Becoming a digital nomad opens up a world of possibilities, but picking the right country for your first adventure can make all the difference. From cost of living and internet reliability to visa policies and community support, there are many factors to think about before booking that one-way ticket.
To give you a well-rounded perspective, we asked 14 thought leaders to share their insights on what to consider when choosing your first destination as a digital nomad. Here's what they had to say.
- Visit Hassle-Free Georgia
- Explore Vibrant Thailand
- Enjoy Easy Living in Cyprus
- Embrace Digital Estonia
- Experience Affordable Montenegro
- Work Remotely From Canggu
- Live by the Sea in Malta
- Discover Iconic Croatia
- Work Remotely in Japan
- Settle in English-Speaking Philippines
- Enjoy the Spanish Lifestyle
- Explore Bali in the United States
- Connect With Other Nomads in Madeira
- Thrive in Affordable Mexico
- Experience Dynamic Brazil
Visit Hassle-Free Georgia
Georgia is among the most underrated places for digital nomads, especially if you want an easy transition. The country allows most nationalities to stay for an entire year without a visa, so you don't have to worry about border runs or renewals. Tbilisi, the capital, is a small but well-connected city where English is commonly spoken, and coworking spaces like Terminal and Impact Hub make it easy to meet other remote workers. The cost of living is low--an apartment in a central area can cost less than a tiny studio in Western Europe.
But what really makes Georgia unique is how hassle-free it is. You can set up a bank account as a foreigner without jumping through hoops, the tax system is remote-worker-friendly, and the internet is fast and reliable. Plus, if you need a break from city life, the Caucasus Mountains offer some of the best hiking spots without the tourist crowds. It's a country where you can get work done, enjoy a slower pace of life, and not feel pressured to move every few months.
Shane McEvoy, MD, Flycast Media
Explore Vibrant Thailand
I've been seriously considering becoming a digital nomad, and Thailand is at the top of my list. As an SEO professional, the idea of working remotely in a place with beautiful scenery, a vibrant culture, and a strong nomad community really excites me. I've heard great things about Chiang Mai, where remote workers come together, and the idea of a digital nomad visa that allows long-term stays without the hassle of constant renewals seems perfect.
The application process looks fairly simple: proof of income from my remote work should be easy to provide. I also know I need health insurance, which I'm making sure to sort out beforehand. Once the visa's approved, I'd have the freedom to focus on my SEO work while enjoying everything Thailand has to offer.
The cost of living is another major draw. It seems like I could live comfortably and still save, which would help me focus on my clients and personal growth. Of course, I'll need to check into tax laws to make sure I'm handling everything properly, but I'm confident it's manageable.
For many SEOs, Thailand seems like the perfect place to work and live. It offers the flexibility alongside the chance to experience a new culture and meet like-minded professionals. It could be the ideal balance of work and adventure.
Peter Wootton, SEO Consultant, The SEO Consultant Agency
Enjoy Easy Living in Cyprus
Hey there. I would actually love to give you an answer to this. I came to Cyprus as a digital nomad and ended up relocating here because it was truly what I needed,
Let's start with first things first. Why is it an attractive location for nomads?
Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa lets you stay up to 3 years. 1 year initially, then you can renew for 2 more years. You only need to show about EUR3,500 monthly income (very doable for remote workers). If you are an EU citizen, it's an even easier process.
This matters because you don't want your first experience to be a bureaucratic nightmare. Cyprus is way less intimidating than places with endless paperwork like Germany or Thailand.
Another great thing is that Cyprus is not overhyped or overruled.
But what I love the most is that Geographically, you're in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and you can easily go anywhere from here.
1h flight to Athens, 1h ferry ride to Lebanon, Italy is 2h away, the Middle East is 3h away, and pretty much anywhere in Europe is 2h-3h away!
Fully English-speaking island!
English is everywhere. Thanks to Cyprus' British colonial history, you'll find signs, documents, menus, even government forms in English. For a first-timer, this removes so much friction.
Best weather ever.
We get about 7-8 months of sun, and the rest of the months are slightly chilly mostly in the night, but during the day you get about 59-68 degrees even in the winter.
Great history.
Layers of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history are built right into the cities. You can visit archaeological sites, cross the UN buffer zone in Nicosia, or even stumble onto an active dig site. You get that deep, authentic sense of place, which is something a lot of nomad hotspots lack when they're just overrun tourist zones.
At the end of the day, what makes Cyprus perfect for first-time nomads is this: It's easy without being boring. It's affordable without making you compromise comfort. It's interesting without being overwhelming. You can actually build a life here, not just pass through, and for your first step into nomad life, that balance is priceless.
Lysakowska Maria Izabela, Global Country Manager, Financer.com
Embrace Digital Estonia
Estonia is my top recommendation for digital nomads just starting out, thanks to its pioneering e-Residency program. This program isn't just about easy travel; it's about integrating into Estonia's advanced digital infrastructure, which allows you to manage a business entirely online. Tallinn, the capital, offers a blend of medieval history and modern conveniences, with ubiquitous high-speed internet, tech-friendly cafes, and community events focused on tech and startups. The locals' proficiency in English and the country's emphasis on digital innovation make it incredibly welcoming for those new to the nomadic lifestyle.
Christopher Pappas, Founder, eLearning Industry Inc
Experience Affordable Montenegro
Montenegro is one of the best places for a first-time digital nomad. The cost of living is affordable, with long-term rent averaging around 300 euros per month. The Internet is fast, reliable, and reasonably priced, making remote work easy. The natural beauty of the country is a huge advantage. Spring and summer bring warm, pleasant weather, while winters can be rainy and cold. Budva and Tivat are ideal for living, though they are a bit more expensive. Podgorica is more affordable but gets extremely hot in the summer and is far from the coast. Authorities don't have strict rules about tourists working remotely, so staying for an extended period is simple. Getting residency is also an option if needed, though it may come with tax obligations. Montenegro is surrounded by Croatia, Albania, Bosnia, and Serbia, making weekend trips easy. The country is safe, and locals are welcoming. English is spoken by some, but Russian is more common, so learning a few basic Montenegrin phrases can be helpful.
James Owen, Co-Founder & Director, Click Intelligence
Work Remotely From Canggu
Canggu is an amazing choice for a first-time digital nomad. Living costs are low, but the quality of life is high. There's reliable WiFi, modern cafés, and coworking spaces everywhere, making it easy to work without frustration. Daily necessities are affordable, and most places are within walking distance, so there's no need to worry about transportation all the time.
The atmosphere is laid-back but still social. There's a huge community of remote workers, making it easy to meet people in the same lifestyle. It never feels isolating, and networking happens naturally in cafés and coworking spots. The mix of locals and expats keeps things interesting, and the overall vibe is welcoming.
For fun, the beach is right there. Surfing is huge, and even if someone is terrible at it, it's still an incredible workout. Beyond that, there are yoga studios, gyms, and plenty of outdoor activities. Everything about Canggu makes it a solid first choice.
Simon Brisk, Founder & SEO Strategist, Click Intelligence
Live by the Sea in Malta
Malta is an exceptional choice for first-time digital nomads, offering a smooth blend of practicality and lifestyle benefits. Its Nomad Residence Permit allows you to live by the Mediterranean Sea while working remotely for up to four years, with visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
Malta boasts nationwide 5G coverage and over 400 free public Wi-Fi spots, ensuring reliable connectivity whether you're working from a café or the beach. The island's vibrant culture, warm climate, and historic sites provide an enriching backdrop to your work-life balance.
Safety is another highlight. Malta ranks among the safest countries globally, including for solo travelers and the LGBTQ+ community.
Aqsa Tabassam, Sales & Marketing Manager, SoPicks
Discover Iconic Croatia
Croatia is quickly gaining traction among digital nomads. It hosts some of the most iconic pop-culture sites, such as the Dubrovnik City Walls and the Pula Arena. Croatia offers a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, allowing you to live and work there as a digital nomad. This was first introduced in 2021 and works more as a temporary residence permit than a visa. All digital nomads who plan to stay in Croatia for more than 3 months require this permit. It is granted for up to one year. The permit costs EUR59.73, and you need to meet the monthly income requirement of EUR2,539.21. The bonus is that you can apply with your family, and during your stay, you won't be charged any income tax.
Sharat Potharaju, Co-founder & CEO, Uniqode
Work Remotely in Japan
Japan is an incredible destination for digital nomads because it blends efficiency, safety, and modern infrastructure with deep cultural richness. The country has some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, a strong cafe and co-working culture, and an extensive transportation network that makes travel between cities seamless. Tokyo and Osaka offer vibrant urban environments with plenty of work-friendly spaces, while Kyoto and Okinawa provide more relaxed atmospheres for those seeking a change of pace. Japan's strong public safety, excellent healthcare, and high standard of living make it easy to settle in, and with a growing number of remote worker-friendly visas, staying long-term is more accessible than ever. The balance of tradition and technology makes Japan a perfect place to work while experiencing something truly unique.
Loris Petro, Marketing Manager, Kratom Earth
Settle in English-Speaking Philippines
If you are just starting as a digital nomad, the Philippines is one of the best countries to go to because of how widely English is spoken. Unlike some other destinations where language barriers can make everyday life a challenge, the Philippines makes it easy for newcomers to settle in and work without struggling to communicate.
English is used in business, education, and daily interactions, so whether you are dealing with immigration, finding accommodation, or ordering food, you will not run into the usual difficulties that come with adjusting to a foreign country. This makes it much easier to focus on work instead of spending time figuring out how to get simple things done. Even in smaller towns, most locals can understand and speak English, which is a huge advantage when trying to navigate a new place.
Beyond that, coworking spaces, cafes, and internet access are widely available in major cities and popular nomad hubs like Cebu and Manila. You can work comfortably while enjoying an affordable cost of living and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Starting your digital nomad journey in a country where communication is seamless allows you to get into a rhythm faster, making the transition much smoother.
Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner, Bright Force Electrical
Enjoy the Spanish Lifestyle
If you are a beginner digital nomad, Spain is one of the best places to start. It has everything you need to settle in easily—fast internet, a welcoming culture, and a cost of living that can be surprisingly affordable depending on the city.
Barcelona and Valencia have strong digital nomad communities, which makes it easy to connect with others. You will find coworking spaces, cafes designed for remote work, and plenty of networking events. The Spanish lifestyle is also a huge advantage. The work-life balance is built into the culture, so you can enjoy long lunches, late dinners, and a slower pace when you need it.
Denise Murray, Marketing Manager, Microdose Mushrooms
Connect With Other Nomads in Madeira
I've tested out several digital nomad destinations, and Madeira stands out as the most accessible for first-timers. The island has several digital nomad villages, including charming fishing towns where remote workers live, collaborate, and socialize. Ponta do Sol even has a dedicated coworking space with 30 extra desktops—completely free to use! Plus, thanks to massive investments in undersea fiber-optic cables, high-speed internet covers the entire island, so the internet is never an issue during your work calls.
What really makes Madeira special, though, is its strong digital nomad community. There's an active Slack workspace with tons of channels where you can find everything from networking events to island trips, sports meetups, inspiring sessions by other nomads, and casual get-togethers. Whether you're looking to make friends, grow professionally, or just explore, you're never alone in Madeira. It's the perfect mix of work, adventure, and connection—exactly what a first-time nomad needs.
Beau V., Marketing Manager, BijlesHuis
Thrive in Affordable Mexico
I'd say Mexico is the ultimate first stop for a digital nomad. It's got everything like low cost of living, fast internet, and an easy visa process with the Temporary Resident Visa that lets you stay for years without hassle.
Cities like Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Merida have top-tier co-working spaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and thriving ex-pat communities, making it easy to network and settle in.
The U.S. time zone alignment means no awkward work hours, and the food, culture, and beach or city lifestyle options are unbeatable. Mexico isn't just budget-friendly; it's a place where you can thrive, work efficiently, and still enjoy life.
Johell Aponte, Founder, Move On House Buyers - We Buy Dirty Houses
Experience Dynamic Brazil
Brazil is an incredible choice for first-time digital nomads. The country offers a mix of vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and a culture that thrives on energy and connection. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo have strong digital infrastructure, plenty of coworking spaces, and communities of remote workers who can offer support and networking opportunities.
The cost of living is reasonable, especially compared to many Western countries, which makes it easier to settle in without worrying too much about expenses. Accommodation, food, and transportation are affordable, while still providing a high quality of life. Brazil's diverse climate means you can choose between tropical beaches, lively urban centers, or even cooler mountain regions, depending on your preference.
Beyond work, there is no shortage of things to experience. Whether it is relaxing on Copacabana Beach, exploring the Amazon, or dancing at a samba club, there is always something to do. Locals are welcoming, and the food scene is full of exciting flavors. With a strong social culture, it is easy to meet new people and build connections. For a digital nomad looking for adventure, affordability, and a dynamic work-life balance, Brazil is a perfect starting point.
Linzi Oliver, Commercial Marketing Manager, HorseClicks
Choosing Your First Digital Nomad Destination: The Final Word
Starting your journey as a digital nomad is an exciting step, and picking the right destination can shape your experience in a big way. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of Southeast Asia, the digital infrastructure of Europe, or the vibrant culture of Latin America, the best country for you will depend on your lifestyle, work needs, and personal preferences.
Each destination on this list offers something unique—some make it easy to stay long-term with relaxed visa policies, while others provide strong nomad communities that make it easier to settle in and build connections. No matter where you choose, the key is to find a place that aligns with your goals, supports your work-life balance, and allows you to grow both professionally and personally.
The digital nomad lifestyle is all about flexibility and discovery. Your first country doesn’t have to be your last, so embrace the adventure, learn from the experience, and enjoy the freedom of working from anywhere.
