Currently looking to DN for the first time, and have the opportunity to do so coming up in January. I have about 3500 USD per month available, but will have to work European hours (which will be around 6-12 in the evening in these countries).
I’m planning to stay at least a month, but have a hard time picking a country.
The Philippines, Taiwan and Indonesia are all high up on my list. Ive previously really enjoyed my time in Thailand, Korea, China and Japan, just travelling, and want to go for something different now.
Internet speed for video calling is likely the most important, weather, safety, cheapness and things to do and see come second.
Do you guys have any recommendations or which of these to pick, if it were up to you?
I’m open to Asian countries that I haven’t mentioned yet too.
Taiwan was my first solo trip (and first time in Asia). It was amazing. Indonesia was my second one. I would suggest Taiwan for the internet stability. Try to learn a little Chinese as well.
The internet in Taiwan is fast, reliable and cheap. The internet in Philippines isn’t “expensive” but it’s not fast nor reliable. Indonesia is a step up from the Philippines, but not at Taiwan’s level.
Taiwan is a high-income, developed country with the infrastructure and quality of life to show for it. The Philippines and Indonesia are beautiful and have a lot to offer but they’re middle-income, developing countries and you’ll feel that when it comes to infrastructure and quality of life.
You can certainly live in Taiwan on $3,500/month. You won’t be in the lap of luxury but you won’t be destitute either. $3,500 goes a lot farther in the Philippines and Indonesia on paper but there are things money simply can’t make up for when you’re in the developing world.
As an alternative to the Philippines and Indonesia, you could consider Thailand or Malaysia. They’re less wealthy and developed than Taiwan (and Japan, Singapore and South Korea) but more wealthy and developed than the Philippines and Indonesia.
I hated the food in Manila, and I found Taipei boring. But if you’re gonna be by the beach, I think the Bali beaches and digital nomad community might be better
Taiwan internet is the best and it’s cheap. Food is cheap as well. Train system is good. I suggest you go Taiwan first to adapt your new job.
Avoid the Philippines. AWFUL food and generally isn’t developed enough for a long term stays. I’d only advise it for a couple weeks to visit the amazing islands.
100% this
It’s not a place to stay long term, expensive accommodations that are poor quality. Poor infrastructure and even groceries are unaffordable. Out of those I would pick Indonesia or Taiwan.
I liked Manila and even though there’s a lot of poverty, fancy places and fun aren’t missing. Visa for long term is one of the easiest.
You can get a nice condo outside BGC even for $300 a month.
Plus, they are very influenced by european culture due to previous spanish colonization and I find it amazing.