Another destination advice post. My situation is a bit different than most here, mostly about age and budget - don’t kill me.
35M, Canadian, have been semi full-time nomading for a couple years with a lot of pre COVID backpacking before then. Lucky to have a quite high paying job (high six figures USD) that is semi flexible in terms of work. Recently purchased a small place in Canada that will be my “home base”, but my plan is to spend about half the year abroad, mostly during our winter months (December - April-ish).
Recent longer term stays have been Medellin, Buenos Aires, Bali. Although I’ve loved these trips, I find I am often meeting/hanging out with a very different demographic of nomad - early/mid 20s, still building their careers, much smaller budget. While this is still fun, it’s starting to become monotonous as our life and career stages are just so different. Especially when in developing regions my budget means most doors are pretty open in terms of accommodations, last minute flights, activities, etc. and it can be hard to find people to do these things with.
Eastern hemisphere is better for me as the time zones work, so South America is mostly out. I’ve considered a second base in Europe (Berlin, Amsterdam), but the weather would also be bad during the same months I am trying to seek the sun. Australia is an obvious option, but a little too similar to my home town and want to avoid living in two of the most expensive cities in the world rather than having my $ go further while away. Similar thoughts for the ultra bougie options like Dubai. Have considered elite Thai visa, Bali second home visa, etc.
Some other things I’d like:
- good nightlife, but not a solely party town
- near a travel hub
- good networking opportunities with similar lifestyle people - business opportunities, creative excursions, etc.
- developed infrastructure
- options for longer term stay/buying property if I fall in love with a place
Again, I realize this is a very privileged position to be in. I have very much enjoyed the last decade+ of hostels and budget friendly travel, but I’m looking for the next step.
Thanks!
Save for Singapore, which I personally find to be one of the most boring and artificial places in the world, you might as well rule out SE Asia.
The infrastructure on the whole is not “developed”, visa/permanent residency options aren’t great and the ones that exist are in countries that aren’t exactly stable in terms of immigration policy, and you have limited options for actually owning property (a lot of leasehold nonsense with few decent freehold options).
As a fellow Canadian who’s been balancing a high-paying job with the digital nomad life, I totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve been in a similar boat, seeking destinations that align with a more established phase of life and career. Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, has been a gem for me. With the elite Thai visa, you get the sun, a vibrant expat community, and a lifestyle that your budget can comfortably support. I’ve found great networking opportunities here, especially in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which aren’t just about partying but have a thriving business and creative scene. Plus, with your budget, you’ll have access to some top-notch accommodations and experiences. And a tip: for occasional hotel stays, I’ve used Rebookify to snag some surprisingly good deals, even at luxury spots. It’s not just for budget travel! Maybe see you around in Thailand
OP you’re making me think there’s a niche for high end bougie hostels - expensive, luxury accommodation that’s still geared towards socializing. Not a place you stay at to save money.
Maybe this already exists 🤷
Selina is basically targeting this hypothetical niche. Occupancy rates around 50%. Dead money.
Absolutely. This was actually a business idea of mine as I started to age out of party hostels… I’ve found coworking/coliving spaces, but they always seem to feel a bit sterile and also err on the side of being on the budget end.
I assume there are such playgrounds for the more ultra wealthy, on an ‘if you know you know’ basis.
Singapore. You won’t find people with a much smaller budget there.
Thanks - definitely on my radar. Is there a good expat community there? Easy to meet people on longer term stays?
I’d say Singapore. I know people who make high 100k there. May I ask how much you make when you say high 6 figures USD?
Thanks, will have to try Singapore it seems like some love it some hate it. Around 700-800k USD.
Maybe Phuket, Thailand. Lots of long termers there and ties in well with the Elite Visa.
Thanks. +1 for Thailand. Will explore in 2024 for sure!
Also Canadian (45). I think Bangkok would be a good spot for you, much more so than Singapore. Huge and diverse range of expats, many of whom have made a lot of money or running businesses (both here and abroad).
Istanbul could be a solid option - true global hub in every sense