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How to Become a Digital Nomad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated: March 22, 2023 · Digital Nomad

If you want to become a digital nomad and work remotely from anywhere in the world (as long as there is a Wi-Fi connection), this guide is for you! 💻

Traveling to epic destinations around the world, meeting new people, immersing yourself in colorful, richly diverse cultures — does that sound enticing to you?

What about having an unstable income for a while? Or having your life plans under constant construction? Or being away from family for long periods of time?

Becoming a digital nomad isn’t about taking Insta-worthy travel photos (although there’s time for that too).

It’s more about creating your own freedom to live, work, and play at your OWN pace.

how to become a digital nomad

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks so much for your support!

If you want to have a taste of what it takes to become a digital nomad, you’ve made it to the right place.

In this ultimate guide on becoming a digital nomad, I teach you the 5 easy steps to take in order to transition into the digital nomad lifestyle.

I have written just about EVERYTHING I could think of to help you become a digital nomad and pursue your dream lifestyle. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!

So here it is, a how-to guide for becoming a digital nomad, written by one!

Also Read: How We Became Full-Time Slomads (& How You Can Too)

Table of Contents show
5 Steps to Becoming a Digital Nomad & Working Remotely
Step 1: Set Your Intention as a Digital Nomad
Identify Your Digital Nomad “Why”
Is the Digital Nomad Life Right for You?
Step 2: Making Preparations to Become a Digital Nomad
Here is what most digital nomads consider to be the essentials
Selling the Non-Essentials
Renting Your Stuff for Extra Income
Step 3: Map Out Your Digital Nomad Plans
Where Do Digital Nomads Live?
How Will You Support Yourself as a Digital Nomad?
How Do You Find Accommodation as a Digital Nomad?
When Should You Move as a Digital Nomad?
Step 4: Start Learning or Strengthening Your Digital Nomad Skills
How to be a digital nomad with no skills or experience
Jobs for Digital Nomads with No Skills
Turning your Current Job into Location-Independent Work
Digital Nomad Job Ideas with Skills
Step 5: Following Through & Settling in Your Destination as a New Digital Nomad
Digital Nomad Logistics
VISAS + VACCINATIONS
INSURANCE FOR DIGITAL NOMADS
WIFI + MOBILE SIMS
DIGITAL NOMAD COWORKING SPACES
TAXES
BANKING + CREDIT CARDS
RESIDENTIAL / MAILING ADDRESS
Things to Consider When Becoming a Digital Nomad
Visa Requirements
Local Culture, Traditions, & Beliefs
Lifestyle, Safety, & Flexibility
Pros and Cons of the Nomadic Lifestyle
Pros of becoming a digital nomad
Cons of becoming a digital nomad
Final Thoughts

5 Steps to Becoming a Digital Nomad & Working Remotely

how to become a digital nomad pin
how to become a digital nomad

Step 1: Set Your Intention as a Digital Nomad

Setting your intention is crucial when deciding whether or not to become a digital nomad.

Intention setting (i.e. identifying your ultimate aim/goal/wish) will help you figure out the best path forward. If you skip this reflective stage then it’s likely you’ll revisit this question later.

I must warn you though, setting your intention after the fact can entirely flip-flop your plans down the road!

Identify Your Digital Nomad “Why”

Intention setting is kinda synonymous with finding your “why.” So, what is your why for becoming a digital nomad?

Is it primarily to travel the world? Escape the 9-5?

Search for a soulmate across the ocean? Do market research?

Live with your international partner? Get inspiration for a new idea you have? Start a new project?

Whatever your why is for becoming a digital nomad, make sure you break it down, internalize it, and really digest it.

Finding your core intention essentially lays down the path you’re going to follow in the next steps to be a nomad.

Digital nomad woman in Oaxaca City posing in front of a pink wall, cacti, and a neon "Oaxaca te amo" sign.
We’ve lived for 3 years on/off as nomads in Mexico

Is the Digital Nomad Life Right for You?

Unsure whether or not the digital nomad lifestyle is right for you? While there are no set criteria for being a digital nomad, there are a few characteristics that can highlight whether or not your personality traits align with the nomadic lifestyle.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself in advance of becoming a full-time digital nomad:

  • Are you generally open-minded to ever-changing situations?
  • Do you consider yourself resourceful, self-reliant, self-independent, and self-motivated?
  • Would you say you are flexible and able to adapt to unfamiliar settings and/or hectic environments?
  • Are you interested in learning and immersing yourself in rich, diverse cultures with widely different beliefs on tradition, culture, religion, etc.?
  • Can you visualize yourself moving every few months (every 3 or 6 months on average)?
  • Would you be able to handle an unstable income, routine, or schedule?

These questions are in no way definitive. But hopefully, they help you decide whether the nomadic lifestyle is something you can really resonate with or not.

Next, let’s discuss the more concrete steps you need to take in order to prepare for being a digital nomad.

laptop | coffee | cafe | digital nomad | digital nomad lifestyle

As digital nomads, our office views change with every new cafe we discover!

Step 2: Making Preparations to Become a Digital Nomad

Before I plan my future digital nomad endeavors, I like to scout out what I currently have, what I can let go of, and what I can sell to make extra income.

In general, digital nomads rid themselves of most material possessions other than the nomad essentials.

When I turned to the digital nomad lifestyle in 2015, I sold my car and left behind most of my belongings. The matter of fact is this: When you choose to be a digital nomad, you don’t quite have enough space in your backpack/luggage to take everything with you.

Being a digital nomad has led me to be a minimalist. I can now fit all my essentials in a tiny backpack and easily travel with 1-2 outfits for several weeks. I didn’t start out this way, though!

When you first start your digital nomad journey, you’ll need to downsize as much as possible. But don’t worry if it’s not perfect. Over time you can increasingly let more things go if you need to.

Here is what most digital nomads consider to be the essentials

GEAR — All the main tech like a laptop (I use a light Chromebook), phone, camera (my Sony a6000), and chargers, all the way down to power banks and memory cards. Click to read what I use for all my travel blogging gear here!

IMPORTANT STUFF — Passport, visa, driver’s license, debit + credit cards, social security card, SIM cards, ID photos, health insurance card, emergency contact info, and copies of records.

BASIC WARDROBE — Clothes adapted to your destination city/country. I usually take 1-2 basic tees, skirts/dresses, shorts/pants, undies/bras, and sportswear.

ENTERTAINMENT/HOBBY — Paul and I also always include items like books, a kindle, guitar, tripod, journal, and small decorations/memorabilia like family photos, Nepali flags, etc., to be a part of our travel essentials for when we move to a new destination.

Also Read: Ultimate Packing Guide for Moving Abroad (+ Checklist)

Selling the Non-Essentials

It can be extremely hard to let go of things you’ve hoarded for many, many years in exchange for becoming a digital nomad. It almost feels like giving away a part of how you identify yourself, right? That was me when I sold my car and left behind my video game consoles.

But selling or giving away the non-essentials is incredibly freeing!

You won’t believe how much “lighter” you feel after downsizing. Adopting a minimalist lifestyle is imperative when becoming a digital nomad.

Renting Your Stuff for Extra Income

A brilliant way to earn an extra, stable income as a digital nomad is to rent out your current home/apartment until you get back.

Renting is a great idea for those who want to try out the digital nomad life, but who aren’t yet ready to go full-time nomadic and want to keep a safe home base.

On the flip side, selling your home or car in advance is great for saving and setting aside a chunk of income for your full-time nomadic adventure. Neither option is better than the other! It all depends on your preference and lifestyle.

digital nomad guy working in a cafe

Paul’s ‘scruffy’ digital nomad look during our van life travels in Canada

Step 3: Map Out Your Digital Nomad Plans

When you decide to become a digital nomad, it’s wise to create a rough draft sketch of your plan. I specify this next step as a ‘rough draft because, as most of us know, life plans often fall through. As I like to see it, planning ahead is simply preparing for the unforeseen!

Where Do Digital Nomads Live?

Just going anywhere as a digital nomad isn’t really feasible. Why?

For one, digital nomads live and breathe a stable internet connection. So no, you can’t just go anywhere your heart desires!

The good news is, however, there are dozens of awesome cities and countries ideal for digital nomad communities!

While this list isn’t comprehensive, here are some of the top digital nomad cities:

  1. Bali, Indonesia
  2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
  3. Lisbon, Portugal
  4. Barcelona, Spain
  5. Budapest, Hungary
  6. Medellin, Colombia
  7. Tulum, Mexico
  8. Oaxaca City, Mexico
  9. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  10. Prague, Czech Republic
  11. Antigua, Guatemala
  12. Hoi An, Vietnam

There are tons of places not mentioned here, but this list serves to show just all the epic places you CAN visit as a digital nomad!

Also Read: 13 Best Places to Live in Mexico as a Nomad

How Will You Support Yourself as a Digital Nomad?

Let me clear the air right now: Being a digital nomad DOES NOT mean you travel 24/7 and lounge on beaches every day.

The nomadic lifestyle actually requires a ton of behind-the-scenes work (but more on that later).

Planning how much you can earn as a digital nomad is important for two reasons:

One, you don’t want to uproot your life just to find out you can’t pay your way 2 months later. And two, being a digital nomad does involve a little risk assessment.

If you already have a stable job that can easily transition to remote work, then that’s great. But most often, those transitioning to the digital nomad world start out with no skills and might juggle several temporary jobs until they can land something more stable. (More on this below.)

How Do You Find Accommodation as a Digital Nomad?

Once you choose a city or country to move to for your digital nomad endeavors, it’s time to zoom in on accommodation options.

Finding accommodation is relatively easy in digital nomad hotspots – otherwise, these places wouldn’t be so popular among digital nomads, would they?!

Finding local accommodation as a digital nomad:

Whenever we move to a new destination, we try to look for local accommodation first. We do this by…

  • Joining local Facebook groups (Real examples: Bali Cheap House Rent or Bali Digital Nomads)
  • Reaching out to locals or present digital nomads in the area
  • Searching on TrustedHousesitters or Airbnb for good deals

Other options are looking at digital nomad community housing for shared apartments and co-living spaces. NomadX is a leading option for digital nomads (it’s like Airbnb for digital nomads). In fact, Paul’s brother is actually living in a NomadX complex right now in Lisbon, Portugal!

When Should You Move as a Digital Nomad?

Though it might seem obvious, planning your trip around the country’s high/low and dry and wet seasons will save you lots of frustration and hassle.

For example, you don’t want to move to Mexico in the humid, wet season when temperatures are hot and miserable!

Looking at seasons and dates ahead of time also gives you access to early deals on flights, accommodation, rentals, and more. Going just before or after the peak of high season is wise to beat the crowds and snag a good deal on housing, too.

Summary: Researching your destination country from top to bottom before heading there is the best way to mitigate any preventable problems from arising.

camera bag travel backpack | how to become a digital nomad
how to become a digital nomad

Step 4: Start Learning or Strengthening Your Digital Nomad Skills

Do you need to have skills in the online world to be a digital nomad? No. Can you learn quickly? Yes! Can you find high-paying work for your already existing skills and experience? Yes!

How to be a digital nomad with no skills or experience

In today’s ultra-connected world, anyone can learn anything from almost anywhere. It’s true! For example, do you want to start making Youtube videos? Then you can start learning with the 100000+ free tutorials on how to be a successful Youtube influencer.

The truth is, you can be a digital nomad with little to no skills or experience. We all have to start somewhere and there are always jobs you can quickly become good at with no previous experience.

Jobs for Digital Nomads with No Skills

To show you what’s possible as a digital nomad with little to no skills, here is a quick list of real jobs posted on popular freelancing platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Flexjobs.

  • Transcribing or Transcription
  • Copywriting/Article writing
  • Virtual Assistant
  • Proofreading/Editing
  • Resumes/Cover letters
  • Social Media

If you can read/write English well, can listen to audio and type down the words, can help someone with their online workload, can edit articles, can organize resumes or type up cover letters, or can help manage social accounts, then you’re already on your way to earning income online and being one step closer to becoming a full-time digital nomad.

Also Read: 10 Best Digital Nomad Jobs for Beginners

Please remember that getting started is the hardest part! When I first started my digital nomad work online as a freelance writer with Upwork, it took undertaking several low-end jobs to rack up 5-star reviews. Once I had those reviews on my profile, I could then apply to higher-skilled jobs suitable to my experience.

You CAN work your way up with freelancing to where it can provide for you sustainably. You just have to start! 🙂

Turning your Current Job into Location-Independent Work

For those of you with concrete skills, there are tons of companies looking to outsource their work online. And it’s likely you can find the same job you have now, but online with a company that offers remote work opportunities and flexibility.

What’s amazing about this is you don’t have to start from scratch if you already have skills that can be transferred to independent-location work!

Digital Nomad Job Ideas with Skills

One of the most common jobs with skills I see in digital nomads is an Illustration/Graphic Designer. That, and freelance writing (which is what I do when I need extra income on top of my blogs).

Here are some of the top jobs for outsourcing your skills and experience in the digital world:

  • Writing (Article writing, ghostwriting, ebooks, creative writing, product copywriting, etc.)
  • BLOGGING — as I do for Bucketlist Bri!
  • Graphic/Logo Design
  • Translation (great for native bilinguals!)
  • Education/Training
  • Customer Service
  • Computer + IT
  • WordPress Development
  • Data Entry
  • Administrative
  • Project Management
  • Art + Creative
  • Consulting
  • Marketing
  • Accounting
  • and more!
An example of what having a freelancer profile on Upwork looks like

Step 5: Following Through & Settling in Your Destination as a New Digital Nomad

Once you have thoroughly planned and prepared yourself on how to become a digital nomad, now is the time to actually be a digital nomad and unleash yourself out into the world.

Digital Nomad Logistics

You’ll really start to feel like you’re making your dreams a reality when you start taking action to get you where you want to go. And trust me, that’s one of the most exciting feelings in the world!

With that said, know there are a few mundane logistics you need to run through first. Here are things you need to think about and consider. Don’t let this list discourage you. It’s just a list after all! You got this!

VISAS + VACCINATIONS

Travel visas vary per country. So you need to research the visa requirements for the country you are going to based on your nationality (more on this later).

You also need to see whether you can easily get a tourist visa upon entry (like in Mexico), or, if you have to apply for a visa in advance (like for Vietnam for US citizens).

The United States has lots of good agreements with countries around the world, making it fairly easy to obtain a tourist visa.

It’s crucial to plan your stay around the visa because it details how many days you have to be in the country. This is why we are currently living in Mexico because both Paul and I (as French and US citizens) are given 6-month tourist visas.

Vaccinations are important, too, especially if it’s your first time traveling to places like Southeast Asia and South America. Make sure to get your vaccinations well in advance of your travel dates.

INSURANCE FOR DIGITAL NOMADS

Having travel and medical insurance for your digital nomad lifestyle is so important in case of accidents and emergencies. There are several insurances out there, but none are as cost-effective as SafetyWing – the insurance made for digital nomads by a team of digital nomads.

I just bought around ~90 days of coverage for only $108! The only sleight of hand, however, is that you can only buy it once you’re already outside your home country (the US for me). So buy it the day you land in your destination country and coverage will start immediately!

WIFI + MOBILE SIMS

Having a reliable internet connection is a top priority for digital nomads. When there’s no wifi, how do you work otherwise? Having wifi, plus an inspiring environment to work in, are two very important items on every digital nomad’s checklist.

Nowadays you have portable wifi devices like Skyroam Solix S but these tend to run extremely high on the $ scale. Instead of dishing out this much cash on a device, buy a local SIM card in the country you’re visiting.

Most countries will have cheap data plans available and will have better coverage of the area anyway. Plus, local SIM cards are cheap and you can finally ditch your expensive plan from home.

DIGITAL NOMAD COWORKING SPACES

If you’re stationed in a digital nomad hub, like Bali, you’ll be able to find digital nomad co-working spaces that have fast wifi for a monthly fee.

The idea is that you rent out a “space/desk” in a cafe/co-working space so you have a guaranteed spot to come work every day like at an office. (I’ve seen people joining ones in Bali for around $90 per month.)

Otherwise, if you can’t afford a monthly fee, just work from your new home! We try to go to a cafe at least once a week just to break up our at-home routine. But honestly, this varies.

For us, it really depends on our mode of travel (van life or long-term travel in one country), our budget, and our level of inspiration!

TAXES

Even though you move, your taxes most likely do not! Unless you are managing a company, you will file your taxes as an individual or a self-proprietor.

I won’t go into detail here, but just remember to not forget about your taxes in your home country if you earn enough to file.

BANKING + CREDIT CARDS

Before you go abroad and live as a digital nomad, you should organize how you will continue banking and have access to funds.

Note: ATMs around the world will usually charge a fee for withdrawals, on top of your bank fee. Also, it’s wise to notify your bank in advance of your trip in order not to get blocked for spammy behavior. (It’s happened to me several times!)

Getting a travel credit card is a great way to make transactions with no foreign fees while also earning a few extra flight miles. 😉 There are a variety of different travel credit cards available. I currently have the Aviator Mastercard by American Airlines and so far, so good!

Helpful banking resources for digital nomads:

  • Wise – Send money to accounts/people across currencies with a super low rate
  • Revolut – A digital banking app and debit/credit card. Its platform is an awesome way to manage your money while abroad, send payments, and make transfers.
  • Paypal – Make online payments and send/receive money from friends/family or businesses

RESIDENTIAL / MAILING ADDRESS

To apply for any basic service anywhere, even abroad, (like mobile plans, monthly rentals, etc.), you’ll need a permanent address.

Even though I have lived abroad for overall 7 years now, my residency is still in the United States.  Use your home address (such as your sibling’s or parent’s) in case you don’t have a home base yourself (for example if you sold your house/apartment).

You want somewhere reliable, too, in case you depend on news/mail from home (I have student loan notices sent to my residence address).

Otherwise, receiving mail at your new address abroad is easy. Use your local address for receiving/shipping goods like from Amazon, etc. I have had countless mailing addresses over the years, from Nepal to Colombia to France and beyond!

Becoming a digital nomad = Having the freedom to work, live, and play at your own pace!

Things to Consider When Becoming a Digital Nomad

Beyond the logistics aspect of things, what is there to consider when becoming a digital nomad?

Visa Requirements

I just want to reiterate the visa portion of the digital nomad life. You will need a tourist visa for each place you visit.

Most countries require at least two blank pages in your passport. Visas upon arrival aren’t guaranteed. Some require applications in advance before arrival into the country. And, the process might change if you wish to extend your visa.

Here are examples of visas and the number of days you can stay in popular places for digital nomads (for US citizens / USA passport holders).

Visa-free countries:

  • 30 days* – Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Belize
    • *Most countries offer visa extensions should you wish to hang out longer. Beware though, some extensions can only be applied before the actual trip (pre-approval) which is why trip planning is useful!
  • 90 days: Colombia, Malaysia, Argentina, Costa Rica, and countries within the European Union (party to Schengen Agreement*)
  • 180 days (6 months): Mexico, Canada, Panama, Peru

*U.S. citizens can enter countries party to the Schengen Agreement (26 countries within the European Union) for up to 90 days without a visa. (For those looking to take up the digital nomad life in Barcelona, Budapest, Prague, Belgrade, etc.)

Countries requiring visas (or pre-approved) before arrival: Vietnam, Australia, Cuba

As you can see, there is a lot to think about when it comes to your visa.

Knowing how long you have in the country also will influence how long you rent out an apartment, etc, etc!

Local Culture, Traditions, & Beliefs

If it’s your first time abroad, prepare for slight-moderate-severe culture shock (depending on where you go!) I remember being in culture shock when I first moved to Kathmandu, Nepal.

It was my first introduction to South Asia and I’ll never forget just being both wowed and overwhelmed in all ways possible.

That said, keep an open mind, and don’t forget to research your destination country for faux pas to avoid.

You don’t want to be insensitive to others’ traditions and beliefs by accident (and hopefully never on purpose).

Lifestyle, Safety, & Flexibility

What type of digital nomad lifestyle do you wish to have?

Do you want to live close to a beach or in a city with many conveniences? When you decide you want to take the leap and become a digital nomad, think about the ideal “lifestyle” you want to have.

Secondly, safety is an important deciding factor as well. I don’t think there is anywhere in the digital nomad community that’s not safe. If digital nomads are already present somewhere, that’s usually a good sign.

Also Read: How We Became Full-Time Slowmads (& How You Can Too)

The digital nomad’s rule of thumb is to stay flexible. In other words, go with the flow.

The new lifestyle you just jumped into might not look like anything you’re used to — and that’s okay! Remember to practice safety protocols as you would at home.

Stay positive, keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to ask the locals for guidance or advice!

digital nomad | van life | how to become a digital nomad

Pros and Cons of the Nomadic Lifestyle

Finally, if you’re still reading this (thanks so much!!) I want to discuss just one more thing about becoming a digital nomad — the overall pros and cons of this nomadic lifestyle.

While Instagram might portray a very glossy overview on the #laptoplifestyle it’s good to know that behind the scenes, most digital nomads work regular hours, if not longer hours (and spoiler – sometimes weekends too).

Most of us out here living the digital nomad lifestyle don’t have long-term plans beyond several months. We take things as they come.

Oftentimes, we don’t know where we will be the next month, week, or even the next day! Things can happen quickly and plans can change even quicker. Is this a pro or con? I honestly don’t know the answer to that.

Below are some definitive pros and cons I PERSONALLY identify with being a digital nomad. (I will stop at 10 for each because otherwise, I could list 100).

Pros of becoming a digital nomad

  • Being my own #BossBabe
  • Tapping into financial freedom!
  • Having opportunities to pursue new hobbies/goals
  • Being able to live and travel in epic places while earning an income
  • Learning about new cultures and meeting new people from all over the world
  • Coliving or working alongside inspirational, like-minded nomads
  • Choosing your own holidays/vacations (or at least having extra flexibility)
  • Ridding yourself of material possessions and embracing a more mindful worldview
  • Stretching your mind and breaking biases and stereotypes
  • Living with less, for less (as digital nomad hotspots tend to have cheaper living expenses)

Cons of becoming a digital nomad

  • Life plans are always in limbo
  • Being far from family back home (wherever that might be)
  • Expenses can vary greatly from one month to the next, making it hard to budget or save
  • Sometimes you don’t know where your next bed will be (if moving around a lot)
  • Getting the ‘travel tummy’ when exploring new places and trying new foods
  • Working at home alone can become a form of isolation unless you pay to work at coworking spaces or cafes
  • Friends come and go, relationships are cut off and it sucks saying bye to many people (but also great to make new friends often)
  • Rarely saving up for future plans (home, investments, projects, etc) as savings are often spent on travel itself
  • Getting portrayed/viewed as lazy, not hard-working, and criticized for always being “on vacation”
  • Routinely being thrown into new, unknown environments only to settle and feel comfortable before having to leave again

Final Thoughts

Becoming a digital nomad and creating your own freedom is incredibly rewarding. Like with everything, there are ups and downs to both sides of things.

Try not to idealize what you see on Instagram or social media. The digital nomad lifestyle is epic in tons of ways, yes, but it also presents extra challenges. But if you’re willing to take risks and accept whatever comes your way, then the digital nomad lifestyle just might be for you!

If you’re serious about becoming a digital nomad, don’t hesitate to drop me your questions or thoughts in the comments below!

What do you think of the digital nomad lifestyle? If you want to be a digital nomad, the best course of action is to START TODAY!

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By: Bri · In: Digital Nomad

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Comments

  1. Freya says

    August 25, 2023 at 12:09 pm

    Hi Bri! My mum showed me your blog since i have been feeling like i’m not sure what I want to do with my life until I read this about being a digital nomad! I am 20 years old, I am so inspired by this and have always wanted to make my own money and have flexability. The travalling and seeing the world is such an amazing idea although I am quite a homebody and have always dreamed of having a family so I was wondering if digital nomads can work from home or is travelling apart of the job? I am aware of my skills and I am very determind to start a career like this but would like to know if this is something i can accomplish while having a home and a family. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Bri says

      September 21, 2023 at 1:02 pm

      So sweet! Thank you so much for reaching out 💛 . Feel free to email me or DM on Instagram — comments I’m usually behind on! But yes, you can absolutely WFH / work from home as a nomad. You don’t have to travel full-time… You can just work remotely from anywhere. That’s why I slow travel — to be able to travel and live in wonderful new places but also have time to actually work and have a nicer balance.

      Reply
  2. Dee says

    July 16, 2023 at 9:46 pm

    Dear Bri: Your Blog was the first one I saw in my research to work and travel in Europe for 3 months.
    I am older. 70 and I am planning to do this with a friend before I can’t. Thank you for a detailed guide.
    We are retired RN’s and trying to find the best way to accomplish this dream.
    Do you think it is too late for us?
    Do you think it is safe for us as seniors? I am Black my friend is Jewish. We both have American passports.
    Thanks again.
    P.S. I can see you writing a book one day. God Bless and keep you and Paul safe.

    Reply
    • Bri says

      July 20, 2023 at 11:59 am

      Hello, dear Dee! Thank you so much for reading my blog — I’m excited to hear about your upcoming travels! I absolutely believe it’s never too late!! You and your friend are going to have a wonderful time. I do think it is safe for you as “seniors” and considering your backgrounds. If you have any questions about Europe, let me know! I backpacked around and my partner is from France — can give you some pointers if you’d like. P.S. THANK YOU — it’s one of my life’s goals/dreams to be a published author. 🤍

      Reply
  3. Ariena says

    July 11, 2021 at 2:02 am

    Hi Bri, this is such a cute-looking blog packed with very useful information. Regarding the job options that you put there, I wonder though, places like Fiverr or other freelancing sites do offer freelance jobs but the rate is very low. Have you found any other place to find higher-paying jobs to sustain the nomad life without struggling with the finances? I’m thinking of doing nomad life a few years down the road but I need to prepare the skills for the nomad job that I might take up in the future. Need to make sure that I have the right skills. -Ari-

    Reply
    • Bri says

      July 13, 2021 at 8:42 am

      Hi Ariena! Thank you for reading my blog 💛 The rates on Fiverr and Upwork can be low – but since freelancers set their own rates, you can also make a lot of money this way. For example, I’m a freelance writer and although I started out at around $20/hour, I now make up to $60-100/hour. I freelance about 10 hours a week and it’s enough to sustain my nomad lifestyle (I also have extra income from my blogs). Some people will work far more or far less – just depends on the lifestyle you have and what bills you need to cover. I’d say start here with this question – What kind of nomadic job/skill would you like to have? Then, the best way to get better is through action. If I were you, I’d go ahead and start with that on Upwork/Fiverr and build up your portfolio. You may be surprised at how quickly you gain experience which will allow you to increase your freelance rates. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. Xx

      Reply
  4. Deb says

    January 29, 2021 at 5:17 pm

    Hi, I really love this blog. I am 66 yrs old now but, I should say 66 yes young.
    I have been doing a lot of research on how to be a nomad/vanlifer..on Social Security.
    I’m really wanting to do this. I’m in a little dead end town going nowhere. I don’t want to just sit around here waiting to die and never enjoying my life.
    It will probably be another year or so before I can do this but I’m preparing. Have to pay off my credit cards first. Then purchase a nice van.

    Reply
    • Bri says

      January 29, 2021 at 11:17 pm

      Hi Deb, thanks so much for writing and sharing – I admire you and am happy to hear you’re planning for van life! I would be happy to answer any questions you have. We can’t wait to get back to van life, personally! But for now, our van is stuck in Canada, lol. Hopefully this summer we can get back to it! Good luck with your van search. Best, xx

      Reply
  5. Dom and Jo says

    March 21, 2020 at 9:54 am

    Hey Bri!

    Love how detailed the post is! It’s awesome to see how many countries offer at least 90 days! An awesome way to be able to move around and bounce from place to place! We are planning on going back to Prague in the near future!

    Reply
    • Bri says

      March 22, 2020 at 4:05 pm

      Ah so exciting, I miss Prague! And yes, I hope the visa restrictions get easier over time as well. Thanks for coming by guys 🙂

      Reply
  6. Jen says

    March 21, 2020 at 9:23 am

    This is a really mindful guide to being a digital nomad, some excellent tips and lessons!

    Reply
    • Bri says

      March 22, 2020 at 4:04 pm

      Thanks so much, Jen! xx

      Reply

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I’m Bri, an adventurous digital nomad living abroad full-time since 2015. It is my hope to inspire you to live a life of adventure, seek out meaningful experiences, and travel slowly and mindfully!

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Traveling solo in Nepal has awakened in me a confi Traveling solo in Nepal has awakened in me a confidence & sense of self (at the risk of sounding cliché), of “my essence” and inner Knowing, and where my compassion and passions mingle and thrive. I was reading some of your comments on my recent Reel about solo travel and how I put myself at great risk/in danger. But as I was telling my Tibetan friend, Sonam, tonight (yes, the new one I made last week!), I inform my decisions mostly by 1. Asking myself, “Would this make a good story?” and 2. Listening to my body and emotions. Yes, it’s risky to travel solo, to be a female in a male-dominated culture, to go out after hours with people you just met, etc. But doing that — and all the magic that followed by “allowing” — reminded me exactly of who I am at my core: Curious and open to the world, willing to get uncomfortable for the sake of finding magic and serendipity. Some of you said, “I’m too scared to do this, how do you overcome that fear of personal safety?” And to this I say, I don’t! Fear accompanies me along the journey. Living life is one big risk. It’s uncomfortable to be open, vulnerable, and unsure. But once you accept that and once you begin to let compassion and curiosity guide you rather than your fear, the real magic starts to happen in all areas of life, not just travel. I find these moments most in travel though, when I’m confronted with contrast and am left vulnerable to the world and the kindness of my fellow humans. My Reels are not meant to romanticize or gloss over very real risks/threats in life, but rather to share a real account of what’s possible (adventure, connections, love, etc) when you worry less about societal norms and what’s “safe not safe” “right not right” and allow your over-active fears to take a backseat. 
This is your reminder to trust your inner compass to guide you in writing your epic life story. ✨✨

To sum it up: 

1. Choose a life of adventure 
2. Stay curious
3. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable (otherwise said, seek discomfort)
4. Let love and light flow in and out 
5. Change is the only constant 

#solotravel #nepaltravel #solofemaletraveler #soloadventure #localtravel #trekkingnepal #adventurethatislife
The strength of women 💛 These ladies were lau The strength of women 💛 

These ladies were laughing so sweetly while filling up their water jugs at the Manga Hiti fountain in Patan. I watched them for a while and then plucked up the courage to ask if I could take their photos, which only made them giggle more. 

I've always felt that not being able to communicate in the same language makes for even more interesting encounters. Without words, we have to touch each other's humanity with eyes and gestures, and most of the time it leads to unspoken mutual understanding, acceptance, and love. We three walked away with the biggest smiles on our faces. I yelled out "Dhayabad!" (Thank you!) as they hoisted their jugs up the stairs, laughing all the way. I won't forget this shared moment between us 🙏 

Check stories for the landscape orientation for some of these photos ✨ 

#nepal #nepalnow #nepalphotography #nepaliculture #nepalisbeautiful #natgeoyourshot #patan #kathmanduvalley #lifetimeexperiences #photonepal #nepaltravel
Did you feel it? Nepal’s ancient wisdom, its swi Did you feel it? Nepal’s ancient wisdom, its swirling spirituality, its raw humanity? ✨🇳🇵❤️

#nepal #visitnepal #nepalnow #travelstories #localtravel #mindfultravel #slowtravel #natgeotravel
When you say “yes” as a solo traveler and stay When you say “yes” as a solo traveler and stay open to the randomness of life and the kindness of strangers, really wonderful memories can be made. Thank you Lama family and my new Tibetan friends for such a fun and insightful sequence of experiences 🙏 💛

#solotravel #localtravel #nepaltravel #nepaldiaries #nepali #solofemaletravel #kathmandunepal #thamel #tibetanfood #solotraveldiaries
My first week back in the chaos of Kathmandu, 💛 My first week back in the chaos of Kathmandu, 💛 

Being back after 7 long years away has jolted my body, brain, and spirit. At first, I felt overwhelmed with the recurring thought of, "I don't know what to do with myself." It was only when acceptance knocked on my door, and I finally decided to let it in, that things began to shift and flow.
 
In Nepal, particularly Kathmandu, everything around me swarms like a hive. I have nowhere else to go but inside myself. I've discovered through years of slow traveling (and solo travel) that peace awaits me there -- a sense of independence, power, and knowing that is still, comforting, and safe. And I can tap into it whenever I need to.

Chaos and peace reside in all of us, and Nepal has a cosmic, ancient way of reminding you of just that. 

📍 Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur

#nepaltravel #patan #durbarsquare #nepalphotography #slowtravel #nepal #solotravel #lalitpur
They ask, “Why?” I was 29 when I embarked on They ask, “Why?” 

I was 29 when I embarked on the plane on the 21st, and 30 when I disembarked on the 23rd. How fitting. I spent all of my 20s abroad (except for my two final semesters in undergrad), and moved to Nepal when I was 21. 

What better way to say goodbye to my twenties than by returning to the start? I felt the desperate urge to start my 30s this way—alone on a one-way ticket with no concrete plans. I have both feared and longed to come back all these years. You see, I had made a promise to one of my closest Nepali friends that I’d see her again, but the reality is that I no longer can. 

She, along with another dear friend, passed away from cancer a couple of years back. The thought of returning to my old life here without my friends made me, well, incredibly sad. I had thought that, upon landing in Kathmandu—or taking a bite of my first momo—after so long, I’d find myself bursting into tears of both grief and gratitude. But I didn’t. Instead, I found familiarity in the chaos and chaos in the strangeness. 

Just being here—and the decisions and actions it took to get here—has reminded me of the preciousness of this one very short life. And that, by choosing to celebrate mine—at the exciting turn of a decade no less—by coming back to Nepal on a solo trip that would force me into daring discomfort when I could instead retreat to the comforts of family or my partner, is how I want to live it.

Truth is, a couple of months ago the thought of Nepal felt out of reach. It felt risky, unattainable. But the idea itself pushed open, just a crack at first, a door that had been otherwise closed. I could have more easily ignored my “what if?” daydreams—calling them off as too hard, too uncomfortable, or too far-fetched to actually pursue—and kept it shut.
But sometime in mid-July, I decided to look at flights. And I found one (truly, just one) option that could work. And it just so happened that it would fall on my birthday, or rather bridge my birthday. The idea of getting on a plane at 29 and getting off it at 30—back in Nepal—sold me. I fell in love with the story, the adventure, the unknowingness of it all. 

So, yeah. That’s why. Or as I prefer, “Why not?”
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