It’s a beautiful world out there, with plenty of cities waiting to be explored by digital nomads who love nature. With modern technology, work has become location-independent for many, creating a new lifestyle: the digital nomad life. In this article, we’ll unearth 9 underrated, secret, or low-key cities full of nature that are great options for digital nomads.
Importance of Nature for Digital Nomads
As digital nomads, our lifestyle often demands that we’re constantly plugged into the digital world. However, there’s an inherent need for us to disconnect periodically and interact with the natural world. In fact, the integration of nature into our daily routines is paramount for our overall well-being.
Boosting Physical Health
Engaging with nature often involves physical activities such as walking, hiking, or swimming. These activities are not just an excellent form of exercise, but they also offer us the chance to experience our surroundings in a more intimate way. Regular physical activity has been proven to have multiple health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mood, and better sleep.
Furthermore, when outdoors, we expose ourselves to sunlight, which is our primary natural source of Vitamin D. This essential vitamin plays a critical role in maintaining our bone health and has been linked to mood enhancement.
Promoting Mental Well-being
Spending time in natural settings can work wonders for our mental health. Numerous studies have found that exposure to nature significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. The serenity offered by natural environments can create a sense of peace and positivity that’s crucial for our mental health, especially in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Inspiring Creativity
Nature, with its varied landscapes and unique phenomena, is a goldmine of inspiration. Many creative minds have found that spending time in nature triggers new, innovative ideas. A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology suggests that exposure to nature can increase creativity by as much as 50%. This could prove incredibly beneficial for digital nomads engaged in creative fields, such as design, writing, or content creation.
Enabling Digital Detox
Nature presents us with the perfect opportunity for a much-needed digital detox. By taking regular breaks from our screens and immersing ourselves in natural environments, we allow our minds to reset, which can help prevent digital fatigue. This is a significant step towards promoting a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
The digital nomad lifestyle, while filled with unprecedented freedom and opportunities, requires a balanced approach. Actively seeking to incorporate nature into our routines is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Nature can provide us with tremendous physical and mental health benefits, spur creativity, and offer a reprieve from our digital engagements.
Must-Have Items To Pack For Your Nature Trip
Portable Charger/Power Bank: A portable charger is a must-have for digital nomads. The Anker PowerCore 20100mAh is a powerful, compact charger that can provide several charges for your phone or other devices, perfect for days out in nature.
Lightweight Laptop: As a digital nomad, having a lightweight and robust laptop is essential. Consider investing in the Apple MacBook Air, known for its performance and portability.
Travel Backpack: A durable, comfortable travel backpack like the Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack is a great choice. It’s spacious, well-designed, and sturdy — perfect for carrying your digital nomad essentials.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during long hikes. A reusable, insulated water bottle like the Hydro Flask keeps your drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.
Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: For a secure and consistent internet connection, consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot like the GlocalMe G4 Pro. It offers coverage in over 140 countries.
Portable Camping Hammock: For those moments of relaxation in nature, a lightweight, portable hammock like the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is a great item to have. Easy to set up and incredibly comfortable.
E-Reader: An E-reader like the Amazon Kindle is a fantastic way to carry countless books without taking up much space. Perfect for relaxing in your hammock!
Top Underrated Cities for Digital Nomads
Let’s delve into the world’s most underrated cities that provide a rich cultural experience, exciting outdoor activities, and a conducive environment for digital nomads.
Bend, Oregon, USA
Pros:
- Rich natural beauty with access to national parks and outdoor activities
- Thriving tech industry and strong digital infrastructure
- Active digital nomad community
- High-quality craft beer scene
Cons:
- Higher cost of living compared to other cities
- Relatively small city may lack certain amenities
- Cold winters may not be for everyone
Cost of Living: High – Approximately $3,000/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,500
- Basic utilities: $200
- Internet: $70
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $15-$30 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 7/10
Personal Anecdote: Digital nomads in Bend rave about the Workhouse, a co-working space located in a historic ironworks building. It’s a favorite spot to work and network with other remote workers.
Da Lat, Vietnam
Pros:
- Beautiful landscapes including waterfalls and flower gardens
- Serene and less crowded environment compared to other Vietnamese cities
- Affordable cost of living
- Emerging tech scene
Cons:
- Limited English proficiency among locals might be a challenge
- Remote location with less accessibility to international flights
- Internet speed may not be as fast as other larger cities
Cost of Living: Low – Approximately $1,000/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $400
- Basic utilities: $50
- Internet: $15
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $5-$10 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: A friend who spent a month in Da Lat couldn’t stop talking about 100 Roofs Cafe. This unique and maze-like cafe is a must-visit for a fun evening in Da Lat.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Pros:
- Breathtaking natural beauty with mountain and lake views
- Thrilling outdoor activities including bungee jumping and skiing
- Strong internet connectivity and co-working spaces
- Friendly and welcoming community
Cons:
- High cost of living
- Isolated location with long travel times to other countries
- Crowded during peak tourist season
Cost of Living: High – Approximately $2,500/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,200
- Basic utilities: $150
- Internet: $70
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: If you’re in Queenstown, make sure to take a day trip to Milford Sound, often described as the eighth wonder of the world. The sight of the majestic fjords is an unforgettable experience.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Pros:
- Picturesque city with rich history and culture
- Vibrant digital nomad community with a number of co-working spaces
- Green capital with many parks and a river running through the city
- Excellent location in Europe, perfect for exploring nearby countries
Cons:
- Smaller size could limit certain amenities
- Winters can be cold and snowy
- English proficiency is generally good, but might not be universal
Cost of Living: Moderate – Approximately $1,700/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $700
- Basic utilities: $200
- Internet: $30
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: A must-see attraction in Ljubljana is the Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill with stunning views of the city. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a productive workday.
Florianópolis, Brazil
Pros:
- Breathtaking beaches and lagoons
- Vibrant local culture and cuisine
- Growing tech scene with a number of co-working spaces
- Mild climate year-round
Cons:
- Portuguese language proficiency might be necessary for easier living
- Distance from other major Brazilian cities
- Safety could be a concern in certain areas
Cost of Living: Low – Approximately $1,200/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $500
- Basic utilities: $100
- Internet: $30
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$15 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 7/10
Personal Anecdote: A personal favorite for many digital nomads in Florianópolis is Mercado Público, a bustling market place with a variety of local food stalls. It’s a great place to try traditional Brazilian dishes!
Tartu, Estonia
Pros:
- Intellectual and cultural hub with many museums and theatres
- Estonia’s digital nomad visa program attracts many remote workers
- Safe and clean environment
- Good location for exploring Northern Europe
Cons:
- Smaller size could limit certain amenities
- Winters can be very cold
- More limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
Cost of Living: Low – Approximately $1,300/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $500
- Basic utilities: $150
- Internet: $30
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: The Tartu University Botanical Garden is a peaceful haven for a break from work. It’s an oasis of calm right in the city center.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pros:
- Vibrant digital nomad community
- Low cost of living
- Rich culture with beautiful temples and festivals
- Access to incredible nature and outdoor activities
Cons:
- Air quality can become poor during burning season (February to April)
- Thai language can be challenging to learn
- Time difference might be a challenge when working with teams in far-off time zones
Cost of Living: Low – Approximately $1,000/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $400
- Basic utilities: $70
- Internet: $25
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $5-$10 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 9/10
Personal Anecdote: The Sunday Night Market in Chiang Mai is a unique shopping experience. You can find a vast array of items, from clothes to handicrafts to street food. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Banff, Canada
Pros:
- Stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts
- Safe and clean environment
- Strong internet connectivity
- Friendly and welcoming community
Cons:
- High cost of living due to its status as a tourist destination
- Isolated location with long travel times to other cities
- Severe winters can be challenging for some
Cost of Living: High – Approximately $2,500/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,200
- Basic utilities: $150
- Internet: $80
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $15-$30 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: If you’re a fan of winter sports, Banff is an incredible place to be. The Banff Sunshine Village is one of the most popular ski resorts in Canada. It’s an exhilarating way to end your workday.
Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Pros:
- Booming tech scene with a vibrant startup community
- Rich history and culture with various festivals throughout the year
- Lower cost of living compared to Western European cities
- Beautiful surroundings with nature parks for hiking and biking
Cons:
- Romanian language can be challenging to learn
- Public transportation can be crowded during peak times
- The city’s fast growth could lead to higher living costs in the future
Cost of Living: Moderate – Approximately $1,500/month for a single person
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $500
- Basic utilities: $100
- Internet: $15
- Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$15 per meal
Nomad Grab score: 8/10
Personal Anecdote: An underrated gem in Cluj-Napoca is the Central Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply relax by the Casino building, a historic symbol of the city. It’s a lovely spot to take a breather from your busy schedule.
In conclusion, these underrated cities offer not just stunning natural beauty, but also a thriving community and infrastructure for digital nomads. Each city has its unique charm and can provide a refreshing change from the typical digital nomad hotspots.
FAQs
What makes a city attractive to digital nomads?
- A city becomes attractive to digital nomads when it offers a mix of a strong digital infrastructure, affordable cost of living, safe environment, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Do digital nomads need a specific visa to stay in these cities?
- Visa requirements for digital nomads vary from country to country. It’s advisable to research the specific requirements for each destination before making plans.
Is it expensive to live as a digital nomad in these cities?
- The cost of living varies significantly between cities. Generally, cities in Asia and South America are considered more affordable than those in North America or Western Europe.
Can digital nomads find co-working spaces in these cities?
- Yes, all the cities mentioned have a range of co-working spaces that cater to the needs of digital nomads.
Are these cities safe for digital nomads?
- While no city is completely devoid of safety concerns, the cities listed are generally considered safe. However, it’s always essential to research and take necessary precautions.
