There are many different digital nomad communities around the world, each with their own unique culture and vibe. If you're thinking about joining one of these communities, or just want to learn more about them, this is the guide for you.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about digital nomad communities, including what they are, where to find them, what to expect when you join one and a list of all the most popular options. We'll also provide some tips on how to make the most of your experience as a digital nomad.
So whether you're just starting your research or are ready to take the plunge, read on for the ultimate guide to digital nomad communities.
What is a digital nomad community?
A digital nomad community is a group of people who live and work remotely, often in different countries or locations. These groups often gather in coliving or coworking space to share resources, collaborate on projects, and support each other in their travels.
Digital nomads are often drawn to these communities because of the freedom and flexibility they offer. In a traditional work setting, it can be difficult to take extended periods of time off or work from different locations. But in a digital nomad community, these things are the norm.
Another attractive aspect of digital nomad communities is the social element. For many digital nomads, the ability to meet fellow nomads and form close friendships is one of the most rewarding parts of the lifestyle.
Of course, not all digital nomad communities are the same. Some are more structured, with membership fees and organized events, while others are more informal and relaxed. And while some digital nomads choose to live in one community for an extended period of time, others move around frequently, bouncing from place to place as they please.
What are the benefits of joining a digital nomad community?
There are many benefits to joining a digital nomad community, both for those who are just starting out as digital nomads and for those who have been living this lifestyle for some time.
Some of the benefits of joining a digital nomad community include:
1. Access to a network of like-minded individuals.
2. Opportunities for collaboration and networking.
3. A sense of belonging and support.
4. Access to resources and information.
5. Encouragement and motivation from others in the community.
For those just starting out as digital nomads, a community can offer much-needed support and guidance. For more experienced digital nomads, a community can be a source of inspiration and creativity. No matter where you are in your journey, a digital nomad community can offer many benefits.
Types of digital nomad communities?
1. Online communities:
There are many online communities that cater to digital nomads, offering support and resources for those who live and work online. These communities can be found on forums, social media platforms, and dedicated websites.
2. Hosted Global Co-living Communities:
These communities are often organized by companies or organizations that provide temporary housing for digital nomads. These communities typically have a more structured environment, with events and activities planned in advance.
3. Location-specific communities:
Some digital nomad communities are based in specific locations, such as Bali or Bangkok. These communities often have their own coworking spaces, social events, and meetups.
4. Interest-specific communities:
There are also many digital nomad communities that cater to specific interests, such as those related to entrepreneurship, freelancing, or travel hacking. These communities can be found online and in person, and often offer resources and networking opportunities for members.
Online Communities
Nomadago
Nomadago is your personal nomad community in an app. You add your friends, share your travel plans, and then plan trips with your network based on their calendar and locations. It's helpful to stay in touch with friends that you meet all around the world as you can see when your paths will cross next. With a public mode, you can also find new nomad friends immediately when you arrive in a new city.
Perks: Works for both new nomads and veterans as you can find new friends but also stay connected and discuss trips with your established network.
Digital Nomad Subreddit
This subreddit is a great educational forum to get tips and tricks on everything from remote work to the best digital nomad cities. It's also an excellent source for nomad news and any other nomad events that are going on.
Female Digital Nomads Facebook Group
Taking the leap into the nomadic lifestyle can be tough so this Facebook group was created to help women give tips to navigate this territory and connect with other women. There is constant advice being shared on everything from visas to where the best coworking spaces are.
Hosted Global Co-living Communities
Wifi Tribe
Wifi Tribe is a community for digital nomads who are looking for structure and support while they travel. The community offers unique, 1-month "chapters" for about 15-25 nomads, each of which is lead by one of the Tribe hosts. Every month typically has new locations available and includes accommodation with reliable wifi and workspace, a host, slack channels. and a new group of friends. Wifi Tribe has an application process including interviews to ensure a global network of like minded individuals.
Perks: Wifi Tribe chapters are open to the members to plan there days and activities so it doesn't feel like a tour group. Slack channels are very active to get advice and learn from other nomads. They are constantly changing locations to give members cool new trip options.
Hacker Paradise
Hacker Paradise is also community for digital nomads who want to work and travel at the same time. With a similar set up to the Wifi Tribe, they provide its members with accommodation, workspace, and a supportive network of like-minded individuals in locations around the world each month. Hacker Paradise provides 1-2 hosts that plans weekly lunches and skill shares on range of topics like travel or marketing hacks.
Perks: They have flexible options for trips such as 2 week trips and different start dates. They include coworking spaces on each trip that they host where every member can work under one roof and serve as a home base.
Outsite
Outsite is set up in a different format as more traditional coliving spaces but still has a structured community focused on remote workers. They own 30+ locations around the world where members can book at any time and for any length of time. Only Outsite members can book an Outsite stay so it's always full of people living the digital nomad lifestyle and a great place to meet new friends. Each location has a manager as a point of contact and a group chat to plan fun things with other members.
Perks: Plenty of options around the world at all times. Very flexible while still a curated community. Outsite tends to be cheaper than the other options but depends on the location.
Selina Co-living
Selina is an atypical hostel and coworking setup. It's one of the biggest hostel chains in the world and tends to be higher end with private rooms and suites along with the bunk rooms. They cater heavily towards remote workers and and the location independent lifestyle with networking events and reliable coworking spaces. They introduced a "Co-living" program for people doing extended stays and focuses on making connections with other remote workers. You're added to an online group and they set up nomad events and meetups. Also, their locations tend to have really cool set ups too.
Perks: Selinas are always hosting events and typically have a great night life. Their large network makes it easy to bounce to another Selina if you travel to a new city .
Remote Year
Remote Year is a bit different from the other nomadic communities in that it's more structured and focuses on longer term trips for 4 or 12 months with the same group. Remote year has set locations in 12 cities around the world that your group would visit each month and they typically help more with the logistics of the trip and have excursions already set up for you. They have recently introduced some 1 month trips as well to these locations.
Perks: They help with logistics and have set excursions making it easier, especially for newer digital nomads. Being with the same group longer makes for deeper connections.
Location-Based Nomad Groups
Slack and Whatsapp Groups
In each digital nomad hub, you'll often find a centralized slack or Whatsapp group where people plan unofficial events or just grab food and drinks together. Usually it's as simple as another member sharing the invite link to these digital nomad groups for you to join.
Location-specific coliving
Digital nomad hubs may also have small communities around a coliving local to this city. You'll find in places like Chiang Mai, Bali, or even remote locations there will be coliving places to meet other remote workers. Some may also serve as retreats from cities while still getting the benefits of meeting other nomads.
How to find groups in a specific city
There are many ways to find digital nomad communities, both online and offline.
Some of the best places to look for digital nomad communities include:
1. Facebook groups:
There are numerous Facebook groups dedicated to helping people connect with other digital nomads. To find these groups, simply search for “digital nomad” or “location independent” in the Facebook search bar.
2. Coworking spaces:
Coworking spaces are places where people can come to work independently, often with other like-minded individuals. Many of these spaces have regular events and meetups that digital nomads can attend.
3. Online forums:
There are several online forums dedicated to helping digital nomads connect with each other. Try searching for “digital nomad forum” or “location independent forum” to find some of the most popular options.
4. Digital nomad conferences:
There are a number of conferences specifically for digital nomads that take place throughout the year in various locations around the world. Attending one of these conferences is a great way to meet other digital nomads and learn about the latest trends in the community.
5. Local meetups:
In many cities, there are regular meetups for digital nomads and other location-independent professionals. These meetups provide a great opportunity to meet people who are living the same type of lifestyle as you and to learn about new resources and tools that can help you in your travels.
How to decide on the the right community for your lifestyle and goals?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the right community for you will depend on your specific lifestyle and goals. However, there are some general tips that can help you find the right digital nomad community for you:
1. Define your goals:
Before you start looking for a digital nomad community, it's important to take some time to think about your goals. What do you hope to achieve by joining a community? Are you looking for networking opportunities, collaborative projects, or simply a group of like-minded individuals to socialize with? Once you know what you're looking for, you'll be able to narrow down your search.
2. Consider your location:
Are you looking for a community in a specific location, or are you open to meeting people from all over the world? If you have a preferred location, you can use that as a starting point for your search as you don't want to have to travel from South America to South Korea.
3. Consider your budget:
Some digital nomad communities require membership fees, while others are free to join. It's important to consider your budget when searching for a community, as you don't want to end up paying more than you can afford.
4. Use online resources:
There are many online resources that can help you find digital nomad communities, such as forums, social media platforms, and dedicated websites. These platforms can be a great way to get started in your search.
5. Ask around:
If you know other digital nomads, ask them for recommendations. They may know of some great communities that you haven't heard of before.
No matter what your goals or budget are, there's a digital nomad community out there that's right for you. With a little bit of searching, you're sure to find the perfect community for your needs.
What to Expect When You Join a Digital Nomad Lifestyle Community
When you join a digital nomad community, you can expect the lifestyle to be quite different from what you're used to. In most cases, you'll be living and working in close proximity to other members of the community. This can provide a great opportunity to network and collaborate with other like-minded individuals. You'll also have access to resources and amenities that may not be available to you if you were working independently. Additionally, many digital nomad communities host regular events and meetups, which can be a great way to socialize and explore your new surroundings.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience
1. Get involved:
One of the best ways to make the most of your experience in a digital nomad community is to get involved and meet people. Attend events and meet ups, participate in discussions online and maintain those connections along the way. Nomadago can be a great resource for this.
2. Be respectful:
Remember that you are sharing living and working space with other people. Be respectful of their needs and space, and clean up after yourself.
3. Take advantage of resources:
Many digital nomad communities offer access to resources that you may not have otherwise. Take advantage of these resources, and use them to help you grow your business or pursue your goals.
4. Have fun:
Don't forget to enjoy yourself! Say yes to things you usually wouldn't.
There are many different types of digital nomad communities, each with its own benefits. To make the most of your experience in a digital nomad community, get involved and meet people. Attend events and meetups, and participate in discussions online. Additionally, take advantage of resources that may not be available to you if you were working independently. Finally, don't forget to have fun!
