Taking the leap into the digital nomad lifestyle is exciting, liberating, and a little bit nerve-wracking. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when starting out is choosing your very first destination. The place you begin your journey can set the tone for your experience, so picking wisely matters more than many realize.
From cost of living to internet speed, safety, and community—there are a number of factors to consider when deciding where to plant your feet (temporarily) as a new digital nomad.
Define Your Priorities
Before selecting your first destination, take time to identify what matters most to you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Do you thrive in bustling cities or prefer laid-back beach towns?
- Are you on a strict budget, or do you have some financial flexibility?
- Do you need a strong digital nomad community for support and networking?
- Is access to fast, stable WiFi non-negotiable?
- Are you seeking cultural immersion, adventure, or convenience?
Your answers will help narrow down the best options for your unique preferences and work needs.
Consider Visa Accessibility
Visa regulations can vary greatly depending on your nationality. Some countries allow visa-free travel or offer visas on arrival, while others may require you to apply in advance. For digital nomads, it’s also worth checking if a specific digital nomad visa is available.
Countries like Portugal, Spain, Croatia, and Mexico have introduced remote work-friendly visas, offering legal pathways for longer stays with minimal bureaucracy. These options are ideal if you’re planning to stay longer than the typical 30 to 90 days permitted by tourist visas.
Cost of Living
As a beginner digital nomad, budgeting is usually top of mind. Cities in Southeast Asia (like Chiang Mai and Bali), Eastern Europe (like Tbilisi and Belgrade), and Latin America (like Medellín and Mexico City) are often favorites because they offer a low cost of living without sacrificing quality of life.
Lower expenses mean your money goes further, giving you time to build income streams or save more while experiencing new surroundings.
Reliable Internet and Infrastructure
Fast and stable internet is the backbone of any digital nomad’s workday. Countries with growing tech scenes or established expat communities tend to offer great co-working spaces, high-speed internet, and strong infrastructure.
Places like Lisbon, Ho Chi Minh City, and Buenos Aires not only provide reliable connectivity but also have digital nomad-friendly amenities like affordable SIM cards, co-living spaces, and 24/7 cafés.
Safety and Healthcare
Feeling secure in your environment plays a huge role in your peace of mind and ability to focus on work. Use online forums, digital nomad communities, and resources like Nomad List or travel advisories to get a sense of the safety, healthcare options, and general living conditions in potential destinations.
Some cities may be popular among tourists but have underlying issues with petty crime or political instability. Doing a bit of homework goes a long way.
Language and Culture
Choosing a country where you speak the language (or at least a widely spoken one like English) can ease your transition. That said, many digital nomads enjoy the challenge of learning new languages and embracing local cultures.
If you’re starting out and want a smoother adjustment, destinations with large international communities—like Mexico City, Bangkok, or Barcelona—can help bridge cultural and linguistic gaps more easily.
Time Zone Considerations
If your job or freelance clients are based in a specific region, time zone compatibility can make or break your productivity. You don’t want to be taking calls at 3 a.m. unless you’re a true night owl. Plan ahead by choosing a destination that aligns well with your work hours or offers flexibility.
Popular First Stops for Digital Nomads
Here are a few places that consistently rank high for new digital nomads:
- Chiang Mai, Thailand – Known for its affordability, digital nomad hubs, and relaxed vibe.
- Lisbon, Portugal – Offers great weather, strong expat communities, and a digital nomad visa.
- Medellín, Colombia – A budget-friendly city with a spring-like climate year-round.
- Tallinn, Estonia – Tech-forward with a dedicated nomad visa and digital infrastructure.
- Canggu, Bali – A surf-and-yoga paradise with co-working spaces and a strong nomad scene.
Choosing your first destination as a digital nomad is a blend of practical decision-making and personal intuition. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to support your goals, comfort, and lifestyle while you find your rhythm in this new way of living and working.