One of our favourite things about teaching English online (if not the favourite) is the ability to become a digital nomad with it. Digital nomads are people who work remotely, often while travelling the world. One of the biggest draws of this lifestyle is the ability to live in different countries and experience new cultures while still being able to earn a living. It sounds dreamy – and it is.
One of the main things that young digital normals consider is this: can I have fun there and can I do it cheaply? Not all countries are created equal when it comes to cost of living and entertainment options but we’ve rounded up the best…
First on the list is Mexico. Mexico offers a low cost of living, with a budget of £1,000 per month being more than enough to live comfortably. In addition to being affordable, Mexico also offers a diverse range of entertainment options. From the white sandy beaches of Cancun to the bustling metropolis of Mexico City, there is something for everyone. The country is also known for its delicious food, rich culture, and friendly people.
Another excellent option is Indonesia. With a cost of living that is even lower than Thailand, Indonesia is a great choice for budget-conscious digital nomads. The country is known for its beautiful beaches (hello, Bali!) delicious food, and friendly locals. In addition, Indonesia offers a wide range of entertainment options, including temples, festivals, and traditional dances. The biggest city in Indonesia is Jakarta, where you can find many co-working spaces and a good internet connection.
Sticking in South East Asia, another affordable and fun option is Vietnam. The cost of living in Vietnam is very low, with a budget of £1000 – £1200 per month being more than enough. In addition to being affordable, Vietnam is also brimming with fun. From the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City to the jaw-dropping beaches of Nha Trang, there is something for everyone. For foodies, Vietnam is often cited as one of the best countries for food in the world! A major draw for those looking to sample some world-class pho.
If you want to stay closer to home, Romania is one to have on your radar. This Eastern European country is a hidden gem for digital nomads looking for an affordable and fun place to live. Alongside a low cost of living (it’s said to be 64% less expensive than the UK), Romania has so much to offer in terms of fun. From the bustling city of Bucharest (where you can go on a wild night out) to the beautiful countryside, there’s something to cater for all.
Lastly – and our number one pick – is Colombia. From the bustling city of Medellin and Bogotá to the beautiful beaches of Santa Marta, this rich South American country has buckets full of beauty. Not only being cheap (cost of living is 55.5% cheaper than the UK), the country has a very good infrastructure for co-working spaces and internet connection, making it a great place for digital nomads to work and live. It’s also a great place to learn Spanish if you’d like to be the student (perhaps rather than an English teacher for once)!