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I Have Visited Every Country In Europe And This Was My Favorite Digital Nomad Destination

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As a digital nomad based in Europe, I have traveled extensively around the continent, working remotely from every country you can possibly name across the pond, from the tourist hotspots of France and Italy to the lesser-known Baltic states and the multicultural Balkan Peninsula.

Nope, I haven’t skipped the millionaire-owned micro-state of Monaco, war-raging Russia and its neighbors, nor newly-born Kosovo, one of the poorest states in Europe.

With over 40 European countries under my belt, I was bound to have a personal favorite by now.

The Port Of Saranda In South Albania, South Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

That one special place that keeps pulling me back, where I could actually see myself staying longer than the usual three months or even putting down roots at some point down the line, and that somehow feels like my home away from home.

When I set out to visit every European country as a digital nomad, never would I have expected an unheard-of, post-communist state most tourists mistakenly believe to be dangerous, and even not worth seeing, to rank at the top of the list by the end of the five-year journey, yet here we are.

It’s beautiful Albania that stole my heart, and this is why I believe it is the strongest contender for European Digital Nomad Capital:

The Landmark Castle In Kruja, Albania, South Eastern Europe

Why Albania Of All Places?

Unless you’ve been country-hopping around Europe as a tourist for a while, having had to come up with ingenious ways to extend your stay beyond the restrictive 90-day Schengen rule, it is unlikely you have passed through Albania, much less heard of it.

We’re here to remedy that together, but first, where even is Albania?

Geography isn’t everyone’s forte, so I won’t dawdle and waste your time going into the specifics of it: all you have to know it is located across the Adratic sea from Italy, and just north of Greece.

Old Mes Bridge In Albania, South Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

We know what you’re thinking: if it borders these two popular vacation spots, could Albania be yet another off-path Mediterranean destination waiting on the sidelines to be discovered?

The short answer is a resounding Yes!, and the shocking part is it’s been deliberately concealed for decades.

What we mean by that is it was actually kept hidden, so we wouldn’t blame you for not having the foggiest idea about Albania beforehand: as customary in Eastern Europe in the 20th century, the country was ruled by an iron-fisted communist regime.

Why Haven’t You Heard Of Albania Before?

Modernist Architecture And Modern Park In Tirana, The Capital City Of Albania, South Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

Albania’s dictatorship was among the harshest in Europe, with very few people being allowed to leave the territory, and likewise, only a select number of visitors were allowed to enter well into the 90s, meaning this wing of the Mediterranean was virtually off-limits only three decades ago.

In case you’ve been wondering, Albania is now an open, progressive state, having adopted democratic principles since the collapse of communism and being on a firm path to aligning with the Western World: it joined NATO in 2009, and it has applied to become a member of the European Union.

Dhermi, Albania in the sunset

The latter aspiration has not been as successful yet, but we’ll get into that soon enough – the question is, why has this unsung, troubled nation surpassed every other Southern European competitor to become my safe haven as a digital nomad?

I don’t know about you, but like any self-proclaimed Europhile, this continent’s immense cultural wealth was a decisive factor in my decision to stay a whole five years so far, and my dear fellow nomads, sure Albania has a lot going for it on the culture front:

Hospitality Is At The Heart Of Albanian Culture

Friendly Looking Old Albanian Gentlemen Playing A Card Game On The Street, Unspecified Location In Albania, Eastern Europe

Albania is a one-of-a-kind-country, in the sense that its language (Albanian) is not closely-related to any other languages on the periphery, like Serbo-Croatian or Bulgarian share similitaries, and its culture is markedly different from the Slavic-dominated Southeastern Europe.

Family is extremely important, and it’s not uncommon to find nuclei of relatives living together in the same neighborhood, or even the same street, and to them, hospitality is not only a long-standing tradition, but a national value.

In the words of renowned Albanian novelist Ismail Kadare, who couldn’t have phrased it better:

Women Passing Over Albanian Food During A Banquet, Albania, South Eastern Europe

‘Of God and the guest, you see. So, before it is the house of its master, it is the house of one’s guest. The guest, in an Albanian’s life, represents the supreme ethical category, more important than blood relations. One may pardon the man who spills the blood of one’s father or of one’s son, but never the blood of a guest.’

There were certainly occasions where Airbnb hosts would invite me to partake in rounds of raki tasting shortly after we’ve made acquaintances, and hospitable locals would invite me back to theirs to share high-spirited conversations and a hot meal.

Kosovar Albanian Girl Smiling At The Camera As She Wears Traditional Albanian Attire, Pristina, Kosovo

As a digital nomad traveling solo, actively seeking to distance himself from other expats to fully immerse in the local way of life, it was definitely not a challenge to befriend Albanians, even if the older generations are more proficient in Italian than they are in English.

If anything, my rusty Italian and poor attempts at mouthing basic words in Albanian would get me humorous smiles in response, friendly pats on the shoulder, and more raki invitations: I’m not sure previous writers have coined this already, but Albanians are the Latin Americans of Europe.

The Whole Of Albania Should Be A UNESCO Heritage Site

Ottoman Era City Of Berat, Albania

We know you’re here for some of that Old World flair, the cobbled towns with origins lost to time, and fairytale castles Disney has tried their best to emulate in kitsch theme parks, and you’ll be glad to know Albania has its fair share of manmade wonders.

From the Accursed Mountains in the north, home to the ethnic village of Theth, best known for its rustic cottages and solitary church, to the medieval citadel in Kruje, south towards a UNESCO-listed, Ottoman-built Berat, and the Stone City of Gjirokaster, this country’s beauty is truly boundless.

Clock Tower In The Inner Citadel Of Gjirokaster Castle Set Against The Backdrop Of Green Mountains, In The Old Town Of Gjirokaster, Albania, South Eastern Europe

The 296-mile long Mediterranean coast is littered with historic port cities as well, including Durres, where a 5th-century castle still stands, the charming Vlore, with its Italian-inspired, pastel Old Town, and the hilltop, whitewashed village of Dhermi, overlooking the turquoise sea.

If you’re looking forward to wearing your Indy Jones hat again, Butrint is a vast archaeological zone dating back to the 10th century BC, encompassing flooded Byzantine palaces, partially-preserved colonnaded agoras, and a landmark Greek theater.

Greek Amphitheatre In Butrint, Albania

The point is, Albania may not be as popular as some of its closest neighbors, for the reasons already outlined above, but it certainly does not suffer from a shortage of heritage sites. In fact, it’s almost as if it’s taken a page from the book of every other Mediterranean hub in the vicinity:

A Potpourri Of Everything That’s Great About Europe

With Its Own Little Albanian Twist

Some of its settlements are as ancient as Italy’s, it is just as warm as Greece, the pebbly beaches as pristine as Croatia’s, the local cuisine rivals Spain’s, and it is as topographically diverse as France, with a territory that comprises both towering alpine peaks and a subtropical coast.

Old Catholic Church In The Historic Village Of Theth, Albanian Alps, Accursed Mountains Of Albania, South Eastern Europe

I’m not averse to harsh winters myself, and I’m a firm believer that, in order to truly appreciate the balmy days of summer, you need to experience the changing of the seasons, but if you can live without the occasional snow, coastal Albania will not disappoint.

Temperatures can plummet to negative levels in northern Albania, but much of the coast remains perfectly sunny and a pleasant 64°F. Having visited in February myself, I was surprised to find that the additional wool coats and puffer jackets I packed ‘in case’ were not at all necessary.

Aerial View Of Ksamil Beaches In Albania, South Eastern Europe

If you’re hell-bent on escaping the cold, the laid-back coastal village of Ksamil, a stone’s throw away from the lively harbor city of Saranda, is your best bet at year-round springtime weather, with lemon trees, soft white-sand beaches and teal-colored waters making up the scenery.

Don’t Come To Albania On A Strict Diet

Albania may be isolated in terms of language and culture, but the food served in Albanian homes and restaurants is typically Mediterranean and Eurasian in character, having been heavily influenced by Italy, Slavic gastronomic practices, and even Turkish cuisine.

Albanian Food Set On The Table At A Restaurant In Albania, Eastern Europe

Its cheese and spinach-filled, flaky-dough byrek pastry is a variation of the Turkish burek, the cold cucumber soup takes direct inspiration from Bulgaria’s tarator, and I could certainly draw parallels between Gjirokaster’s qifqi rice balls and the more mainstream Italian arancini.

That being said, there are a number of native delicacies only Albania can lay claim to, with my personal favorites being the deep-fried petulla fritter, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, typically served with butter and jam, and tavë kosi, lamb baked in yogurt.

Lamb Yoghurt Tave Kosi, A Traditional Dish In Albania, South Eastern Europe

Given Albania’s ample selection of dairy and hearty meat-based dishes, not to mention the fresh seafood and fruit growing in abundance in the verdant hinterland, rest assured you’ll never go hungry here, whether you’re staying in a small qytet on the shores of the Adriatic, or the sprawling capital city of Tirana.

How Nomad-Friendly Is Albania?

How about digital nomad infrastructure, a.k.a. long-term rentals, availability of coworking cafes, foreigner-friendly services, and so on?

I’ll be honest with you: outside major urban centers, life as a remote worker can be challenging (at times).

A Young Handsome Man Working With His Laptop From A Cafe In France, Digital Nomad In Europe

That is particularly true in the off-season, when restaurants and guesthouses on the coast typically close down, and getting around without a car is an adventure you don’t want to embark on.

Albania is nothing short of stunning, but it’s years behind in development compared to the average European country.

For that reason, I would recommend you spend most of your time in a large city like Tirana, where there’s enough of a social scene and nighttime services to keep you entertained, as well as bus connections to the resort zones on the Adriatic coast, unless a quaint village life resonates with you.

Tirana Beyond The Grey Clusters Of Communist Apartment Blocks
Skanderberg Square In Tirana, Capital City Of Albania, Western Balkans, South Eastern Europe

Tirana may not be the prettiest of capitals – much of the old city has been razed to the ground in favor of a modernist makeover – but you can’t deny it is intriguing, with communist-era bunker museums, artifical lakes and eccentric high-rises dominating the skyline.

If you’re a regular cafe-goer, you should probably know Albania is a global leader in the number of cafes, with around 654 such establishments per 100,000 inhabitants.

There are no Starbucks, but there are plenty of local-owned and Mulliri Vjeter coffeehouses around.

Smiling Female Digital Nomad, Remote Worker Working From Her Computer In An Alfresco Cafe As She Ships On Some Tea Or Coffee, Unspecified Location

Mulliri Vjeter is the oldest coffee chain in Albania, and stores are typically rustic in character, offering visiting nomads free WiFi and a cozy nook to work from. Central Tirana is loaded with those, and not a day goes by that I don’t miss their signature Capuccino Chocomel.

It’s truly no wonder Tirana has proudly taken up the mantle of Europe’s center for digital nomadism, hosting a Digital Nomad Conference since 2022 and with an expat community that continues to grow year after year.

The Top 5 Best Digital Nomad Destinations In Albania

Modern Pedestrianised Street In Tirana, Capital City Of Albania, Eastern Europe

The way I see it, the top five best destinations for digital nomads in Albania are:

  • Tirana: the exciting capital city, packed with quirky cafes, oozing urban art, and full of verdant parks for temporarily escaping the city crowds and crazy traffic
  • Shkoder: the cultural heart of Northern Albania, famous for its revitalized, restaurant-lined Old Town and an imposing 2,400-year-old Rozafa Castle
  • Durres: the busiest port, offering ferry connections to Italy and distinguished by its ruined, recently-unearthed Roman amphitheater and Venetian Tower
  • Saranda: the largest city in the Albanian Riviera, bounded by the teal-colored waters of the Adriatic and within short driving distance of the up-and-coming leisure zone of Ksamil
  • Elbasan: the fourth-largest city in Albania, and one of its food meccas, where I tried the best jani me fasule on the trip (make sure you add Taverna Kala to your list of restaurants)

Albania Is The Cheapest Country I’ve Been In Europe

Albanian banknotes

It only took me a couple of days of being in Albania to understand, at least in part, why nomads like me are finding an unlikely home in this overlooked Adriatic gem: prices are the cheapest I’ve seen anywhere in Europe.

On average, Albania is 40.6% less expensive than Western Europe, with meals in inexpensive restaurants costing an acceptable $10.43, based on data gathered by Numbeo, and monthly expenses for a single person capping at roughly $700, excluding rent.

A young woman looking at the historic city of Berat in Albania, UNESCO

Even though accommodation costs aren’t included in this estimate, rent can be up to 69% cheaper than Paris or London, two overpriced cities that will wipe your wallet clean if you’re not careful enough. Luckily, living costs are nowhere near as exorbitant in Albania.

A quick Airbnb search led me to find seafront condos in Vlore for only $617 per month this April, whole apartments with dedicated workspaces in Saranda for a negligible $343, while in Tirana, there are private, centrally-situated flats for as cheap as $520 monthly.

It Is Incredibly Safe For Foreigners

Young Female Waving An Albanian Flag In Downtown Tirana, Albania

Not only is Albania remarkably cheap to live in, it is just as safe as fellow Southern European states Italy and Spain.

That’s not my own judgment, but the U.S. State Department’s, which officially considers Albania a low-risk destination, as seen here.

Having spent most of my time between Tirana, Shkoder and Durres, never once did I feel unsafe walking the streets during the day, or get ‘jumpy’ in crowded areas, as much as I normally do in busier areas of Barcelona, or sketchy zones of South Dublin.

Aerial View Of A Beach In Durres, Central Albania, A Port On The Mediterranean Sea, South Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

While I wouldn’t take my chances going for a late evening stroll in Tirana – Albanian cities are not particularly well-lit at night – crime levels are under acceptable levels, and visitors are rarely, if ever, affected by violence.

Your main concern here is pickpocketing, though I never felt the need to hide my phone when out in public, and judging by the amount of jewelry Albanian women wear and the fancy sportscars the men drive, nobody’s visibly worried about petty theft, either.

Ksamil In Albania, On The Ionian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, South Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

Naturally, general safety advice applies, but odds are you’ll be fine. Once I was lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of crashing waves at a busy Ksamil beach, with my laptop bag by my side, and I startlingly woke up to find it still untouched where I left it.

I’m not sure this fortunate outcome was an exception to the rule, or whether Albania is really so safe your personal unattended items will be probably left alone, but it doesn’t change the fact I’ve never felt on edge, nor remotely suspicious of the people around me.

Believe it or not, I’ve saved the best for last:

Are You A U.S. Passport Holder?

You Can Stay An Entire Year In Albania
Traveler Holding USA Passport At Airport

Every digital nomad based in Europe has a love-and-hate relationship with Schengen.

In case you’re not familiar with the term, it corresponds to a 27-country-strong, passport-free zone where customary cross-border checks typically do not apply.

All of Europe’s top destinations are signatories to Schengen. I’m talking France, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Spain, and the list goes on: flying, taking trains, or boarding ferries between any of the Schengen states, you will not be subject to passport control.

A Border Officer Stamping A Visa Page On An Unspecified Passport, International Travel

The only downside to Schengen? You can only be present in the Schengen territories for 90 days out of any 180-day period. In other words, if you’ve used up your 90 days in Spain, another Schengen country can’t be your next destination for another three months.

In Albania’s case, the strict Schengen policy does not apply, as it is not a member of the European Union (EU), and it is not bound to join the borderless area anytime soon in the future.

Foreign nationals get a whole 90 day-stay in Albania, irrespective of time spent elsewhere in Europe.

Gjipe beach with white sand, tourist tents and umbrellas, the turquoise Ionian sea hidden between mountains in canyon on a sunny day in Albania.

If you’re an American citizen, however, you’re issued a whole year-long tourist visa upon arrival, on the basis of being a U.S. passport holder alone, making Albania the perfect long-term destination, if you’re not merely looking for a grey zone to wait for your Schengen clock to reset.

Despite being outside the EU, Albania remains at the heart of Europe, sharing land borders with four other countries, and boasting low-cost flight connections to the entire continent, with fares starting from $19 on Ryanair.

What Are Some Of The Main Downsides About Life As A Nomad In Albania?

View of Tirana Albania

What are some of the negative aspects about life in Albania as a digital nomad, you may ask?

I have already touched on some of those throughout this article, but I would say some of the main ones include:

  • The lack of public transport (good luck getting from point A to B if you’re not renting a car and you have reservations about hitchhiking)
  • With the exception of the main motorways linking Tirana to the coastal ports and resort towns, the regional road network can be quite precarious, with lots of potholes and missing road signs (if you’re driving, I would advise against hitting the gas, especially after sundown when visibility is lower)
  • Reception can be poor in remote areas, particularly up in the mountains, so make sure you save your drafts working from your computer during that bumpy ride up the Accursed range, or you might have to write that 1,500-word article from scratch again (not that it’s happened to me…)
  • This is no spotless, idyllic, First-World European country: basically, as much as you try to turn a blind eye, you can’t easily ignore the poverty-stricken areas
Young Man Working From The Computer
  • Nomad-friendly facilities, like work-friendly cafes and coworking offices may be harder to come across outside cities like Tirana, Shkoder and Durres (I would add Berat and Gjirokaster, but compared to the capital city, they are not even close to being considered well-equipped)
  • Social attitudes in Albania are pretty carefree, considering this is one of Europe’s handful of Muslim-majority countries, but I wouldn’t encourage you to show affection with your same-sex partner in public if you don’t want to get grumpy Albanian nonos to curse you lowly, or more rarely, an unfriendly shoulder bump
  • If you’re flying, your only way into and out of Albania is via Tirana: mind-boggling as it may be, there are no airports yet on the Adriatic Coast, and the country’s only other operational international airport is located in Kukës, near the Kosovo border (with a single seasonal flight route to Basel in Switzerland)*
*The easiest way to get to Southern Albania is actually flying first to the Greek island of Corfu, which lies just offshore, and then take a ferry to Saranda. The journey takes just over half an hour on average.

Needless to say, the good far outweighs the bad, and I can’t wait to be back in Albania myself this summer. I’m now based in Paris, and there’s no way I’m sticking around to see how utterly anarchic this city will get once the Olympics – or should I say Hunger Games? – commence.

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Why Tourists Are Swapping Cancun For This Less Crowded, More Authentic Island Getaway

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Love it or hate it, Cancun is the most popular destination for Americans going abroad this winter: for some, it just can’t be beat on the hospitality front, what with the numerous luxury resorts, bustling shopping scene, and of course, beautiful beachfront.

That being said, a growing number of visitors seem to have had enough of Cancun–or, to be more specific, its surging crowds–and are now banking on this paradisiacal island lying just off the Yucatanese coast.

It has unspoiled beaches running along crystal-clear oceans for several long miles, it feels far more peaceful and offbeat, and it offers something Cancun can’t: ancient culture.

Aerial View Of Cozumel, Mexico

Welcome To Cozumel

The largest island off the coast of Mexico, Cozumel is experiencing a well-deserved tourism revival at the minute, as vacationers swap the jam-packed Riviera Maya for less-busy alternatives––and it doesn’t get more laid-back than an island getaway.

According to a new report by Expedia, it is particularly popular among young travelers right now, who do not have children, are flying to Mexico primarily for relaxation and some much-needed quality time in the sun, and no longer feel Cancun’s mega resorts meet their needs.

Tourists Dining Alfresco In Cozumel, Mexico

All you got to do is look at the figures for both: while Cancun is home to a whopping 189 properties, as listed on Booking.com, Cozumel has 45; Cancun is a coastal metropolis over 800,000 people call home, whereas the entire population of Cozumel is 88,626.

Last but not least, Cancun hosts over 10 million international guests yearly, so it never feels exactly idyllic, even when you’re lounging by a private beach––Cozumel, on the other hand, receives an average 2 million visitors per year.

Cozumel Is Perfect For Beating The Riviera Crowds

Peaceful Beach In Cozumel, Mexico

Expedia’s report is particularly timely, seeing Cancun is gearing up for another record-breaking season, with occupation within the Hotel Zone already 90%, and it’s not even December: great news for the local tourism industry… not-so-great news for crowd-wary vacationers.

Lucky for them, Cozumel offers a plethora of unspoiled playas and tourist attractions that are not as crowded:

Think Playa Palancar, with its vibrant-colored reefs and soft, white sands, the snorkeling hotspot that is Playa Corona, or the well-frequented Paradise Beach, a beach club playing uptempo beats and serving food and drinks all day.

tropical beach in Cozumel, Mexico

For families, Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is the place to go, offering a wide range of amenities, including oceanfront pools, restaurants and water slides for the kids, and if you’re a nature enthusiast, Chankanaab National Park has verdant areas, jungle trails, and secluded beaches.

Costing $29 to enter, it is one of the largest protected reserves in the Mexican Caribbean, and it’s also a popular port of call for cruise ships, so if you want to experience it in all its glory, without the day-trippers, we suggest going early or later in the day.

Cozumel Has The Culture Cancun Doesn’t

San Gervasio Ruins In Cozumel, Mexico

Another advantage Cozumel has over Cancun is it wasn’t built in the 70s to accommodate American tourists:

It’s an island that’s been inhabited for thousands of years, and it has the cultural wealth to back it up, with Mayan ruins scattered around its 184.5 square miles, some as old as 800 AD, like El Cedral, a group of Mayan dwellings lying in ruins near the namesake town.

Cozumel’s most relevant historical site is San Gervasio, an ensemble of monuments and temples attributed to a cult to Mayan jaguar goddess Ixchel––some of the main structures include Las Manitas, where local leader Lord Itzá de Cozumel lived, Casa Alta and the Central Plaza.

Mayan Ruins In Cozumel, Mexico

Even in Chankanaab there are Mayan landmarks, or should we say, replicas of them: if you’re visiting the park, make sure you stop by its collection of reconstructed Mayan temples, the famous reclining Chacmool statue, and the colossal Olmec heads.

Looking For Unique Experiences?

Expedia has noted there is an increasing preference for more unique experiences among visitors to the Mexican Caribbean.

In other words, lying by the poolside all day sipping mimosas no longer satisfies their wanderlust, and they’re craving more… well, it’s not like Cozumel is lacking in cultural attractions, with its historic sites, authentic villages and thrilling tours:

white sanded beach in cozumel

Tourists can, for instance, opt to visit San Gervasio with a jeep tour, passing by unforgettable landscapes and undeveloped jungle on their way to the abandoned Mayan settlement, for $95.34 per person on GetYourGuide.

Small-group buggy tours starting at $143 are also offered in Punta Sur, where some of the most pristine beaches on the island are found, and if you’re a water baby, you’ll love this guided excursion of Cozumel’s Mayan treasures, topped with free time in the exclusive Playa Uvas.

Cozumel is one of the top trendiest destinations for the upcoming year-–again, according to Expedia––and it’s not hard to see why.

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These 3 Surprising Cities Have Just Ranked Best For Digital Nomads In 2025

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With gentrification having ruined a number of tried-and-true workcation spots worldwide, from a no-longer-peaceful Tulum, all the way over to Tbilisi, in Georgia, where rental prices have shot through the roof since it got ‘discoverd’, I get it if you feel as if you’re running out of options.

Us digital nomads are always looking for the cheaper alternatives, preferably those yet to be ruined by mass tourism––or should we say, mass nomadism in this case––and based on a new report published by Search Logistics, we might just have found them.

The digital marketing agency has listed 3 surprising cities as the best destinations for digital nomads in 2025, and having lived experience in all of them myself, I’m inclined to agree:

Aerial View Of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The third-best ranked is Rio de Janeiro (or just Rio), in Brazil: this vibrant coastal metropolis backed by verdant mountains and straddling an azure ocean scores 62.35 out of 100, and it’s the closest Brazil gets to a digital nomad paradise.

I mean, between the postcard-ready beaches––think a world-famous Ipanema or a glityz Copacabana––and the eclectic cultural scene, with colonial buildings and samba bars galore, it’s easy to see how Rio would be stealing the hearts of my fellow long-term travelers.

Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

I particularly love it for its laid-back atmosphere (Praia do Leme and some fresh coconut is all the relaxation you need after a long office day), and plethora of laptop-friendly brunch spots, though my absolute favorite is American-run Gringo Cafe in Ipanema.

As beautiful as Rio may be, however, I’d encourage you to proceed with caution: definitely do not flash valuables in public (this includes your phone), beware of pickpockets, and if you’re going to a favela event or gathering––foreigners love those, for some reason––do not go unaccompanied.

Average cost of living in Rio de Janeiro according to Numbeo
  • Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $5.77
  • A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $34.44
  • Monthly cost of transportation: $49.08
  • One-bedroom apartment in downtown Rio: $419.58
  • Estimated monthly expenses: $996

Bucharest, Romania

Panoramic View Of Bucharest, Romania

Taking up the runner-up slot is Bucharest, with a score of 65.62, the fascinating capital of Romania, and an Eastern European gem I called home for just over a month many winters ago, and I am glad it is finally getting the praise it deserves:

Bucharest has incredibly-diverse architecture, with elements of Belle époque and Soviet-style Brutalism, and it’s a hugely-underrated cultural hub playing host to world-class art galleries––if you’re a museum geek like me, I would strongly suggest you pay the National Museum of Art a visit.

Vintage Tramway In Bucharest, Romania, Eastern Europe

I won’t lie to you, the endless clusters of communist-era apartment blocks away from the Paris-coded city center may feel oppressive at times, especially if you’ve grown up as a Western kid, but the good thing about Bucharest is, there’s always a tranquil park to escape to.

Herastrau in spring puts New York’s Central Park to shame, and a peaceful Parcul Tineretului in Sector IV is great for beating the downtown crowds, and the nearby Erbario Coffee is a cozy eatery serving brunch and specialty coffee at local prices.

Average cost of living in Bucharest according to Numbeo
  • Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $11.66
  • A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $52.98
  • Monthly cost of transportation: $16.95
  • One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $596.14
  • Estimated monthly expenses: $1,304

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok Skyline At Night, Thailand, Southeast Asia

Taking the lead on a score of 69.98 out of 100, the temple-dotted urban sprawl that is Bangkok, Thailand is officially the best destination for digital nomads next year according to Search Logistics, and in all fairness, I second that:

Not only is this supported by Nomads, which lists Bangkok as the most popular city in the community right now, Bangkok is essentially a Mecca for remote workers thanks to its extensive list of coworking spaces, unmatched social scene, and dirt cheap prices.

Young Woman Admiring The View Of A Historic Temple In Bangkok, Thailand, Southeast Asia

You can get dinner for $3, pamper yourself with a foot massage for around $8, and spend as little as $154 in a week––well, you could probably get the same, if not cheaper, in places like Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand, or Hanoi, in Vietnam, but you get my point.

Last but not least, Bangkok is just unabashed, riotous fun from Monday to Monday, with gay-friendly Silom Soi 4 catering to a libertarian crowd, and a busy Sukhumvit Soi 11 offering a big selection of cocktail bars and laid-back rooftop venues.

Average cost of living in Bangkok according to Numbeo
  • Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $2.85
  • A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $28.52
  • Monthly cost of transportation: $37.07
  • One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $555.16
  • Estimated monthly expenses: $1,197

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Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Due To Monkeypox

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As monkeypox spreads globally, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Canadians traveling overseas. The new Level 2 travel advisory suggests Canadians should practice enhanced health precautions following the emergence of monkeypox. 

The Canadian government released the travel advisory on June 7, 2022. 

The Full Details Of The Level 2 Travel Advisory 

According to the Canadian government, a Level 2 travel health notice “indicates an increased risk to travellers or certain groups of travellers (for example, pregnant women, campers, people visiting friends and relatives) and reminds them to practise enhanced health precautions.”

Canadian flag and Parliament buildings in Ottawa in the background

The Canadian government suggests all Canadians should follow these precautions:

  • Use personal protective equipment—such as masks—to minimize the spread of monkeypox
  • Delaying all travel until the risk is lower
  • Avoiding higher-risk activities 
  • Taking recommended vaccinations for some groups 
  • Washing hands at all times, especially after being in close contact with some people
  • Being careful if you’re attending mass gatherings or parties 
  • Being aware of any symptoms, such as a new rash 

The Canadian government has issued the advisory if you’re traveling to these destinations:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bolivia
  • The Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Morocco
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • The United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
Toronto City Skyline, Ontario, Canada

The Canadian government says: “During your travel, you may be subject to procedures at your destination put in place to limit the spread of monkeypox, such as isolation, should you become infected. You may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill, and may experience delays in returning home.”

“PHAC is working closely with international, provincial, and territorial health partners to gather information on this evolving issue. Further investigations are underway to determine the likely source of infection and to limit further onward spread.”

The Canadian government says you should see a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms when you’re traveling. In addition, if you have monkeypox symptoms during the flight: “tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country.”

What Is Monkeypox?

The Canadian government states: “Monkeypox is a disease that is caused by a virus. It is regularly found in parts of Central and West Africa, where it has been re-emerging in recent years”

They suggest monkeypox can spread in three ways:

  • From animals to humans
  • From person to person
  • Through direct contact with contaminated objects
Young Female Traveler Looking Concerned At The Airport While Wearing A Surgical Face Mask And Holding A Red European Passport, Covid 19 Pandemic

In addition, monkeypox can spread from person to person via close contact in the following ways:

  • Scabs or skin lesions (which may resemble chickenpox)
  • Body fluids or blood 
  • Mucosal surfaces (including eyes, mouth, throat, and rectum.)
  • Contaminated clothing or linens
  • Respiratory droplets (coughs and sneezes) may transmit the monkeypox virus, but scientists are still learning.

However, the Canadian government suggests that: “symptoms usually last between 14 and 28 days. Monkeypox is usually a mild, self-limited disease. In rare situations, people may become very sick and death may occur.”

They add: “Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive. Vaccines and medications for prevention and treatment are not commercially available at this time.”

Have Other Countries Issued Travel Advisories? 

The Canadian government isn’t the first nation to introduce a travel advisory for monkeypox. The United States issued a travel advisory due to monkeypox almost two weeks ago.

The CDC advises Americans to avoid:

  • Close contact with sick people, particularly those with skin or genital lesions.
  • Touching any dead or live wild animals, such as rats, squirrels, monkeys, and apes.
  • Handling all materials used by monkeypox-infected individuals as they could be contaminated.

We will keep you updated on how monkeypox may affect travelers going forward. 

Read More:

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Italy Planning To Launch A Digital Nomad Visa

Riu To Open Two New All Inclusive Resorts In Cancun This Year

Your Phone Could Be Searched When Entering Canada With New Proposed Law

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Colombia’s Undiscovered City: Swap Medellin’s Chaos For Timeless Streets & Authentic Culture

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At this point, everyone already knows about Medellin. It’s been taken over by digital nomads and is popular among solo travelers too.

With that comes a lot of chaos that you don’t necessarily have to deal with to check Colombia off your list.

People walking through Popoyan, Colombia

Is Medellin old news? No, not necessarily.

But don’t sleep on Colombia’s hidden gems.

While you may want to avoid visiting Bogota for more than a layover, and Medellin has its own set of issues we reported on earlier this year, there’s so much more to explore in this fascinating country.

Whether it’s beaches, ancient sites, or the timeless streets of Popayan, Colombia’s undiscovered city, it’s time to swap the chaos of Medellin for a more authentic experience amongst some of the country’s most picturesque surroundings.

Colombia’s Little Known Slice Of Spain

White buildings of Popyan, including church

I get it. Saying there’s a ‘slice of Spain’ in the middle of Colombia might seem a bit dramatic, but what else do blocks and blocks of captivating whitewashed buildings remind you of?

Santorini perhaps? Now that would be a stretch!

With no blue trim and endless gleaming white structures, Spain is the best comparison since there’s no other place like this in the nation.

Plus, centuries ago, for better or worse, Popayan was on the Spanish conquistador’s trading route through South America, and the preservation of their lasting marks is incredible to visit.

Church of San Francisco in Popayan

How such a beautiful city has flown under the radar for so long is baffling, but it’s probably because Colombia has so many other popular destinations.

Popayan also has no international airport (which only serves a few domestic flights), so getting here is more of a trek than getting to Medellin, Cartegena, or Cali.

Speaking of, Cali is the most convenient gateway into Popayan by bus unless you connect by flight through Bogota via Avianca or Clic.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by stunning colonial architecture, historic cobbled streets, and virtually no tourists – but don’t worry; it’s safe here!

Safe And Insanely Budget-Friendly

Whitewashed buildings in Popayan

Colombia’s white city, as it’s known, ticks all the boxes many travelers seek when venturing to this side of the world.

First, unlike Medellin, where it’s almost guaranteed you’ll have some sort of unfortunate run-in the longer you stay, Popayan is widely regarded as safe.

The only issue you’ll want to be aware of is that you may stand out like a sore thumb, being one of few tourists in the entire city of nearly 320,000 residents.

Furthermore, you can stay for cheap in one of the numerous beaming white buildings, whether a boutique hotel, hostel, or rental.

Elderly locals of Popayan, Colombia

For example, you can stay at Hotel Dann Monasterio, a former 1500s monastery turned ritzy hotel for only $41 on Priceline.

Airbnbs on the other hand offer similar rates and more space than a traditional hotel room, so you have plentiful options at hand.

Monthly stays are even better, so those Medellin digital nomads tired of keeping their head on a swivel could definitely opt for Popayan for super cheap – think nice apartments for $300 – $450 per month.

Where do I sign up?

Calling All Foodies! UNESCO’S First ‘City of Gastronomy’

Restaurant in Colombia

Oftentimes, UNESCO designated specific sites or regions to protect cultural heritage and encourage education.

But did you know they also do the same for food?

While it’s completely different than receiving Michelin stars, it still shows how incredible a place can be to indulge in local cuisine.

While Colombian restaurants aren’t as popular as they should be in the States, Colombian cuisine goes well beyond savory empanadas.

Food prep of fresh ingredients in Popayan

Popayan was the first ‘City of Gastronomy‘ recognized by UNESCO, particularly for its rich fertile soil resulting in fresh ingredients, whether it be locals’ favorite beverage chicha or corn pancakes.

Culinary traditions are well-preserved here thanks in part to UNESCO and partly due to the community’s’ sense of pride showcased at numerous restaurants here, where traditional methods are still used, such as esamargados (fruits and zest marinade).

While UNESCO doesn’t give restaurant recommendations per se, TripAdvisor sure does. Check out these 3 top-rated restaurants:

  1. Restaurante Carmina (perfect rating!)
  2. Mora Castilla
  3. La Cosecha Parrillada Centro

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10 Important Things Travelers Should Pack On Their Next All-Inclusive Vacation

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Headed to an all-inclusive paradise for a week (or two!) sometime soon? Whether you’re headed to Punta Cana, the latest resort in Cancun, or jetting off to Jamaica, here are some essential travel items to pack in your suitcase for your next all-inclusive vacation.

The suitcases are ready for the holidays. On a maldives island waiting suitcases for the pickup

1. Quick Dry Beach Towel

Tired of those bulky hotel towels that just soak up all of the sand? For your next all-inclusive (or just about any type of getaway) consider investing in a quick-dry beach towel.

This must-carry travel item is truly gem: it packs super light, it dries quickly and efficiently, AND there are so many on the market right now that are sand proof! With just a few shakes, the sand is off of your towel so you don’t end up carrying the whole beach with you back to your hotel.

Turquoise blue microfiber travel towel covered by the soft rippled sands on the beach

2. Shampoo & Body Bars

Shampoo bars, conditioner bars, soap bars, moisturizing bars, all the bars. Save yourself the extra stress when it comes to packing liquids in your carry-on and pack a small plastic bag of soap solids for your next all-inclusive vacation. Because each airline is different, it’s hard to know the amount of liquids that you’re allowed to carry on board with you, so soap and shampoo bars with not only save you some room in your luggage but you won’t run the risk of getting them confiscated when you’re going through security.

It’s much easier nowadays to head to a local shop and find homemade bars with simple ingredients, so let’s normalize these low-waste wonders for all future travel packing lists.

Hand holding stack of shampoo and soap bars

3. Bluetooth Speaker

This tech item is quickly becoming one of the top travel must-haves for 2022. You can’t go wrong with a bluetooth speaker to take with you to the beach or for when you’re just chilling in your hotel room.

If you plan to spend lots of time poolside and at the beach, take things to the next level and purchase a waterproof bluetooth speaker; one with an IPX8 rating means that it will still be protected even if it’s been submerged in water.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Women Who Travel - bluetooth speaker

4. Probiotic Drops

Travel sickness is real, but there are ways to combat it. A classic travel hack that I have is to always make sure my gut is filled with some of that good bacteria before a trip; this will limit my risk of getting sick while on the road.

One easy way to do this is to eat a serving or two of yogurt the few days leading up to your trip. But if you want to take some protection on your all-inclusive vacation with you, these probiotic drops are a must! 10 drops of a liquid concentrate with water or juice (I recommend juice – the taste is really bitter!) is a great way to prepare your stomach for a new environment filled with new food and drink.

 A little white bottle of grapefruit seed extract. Nutritibiotic grapefruit liquid concentrate

5. Carry-On Suitcase

With all of the luggage nightmares happening nowadays, it’s safe to say that traveling carry-on only is the way to go in 2022. If you want to avoid the stress of dealing with baggage loss or delays for your vacation, invest in one amazing carry-on suitcase that will be by your side for years.

Remember that the standard luggage size for most airlines is approximately 55 x 40 x 23 cm/ 21.5 x 15.7 x 9 in (maximum) so make sure your wheelie suitcase or backpack fits those dimensions.

6. Reef Safe Sunscreen

With more chemical-based sunscreens being banned in popular travel destinations (such as Hawaii), it’s a pretty safe bet to start shopping for your new favorite sunscreen that is zinc oxide based. Lots of mineral and coral reef-safe sunscreens come in reusable tins, so they will be easy to pack for your all-inclusive getaway.

Brands like Thinksport also have effective, reef-safe sunscreens for the whole family (baby, kids, adults) that are available in carry-on sizes, so these are a new travel must-have.

7. Travel Citronella Candle

Balmy tropical climates often come with mosquitoes, so if you don’t want your vacation ruined by swatting those annoying pests 24/7, consider bringing a travel-friendly citronella candle with you on your next all-inclusive vacation. Throw a few in your luggage that have a cover so that they will be easy and safe to carry around. You can light it up while you’re relaxing on the deck in the evening to help keep those mosquitoes at bay.

Top view of yellow citronella candle

8. Beach Bag

A perfect personal item to pair with your carry-on luggage is a beach bag for your all-inclusive.

Pack all of your daily must-haves in here (sand-proof towel, water bottle, sunscreen, speaker) for your beach days or afternoons spent lounging by the pool.

Background image of the hand made bag from natural like local Thai style with the slippers on the white sand at the beach on the holiday in Phuket

9. Travel Adapter

An all-in-one travel adapter will always come in handy for a trip – it’s small and easy to throw into your carry-on, and you’ll never know when you might need it.

Whether you’re on an all-inclusive in Greece or Phuket, you’ll be able to charge your devices safely with this little travel adapter. You can buy them at the airport or at your nearest drug store.

Travel power adapter with connectors for european, UK, and US power plugs on packed suitcase with clothing packed

10. Reusable Water Bottle

Not only will a travel water bottle save you money at the airport (hello $5 bottles of water), bringing a reusable water bottle for an all-inclusive vacation is a great way to carry around your favorite drinks while keeping them cool. Whether you plan on using it for your iced coffee or a beach cocktail, a reusable water bottle is an essential packing list item.

An insulated orange steel water bottle at the beach

Read More:

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5 New Trending Digital Nomad Destinations In Europe For 2025

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With its ancient culture, impressive levels of safety, and great infrastructure, Europe seems to be the end goal of a significant percentage of digital nomads.

Cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Split have all become workcation havens in recent years.

Aerial View Of Metropolitan Cathedral, Timisoara, Romania

The only downside to those? Anti-expat sentiment is growing across the Old Continent, as local markets become saturated and prices shoot up in response, so it’s only natural remote workers would be turning their gaze elsewhere to look for cheaper, more welcoming spots.

If you’re wondering which European gems are trending for 2025, here are 5 top (inexpensive) picks taken from Nomad List‘s fastest-rising list:

Timisoara, Romania

Panoramic View Of A Square In Timisoara, Romania

A mid-size city in Northwestern Romania offering an alternative to an all-too-chaotic Bucharest, Timisoara is distinguished by its stately, Vienna-inspired Secessionist buildings, 11-dome Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Orthodox architecture, and scenic riverfront.

The pedestrian-friendly center is flush with cafes and youth hostels that turn into lively bars at night. If you’ve been watching in dismay as crime spirals out of control in Western Europe, Timisoara is very safe in comparison, boasting a ‘very low’ level of crime on Numbeo.

Plus, it’s incredibly affordable to live in, costing $1,808 per month. Romania offers some of the cheapest consumer prices anywhere on the continent, and in Timisoara in particular, you can find meals for as cheap as $8.80 in local restaurants and monthly rentals from $425.55.

Faro, Portugal

Faro Old Town In Portugal

In the Westernmost end of Europe, an often overlooked Faro is fast-increasing in popularity with nomads.

It is replacing the usual nomad hotspots of Lisbon and Porto, which (let’s be honest) are pretty much done for, what with the astounding increase in rent.

In Faro, on the other hand, you get the Baroque cathedral, the cobbled Old Town, and the pristine sandy coast at much cheaper rates––$1,987 a month versus Lisbon’s pricey $3,290––not to mention a plethora of laptop-friendly eateries and smaller crowds.

Though it is the capital of the sun-drenched Algarve region, Faro feels more like a small town where life unfolds at a much slower pace, and it feels peaceful even in the peak season, as all those British tourists will be hitting the beach in Portimão and Lagos instead.

Antalya, Türkiye

Antalya Old Town Called Kaleici, Antalya, Turkiye.jpg

Over in Türkiye, Antalya boasts a minaret-dotted Old Town, ringed by Roman-era city walls and ornate commemorative archways, endless miles of beaches, and unusually milder temps, making it is the perfect destination for those who love ancient culture, as well as basking in the sun:

Temperatures increase up to 68°F as early as April, and there are numerous beaches lined by casual restaurants to be enjoyed, including a trendy Konyaaltı, backed by the towering Anatolian mountains and lapping turquoise-blue waters.

As for the cost of living, you should set aside some $1,507 per month relocating to Antalya, where dinners can cost a negligible $7.30, or a still-acceptable $43.77 for a three-course meal for two, and the price of basic accommodation averages $648.86.

Podgorica, Montenegro

Aerial View Of Modern Apartment Blocks In Podgorica, Capital City Of Montenegro, Balkan Peninsula, South Eastern Europe

In the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Podgorica is great for a temporary relocation due to its friendly locals, thriving social scene and economical prices, as well as the fact it lies outside the Schengen Area, allowing nomads to remain longer than the restrictive 90 days in Europe.

Despite being the Montenegrin capital, it’s not the Montenegro you’d expect, and by that we mean, it’s no ocher-colored ancient gem lining a teal-colored Adriatic: it’s known instead for its Ottoman-built Old Town, rebuilt after the World Wars, Yugoslav-era apartment blocks, and verdant city parks.

Similarly to neighboring Croatia, Montenegro has got significantly expensive for nomads in recent years, especially places like Kotor and Budva, but not Podgorica, where having ćevapi for lunch will set you back roughly $8.75, while a centrally-situated one-bedroom apartment is $602.21.

Skopje, North Macedonia

Flowers Blooming Near A Bridge In Skopje, North Macedonia, Balkan Peninsula, South Eastern Europe

Balkan Europe for the win! One of the greatest traction-gainers for 2025, as well as the cheapest nomad destination on this list, Skopje in North Macedonia should definitely be on your list if medieval castles and Turkish-style bazaars are your thing––and you don’t mind the odd quirky sculpture.

Known as the ‘Kitsch Capital of Europe‘, its skyline is dominated by monumental bronze figures, from Alexander the Great to Mother Teresa, historic stone bridges, and a hilltop fortress overlooking a meandering river: the quintessential European postcard.

The only difference compared to most nomad hubs across the pond? Total expenses are estimated to cap at a much-lower $1,364: ordering some Turkish coffee and a slice of pie in the center of town will have you forking out a mere $6.39, and rent typically starts from $360.45.

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