You can be a digital nomad in your own country. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel and work remotely from various places around my country, the Philippines. When I first heard about the Philippines being a “digital nomad heaven,” I was skeptical because I am from the Philippines, and I know how slow the internet can be. “Sure, the beaches are beautiful, like the ones in Boracay, Siargao, and Panglao, but what else could the Philippines offer to digital nomads?” someone asked me a few years ago. Well, the truth is, there’s a lot more to the Philippines than just its beaches. In fact, there are so many reasons why the Philippines is an excellent place for digital nomads that I had to share my experiences and insights.
First, the cost of living in the Philippines is incredibly low compared to many other countries. This is especially true in cities like Cebu, Palawan, and Ilocos Norte, where you can get by on just a few hundred dollars per month. As a digital nomad, you can stretch your budget further and enjoy a higher quality of life. And with the low cost of living comes low prices on real estate as well.
The Philippines has a rapidly growing real estate market, with prices that are still relatively affordable compared to other countries. This is especially true for properties in cities like Cebu, Davao and Quezon City where you can find a decent-sized apartment for around $500 a month.
In addition to the low cost of living and affordable real estate, the Philippines also has a fast-improving internet infrastructure. This is crucial for digital nomads, as a good internet connection is essential for work. The Philippines has a number of internet service providers (ISPs) that offer connections with speeds sufficient for most remote work tasks. And with the increasing availability of coworking spaces and cafes with good WiFi, it’s easy to find a place to work remotely. The Philippines is home to a vibrant and growing tech scene. The country has a high literacy rate and a large pool of talented professionals, making it an attractive destination for companies looking to outsource their work. This has resulted in the growth of coworking spaces and other amenities that cater to digital nomads.
Another reason why the Philippines is a great place for digital nomads is the abundance of natural beauty. There’s something for everyone from the beautiful beaches to the stunning mountain ranges.
The Philippines is home to a number of national parks and protected areas, where you can go hiking, climbing, and explore the outdoors. And with its tropical climate, there’s always an opportunity to hit the beach and soak up some sun. But it’s not just the natural beauty that makes the Philippines a great place for digital nomads. The country has a rich culture and a friendly, welcoming population. Filipinos are known for their hospitality and warmth and are always happy to help out a stranger. This makes it easy for digital nomads to feel at home and make connections in their new community. In addition to the friendly locals, the Philippines also has a thriving expat community. This means that as a digital nomad, you’ll have no shortage of fellow nomads to connect with and share your experiences with. It is a challenge for digital nomads to find a sense of community and connection sometimes. The Philippines is a very welcoming and friendly country, and it is easy to make new friends and connections. There are also a number of expat communities and digital nomad groups that organize events and activities, providing a sense of community for those living and working in the country.
The Philippines is a great place for digital nomads for all of these reasons and more. From the low cost of living and affordable real estate, to the improving internet infrastructure and beautiful natural surroundings, there’s something for everyone. So if you’re a digital nomad considering your next destination, be sure to give the Philippines a closer look. You won’t be disappointed.
