LATEST ARTICLES
What is a Digital Nomad? | Chapter Excerpt from “Digital Nomad Nation”
The following is an excerpt from my latest book Digital Nomad Nation: The Rise of a Borderless Generation You can purchase this book in Kindle or Paperback on Amazon, or in downloadable PDF and eBook format here. CHAPTER 2 What is a digital nomad? To truly understand a revolution, you must understand the characters that drive the story. In this story, the revolution starts with the “birth” of the individual digital nomad – the trailblazers who sensed the opportunity and left everything to travel the world, discovering a new way to live and the culture of digital nomadism along the…
Digital Nomad Book
Digital Nomad Nation is the definitive digital nomad book of the last 25 years, capturing the rise of the individual digital nomad, the rise of the digital nomad movement, and the rise of the first digital nation born of the internet. Or click here to download a free PDF excerpt from the book What if the next great nation had no borders, no government, and no fixed land—just a shared identity and global movement? Imagine a world in which borders dissolved, making way for a life in which the beautiful beaches of Bali were a short walk away from the…
Digital Nomad Nation Book Resources
This list is a free resource, complementary to the book Digital Nomad Nation: The Rise of a Borderless Generation. With the resources in this list, we aim to help members of the digital nomad nation – nomads, aspiring nomads, and partners – find essential information on how to get started, where to go, how to connect with other nomads, and find answers to any questions they may have along the way. The needs of the individual nomad, and the best solution, are evolving as quickly as the nomad nation itself is. As such, this resource list aims not to directly…
53 Best Digital Nomad Visa Options: An Ultimate Remote Worker Visa List for Long Stay and Slow Travel
Living the lifestyle of a digital nomad, location and financially independent, and traveling the world is a dream that many have. However, this dream comes with its fair share of issues – visas being one of them. Finding visas that are free and allow an extended stay in a location you actually want to be in can be tiresome. Thankfully, there are currently 53 digital nomad visas (or long-stay visa options) available for globetrotting remote workers to date, with 17 options being almost perfect for most nomads and remote workers. In this article, we’ll share these 53 digital nomad visas…
Digital Nomad Nation: Rise of a Bordless Generation
Inspired by the data behind the 2022 Global Digital Nomad Study, this is defining book about digital nomadism. This story examines the last 25 years, that led to the rise of the digital nomad, and predicts the next 25 years and how the digital nomad community will redefine citizenship, the future of work, and statehood in the digital age. Now available on Amazon in Kindle and paerback or downloadable ebook (ePub and PDF) Digital Nomad Nation is available for free download on Amazon from March 22 to March 24 What if the next great nation had no borders, no government,…
A Quick Guide to Attending a 10 Day Vipassana Meditation Training
Not too long ago, I was able to spend 10 day in silence, training the practice of meditation with Buddhist monks. Though not easy by any means, I felt during the training and feel more so now that those 10 days were one of the best investments I’ve made into my mental health, focus, and productivity. I feel that I’ve walked away with several amazing “toolkits” for maintaining the health and function of my own mind, building better focus, and “controlling” (for lack of a better term) emotions that may run counter to my goals in life. As excited as…
Volcanoes, Vipassana, and a Very Trippy Experience: 10 days meditating with monks and journeying into the mind
“Cancelled due to volcano.” “Cancelled due to volcano.” “Delayed due to volcano…” I stood in the Bali airport, staring in astonishment at the flight information board as flight after flight switched from “delayed,” to “cancelled due to volcano.” In a brief moment of levity, I chuckled as I wondered who had it worse – the people whose flights were cancelled, or the people whose flights were delayed because their pilots thought, “ok, I know it’s a literal volcano, but hold my beer, I think we can make this.” After the childish thought passed, frustration set in as I realized that…
Part 2 | Paradise Found: The Experience of Moving to Argentina
. Chapters in this Story of Experiencing Buenos Aires 3AM. Time to get moving. Buenos Aires, Argentina was on the horizon As I rolled out of bed in my AirBnB of downtown Dallas, saddled up, and put on my shoes, and grabbed my bags, I broke my #1 travel rule as I made my way downstairs to my Uber. I had two bags. I never carry two bags. My rule is, only one bag, small enough to carry on a plane. Always. In 2017, I traveled for an entire year with a single carryon sized backpack and never longed for…
Part 1| Paradise Lost: Fleeing a Soured Bali and Watching America’s Season Finale
Travel. Just travel. For those with wanderlust, travel is an empowering lightning strike to the heart that should never be underestimated. (This article is Part 1 in the 6 part Series “Around (half) the World in 180 Days: Insights and stories as a nomad post-pandemic”) Chapters of this Story of a Fleeing Bali and Returning to a Broken America For those wanderlusters that already live a life of travel abroad, but have wandered into a figurative place of craving stability, community, and a sense of home while continuing life abroad with travels in between the periods of comfort…I feel you!…
Around (half) the World in 180 Days: Insights and stories searching for home as a nomad post-pandemic
Travel. Just travel. For those with wanderlust, travel is an empowering lightning strike to the heart that should never be underestimated. And for those wanderlusters that already live a life of travel abroad, but have wandered into a place of craving stability, community, and a sense of home while continuing life abroad with travels in between the periods of comfort…I feel you! There is no shame in shifting from backpacker, to slow traveler, to digital nomad, to (as I am now) a lifestyle expat. Over the past 6 months, I explored what it means to travel and settle, while still…
Tortuga Daypack Pro Review: A Stellar, Packable Daypack for Nomads and “One Baggers”
One of my favorite backpack producers, Tortuga backpacks which was formed by fellow travelers, is in the middle of testing and producing an awesome little compressible daypack that that combines old school functionality with new school tech and travel styles. The Tortuga team was kind enough to send me one of their first prototypes of the daypack ahead of their launch so I could test on travels through Latin America, Japan, Malaysia, and Bali. Spoiler alert – if you’re looking for a lightweight daypack and are the average digital nomad, one bag traveler, or minimalist traveler, I highly recommend this…
How to Pay for a Property Abroad
Since I’ve completed my house in Bali and shared how amazing it is to have a home abroad, I’ve been glad to see the interest sparked in other wanderlusters in the potential of not just traveling but also moving abroad. Without fail though, one question continually comes up. Can I get a mortgage for a property abroad? If not, then how can you pay for a home abroad? The answer to the first question is mostly likely “No, you cannot get a mortgage for a home abroad.” Unless you are an established permanent resident with an employment history in the…
A Complete Guide to Santiago Chile for Travelers and Nomads
For nomads and travelers wandering South America, it’s part of the goal of travel to explore and experience all of the highlights and significant locations on the continent. As you research where to go and what to do in South America, it’s impossible to miss the potential stop of Chile’s capital of Santiago de Chile. Compared to its sister city capitals in Latin America, Santiago de Chile is a modern, developed city with great infrastructure, an equally rich restaurant scene which leans towards diverse international cuisine over local cuisine, and seemingly malls and shopping centers, which make it a great…
The 4 Best Mendoza Winery Tour Experiences: A Complete Guide to Tastings, Restaurants, Wineries, Bike & Wine & more
Mendoza, Argentina is one of the global capitals for wine production, known for growing and vinting wine that competes with the best from France, Italy, Spain, California, and more. The difference between Mendoza and the other wine capitals is accessibility. While in Napa and Tuscany, you will taste amazing wines and gourmet food, the experience comes with a high price tag for the experience. The tour, car rentals, accommodation, and more will potentially set you back thousands of dollars for a few day trip. On the other hand… Mendoza, Argentina delivers that same, delicious, world class wine, Michelin star restaurants,…
Mendoza Argentina Guide: The Essentials for a Wonderful Stay of 2 Days or 2 Months
Argentina is a vast and beautiful country with so many experiences, sights, and tastes you could spend years wandering and not experience them all. However, a handful of places and adventures are absolute musts. From gritty yet cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, to the pristinely beautiful nature of San Carlos de Bariloche, to other worldly Patagonia at the end of the world, some places in Argentina must be seen and experienced during your first trip One place not be missed is Mendoza, Argentina, the heart of the Argentine wine country and one of the wine capitals of the world** as well as…
My Google Flight Hack Strategy to fly anywhere for $700 or less
As much as I love travel, the cost of flights and getting to the places I’d love to explore has skyrocketed! For most other would-be travelers in the world, the price of flights has likely become one of the biggest hindrances to hopping a plane tomorrow and wandering the world pleasurably. If you’re a nomad, free to wander the world slowly by bus and train, that may not be a terrible problem for you. However, if you suddenly need to book an intercontinental or you’re trying to book a flight from your home country to Southeast Asia, South America, or…
Unbound Merino Brand Review: Perfectly minimalist and stylish performance essentials for travelers
Minimalist clothing is an understatement key to a simpler life and easier adventures, while still exuding a classy, stylish attractiveness. Over the past 10 years, I’ve lived everywhere from the corporate boardroom, to the Himalayas, to swanky rooftop bars and everywhere in between, and I love clothing that seamlessly fits in all possible circumstances. Even better, I love reliable brands that deliver minimalist, classic style, stylish yet performance friendly fit, and materials and construction that suit the clothes for daily streetwear or outdoor adventure. Unbound Merino is one of those brands. As a brand of clothing conceived by, designed by,…
How to become a digital nomad, slow traveler, or island expat for a perfect life abroad
In this guide, I’ll share the full process you need to follow to move abroad and build a successful digital nomad or “island expat” If you have any questions along the way, feel free to email [email protected] Becoming a digital nomad, or simply living a location independent life abroad however you label it, is an excellent decision and a great way to spend a life. Whether you’re interested in traveling for a few months, traveling for a year, spending a few months abroad per year, or living abroad indefinitely, I guarantee the decision to travel and live abroad is one…
Ask a Brother: Click here to ask anything or get a free custom guide
Have a burning question about travel, the digital nomad lifestyle, or life as an expat? Do you have a question that Google, Reddit, Quora, and nowhere else on the internet can answer? Feel free to email me at [email protected]. My promise: If it’s a quick easy question, I’ll shoot you an email answering your question quickly. If the question is complex, I’ll write a full guide (free) just for you, and place it on my site accessible for everyone. If you have the question, it’s likely others do as well. Plus, I’m here to help. What topics do I normally…
The Argentina Rentista Visa: 9 Essential Things You Need to Know to Apply
Those travelers lucky enough to visit Argentina – from vibrant Buenos Aires, to the wine country of Mendoza, and the beautiful mountains of Patagonia – know that the country is one of the highlight experiences of South America. For a few, Argentina gets under your skin in a beautiful, endearing, and nearly addictive way. The next question always arises…how can you stay longer in South America? Trust me. I asked that exact same question. If you are lucky enough to have enough location independence and a minimum of $1500 per month passive income sourced either from real estate or dividends…
The 21 Best Digital Nomad Communities Around the World, Online, and Offline, plus 50 more…
Living the digital nomad life can be a dream come true as we explore foreign places, soak up foreign cultures, and embrace new experiences. The only possibility to make such a great experience even better is sharing that journey with a supportive community of people like you. For this reason, knowing the best digital nomad communities online and offline around the world is one of the best ways to enhance your travels. Whether you’re preparing for the journey as a new nomad and want to connect with like minds as you get started, or you’re already on the road and…
How to Get the FBI Background Check Apostille Process: Quick, Easy, only $20
If you’re like me, and are applying for long term visas or residencies abroad, you will need an FBI criminal background check. Furthermore, that background check will need to be apostilled to be accepted by foreign countries immigration departments. Attaining the FBI Background check, via any of the 4 processes here, is quick, easy, and only costs $18. Unfortunately, a quick Google search on having the FBI Background Check Apostille done may fool you into thinking you need to hire an apostille agency for $100+ to do the process for you. This is completely unnecessary If you have already attained…
How to Get an FBI Background Check
The FBI Background Check, also referred to as the “rap sheet,” FBI Identity History Summary, or FBI criminal background check, is an important part of most visa and residency applications for US citizens to foreign country immigration departments. The apostille process certifies that a public document, such as a federal background check birth certificates, court orders, or any other document issued by a federal agency or certified by a U.S. or foreign consultants. For most countries’ immigration departments and visa application processes, all official documents must be apostilled. In the US, the State Department is the only organization authorized to…
47 Cheapest Cities to Live in the World in 2024 for a $1000, $1500, and $2000 a month budget for ex-pats, nomads, and travelers
Many of the cheapest cities to live in the world not only deliver low prices, but high quality of life and value as well, if you know where to look. In this report, we’ll share the best cities around the world to live on a budget of $1,000, $1,500, or $2,000 monthly while maintaining a good quality of life. Whether you want to live in Europe, on a tropical island, in Japan, or soaking up the vibrance in South America without paying a fortune, it is possible, if you choose the right destination. This report is the product of analyzing…
Villa Balifornia is for Sale in Kedungu, Fully Furnished, with 45 year lease
Are you looking for a long term villa in the paradise of Bali, in one of the last true, quiet, authentic Balinese villages, that delivers the beautiful vibrance of authentic Bali, but with the cool cafes, restaurants, and surf breaks that put Canggu on the map? Better yet are you an aspiring expat that would love to stay on Bali long term, but you’re struggling to find a villa built reliably to a Western standard, with the creature comforts that make a house a true “home?” And have you been put off by the prospects of the process of building…
Palermo Buenos Aires: Discover What to Do and See in Argentina’s Most Bohemian and Stylish Neighborhood
Buenos Aires is one of the most captivating, charming, and welcoming metropolises in South America. Though this “Paris of South America” has a neighborhood, café, bar, and parrilla to fit the unique tastes of every traveler, if you could only experience and live in one part of this city Palermo Buenos Aires should be it. This “Brooklyn meets Latin America” cluster of charming city blocks combines the best of old world architecture and living and 100s of years of history, with more chic cafes, bars, and impeccable restaurants blended into a pleasant, walkable have more than most other places in…
The 33 Best Cafes Palermo Buenos Aires has to offer! Soho, Hollywood, Palermo Chico, and more
For those lucky enough to spend time in Buenos Aires, the café, wine bar, and coffee scene is a definite highlight, and Palermo is possibly the trendiest neighborhood in this vast and awesome city. Knowing the best cafes Palermo Buenos Aires, for Soho and Palermo Hollywood, is a quick way to start your day with top notch coffee and delicious pastries in some of the artsiest, hippest, and coolest spaces in Buenos Aires. Along the bustling Palermo streets you’ll find plenty of charming cafe options as great places to grab breakfast, work, or simply hide between bouts exploring the boutique…
The 12 Best Spaces for Coworking in Palermo Buenos Aires (and Villa Crespo)
For remote workers and digital nomads looking for a neighborhood to relax, eat, drink, and work for a stint in Argentina, Palermo is arguably the best neighborhood in Buenos Aires. With plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes, social events, and nightlife in walking distance of everywhere, pleasures come easy. But what about maintaining productivity? Don’t worry, our list of your best options for coworking Palermo Buenos Aires will ensure you get in just as much work as play. Luckily, coworking in Palermo Buenos Aires is quite popular, with plenty of modern, comfortable, and well equipped spaces that you could easily work…
The 33 Best Buenos Aires Coworking Spaces in Palermo Hollywood, Soho, Recoleta, Belgrano and More
No matter where you are in the world as a digital nomad or remote worker, getting your work done in a way that fits your lifestyle is important. Though the adventures of working and traveling from anywhere can be priceless, having a reliable, consistent, and productivity friendly working situation is a must – which is why a co working space is an excellent way to ensure you have the environment you need to get your work done. For those lucky enough to visit Argentina, rest assured that the Buenos Aires Coworking Space scene delivers high quality, comfortable, and well-equipped shared…
A Perfect Digital Nomad Japan Guide: Everything you need to know
With Japan’s new digital nomad visa, bargain prices throughout Japan, and high quality of life wherever you go, there has never been a better time for nomads to visit, live in, and experience one of the best travel destinations in the world. Read on to discover everything you need to know about living and working in the “Land of the Rising Sun” with this Complete Digital Nomad Japan Guide. Japan is at the top of most traveler’s lists, and with good reason. With rich culture, a near utopian makeup, and some of the best food on the planet, Japan is…
The New Japan Digital Nomad Visa Guide: How to Apply, Country List, & Full Requirements
For digital nomads visiting Japan that would love to spend more time working in and exploring the “Land of the Rising Sun” than a normal tourist visa allows, the Japan digital nomad visa is an excellent new option for you to visit Japan and experience the archipelago more deeply. Everyone who has had the pleasure to visit Japan will tell you the experience is otherworldly. This extraordinary country somehow perfectly blends the past and beautiful ancient history with the future via innovative, entertaining, and always satisfying ways to accomplish even the smallest of tasks. The result is a place that…
Argentina Digital Nomad Visa: 6 Steps to Apply, Requirements, and Everything You Need to Know
In May 2022, Argentina unveiled an exciting opportunity for digital nomads worldwide – the Argentina Digital Nomad Visa. While the application process has officially begun, some details are still unclear, but we do know this is a fantastic opportunity for nomads hoping for an extended stay in the “Paris of South America” and beyond and citizens of all countries with visa-free access to Argentina are eligible to apply. Argentina is like a second home to me, and after years away she has retaken my heart. Before this trip, I applied for the Argentina digital nomad visa online to allow me…
How to Apply for an Digital Nomad Argentina Visa Online
The following is a translated aid for navigating the Argentine DNM online visa application process. Continue scrolling to the bottom for an additional aid for navigating the electronic entry permit application process On the migration page https://www.argentina.gob.ar/interior/migraciones , enter the Self-Management instance and you must enter the Filings and Entry Processing (“Radicaciones y Tramitacion”) button. Note that from here, you can also apply for residency, DNI, and many other options Then, enter the Electronic Entry Processing – TIE 24 Then, click on the 1st STEP button (“1st PASO”). If it is your first procedure, you must register the user to…
6 Best Rentista Visas In Latin America: Everything You Need to Know
Many people dream of having a second home in one of the many paradises strewn throughout Latin America. Unfortunately, the immigration process, the short stay of 30 day visas, and potentially living as a perpetual tourist and not truly a resident of a country you may plan to live in long term can be off putting to many people, preventing them from making that dream move to Latin America. But, there is a solution. The “Rentista Visa. A multi-year option to fully live in the country of your choice. For those who earn a modest amount of income from either…
63 Surprising Digital Nomad Statistics
We interviewed hundreds of digital nomads around the world and analyzed over 4000 poll and survey responses from the English-speaking digital nomad community across the globe, to distill that research into 60+ original digital nomad statistics on the global digital nomad community. In our research and interviews, we discovered that the global population of digital nomads numbers approximately 35,000,000 members with a collective economic value of approximately $787,000,000,000 USD. But the size, diversity, and potential of the global digital nomad community that we discovered goes far beyond these numbers. In this groundbreaking original study of the global digital nomad population,…
Lems Outlander Review: An Awesome Waterproof Minimalist Boot with Urban Styling
Over the past six months, I’ve tested Lems retro styled, waterproof hiking boot – the Outland. In this Lems Outlander review, I’ll share why this boot is one of my new favorites to round the world adventure and urban travel. My well worn pair of Lems Outlanders, treading through the trails and streets of Asia for the past 6 months Retro hiking boot styling, the legendary comfort of the lems Boulder boot, minimalist construction, and a roomy toe box make this a lightweight, all around, urban and hiking friendly boot that performs as expected and more. Overall, I personally love…
2 Year Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Guide: The Best Visa in Latin America
Colombia. A land of vibrance, warmth, and beauty that exists in every corner of the country in the nature, in the nightlife, and in the people. Until now, the biggest problem with Colombia is that you always want to go back. Now, thanks to the new Colombia Digital Nomad Visa, you may not have to leave. For travelers that have been lucky enough to visit South America, for most, has been the most surprising gem of their journey, delivering vibrance, fun, natural beauty, warm and beautiful people, and all at a price that is far lower than its “competitors” of…
Monthly Cost of Living by Country Rankings: The Cheapest, Best, and Most Expensive Countries to Live in.
In planning for a life abroad and deciding where will be best for your next home or new home, whether as an expat, a digital nomad, or a slow traveler, assessing the monthly cost of living by country is one of the most important factors to consider. Though safety, air quality, internet speed, and general quality of life are important factors to consider, understanding which countries offer the cheapest cost of living relative to other countries you are considering is the most empowering piece of knowledge in ensuring a high quality of life that your planned budget, essentially geoarbitrage. The…
Moving to Argentina | Everything you need to know as a Nomad, Expat, or Slow Traveler
Argentina. The land of Tango, amazing “asado” beef, wine, and endless nature. With good reason, this Latin American paradise is regarded as one of the best places in the world to live for amazing arts and culture, beautiful landscapes, and an easy upgrade to quality of life. However, for many, as a European or American moving to Argentina, the possibility can feel slim if not impossible, picking up and moving halfway around the world. A view of Ushuaia, Argentina, at the end of the world… I am here to tell you that this feeling couldn’t be further from the truth….
The 47 Best Minimalist Clothing Brands for Minimalists, Travelers, and “Buy It for Lifers”
One of the best ways to save money, improve your style, and build a comfortable wardrobe is by selectively investing in minimalist clothing brands and staple wardrobe pieces that exude the essences of simplicity, timeless style, and longevity. By choosing high-quality clothing that delivers minimalist style, versatile function and comfort, but is still durable enough to last a lifetime, you’re guaranteed to look good (and feel good) with fewer pieces of clothing, no matter what you decide to wear. However, knowing which pieces of clothing will stay in style for decades, will last for decades, and will be comfortable enough…
The Ultimate Digital Nomads Guide to Buenos Aires
Nestled along the southeastern shore of South America, Argentina hides the vibrant and captivating metropolis of Buenos Aires, beckoning travelers and digital nomads alike to take in a big city, cosmopolitan experience that mixes the best of Latin culture and Europe and sits on the doorstep of some of the greatest and most beautiful adventures in the world. As the heart and soul of the nation, the “Paris of Latin America” stands as the capital and largest city of Argentina, offering a remarkable fusion of rich cultural traditions and global influence, eclectic neighborhoods, and an inviting spirit that’s impossible to…
9 Epic South America Backpacking Routes: The Best Itineraries and Ultimate Travel Guide
Backpacking South America is an incredible experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a yearning for more. Planning the adventure of wandering such a vast continent can seem intimidating, but this article will demystify how the adventure can be simple yet more fulfilling than any travel experience you’ve ever had. In this guide to backpacking South America you’ll discover the best options for exploring my favorite continent, tips for getting off the beaten track, and everything you need to make your trip as smooth, amazing, and memorable as possible. CONTENTS WHY YOU SHOULD GO BACKPACKING IN SOUTH AMERICA…
Best Time to Visit South America: Everything You Need to Know, Weather, When to Go, and More…
Traveling the huge continent of South America is an amazing, adventurous, and exciting experience. However, with so many climates, geographies, regions, and types of adventures, understanding when is the best time to visit South America can be tough. Picking the right time to travel to South America can mean the difference between landing in amazing festivals, hiking under clear, dry skies, and hit the beach on sunny days with warm temperatures and thin crowds. We’re hear to make sure your adventure is the best possible. In this guide, we will share the absolutely best times to visit South America, breaking…
11 Reasons Why Buenos Aires is Perfect for Digital Nomads
One of the best aspects of life as a digital nomad is the opportunity to experience destinations that blend the best of all worlds. When we luckily stumble onto a place that not only welcomes us with open arms, but delivers amazingly soulful food, vibrant energy, and deeply rich and engaging culture, these kinds of places ring deeply as the reason why nomads wander. Even better, if the “temporary home” we’ve discovered proves livable, comfortable, and encourages the productivity that is not only fulfilling but finances our wandering and adventures – then – we have absolutely discovered a potential new…
Complete Guide to Moving to Thailand from the US, Canada, or Europe + Checklist
For many Americans, Canadians, and Europeans moving to Thailand is a dream scenario. Trading in the hectic rat race, brutal weather, and high-stress lifestyle of “the west” with the relaxed go with the flow, low cost of living, and (nearly) year-round beautiful weather of Thailand is a no-brainer decision, if you have the opportunity. Unfortunately, for most people the idea of moving to Thailand from USA, Canada, or Europe can feel intimidating at best and impossible at worst. I’m here to tell you, and tell you how, moving to Thailand for a few months, a few years, or permanently is…