As an independent traveler who works around the world, you’ll inevitably develop favorite destinations. Of course, that also means you get to know a city better and have more time to explore. Depending on the hours you work, you’ll likely be on a schedule that’s more aligned with working locals. That makes the travel experience unique and allows you to really experience what it’s like to live somewhere, as opposed to just passing through.
It’s not hard to understand why Barcelona is a top destination for an independent traveler. The city is a hub for just about every industry in Europe, from fashion to biotech. Of course, it’s also known for its beauty. Incredible architecture is one of the main draws for travelers from around the world. Not to mention, the city sits right on the Mediterranean Sea, so you get the best of both worlds with gorgeous beaches nearby. You’ll truly never be bored, and may want to rent an apartment and stay for a while!
Edinburgh is commonly considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has a rich history, and is also Scotland’s political and business capital. If you want to explore the breathtaking Scottish Highlands on the weekends, this is definitely the place for you. It’s also home to some top universities and is a great place to work. The city hosts some world-class events every year, and is known for its incredible live music and great pub culture. As a bonus, it’s also quite central for quick weekend trips to London, Paris, and Dublin.
California is one of the top places to visit in the United States. Known as “the Golden State,” it has warm beaches, rugged mountains, bustling cities and everything in between. Head to San Francisco to experience Silicon Valley and the center of the tech world. You’ll also find some incredible food, great hiking, and can head to the nearby Yosemite National Park or Lake Tahoe. If sun and sand is more your preference, head south to Los Angeles or San Diego. Again, you’ll find incredible food, plus gorgeous weather and beaches.
As the political capital of the United States, you’ll be hard-put to find a more international destination than Washington, D.C. The city is known for its iconic monuments, world-class (free!) museums, and delicious food. It’s also home to a busy business scene as well as top-tier public transport. It’s easy to live in D.C. as an independent traveler, because the city is relatively small and accessible. You’ll be able to meet people from all over the world, do a lot of networking, and attend fun events at embassies!
The island nation of Singapore is one of the very top destinations of choice for digital nomads and travelers alike. It’s a hub for just about any industry, and English is the official language. Singapore is incredibly modern, with breathtaking architecture, and a highly globalized economy. It boasts delicious food, great shopping, and world-class museums. Singapore is perfect for those who love adventure, as common activities include wakeboarding, windsurfing, and dragon-bat racing. Of course, if you’re a nature lover, Singapore has rainforests, nature reserves, and wetlands as well. Finally, it’s a great home-base if you want to travel to Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other parts of East Asia.
If you’re an outdoor adventure lover, Chile is probably already on your bucket list. Backpacking in Patagonia is one of the most incredible experiences in the world. That southernmost region of the planet is famous for its rare beauty. Santiago is a thriving metropolis and an excellent place to set up shop as a remote worker. You’ll find relatively affordable rent, and a highly international community. It’s a great place to learn or practice Spanish and embed yourself in a network of international startups. It’s also the perfect place to stay in between trips around the country and the rest of South America.
Photos:
1 Rooftop, by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash.
2 Victoria Street Edinburgh, UK, by Emran Yousof on Unsplash.