Move Over Lisbon! This Sunny City Is Portugal’s Next Digital Nomad Hotspot

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Lisbon is one of the world’s most sought-after digital nomad destinations, owing to its pleasant weather, rich culture, and thriving expat scene. However, there’s no denying that there’s growing animosity among locals toward foreigners.

Reports that Lisbon natives are fed up with digital nomads—–which they perceive to have strongly contributed to the worsening housing crisis—–have been around since at least 2023, and things have certainly not improved since then.

Aerial Panoramic View Of Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal

The Portuguese capital is experiencing some ‘nomad fatigue,’ yet not all hope is lost for Portugal-bound remote workers.

Albufeira is a sunny city in the subtropical Algarve, in the country’s extreme south, where the sun is (almost) always shining, and the cost of living is lower, and it’s poised to become the ‘next Lisbon’:

From Quaint Fishing Village To Lively Coastal Resort

Formerly a fishing village that’s slowly become a leisure destination over recent decades, following a spike in demand from European vacationers (particularly Brits), Albufeira ticks all the boxes as it pertains to a summer getaway:

A Couple Lying At The Beach In Albufeira, Portugal

It is centered around a picture-perfect, whitewashed historic center, where cobbled streets are bordered by locally run eateries and quirky art galleries. Not to mention, it straddles a busy sand strip, hugging an azure Atlantic and packed with bars.

Picture Albufeira as your average laid-back coastal resort with an unusually high concentration of nightclubs:

It’s not precisely metropolitan by global standards, yet it’s certainly among Portugal’s liveliest places to be in 2025.

Tourists often flock here for the social scene and affordable package holiday deals, with five-star resorts on the beachfront offering overnight rates from only $154. But what of digital nomads and their own basic requirements?

Aerial View Of An Albufeira Old Town, Portugal

What Can Albufeira Offer Nomads?

We’re not sure about you, but as digital nomads ourselves, we’re looking primarily for 5 characteristics when selecting our next home base, however temporary:

  • The attitude towards foreigners has to be friendly
  • Safety levels must be high
  • Prices must be cheaper than at home
  • It would help if it is usually warm, as opposed to cold for most of the year

We’re glad to report Albufeira satisfies all those criteria and then some.

Downtown Albufeira In The Evening, The Algarve, Southern Portugal, Southern Europe

We won’t lie and say it is as vibrant or with a cultural offer as vast as Lisbon’s or Porto’s. However, it does appeal to the kind of nomad who’s mostly looking for a peaceful little corner to chill, go for leisurely strolls down by the promenade in between work, and not overspend.

Albufeira has consistently not featured on lists of cities where anti-tourism or anti-nomad protests have been staged in recent years, and regardless of the nonchalant approach towards non-locals, it’s not like that makes you feel unwelcome.

In Europe these days, you can count yourself lucky if residents are just indifferent to your presence.

A Young Female Digital Nomad Working From Her Computer In An External Setting In Europe

As it pertains to safety, crime levels are incredibly low in Albufeira, with 9.47 crimes for every 100,000 inhabitant, as reported by The Portugal News, and that’s largely consisting of pickpocketing and other forms of non-violent, petty crime.

If you’re worried about the rising religious extremism across the pond, and knife attacks in broad daylight, you should know Portugal is much safer in general than England, France, Germany and the like, and that includes Albufeira.

Albufeira Offers A Lower Cost Of Living

According to Numbeo, a trustworthy source for assessing living costs across different destinations, a meal in Albufeira costs on average $12.19––we’re talking a generous seafood platter or a francesinha (a Portuguese roast sandwich), paired with inexpensive beer.

Young Woman Walking Towards A Whitewashed Church In Albufeira, Portugal

If you feel like treating yourself on the weekend, and maybe your better half or summer fling, a three-course for two in a mid-range restaurant will still only set you back by $49.12.

Rent is where you might feel the pinch a little, and even then, we’d argue you can get a much better deal in Albufeira than most major cities back in the U.S. or Canada, like New York or Toronto, where you’ll be paying upwards of $1,500 for a tiny matchbox apartment outside the Downtown area.

Albufeira doesn’t have the cheapest rent in Portugal, nor the Algarve for that matter––still, you can get an entire apartment with ocean views and pool access from $1,008-a-month on Airbnb.

Last but certainly not least, there’s that glorious Algarve weather to take into account:

Man Using His Laptop, Digital Nomad Concept

The sun shines unobstructed for over 300 days in a single calendar year, and whether you’re staying in Albufeira in the dead of winter or the peak of summer, chances are you won’t need to unpack the raincoat you brought ‘just in case’.

There are differences in temperature, of course, as it’s way warmer from mid-April through September, but even right now, it’s a tolerable 64.4°F out.

Americans Can Stay In Portugal Visa-Free For 3 Months

American Passport

Portugal has been issuing Digital Nomad Visas for some time now, aiming to provide remote workers with a facilitated immigration route into the country if they can prove they meet a certain financial threshold, and don’t have a criminal record.

In 2025, the sum equals roughly €3,280 per month, or around US$3,442.

This doesn’t mean you can just fly to Portugal and set up residence if you fulfill these prerequisites: you’ll need to complete the official application form, get in touch with the nearest Portuguese Consulate to schedule an interview, and gather the necessary documentation.

If getting a visa sounds too much of a hassle, as you don’t plan to relocate anywhere indefinitely, you should know you can stay in Portugal as a short-term visitor for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period as a U.S. or Canada passport holder, no visas are needed.

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Surprising City Hyped As Italy’s New Digital Nomad Hotspot

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One city in Italy has been dubbed the world’s new “Silicon Valley”.

Unlike San Francisco (actually Silicon Valley’s base), there’s no sign of sky-high rent rates and a spattering of crime waves pushing remote workers away – quite the opposite, actually.

Digital nomad sipping coffee at Italian cafe

While Rome, Venice, and the jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast will always be travelers’ go-to spots to immerse themselves in Italy’s renowned cultural delights, ranging from bucket-list wonders, phenomenal eats, and postcard beaches, one city in Sicily, which is somehow overlooked, is now proclaimed as the country’s latest digital nomad hotspot.

That’s right; the vibrant capital of Sicily, home to pizzas and piazzas, has become a haven for remote workers who’ve embraced the opportunity to reside in this laid-back, blue-water paradise.

More Americans Setting Up Shop In Palermo

Aerial angle of Palermo Cathedral

It’s estimated Palermo, a city of nearly 700,000 people overlooking the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea, has already drawn in 1,000 new “residents,” with many Americans leading the charge.

Sicily is a name we all know, but you’d be surprised that most travelers favor the mainland’s aforementioned icons.

Digital nomads are discovering what others have been missing out on. First and foremost, Palermo (and all of Sicily, really) is splendid to visit any time of year for the views alone, but right now, heading into spring, the weather is hovering comfortably in the 60s and topping out in the high 80s in summer.

Tourists exploring Palermo's historic sites

As you can see, as digital nomads begin to wrap up their winter sun needs, there’s no need to pack up and go in a hurry, especially with a welcoming community beginning to bloom with new co-working spaces popping up such as PMO Coworking, highlighted by Nomad Capitalist among the best in Europe.

Of All the Italian Cities To Make Your Base, Why Palermo?

Some of Europe’s most renowned cities can be the most costly, and Italy is no different.

Coming full circle, Palermo is a great spot for digital nomads not only because it’s embracing a new identity as a startup hub but also because you can experience Italy’s captivating culture, unmatched cuisine, and astounding scenery without breaking the bank – typically numero uno on digital nomads’ list of concerns.

Sidewalk cafes in Palermo, IT

Long-term stays on Airbnb can be found under $900 for a private apartment, and most are within walking distance to the beach and Palermo’s timeless city center.

Better yet, oftentimes local agencies are even cheaper than major platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Known for epic seafood and cheap pizza, digital nomads’ savings on rent will likely go toward dining out since the food scene is impossible to pass over.

During downtime between work tasks, there are plenty of things to do and see. Obviously, Sicily’s breathtaking beaches are the top attraction.

palermo italy architecture at sunset

According to TripAdvisor, these are Palermo’s top 3 beaches to visit:

  • Spiaggia di Mondello
  • Lido Valdesi
  • Lido Sferracavello

Inland from the coast, you’ll discover picturesque ornate piazzas home to inviting street markets, staggering cathedrals like the unmissable Palermo Cathedral, and numerous cafes to start your day or use as an office with a warm cappuccino in hand.

Overall, Palermo ranks 22nd globally as top digital nomad destination.

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa

Female digital nomad with coffee and laptop

Sure, you could just stay in Palermo to escape the frigid cold of much of the world, but what’s the fun in that when you can stay all year?

Italy launched its official digital nomad visa last spring. Obviously, travelers had a lot of questions like “what took so long?!”.

For real though, like most visas, there’s an expansive list of requirements, which you can read all about here, but we’ll cover the basics.

Basic requirements:

  • Prove earned income of roughly $30,000 to ensure you’re exempt from healthcare costs
  • Purchase a comprehensive health insurance policy valid for your entire stay
  • No first-timers; must have worked remotely for 6 months prior to Italy arrival
  • No criminal record in the last 5 years

Digital nomad visas are valid for a full calendar year and have the possibility for an extension of up to 2 years.

Digital nomad working on the beach

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Surprising Caribbean Destination Hyped As Next Digital Nomad Hotspot For 2025

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The work-from-home craze has taken over the workforce worldwide as more and more countries create digital nomad visas to accommodate one of the latest travel trends.

But, some places are quite surprising when it comes to such a vast array of destinations digital nomads have at their fingertips.

Whether it be Latin America’s hidden gems, far-flung hideaways in Europe, or dirt-cheap yet culturally rich hotspots in Asia, there’s no limit to digital nomads’ new base.

Woman with laptop working beachside under palm tree

That being said, as popular as the Caribbean may be for American travelers, many places in the region don’t fit the mold of what digital nomads tend to look for.

Startups just revealed the next digital hotspot for 2025 and although it’s mega popular for Americans, it’s worth questioning if the island’s well-documented safety issues and affordability tick off the boxes for digital nomads.

Is Jamaica Too Boujee For Digital Nomads?

According to Startups, there’s a 250% increase in remote work in Jamaica. As someone who visited Jamaica in the last year or so, I can see how such an immensely welcoming culture and obviously drop-dead gorgeous island would be enticing to wake up to every day.

Resort pool in Negril

The truth is not every digital nomad is bankrolling.

When I visited Kingston, I hung out on the upscale side of the city known as New Kingston, where Bob Marley’s mansion is located.

There are new developments dispersed across this district with some really nice apartments available to rent, but the issue digital nomads face is pricing.

Many apartments, even in notoriously sketchy Kingston, resemble U.S. markets with rents in the $1000’s – a far cry from what many scope out when there are many destinations you’re total cost will be under $1000.

Then there’s obviously Montego Bay, laden with high-end resorts, followed by quaint, yet trendy Negril, and the up-and-coming hotspot of Port Antonio, the most authentic of the bunch.

Jamaica's Sandals South Coast Hotel

According to Nomads, Kingston ranks #110 globally for digital nomads, with expected monthly costs pushing $3,000.

Jamaica’s Safety Concerns

Jamaica is no stranger to welcoming visitors with open arms. I found this island to be one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been.

Unfortunately, Jamaica is also no stranger to travel advisories, especially related to the capital, Kingston.

Wandering Downtown Kingston and passing run-down streets on my Uber from the airport, it’s easy to see why.

Abandoned buildings in downtown Kingston, Jamaica

The latest advisory issued in July highlights high crime levels and lackluster health care, including slow response times to emergencies throughout the country.

Kingston also received low marks for safety on Nomads but surprisingly high scores for overall contentment with glowing positive experiences.

If I ventured to guess, most nomads would reside in New Kingston, where there are ample co-working spaces like The Hub and trendy cafes offering delicious Blue Mountain coffee sourced roughly an hour away.

However, Startup highlights Negril as Jamaica’s top beach spot for digital nomads with plentiful oceanfront cafes.

police kingston jamaica

Kingston isn’t so much a beach town, although I did find a secret beach tourists largely don’t know about, but it wouldn’t be the best spot to work from since the seaside eateries are hole-in-the-wall shacks along unkept dirt roads.

As for Montego Bay, Jamaica’s most popular vacation destination, you can find affordable apartments on Airbnb on the outskirts of the city for under $800, but a quick Google search shows co-working spaces are lacking here.

Jamaica’s Entry Requirements

Jamaica sign at Montego Bay

Jamaica doesn’t offer a ‘digital nomad visa’, but Americans can visit as a standard tourist for 90 days visa-free, the perfect amount of time to soak up winter sun.

As stated, there are monthly listings on Airbnb, so this is likely your best bet. Just familiarize yourself with Jamaica’s neighborhoods first.

There is a full list of Level 4 no-go zones listed on the U.S. State Department’s latest travel advisory, many of which are in and around Kingston.

When I booked an Airbnb here, I found the wifi to be reliable, but preferred working from New Kingston cafes, such as Cafe Blue.

Lounge chairs on Montego Bay beach

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Escape The Winter Blues! Here Are 5 Of The Hottest Digital Nomad Destinations Right Now

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With temperatures plunging across the Northern Hemisphere and parts of the United States and Europe bracing for freezing weather, it’s no wonder people are eager to escape to a land of forever summer, especially if they’re digital nomads:

Aerial View Of Wat Arun In Bangkok, Thailand

Lounging on a sandy beach under an umbrella as they sip a tropical drink, partly relaxing, partly catching up with work, to the gentle sound of crashing waves in the distance, seems to be the end goal of every remote worker…

Not being locked up at home in their suburban home or big city apartment as rain pours outside.

Romantic for some, a literal prison for others: well, thanks to new research published by Printful, featured on Startups UK, you needn’t look further if it’s an escape from the winter blues you’re desperately craving.

Here are 5 of the (literal) hottest digital nomad destinations right now:

Jakarta, Indonesia

Panoramic View Of Jakarta, Indonesia

Indonesia may be most sought-after for its paradisiacal Bali, but its capital Jakarta should not be so quickly dismissed: the complete opposite, it is a sprawling metropolis best known for its diverse architecture and fast-paced city life.

On a cultural level, it’s a mix of native Asian, Arab and European influences, with a Dutch-build Old Town, a vibrant Chinatown (Glodok), and ornate mosques composing the cityscape, and as it pertains to nomads, the affordability and balmy temps are the main attraction.

As the study indicates, the average temperatures from November to March are 79°F, and the cost of living is $608 a month: you can eat for as cheap as $3, get a monthly gym pass for $29, and rent a 1-bedroom apartment in a residential area for roughly $265 (Numbeo).

Manila, Philippines

Manila Cathedral, Philippines

Over in the Philippines, Manila ranks as the fourth hottest destination this winter, distinguished by its skyscraper-dotted business districts and a Spanish-colonial Old Manila, a walled historic center filled with Baroque churches and European-style forts.

Other than the uniqueness of character, with an architectural style that is far more common in Latin America, Manila is on track to become a ‘workcation’ hub due to offering a comfortable lifestyle to dollar-earning nomads:

According to the research, you’ll get set back by $615 per month living in Manila, owing it to the cheap food prices ($5 for a meal in a local restaurant) and inexpensive rent (from $235)––oh, and if you’re wondering what to pack, it’s 80°F out.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Tourists Taking Pictures As They Admire A Train Going Past A Narrow Street In Hanoi, Vietnam, Southeast Asia.jpg

The cultural and administrative capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is an unlikely combination of French buildings dating back to the colonial period, Buddhist pagodas and Chinese temples, and communist-style Brutalist monuments.

With buzzing streets lined with food stalls, merchant shops, and charming cafes serving world-famous Vietnamese coffee and catering to an international clientele, it’s no surprise Hanoi ranks as one of the top 3 cities for nomads in 2025.

Finally, as Startups UK remarks, Hanoi is also not as unpleasantly hot and humid as its Southeast Asian counterparts, with an average temperature of 66°F, not to mention its inexpensiveness, with the cost of living per month being roughly $624.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

royal palace phnom penh cambodia

Yet another Southeast Asian capital, Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s heart and soul, sitting at the junction of two historic rivers, the Mekong and Tonlé Sap, with a walkable riverfront interspersed with lush parks, traditional eateries, and stately monuments.

Two of Cambodia’s most-visited tourist attractions are located on Phnom Penh’s river promenade, namely the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, and not far from the fast-flowing watercourse, the colonial art deco Central Market is great for street food.

With 81 degrees in winter and living costs under $770 a month, it is one of the world’s new trendiest nomad hotspots, and it probably helps that getting a visa to stay in Cambodia for 30 days is easy if you’re an American: it’s fully online, and it costs $30.

Bangkok, Thailand

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

It’s a recurring theme at this point that Bangkok, Thailand ranks at the top of every digital nomad list we published: regarding both affordability and pleasant temperatures between November and March, this would be no exception.

The most popular destination for remote work globally, as seen on Nomads, Bangkok ticks all the boxes, from the vibrant nightlife to the multicultural scene and then the culture, with magnificent stupas and royal palaces and overall budget-friendliness.

Printful notes that the average high temperature is 87.8, with minimal rainfall as this is not monsoon season, and if you’re on a strict budget, you can easily call Bangkok home while leading a comfortable life on earnings of $876 a month.

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This Budget-Friendly Asian Paradise Crowned Best Digital Nomad Destination & Has A New Visa!  

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Asia has long been a popular destination for digital nomads watching their budgets. It’s a great place to stretch your buck as far as possible.  

And now there’s a new budget-friendly hot spot to look out for.  

The Global Intelligence Unit has created a comprehensive report of the world’s best digital nomad destinations.  

Woman overlooking skyline of Taipei

The top-ranked Asian country where digital nomads live and work is officially Taiwan.  

Taiwan also came in 12th place overall in the global arena, meaning that it’s a destination well worth considering for digital nomads, especially for those who don’t want to flash the cash.  

Here’s why:  

Why Digital Nomads Should Consider Taiwan 

Taiwan is an incredibly beautiful country that ticks so many boxes.  

A subtropical climate, outstanding natural beauty, gorgeous beaches, and modern vibrant cities too. Check, check, check, check!  

Colorful Zhengbin Fishing Port in Keelung near Taipei city, Taiwan at sunset

On top of all of this, living here won’t break the bank.  

On average, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Taipei is between NT$8,000.00 and NT$25,000.00 ($263–$823).

However, if you choose an off-the-beaten-path destination outside of the city, your rent will be considerably lower.  

Eating out here is cheap too, and the street food is delicious.

Less than $5 will fill your tummy with a street food meal and some good company at the same time.  

Keelung Night Market, Taiwan

Locals are friendly and welcoming to foreigners and digital nomads: there are no anti-tourism protests here!  

Taiwan was also one of the first countries in the region to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2019 and has robust anti-discrimination legislation in place, making it a safe country for LGBTQ+ nomads to explore.  

Taiwan Is Small But Perfectly Formed  

From a practical point of view, it’s worth mentioning Taiwan’s small size.

The country is around half the size of Scotland for Brits like me. Or ever so slightly bigger than Maryland for U.S. readers.  

Rather than being a drawback, this could actually work to the advantage of a savvy digital nomad!  

Aerial View Of The Skyscraper-Dotted Taipei, Capital Of Taiwan, East Asia

You can explore absolutely everything the island has to offer with relative ease.

The capital of Taipei tends to be the most popular spot for digital nomads, boasts incredibly high internet speeds, and has the largest number of coworking spaces.  

But you aren’t welded to city life. Taipei is just 30 minutes away from the lush green nature of the Yangmingshan National Park.

There is no entry fee to explore this park, so if you’re on a budget, this is a great place to visit.  

And getting around Taiwan is a breeze, too, as the country has a reliable high-speed rail network.

In real terms, this makes what is already a small country feel even smaller and easier to explore.  

Train in Taiwan

Public transport is affordable. The Metro (known as the Mass Rapid Transit or MRT) costs NT $20 (61 cents) – NT $65 ($1.96) a ticket in Taipei.  

If you want to take the high-speed rail and explore the length and breadth of the country then you’ll pay between NT $35 and NT $2,500 ($1 – $76) depending on the journey you want to take and the class you choose with non-reserved tickets being the cheapest option.  

A New Digital Nomad Visa For Taiwan? 

Although full details of the scheme have yet to be released, Taiwan announced last month that it intends to launch a dedicated digital nomad visa.

This is great news as, up until now, there hasn’t been an official digital nomad visa in the country.  

A Pagoda Temple Crowned With Dragon Statues In A Pagoda Temple In Taiwan Overlooking The China Sea, East Asia

The new visa will make Taiwan an even more appealing option for digital nomads.  

Taiwan will be the 4th country in the region this year, after Japan, Thailand, and South Korea, to launch a digital nomad scheme.  

So far, we know that the visa will have a 6-month validity period and that the Minister for the National Development Council in Taiwan, Paul Liu, hopes it will attract new talent to the country.  

sunset kenting beach taiwan

Though this new digital nomad visa scheme has been proposed, it will not come into effect until it is approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  

In the meantime, prospective nomads can apply for an Employment Gold Card.

This is a work permit, residency permit and re-entry permit in one handy document that is relatively easy to apply for and allows professionals to live and work in Taiwan for up to 3 years.  

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New Airport & Cheap Living: This Mediterranean Paradise Was Just Crowned As Europe’s Top Digital Nomad Destination

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There’s no shortage of paradises to choose from for digital nomads to pack their bags and jet off to, but there’s one more to add to the list, with a new airport expected to put this coastal gem on the map.

The Mediterranean is teeming with blue-water shores and laid-back communities embracing the nomad lifestyle, but not all of them can be crowned the best of Europe.

Vlora, Albania beach

Fortune just released their list of ‘Best European Cities for Digital Nomads 2024′ and the top dog was a real surprise.

Albania has seen an influx of digital nomads since issuing an unofficial digital nomad visa in 2022, but many have opted to plant roots in the capital city, Tirana, among other quaint beach towns.

One is an absolute stunner, Vlorë. But we’ll go with the English version, Vlora, so I don’t have to keep inputting those weird dots.

Where In The World Is Vlora?

Turquoise waters of Vlore

Vlora is Albania’s third largest city, located along pristine shores overlooking the Bay of Vlorë (those pesky dots again!), a passage almost a straight line from Italy’s trendiest escape, Lecce.

But this side of the passage will soon be Albania’s trendiest escape as the country continues to gain steam, largely in part to more hidden gems such as Vlora being uncovered.

This resort town is oozing potential as there are already ample upscale accommodations to enjoy for a serene vacation, but more notably, apartments can easily be scored for $400 per month.

Surrounded by more turquoise than a Santa Fe necklace, this delightful town is truly postcard-perfect when lounging at one of many idyllic beaches once you’re free from unnecessary Zoom calls.

Digital nomad working seaside in Albania

According to TripAdvisor, these are Vlora’s top 3 beaches to scope out:

  1. Gjipe Beach
  2. Dhermi Beach
  3. Pulabardha Beach

Being a rather large city, Vlore is decked out with charming Old Town cafes as well as co-working spaces, such as top-rated CoWorkingVlora, just a few blocks from the scenic Lungomare promenade.

While there’s already been an uptick in remote workers flocking here, expect even more cushy amenities to pop up once Vlora’s highly anticipated new airport opens.

Vlora’s New Airport Opens In March 2025

Air Albania plane landing

It’s important to note not all of Albania is well-developed. In other words, the backroads should be left to the pros.

Reaching Vlora will be so much easier come March 2025 when the new airport is slated to take flight for the first time.

Albania’s flagship carrier, Air Albania is leading the charge and you can surely expect other suitors as well.

Heck, if Ryanair is launching flights to Dakhla, Western Sahara of all places, don’t you think Vlora is on their radar?

Passenger ferry in Vlora, Albania

For now, the easiest way to reach Vlora is by bus from Tirana, which is a well-connected city as Albania’s hype has soared.

For a more adventure option, you could also fly into Corfu or various Italian ports (Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce, as previously stated) and take a ferry.

Although, the more reasonable avenue may be simply to wait on more news regarding Vlora’s new flights.

Albania’s Digital Nomad Appeal

Albania as a whole is a great blend of cultural experiences, cheap living, and unbounded natural beauty. Oh, and the food is pretty top notch too comparable to Greek’s most notable dishes.

Old Town Vlore, Albania, Southern Europe

There are a multitude of reasons for general travelers to visit, but digital nomads can soak up the most benefits here.

Albania’s nomad-catered ‘Unique Permit’ was a nice selling point for remote workers, but what you may not know is you don’t need a visa at all up to one year.

That’s right; American tourists can stay within Albania’s border up to 12 months without the hassle of bureaucratic paperwork – just a stamp and you’re good to go.

The Unique Permit is a straightforward application process and offers nomads the options to stay up to 5 years.

Female digital nomad working on laptop at European cafe

Narrowing down to Vlora; there’s no better place to call home.

With $400 apartments, comfortable co-working spaces, and delightful cafes in one of Europe’s most underrated Old Town districts, your day-to-day backdrop couldn’t be more enchanting when perusing timeless streets or enjoying a beach day.

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Affordable Living And Incredible Culture: 3 Asian Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas In 2024

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Asia is one of the most in-demand continents for digital nomads globally.

Not only is it inherently fascinating, boasting an immense cultural wealth certain to appeal to Westerners, but it is also, for the most part, far more welcoming towards foreigners and incredibly cheap to live in.

Digital nomad in Thailand on a tree overlooking ocean

If you don’t exactly fit in with the multi-million Dubai entrepreneurial crew, and Europe’s visa rules are far too complex to navigate, the Far Orient is the perfect home base for working while enjoying a higher quality of life––and spending far less on it.

On that note, here are 4 amazing Asian countries where both living costs can average $2,000 or under, and easy-to-apply Digital Nomad Visas are widely available:

Philippines

Aerial View Of Islands In The Philippines

An archipelagic nation in Southeast Asia hugged by teal-colored seas, the Philippines is an up-and-coming nomad haven offering affordable options for long-term accommodation, inexpensive food, and great weather for most of the year (minus monsoon season).

Some of its busiest workcation hubs include Manila, a vibrant capital combining Spanish colonial forts and modern skyscrapers, Cebu City, where you’re as likely to find European-inspired Baroque cathedrals as you are Taoist temples, and tropical island getaway Palawan.

Adventurous Kayaking in Coron, el nido, palawan, philippines

Based on Numbeo estimates, it costs roughly $869 per month to live in the Philippines with rent, with particularly-low prices observed for food and transportation: eating out in the Central Market in Manila, you can find a range of Filipino delicacies from only $3.57.

What Are The Requirements For The Philippines Digital Nomad Visa?

Normally, foreigners can only be in the Philippines for up to 30 days visa-free, but as reported by VisaGuide, nomads are eligible to stay for a rather-generous 2 years by applying for the Philippines Digital Nomad Visa.

Digital nomad working on the beach

Essentially, they must meet a certain income requirement, currently estimated to be over $24,000, provide a clean criminal record as well as proof of engagement in remote work, and health insurance covering the 2-year stay is also required.

The best part is nomads in the Philippines are considered non-tax residents, meaning they live in the country, but as they are not employed by a Philippines-based business, and thus not involved in local business activities, they aren’t subject to local income tax.

Thailand

Solo female traveler in Thailand

Up next is Thailand, affectionately called The Land of Smiles, with bustling national capital Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a UNESCO-listed, temple-dotted city, and a beach-fringed Phuket Island, with all ranking as popular workcation spots.

Out of those, Bangkok is the definitive winner, owing it to its thriving expat scene, abundance of laptop-friendly eateries, legendary nightlife––probably the best anywhere in Asia––and most importantly, remarkable inexpensiveness.

Wat-Arun-Temple-In-Bangkok-At-Sunset-Thailand

Living costs will typically total $1,290 in Bangkok, if you’re eating local and your Airbnb rental is a 1-bedroom apartment in a residential zone, and though prices can increase slightly on the islands, Thailand as a whole remains budget-friendly.

What Are The Requirements For The Thailand Digital Nomad Visa?

Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa is pretty straight-forward, though it may not be suitable for middle-income workers: you must hold a passport currently valid for at least 6 months still and your annual income must mount up to over $80,000.

Digital Nomad at a Beach Cafe

It’s not like relocating to Thailand as a nomad is exactly a breeze, compared to the 2-month visa-free stay as a tourist, but if you have the money for it, it’s entirely doable, and once approved, you may then remain in the country for up to 15 years!

There is yet another appealing benefit: instead of the 35% tax rate applicable to regular residents, nomads are granted a major discount, paying only 17% in taxes, and in some cases, they could be eligible for tax exemption if their income originates from overseas.

Japan

male solo traveler looks at pagodas in tokyo japan

The darling of American in Asia, Japan is best-known for its sprawling urban centers, stunning nature, millennia-old rites and delectable cuisine, and despite not being as cheap as the other entries on this list, it’s been surging in popularity with digital nomads lately.

Whether it’s a neon-lit Tokyo, pagoda-dominated Kyoto, or an electric Osaka, there are co-working spaces galore, and if you’re not the splurging type, there are plenty of cheap eats in restaurants costing from as little as $6.95, not to mention monthly rental starts from $626.66.

tokyo tower illuminated at night with busy streets in japan

Overall, Numbeo reports it costs an approximated $1,641 – $2,215 to live on a budget in a major city––that’s definitely on the pricier end for Asia, but we don’t know a single nomadic American who wouldn’t be happy living in dreamy Japan on under $3,000 a month.

What Are The Requirements For The Japan Digital Nomad Visa?

As an American citizen, you can already enter Japan visa-free for up to 3 months, and there are no known restrictions on carrying out remote work from within the country, so long as your source of income isn’t Japan-based and your primary reason for traveling is tourism.

Smiling Remote Worker, Digital Nomad Checking His Phone As He Works From His Computer In A Cafe Setting, Unspecified Location

That being said, you may opt for the just-launched Japan Digital Nomad Visa, granting you a 6-month stay––double the tourist visa––and believe it or not, the financial threshold for eligibility is lower than Thailand’s!

Other than the usual documentation and background checks, like health insurance, a clean criminal record and proof of online job, you must earn a minimum 10 million Japanese yen annually (don’t worry, that translates into a reasonable $69,666 as of October 2024).

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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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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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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.



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