Throughout the decade the amount of digital nomads has successfully risen, with over 10 million people categorized as being digital nomads which is exactly why countries are trying to catch up and have begun issuing digital nomad visas. Speaking of countries, have you ever wondered which country is the best for digital nomads? well, we have over 12 countries to complete your bucket list, and it's not your typical bucket list. We have included a budget at the end of each country which includes accommodation, food, and transportation. It can vary depending on your lifestyle, might cost more or less than the estimated budge such as the type of accommodation, and the food you choose. 

If these countries did not satiate your curiosity, check out the Top 10 Countries for Digital Nomads. 

1. Norway 

Norway takes the lead in the World Happiness Index, it’s not surprising that they are, with crisp air, glittering fjords, vast mountain range combined with fast internet speed who wouldn't be tempted to move their home office straight to Norway. There are several co-working spaces across the country where you can easily meet new people and it’s also a great opportunity to network. 

Spend your new year in Norway with TripLeader Lisa and enjoy the northern lights.

Estimate budget per month: US$3,000

Tromsø, Norway

2. Sri Lanka 

Formerly known as Ceylon, it was then changed to Sri Lanka in the year 1972. This paradise island lies within the Indian Ocean and is known for their rich biodiversity, production of cinnamon and their delicious tea! The must-see sight is the Sirigiya palace ruins, which are perched on top of 200m ruins on a high rock, it is surrounded by a detailed network of gardens and reservoirs. Rice is one of the main components in Sri Lankan cuisine, it is usually served with fragrant curries, you can also opt for vegetarian dishes all throughout the country. Most nomads would vouch that Sri Lankans are one of the most hospitable countries in the world, you can easily make friends with the locals and they are also very keen on helping foreigners. 

Overall it’s quite an inexpensive country to settle in, you can also Indulge yourself in Ayurvedic spa treatments, And good news! Apparently, the Sri Lankan government is working on a digital nomad visa to encourage travel into the country. 

Estimate budget per month: US$800

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

3. Lombok, Indonesia 

Compared to its sister island Bali, Lombok is also an affordable location for nomads to settle in. it isn’t as crowded as Bali and the natural wonders there are mostly untouched and in pristine condition. The internet speed is also good and attractions around the island are mostly free of charge or would not cost more than $1 to enter specific beaches, there is a huge community of expat and digital nomads alike in Kuta and Senggigi as well as cute co-working spaces you can explore. 

Lombok is also home to the next MotoGP course, so you can look forward to watching the next race in a beach! Book a trip with TripLeader Angel and see Lombok from the point of view of a local. 

Estimated budget per month: US$800

4. Hungary

It might not be as popular as its surrounding European countries but Hungary has a lot to boast about. Starting with Budapest, located near the Danube river, it is the perfect city for Nomads as it also has multiple public transportations to accommodate visitors in visiting the cultural spots of Hungary. Head over to Debrecen and enjoy the architecture that dates back to the 19th century, Sopron on the other hand is filled with medieval architecture. 

 Estimate budget per month: US$1,100

Budapest, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Hungary

5.Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina is has a mixture of North, Latin  American, and European influence this city has a vibrant nightlife and is a major cosmopolitan city in South America, you will also have great travel opportunities to surrounding countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. The digital nomad visa policies are also very friendly, you can extend your 90 days stays and enjoy more of its café culture.

Estimate budget per month: US$900 

Caminito, Buenos Aires, Argentina

6. Cape Town, South Africa

As the oldest and second-largest city in southern Africa, it is rich in culture and home to the magnificent Table mountain, the beautiful country is also known for its world-class wine trails and coastal retreats. It is also fairly inexpensive for digital nomads and filled with coffee shops to work in. if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you might want to consider kayaking, surfing, sandboarding, and even sky diving. If you’re looking to make new friends there is also a meetup application where you can select your locations and it’ll connect you to groups that are nearby. 

 Estimate budget per month: US$1,200                                                                        Cape Town, South Africa

7. South Korea 

Trust me when I say this country is filled to the brim with unique cafes and is a shopping haven! You should definitely try Korean food such as Tteokboki, Kimbap, and raw marinated soy sauce crab, an amazing delicacy. There is quite a big community of digital nomads in Seoul, the capital of the city of South Korea and one of the best neighborhoods to settle in would be Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae, and Dongdaemun. 

When you are in Korea don’t forget to visit Jeju Island, its beauty will leave you in awe.

Estimate budget per month: US$2,000

31 Daehak-ro 11-gil, Myeongnyun 4(sa)ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea, Daehak-ro 11-gil 

8. New Zealand 

Famous for its picturesque landscape and indigenous Maori culture, this country is probably one of the few Covid-19 green zones in the world. Set up your basecamp in Auckland which is the biggest city in the whole country, it has unique restaurants, water harbors, mountain ranges, and even rainforests. You can expect an abundance of free activities to do around the city, you can find beautiful beaches like Mission Bay and Takapuna, or head to the east or the west coast if you are into surfing. Splurging on Manuka honey and Trying Maori traditional food is also a must when you’re there! 

 Estimate budget per month: US$2,100

Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, New Zealand

9. Greece

Planning to launch a digital nomad visa soon, Greece is a haven for tourists and nomads alike. There are multiple co-living spaces and rental apartments you can opt for, the cost for food and groceries in Greece is relatively cheaper compared to other EU countries. Greeks also know how to party so expect a dynamic nightlife, Thessaloniki, Athens, and Psiri is a well-known party destination in Greece. 

Enjoy your weekends by exploring the beaches of Mykonos, Venetian forts in Corfu, as well as the iconic volcanic island of Santorini. 

 Estimate budget per month: US$1,300

Oia, Santorini, Greece

10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The city of Kuala Lumpur is a colorful and vibrant city filled with ex-pats and digital nomads, it is a unique blend of multiple cultures from Malays, Indians, & Chinese. If you’re into street food then this is the place for you! There is abundant street food and “Peranakan” dishes which is a mixture of Malay and Chinese cuisine. There is a bunch of cafes and co-working spaces all throughout the city, and if you’re bored of the city life you can always hop on a boat or flight to Langkawi or Pangkor Island and if you’re into driving opt for a 5-hour drive to Penang island, a beautiful island donned with iconic and historical pieces. 

Malaysia is also connected to Singapore by a shot toll drive, so feel free to explore Singapore during weekends. 

 Estimate budget per month: US$800

Sunset View from Trader's Hotel towards KLCC Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

11. The Caribbean 

Most of the island countries in the Caribbean have allowed a digital nomad visa so you can splash around the beach after work. Enjoy Barbados, Bermuda, Mauritius, Anguilla, Antique, and Barbuda. Living costs here might be a tad bit pricey in comparison to other countries but it is definitely worth the visit. You have friendly locals, amazing accommodations, and beautiful beaches. 

Estimate budget per month: US$1,300

Bahamas Berry Islands aerial view

12. Malta

This island country is located in the Mediterranean sea consists of 3 main islands and you should definitely check out the fish market in Malta, the well-known one is called Marsaxlokk fish market, open on Sundays you can expect to get a good bargain on the seafood there. Other must-see sights are the Dingli Cliff to enjoy the sunsets, Blue Grotto, the old capital of Mdina, and the island of Gozo. there are a few Starbucks around Malta as well as coffee shops and co-working spaces you can opt for. 

 Estimate budget per month: US$1,300

Popeye Village ,Malta, Mellieha, Malta

Now that you know what your options are, feel free to create your own trip and find travel buddies in our ever-growing travel community and if you're not sure how to create a trip you can always book a free trip consultation with our travel specialist. If planning and organizing isn't your cup of tea you can simply join an existing trip, there are loads in our website starting from guided trips, co-working trips, roadtrips, safari trips, and so much more! so sit back and relax and you can let your trip leader do the rest.