Is there a type of accommodation that you should aim for to ensure that you get maximum work done while having enough of a social outlet? Here we look at the best attributes Digital Nomad accommodation.
We will assume for the purpose of this blog you either a solo nomad or travelling as a couple, but not with a family. We’ll be writing more on how to book long term stays and get the best deals in a future post!
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How to Digital Nomad find apartments?
One key way to find apartments is to use Airbnb or Vrbo. Both sites offer long stays and often offer a discount for booking for a month or longer.
We also love booking our accommodation like this, because you don’t have to pay the full amount at once if you are staying for a long period. If you are staying for three months for example, you will pay in sums rather than one full amount.
Which is better, Airbnb or Vrbo?
The big debate. You can find out more about whether Airbnb or Vrbo is better.
How to find Digital Nomad accommodation: Your Own Place v Shared Space
For us, it’s crucial that we have our own space to work and be creative in. We’ve tried staying in Hostels and working but came to the quick realisation that it was time to move on! They may be much cheaper and have the party atmosphere, and a central location, but realistically the amount of work done and sleep you will get there will be minimal.
What about a private room in a hostel I hear you say? The distractions will still be there from guests who are on a holiday rather than working. Having your own place also provides flexibility about what time of day you can work night or day.
If you love the social atmosphere of hostels, you could scope whether they run any events and join! Or even better, find a Nomad event near you.
How about cafes? We love working in cafes, just make sure you buy enough to justify your long stay! Nobody likes a nomad who drinks one cup of coffee and takes up a seat for 3 hours!
Some cities, particularly those with high numbers of Digital Nomads now have co-working spaces. This isn’t something we personally go in for, but it may be a good option for you.
How to find Digital Nomad accommodation: Centrally location v Further Out
Largely, this depends on the location but ideally, we tend to look for a super central location especially in a city.
Getting to know a new place will take time. You will not know where the best bars, cafes and grocery are located. By being centrally located you can easily gather your bearings and get this sussed out in the first few days. Yes, it will cost more than places further out but on balance, we think the time saving makes it worth it. If you choose to locate yourself further out, you will spend time each day on public transport.
That said, for an upcoming stint in Dubrovnik, we’ve opted to stay further out of city a quiet suburb with an apartment overlooking the sea. There may be times in your work, when you’ll benefit from the peace and quiet that you can’t achieve being central in a city! It comes back to a personal decision, based on what your current goals are at the time.
How to find Digital Nomad accommodation: The Non-Negotiables for digital nomad accommodation
At Lotus Eaters Travel, we have a list of non-negotiables when we rent a new place. This is:
- A washing machine;
- A terrace or outdoor space (more on that below);
- A kitchen or kitchenette as a minimum;
- A desk or table of some sort that enables effective working for two people.
More important than having any other appliance in the accommodation is a fast stable internet connection. All plans fall apart when the internet fails to live up to expectations. Many Airbnb hosts will have a picture in their profile showing the internet speed. If they don’t then send a message before you book and ask. You can also read reviews from previous occupants.
Is an outdoor space required for digital nomad accommodation?
This may not seem that important but having an outdoor space such as a terrace or balcony can be a huge productivity boost either to work on or to take a break. Some of our best ideas have come while sitting on a terrace with a cup of coffee/glass of wine.
It also provides an entertaining space for friends you make or allows dinner al fresco in those hotter months. Plus, if your indoor space is small, then having a terrace can be great to double up as a workout area.
Is this essential for digital nomad accommodation. For us, it’s non-negotiable.
What about house sitting?
Another option for Digital Nomad accommodation is to consider house sitting. We love house sitting and find that not only is it cost effective, but it a super way to see a new place. Plus, houses listed for house sitting are often great places, with excellent work space.
If you want to find out more about house sitting, you can read our posts here:
You can sign up to Trusted House Sitters through our affiliate link and receive 20% off today. That’s a huge saving over the course of a year of membership. You can find the website here.
How to stay productive as a Digital Nomad?
An important part of finding Digital Nomad accommodation is getting somewhere with productive working space. If you’re keen to improve your productivity, check out our blog series on the very topic:
- Challenges of working remotely
- How to increase productivity as a Digital Nomad
- How to achieve balance between work and travel as a Digital Nomad
- Are you a productive remote worker/ digital nomad?
- 9 ways to manage your time better as a Digital Nomad
- How to work productively from anywhere in the world
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Most of our planning is done using other blogs, but you can’t beat a guide book at the bottom of your case. Find yours on Amazon here and get the travelling started!
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