerous prizes throughout the years.
London
Home to some of the world’s top universities, museums, galleries, parks, and other attractions, London is the perfect destination for digital nomads or freelancers.
The city has a strong infrastructure for digital connectivity and an abundance of coworking spaces as well as cafes, bars, and restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi.
Its great public transportation system allows you to choose accommodation outside of the city center, and still be within reach of the most important spots in town. Also, you won’t have problems with the language barrier, since English is the official language spoken.
The city also offers excellent restaurants, pubs, and entertainment venues for socializing.
An important European hub, the city is linked to both the East and the West through plenty of daily flights.
On top of everything else, London is a great destination for foodies, that offers a variety of international cuisines. Trust me, we went there only for food and to visit some of our favorite Asian chains.
So which of these 5 cities would you choose for your digital nomad experience? It definitely should not be only one.
Leave a Reply