The allure of Thailand for digital nomads is undeniable. Imagine this: turquoise waters lapping at pristine beaches, vibrant cities buzzing with energy, and delicious street food tantalizing your taste buds – while you try to get to inbox zero with a stunning view. Thailand truly offers the perfect blend of work, play, and affordability, making it a top destination for remote workers and digital nomads worldwide.
But just how many digital nomads are there in Thailand? The answer, like many things in life, isn’t as straightforward as a quick Google search. While there’s no definitive number, we can explore various estimates, analyze trends, and delve into the data about the digital nomad population in Thailand.
Estimating the Digital Nomad Population in Thailand
Pinpointing the exact number of digital nomads in Thailand is a challenge. Many nomads work remotely on tourist visas, making them technically “tourists” rather than officially registered workers. However, various sources provide valuable insights:
Social Media Buzz: Platforms like Instagram paint a vibrant picture. A study by Resume.io analyzing geotagged Instagram posts with the #digitalnomad hashtag placed Thailand as the third-highest country globally, with over 124,729 posts. Bangkok alone boasted an estimated 20,247 #digitalnomad posts.
Nomad Community Growth: Anecdotal evidence from co-working spaces, online forums, and nomad communities points to a significant and ever-growing digital nomad population in Thailand.
Industry Reports: Reports from organizations like MBO Partners estimate that Southeast Asia is home to over 1.7 million remote workers, with Thailand being a major player.
While these figures don’t provide a definitive number, they paint a clear picture: Thailand is a major digital nomad hub, attracting thousands, if not tens of thousands, of remote workers year-round.
Why do Digital Nomads Choose Thailand?
So, what makes Thailand so appealing to digital nomads? Here are some key factors:
Affordability: Thailand offers a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries. From delicious meals everywhere you go to comfortable accommodation, your budget can stretch further, allowing you to live comfortably while working remotely.
Infrastructure and Connectivity: Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Koh Lanta boast excellent internet infrastructure, co-working spaces, and cafes with reliable Wi-Fi. Staying connected and productive is a breeze.
Cultural Tapestry: Thailand’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities offer endless opportunities for exploration. From exploring ancient temples to diving in coral reefs, your free time is guaranteed to be an adventure.
Nomad-Friendly Vibe: Thailand has embraced the digital nomad trend. Many co-working spaces cater specifically to remote workers, and the local population is generally welcoming and open to different lifestyles.
Beyond the Numbers: Exploring the Digital Nomad Ecosystem in Thailand
The number of digital nomads in Thailand isn’t just a statistic – it represents a thriving ecosystem. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect:
Co-working Spaces: Major cities boast a diverse range of co-working spaces catering to digital nomads. These spaces offer dedicated work environments, networking opportunities, and a sense of community.
Online Communities: Facebook groups, online forums, and apps like Fairytrail connect digital nomads in Thailand. These platforms provide valuable resources, support, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.
Events and Meetups: Thailand’s digital nomad scene is active, with regular events and meetups focused on networking, workshops, and simply socializing with fellow remote workers.
Pro Tip: Use the Fairytrail app to connect with other digital nomads in Thailand before you even arrive. Find co-working spaces, discover hidden nomad hotspots, and start building your remote work network!
Is Thailand Right for You?
Thailand offers a fantastic opportunity for digital nomads seeking a vibrant, affordable, and beautiful location to work remotely. But is it right for you? The decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like your budget, preferred work environment, and desired level of cultural immersion.
While Thailand doesn’t currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, there are options for remote workers to stay for extended periods. This includes tourist visas (with limitations on work), mid-term visas, like the Smart Visa, and residence permits like the Long Term Residence Visa (for extended stays).
Bonus Tip: Learn a few basic Thai phrases before you go! It goes a long way in showing respect for the local culture and can enhance your overall experience. And don’t forget to download the Fairytrail app to find other digital nomads, remote workers and travel friends in Thailand and beyond.
Sun-kissed beaches, turquoise lagoons, epic hikes and a (free of charge) digital nomad visa (the Premium Travel Visa) – Mauritius sounds like a digital nomad paradise, right? But Mauritius is more than just a postcard-perfect paradise. This culturally rich island boasts a fascinating history, a delicious fusion cuisine, and friendly locals. Whether you crave adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a chance to unwind and recharge, Mauritius has something for every kind of digital nomad.
But between packing your flip flops and booking your flight, a crucial question pops up: What about healthcare? 🩺 Fear not, fellow adventurers. We’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of medical care in Mauritius, so you can focus on catching the rays, climbing the mountains and tasting the local cuisine.
Does Mauritius have free healthcare?
Mauritius does boast a universal healthcare system for its residents. That means free checkups, consultations with GPs, and even medication for certain conditions. Sounds pretty sweet, right? Here’s the catch: this perk is primarily for citizens and permanent residents. As a digital nomad, you won’t qualify as a resident unless you go through the official residency process, which takes time and might not align with your nomadic goals.
What about healthcare for digital nomads in Mauritius?
The public healthcare system in Mauritius is still accessible to you as a digital nomad, just not for free. Costs can vary depending on the situation, but generally, expect to pay for doctor visits, medications, and procedures. The public system is known for being well-equipped and staffed by qualified professionals. However, waiting times can be long, especially for non-emergency situations.
As a digital nomad with the Premium Visa, according to the visa requirements, you are required to have “sufficient travel and health insurance for the initial period of your stay.” With this in mind, there are a couple of options for you to choose from:
Private Medical Insurance: This is the most common route for digital nomads in Mauritius. Plans vary, but most cover doctor visits, medications, and even hospital stays in case of emergencies. Pro tip: Look for plans specifically designed for digital nomads – they often cater to your adventurous lifestyle, hobbies and global travels.
Travel Insurance: This is a great option if you’re planning a shorter stay in Mauritius. Travel insurance typically covers unexpected medical emergencies that might arise during your trip. However, it might not be as comprehensive as private health insurance.
So, how much does healthcare for digital nomads in Mauritius cost?
The cost of private medical insurance depends on factors like your age, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. But generally, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per month. Travel insurance can also vary in price depending on the length of your trip and the level of coverage.
Staying healthy in Mauritius
Here are some extra pointers to keep your island adventure worry-free:
Be Prepared for Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with travel insurance, there might be deductibles or situations not covered. Plan to have some emergency funds set aside to handle any unexpected medical expenses.
Pack a Basic First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes, and upset stomachs.
Bring Your Usual Medications: Stock up on any prescriptions you might need, as some medications might not be readily available in Mauritius.
Research Hospitals and Clinics: Locate reputable private hospitals and clinics near your accommodation before you arrive. Many have websites with English information.
Download a Translation App: This can come in handy if you need to communicate with a doctor who doesn’t speak English.
Stay Active and Eat Healthy: Prevention is always better than cure. Stay active, eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, and keep hydrated.
Remember: A little planning goes a long way. By understanding your healthcare options as a digital nomad and taking some precautions, you can ensure your Mauritian adventure is filled with fun and sun, not medical woes.
Here at Fairytrail, we’re all about building a supportive community of digital nomads. While we can’t diagnose your earache or prescribe medication, we can connect you with fellow digital nomads, remote workers and travel buddies who might have experience with the healthcare system in Mauritius.
Download the app to find other digital nomads, remote workers and travel buddies to enjoy Mauritius with.
Imagine you’re cozied up with your laptop, taking in the breathtaking views of Venice’s romantic canals or any other stunning Italian spot. Italy has opened its doors to remote workers like you, recognizing the shift in how we work and inviting digital nomads to soak in the country’s beauty while still clocking in online.
But hold your horses before you start packing your bags for the Italian adventure! Getting the digital nomad visa isn’t as simple as snapping your fingers. So, what’s the scoop on Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa? First off, you gotta be a non-EU citizen chilling outside of the European Union.
This visa is tailor-made for skilled remote workers, whether you’re a tech whiz or a savvy entrepreneur, hustling for clients or a company based outside Italy. Now, let’s talk money. You’ll need to show you’re financially stable, flaunting a monthly income of at least €2,335, keeping in line with Italy’s wage standards.
Oh, and don’t forget your health insurance! It’s gotta cover you while you’re living it up in Italy. And of course, no shady business allowed – a squeaky-clean criminal record is a must.
Sure, the idea of working from Italy’s cultural paradise is tempting, but getting that visa? It’s a bit like mastering Grandma’s secret recipe – it takes some serious prep and attention to detail.
Italy Adventure
How much does Italy’s “digital nomad visa” cost?
Right now, we don’t have an exact answer on how much Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa will cost. However, here’s a breakdown based on what we know.
Application fee: You’ll need to pay a standard processing fee when you apply. This fee is usually around $125, similar to other Italian visa fees.
Residence permit fee: If your application is approved, there might be an extra fee for getting your residence permit.
Administrative fee: You might also need to cover costs for translating documents, getting them notarized, and sending your application.
Documents required for Applying for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa:
To apply for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need.
Passport-sized photos: You’ll need two recent, color passport-sized photos that meet specific size and quality standards.
Proof of income: Provide bank statements, tax returns, or other documents showing you make at least €28,000 a year.
Health Insurance: You’ll need comprehensive health insurance that’s valid in Italy for your whole stay.
Proof of accommodation: Show a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or other proof that you have a place to stay in Italy.
Criminal background check: You might need to provide a clean criminal record certificate from your home country or where you live.
Social security rules
For digital nomads or remote workers holding visas and subject to the social security laws of a country outside the EU, the rules outlined in the bilateral social security agreements between Italy and that specific country will be followed. If there are no such agreements in place, the social security and insurance regulations outlined in Italian law will be applied, taking into account the duration of the residence permit. Additionally, digital nomads and remote workers will receive a tax identification number directly from the police headquarters. Digital nomads will also need to open a VAT number.
Another Italy’s clever idea to grow
Loved the way Italy is making efforts to grow. Last effort was a success for them when some of its towns were feeling a bit empty because not many people live there anymore.
So, to help these towns grow again, the Italian Government came up with a clever idea! They decided to offer their old, empty homes for just one euro to people from other countries. These homes might need some fixing up, but it’s a great opportunity for folks who want to move to Italy and help make these towns lively again! And you know what? Lots of people from other countries thought it was a fantastic idea and took up the offer to become part of these communities. It’s like giving these towns a big hug and saying, “We’re here to help you grow.
Conclusion
While the allure of working in Italy’s cultural richness is undeniable, navigating the visa process requires thorough preparation and attention to detail. So, if you’re ready to begin on this journey, make sure you meet the criteria and embrace the opportunity to experience Italy’s charm while pursuing your career goals.
Get ideas about how you can live in other countries ranging from study abroad, work exchange, remote work, working holiday, investment, marriage, WWOOF. Here are the top 19 ways.
Do you remember the first time you ever travelled abroad? Do you remember how eye opening it was to realize that where you were born doesn’t have to be where you permanently stay? Once you realize how large the world truly is, the idea of residing in one place your whole life seems lame.
But don’t worry, we have put together a list of 19 ways to live and work abroad.
“Among all respondents to the Pew Research Center survey, 57% say they have not lived in the U.S. outside their current state: 37% have never left their hometown and 20% have left their hometown (or native country) but not lived outside their current state.” -Pew Research Center
Although the survey of 2,260 adults noted that a majority of the reason people choose to stay in one place is due to family ties, they also found that financial and career situations harness one’s ideas of ever migrating elsewhere; “The most popular reason that movers choose a new community, selected by a 44% plurality, is job or business opportunities, according to the Pew survey. About the same share of stayers (40%) cite job or business opportunities as a major reason for staying, but far more stayers choose reasons related to family and friends.”
These are respectable reasons to stay in one location, but the opportunist’s mentality see’s that the world has endless ways to provide food, shelter, and income regardless of your location.
First off.
Visas: Visas are required in many countries for long term travel. Your passport will get you to travel internationally, but a visa is a stamp that is placed in your passport that allows you to get permission to stay in a country for a specified time period. There are 4 different categories that visas can fall under:
Tourist visa (pleasure travel visas)
Immigration and naturalization visas(including by marriage)
Business or work visas (for working, including both non-immigrant and immigrant types)
Student visas (studying abroad)
Further in this article, we will cover a few different types of visas you can obtain to help you live abroad.
Fairytrail has put together 19 ways to live and work abroad
Study abroad or student exchange program:Whether you are still in highschool, enrolled in a university, or just wanting to gain some seasonal credits, it is highly likely that your field of study offers programs abroad! There is more than one way to go about studying abroad. Check out 10 creative ways to study abroad. If you are set out to learn something, why not do it in another country where it is potentially cheaper and you can get more of an experience out of it? You’ll be on a student visa. And usually student visas let you work part time or on campus.
2. Work exchange: People all over the world sometimes just need an extra hand within their organization or household and are willing to provide food and housing in exchange for your skills and work! Most opportunities have work hours as minimal as 20 hours per week, leaving you plenty of time to explore your new culture or even pick up a side hustle for a little extra cash. Note that there are also quite a few work exchanges that do give you a weekly or monthly allowance. Every work exchange is different and can have different accommodations. Some websites you can use for work exchanges are Workaway (what I use), Worldpackers, World traveller.
3. Teach your language abroad:How cool would it be to be eligible to teach children from all over the world without having a masters degree? There are hundreds of opportunities to be a language teacher in several countries. If you speak english, most job opportunities only require that you have a bachelor’s degree in any subject and obtain your TEFL certification. Some other programs only require that you speak fluently in the native tongue that the school is desiring you to teach! Check out 10 Ways to Get Started Teaching Abroad. They’ll normally take care of your visa through the school or help you obtain it yourself. For an example, check out teaching english in Korea.
4. Be an Au Pair / Nanny: Tons of families are eager to share their lifestyle and culture with foreigners in exchange for someone to watch over their children while they are working or traveling! If you are someone who is good with children and want to explore a new destination, check out GreatAuPair, InterExchange, and Transitions Abroad for opportunities!
5. Work online:
The amount of job opportunities to work online is growing by the second. It is one of the most flexible ways to provide and income from anywhere in the world.
Here are some examples of online work:
Blogging: Yes, there is money to be made through personal blogging. Which is a pretty cool concept right? You write content about your lifestyle and things that interest you and get paid for it?! The biggest obstacle is that before you can start making money, you have to have a strong following and subscribers. Once you do, companies and organizations will recognize you as a ‘traffic pool’ and offer you money to display their ads on your site. Aside from the adversity, this is a great way to supplement income remotely, all you need is good wifi connection and profitable content! Refer to Work from home: How to make money online for beginners for advice on how to create a pay-worthy blog. In addition look here for guidance on which ad exchange networks are the most suitable for your website!
Be a freelance writer: This one is my personal favorite considering I am currently doing it! Being a travel writer can be tough. It takes a while to gain a good reputation where websites and magazines feel confident enough in hiring you. But once you start to start to gain traction the jobs are endless! Some jobs require you to have some professional background in journalism or writing, while others simply desire to see a good work history and colorful portfolio. With new online businesses starting up everyday, the demand for writers and content creators will continue to grow. If this interests you but have no idea where to start looking here is a Complete Guide that can help get a better understanding of how to start freelance writing. The best sites to find writing jobs are LinkedIn, Upwork, iWriter, Flexjobs, and Facebook groups!
Be a freelance web designer: There is a massive demand in web designers in the world. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for web developers in the U.S in 2018 was at 160,500 and is expected to increase by 13% by 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. With the high demand, endless opportunities and very remarkable salary outlook, and ability to live and work from anywhere in the world, this career path is a no brainer. Surprisingly, many well-paid web developers didn’t actually go to college for it. Instead, they built on their skills on their own time and found online resources like Codecademy to learn. Read this article to find web-classes, tutorials, programs and communities to help kick off your web-developing journey!
Be an Influencer: Do you have a significant following on your social media platforms? Don’t let it go to waste! Social media stays afloat by nothing more than their users, and their users’ content. ‘Power Influencers’ on youtube who have anywhere for 30k-500k followers can make up to $782 dollars per posted video, that’s insane! For more platform post rates check out this data! For tips on how to become an influencer in 2020 visit Influencer Marketing Hub.
If I was to list all of the online ways to make money and live abroad, that wouldprompt for a whole separate article. For the sake of sharing online and offline abroad work, refer here if you are interested in researching for online work only!
Okay, let’s continue!
6. Work at a Hostel:Best of the best! Hostels are seriously so much fun and you get to meet a tremendous amount of travelers from every corner of the world. Generally, the work exchange tasks are simple; Clean, follow guidelines, and provide guests with the best experiences possible! Emily rose and Kiki are travel bloggers who have great content on how, why, and what to expect when working in a hostel! Also you can check out Hosteljobs.net and any work exchange sites for hostel work opportunities!
7. Ancestry visas:If you are desiring to work abroad and live in the UK and just so happen to be a commonwealth citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a UK visa that allows you to work in any of the commonwealth countries for up to 5 years, after that you can choose to either permanently change your residence or extend your visa. This is a great way to have access to working in multiple countries for a long term stay. Look here for further details on how to obtain a UK ancestry visa!
8. Youth mobility visa: (YMV)/working holiday visa (WHV): If you are 18-30 years old and wish to immerse yourself in a different culture while still being able to work, this is a great visa you should take advantage of. Without needing any other sort of sponsorship, these countries accept U.S. working holiday visas:
Click on any of the countries above to find out how to apply for a WHV. Most allow you to stay from 6-12 months. There are more countries that accept these types of visas but require much more than just the visa itself. Note that each country is different and has different guidelines which must be met prior to applying for the visa. Here are some thingsyou should knowwhen applying for a WHV/ YMV
9. Investment Visas: Many countries, for example, Canada and the USA have opportunities for investors to live in that country by making an investment in the country’s economy. In the USA the investment visa is known as EB-5 visas. It’s a way that the U.S. economy can benefit from immigrants who want to come into the U.S. Immigrants who can afford to invest money into the U.S. in exchange for entry into the country must be able to invest a minimum of $900,000 that is lawfully sourced and creates jobs for 10 U.S. workers. For further details visit uscis.gov
EB-5 Investor visa
10. Get married: Most countries grant you a visa or a citizenship if you are married to a citizen of that country. If you’re dating someone, it might make sense to pull the trigger and hit 2 birds with one stone. If you don’t have prospects, you can look for people who are open to dating people from other countries on sites Interpals and Fairytrail which give you exposure to people outside your country.
11. Join The Military: Although this might not be the most sought after option, it is quite rewarding isn’t it? Joining the military comes with incredible perks; Great income with paid housing, travel, food and opportunity to be an active participant in defending your nation! Opportunities to see different parts of the world are endless! Supposedly, the navy is the military branch that travels abroad the most, but refer here to see what branches you can join and what benefits they come with.
12. Do mission work:Your faith in god just might lead you to wonderful destinations. The simple way to find out about mission work is to ask your local church if there are opportunities for mission trips. It is no different than any other volunteer program other than the fact it is more faith-based and gives you a chance to do humble work while being surrounded by a group of people who practice the same religion as you. Check out The Best Mission Trips.
13. Be a House sitter/ pet sitter:Similarly to being a nanny, sometimes people just needsomeone to safeguard their home and animals while they are not actively there. How simple is that? When doing this, it is important to have a good understanding of your destination and the house owners’ guidelines and expectations. The best and most reputable place to find house/ pet sitting jobs is TrustedHousesitters.com.
14. Be a WWOOFER:WWOOF Stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. These are humbling opportunities to connect with others while simultaneously giving back to the earth we walk on and learning skills that make for a more conscious, sustainable, and eco-friendly lifestyle. If you don’t mind getting dirty and love learning, this is the way to go! A word of warning, it can be isolating depending on the experience.
15. Become a diplomat/ embassy personnel: Being a diplomat can prompt for a very wide range of responsibilities, but all of those responsabilites having to do something with representing on behalf or your country while communicating and collaborating with other countries; “They use personal relationships with officials and citizens of the hosting country to advocate for U.S. interests, to work together on common causes, and to explain U.S. society and values”. – The National Museum of American Diplomacy
The National Museum of American Diplomacy also noted how various a diplomats scope of work can be:
“Our diplomats support Americans living or traveling internationally for positive events (such as registering a birth of a child) and in times of stress (assisting a jailed American citizen or helping to evacuate Americans from danger.) They ensure a level playing field for American businesses overseas. They support joint counter terrorism cooperation and criminal investigations. They decide who has a legitimate reason to travel to the United States and issue visas accordingly. They work to ensure the safety and security of international flights to the United States. They fight pandemics and deliver humanitarian aid to those in need. They assist governments to respond better to their citizens’ needs, making countries more stable and secure. They link emerging leaders in government and civil society to American counterparts to foster relationship building and collaboration. Also importantly, they provoke interest in foreign students in pursuing U.S. higher education. This is far from a conclusive list of diplomatic priorities, but it gives a flavor of the varied work of U.S. diplomats”.
In short, if you are someone who has great communication skills and is willing to negotiate, mediate, network, and enforce policy on your country’s behalf, you might be a great fit for being a diplomat. If this is something that may interest you and you have a bachelors or masters degree in a field of study that is correlated to the tasks of diplomatic work such as international relations, political science, sociology, or foreign policy, check out the requirements and roles of being a diplomat!
16. Work for the National Forest Service/ be a park ranger abroad:Globally, there are 3,044 national parks to explore, and each one of those national parks is subject to having dozens of resorts, campgrounds, wildlife conservations for visitors to explore and for you to work at. Many opportunities for expansion in these settings and it’s a great way to explore the nature-scape of different land. The U.S. alone has 419 national park sites, so if you live in the U.S., you won’t even need to travel outside of your country to work and live in a new setting. But if you desire to do national park work outside of your country, there is plenty of work for that as well. Many opportunities are seasonal and accommodate housing and food, (which may be deducted from your pay). Also, if the National park you are interested in does offer housing, it is more than likely that you will have to dorm with other people, which is a great way to network and meet others!
17. Flight attendant:If frequent flying is something that doesn’t phase you, this is a great way to make money and travel for free! Just like any occupation, being a flight attendant has its ups and it’s downs,(literally), but it is a very easy field to get into and can open up many opportunities to see different parts of the world! Check out How to Become a Flight Attendant to Work and Travel For Work to see how to get involved!
18. Be a cruise ship hand: Although there are many positions you can fill being a cruise ship hand, if you are someone who doesn’t get sea sick, you are automatically a shoe in for all of the work positions! The Cruise Lines International Association, 32 million passengers were set to travel on cruise ships in 2020, which is up 30 million from 2019. More demand means more job availability. The major cruise line corporations are Carnival Cruise Corporation, Holland American Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Check out All cruise jobs to find the latest opportunities!
19. Peace Corps:Not all countries have the best access to food, clean water, and proper medical care. If you have a background in the medical field, agricultural studies, environmental studies, education, youth development or community development and are itching to do humble work, this is a way to use your skills to serve the greater good and see different cultures. Peace Corps is a competitive organization to get into simply because their standards for volunteer participants may be higher. Check to see if you possibly meet the minimal requirements!
I hope this article, at the very least, has opened your perception to how many ways there truly is to live abroad. The world is more full of opportunities than it isn’t, you just have to be willing to look beyond your normal environment!
“Women who reported sitting for more than 6 hours during their leisure time had an approximately 40% higher all-cause death rate, and men had an approximately 20% higher death rate.” – American Journal of Epidemiology
“Women who sat more than 7 hours a day and women who did no physical activity were more likely to have depressive symptoms than women who sat less than 4 hours a day and who met physical activity guidelines, respectively.” – American Journal of Preventative Medicine
“According to the World Health Organization, physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause to global mortality. Being a freelancer who primarily earns an income from my laptop, this puts me on the frontline for chronic diseases and that terrifies me.” – Fairytrail member
What’s even more scary, as I am writing this article, I am strengthening these statistics. Chances are that you, as the reader, are too.
Somewhere between the lavish lifestyle blog posts and “how I trained for my first 5k” video tutorials, a critical piece of information is silenced; the gruesome amount of sedentary hours that freelancers face.
Considering that there are over 57 million freelancers in the United States alone, this is a topic that needs consistent attention. To bring consciousness to the potential long term affects of a sedentary lifestyle, we must observe some of the short-term symptoms.
Here are some physical health struggles that freelancers regularly experience:
Joint pain / stiffness
Weight gain or unhealthy weight loss
Bad posture & back pain
Slow metabolism / digestion issues
Easily fatigued from exercise
Most of these issues are simply caused by the excess of sedentary tasks and restrictions of range of movement. Whereas, 9-5 jobs in food service or hospitality require you being active on your feet for long hours. And considering that we are collectively experiencing the restrictions of COVID-19, those who regularly did their due- diligence of attending the gym are hindered as well.
But overcoming adversity is what fabricates the best entrepreneurs, right?
These burdens are not enough to counterbalance the benefits of being a freelancer, they are just conditions to note while entertaining this way of living.
So what are some ways to incorporate health & physical activity into your busy life?
1) Modify your tasks
That zoom call you have in 20 mins?
Maybe no one will mind if you are on a brisk walk during the call, or chime in between sets.That is if you use mute as needed that way no one is a victim to your awkward heavy breathing.
Just starting to brainstorm ideas on a new pitch or project?
Put down the pen, close the computer and brainstorm on the go. Get your blood moving and as ideas come to mind. Open up notepad on your phone and type or voice record them so that the can be marveled on later.
Don’t have time?
You are 100% right! You don’t have time, that’s why you have to make it.
I know that is a broken-record statement, But in all honesty we operate in a trifecta of the Mind, body , and spirit. This trifecta works like turning gears, and when one gear gets neglected, it isn’t a long grace period till the other gears suffer the ache as well. Lucky for you, being a freelancer demands being creative.
And MOVEMENT fuels CREATIVITY.
A study conducted in 2014 by Stanford University suggested that “out of the 48 participants, 81% improved their creative output while walking”.
As far as each individual goes, their creative juices are enhanced by 60% JUST BY WALKING. The experiment further claimed that extending your activity to the outdoors can expose even more benefits.
“Think about it, they are called creative juices for a reason, right? When you exercise, your heart rate increases, which sends more blood flow to the brain. As blood flow increases, your brain inherits more oxygen. Physical activity is not just for your body, it’s the key ingredient to helping your brain be a well-lubricated machine.”
Any movement is better than none. As long as you are getting your heart rate up in some way to increase your blood flow, you will benefit. Use your creativity to innovate ways to weave movement medicine into your everyday life.
If you can find wiggle room, use it to wiggle!
2) Make movement your first priority.
We have all been there; Setting the alarm for 5:45 am in regards to squeeze some morning cardio in before you start your day. You turn to respond to your alarm and one of 2 things happen:
You hit snooze and sleep in past your goals
You find yourself knee-deep in emails and internal pressure to start crafting new content, completely putting AM movement on hold.Staaaahp. Don’t do this.
Remember a great benefit to being a digital nomad is having more time to yourself and not having to be rushed into a workplace everyday that has overhead.
Don’t let your phone or laptop be that overhead.
Your body is the vehicle that drives everything in your life and business. Don’t put it on the back burner.
3) Set the pace for the day.
As soon as your eyes open in the AM, your cortisol levels rise. Why not use that flight response to fuel a good morning workout? (which in return, will REDUCE overall stress). Not to mention, if you give yourself too much time, your entrepreneurial ego will negotiate “more important” things you can be doing with your time than tending to your health. Also, if you get your physical activity out of the way first thing in the morning, you will have the rest of the day to be working more effectively with a clean conscience knowing that you put your health first.
Benefits of A.M. workout include:
You will burn up to 20%, due to being in a fasted state.
No problem! Everyone is different. If A.M. workouts come with too much resistance, then that may not be your peak hour to work-out.
“I have found that my workouts are more effective in the morning, but honestly some people feel they reap the most benefits from their workouts in the evening. A great way to determine whether your workouts are most efficient in the morning or evening is to listen to your body and journal your energy levels throughout the day. Whatever times of the day you’ve documented that you were the most energetic, try and plug in some physical activity during those times and see how you feel.”
Your body digests food a lot better when it knows that it is going to actively need it, but if you are sedentary for most hours, your digestive tract may become sedentary as well.
If you are going to be sitting for a while, is it necessary to eat dense foods such as pizza and steak that digest slower and will sit in your stomach like a log? Fuel your body as necessary to your activity level. That way you dont experience a calorie surplus resulting in weight gain or calorie deficit, resulting in fatigue.
“Energy input should equal energy output – that’s the key! Know that your body is going to be using whatever you are putting into it. If you predict a slower-moving day ahead of you, adjust your food consumption accordingly.”
Chew slowly and thoroughly to ensure that your lax-day compensates your digestive system. Possibly drink tea or just warm liquids to nurture your metabolism throughout the day.
5) You don’t need a gym or equipment to have a killer workout.
Whether you are a freelancer who doesn’t have space for equipment during travels or a gym junkie who is deprived due to COVID-19 , it’s time to get innovative with your exercise.
Here’s a tip, YOUR BODY IS YOUR BEST DUMBELL. And no, i did not just call you dumb.
Your body is with you wherever you go (duh), might as well use it! Here are 50 bodyweight exercises that you can perform literally anywhere. If you want to add a little more heat, resistance bands are flooding the fitness industry. They are perfect for light traveling and can be used anywhere in multiple ways. If you are someone who is is interested in using technology as a fitness tool, check out out article on our recommended best fitness apps.
“ I have a good feeling that because of the coronavirus, people are going to start taking it upon themselves to integrate fitness into their everyday life rather than strictly going to the gym 2x a week. Gyms are amazing, but you don’t need them to get a great workout in. There is TONS of free workout content all over the internet that require very little space and no equipment. Most of them can be done in under 10 minutes! If you are someone that needs a little more guidance I suggest you find a fitness influencer that you truly vibe with and support them. You are helping them as they are helping you.” – Bella Gonzalez
James had a similar response when asked “what effects do you think this pandemic will have of the fitness industry?”
“I think people are going to come out of this quarantine feeling better than they did before. Overall, for some people, this was a very necessary pause to reset their mind, body, and spirit. A pause that has given them the time to consider what they value in their daily routine and to integrate activities to look after their well-being. You really only need a small space to perform a decent workout at any intensity level.” – James Leung
6) Your body can stand almost anything. It’s your mind that you have to convince.
“It’s important to keep your ‘mindful movement-toggle’ turned on in all circumstances. When you are traveling, find ways to marble physical activity into your vacation, that way you are not taking away from your experience nor are you neglecting your body. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy. It could be as simple as walking to your next tourist destination rather than Ubering, squatting with your backpack on, a short jog on the beach, taking the stairs to your hotel room rather than the elevator. Yoga mats and resistance bands are lightweight and you can use them anywhere. Seriously ANYTHING to get your blood pumping and to remind your body that you are always being mindful by finding ways to take care of it.” – Bella Gonzalez
“It’s easy to slip into an unmotivated mindset. But if you look around, you will find inspiration everywhere. If you are conscious of the science-backed reasons of how physical activity greatly improves your overall wellness, it becomes a no-brainer as to why you are going to do it despite any outside factors. Bruce Lee says, ‘think and you shall become’, if you think with a wellness mindset, a wellness lifestyle will start to surround you.” – James Leung
There will always be a way that your mind will try and convince you not exercise, but none of those reasons are valid.
Without your body & it’s optimal health, you wouldn’t be eligible to experience all the greatness life has to offer.
So rather than putting your health last, put it first!
James Leung is a traveller, wellness-teacher, trainer, and content creator for BALM. James is using his past education and inherited skills to apply them to his passion: Living and promoting a wellness lifestyle from anywhere in the world. When not travelling, James predominantly resides in London. Although he enjoys all things wellness related, he highly enjoys martial arts in yoga.
Next destination: Thailand.
If you would like to get to know James better, you can find him on instagram @jamesjleung or @balm.welness
Bella Gonzalez is a free-spirited freelancer/yoga teacher who uses her knowledge as a graphic designer to supply income and connect with the world while fulfilling her dreams of endless exploration. All-in-one package and a true go-getter.
Maintaining physical fitness may be more of a struggle now that gyms are closed due to COVID-19. If this is something that rings true with you, keep on reading!
It’s easy enough to say to ourselves that we are going to make the best of these wild times by getting in shape or trying out those new healthy recipes, but actually doing it is a whole different scenario.
Some people are more “fitness savvy”. Knowing the best workouts, equipment, and fitness apps comes naturally to them.
If you are like me, you are more prone to moving your body aimlessly in hopes of looking like Jennifer Lopez by summertime.
We live in an age where anything we need guidance with is right at our fingertips, including fitness!
Here are the best health and fitness apps for staying well during this pandemic.
What kind of person would I be if I didn’t start off with a biased opinion?
This is the app I use EVERYDAY and in my opinion, surpasses the other apps I am about to mention. It helps me track my calorie input and output, which is vital during this pandemic because boredom snacking is a very real thing.
This app is extremely customizable to your current health state, your goals, and how much activity you are willing to put into to reach your goals.
It has TONS of free workouts based on whatever you are trying to target. Both step by step and video routines are available.
The best part is the massive food database you can use to track your food/calorie intake. It has over 6 million food entries you can add to your food log as well as having the option to customize your food entries yourself.
The only downfall of the large food database is most all of the entries have been made by other users, so you might have to fact check if the calorie numbers seem off.
There is also a barcode scanner in the app for instant access to food item details.
Annnnddd… IT’S FREE.
For 9.99 monthly of 49.99 yearly, you can get premium features and track your macros more accurately. I find enough satisfaction in the standard but if you do desire to upgrade, premium on MyFitnessPal is significantly cheaper than other apps!
What makes this app COVID-19 worthy is that you can virtually compete in workouts with friends! Most of the workouts are short spanned, high-intensity focused, and can be done anywhere with no equipment! Free with in-app purchases!
Don’t let the name fool you, men can definitely break a sweat from these workouts too. This app is flooded with questions but rather simply gives you an option to answer questions for customization, or simply skip to the workouts. This app is easy to navigate and aesthetically pleasing.
The best feature is that the main home page features workouts based on;
Difficulty level
Body targeting
Time of workout
HOW MANY CALORIES ARE BURNED?!
That’s pretty rad. If you eat a cookie that’s 46 calories, you can burn it off in 10 minutes!
Want to try something new that will calm the chaos of the coronavirus? This app is straight to the point for the user; main page featuring what the user might be seeking. Whether it be winding down for bed or toning your bum, it has it all. App made by the same designers as Workout For Women, thus having a similar format of displaying workouts’ traits front & center.
One month ago, we alerted our community about the dangers of COVID and strongly advised against traveling before lockdowns began. Since then the world has changed dramatically.
Although our community has always embraced remote life (93% of our members are fully remote or aspire to be), it seems the whole world is talking about it now.
3.1% of US workforce are fully remote (4.8m US digital nomads 2018 / 155.76m total US workforce 2018)
In 2018, only 3.1% of the US workforce considered themselves digital nomads (aka fully remote). The Coronavirus is accelerating the adoption for remote work.
We are glad more people are learning about remote work. This means massively more opportunities and support for us.
Online Events
Here’s a list of things now available to us as our world becomes remote friendly. Perfect for those looking for jobs, learning, and networking.
Running Remote’s Remote AID 2020 is a free, virtual workshop event on April 20th at 8AM PST. It’s designed for companies and people struggling with emergency work-from-home policies during the coronavirus outbreak. My friend Anna just did a 9-hour rehearsal of her charity event! It’s going to be amazing. Reserve a spot.
My friend Joe Blair’s Remote Startup Expo is on Thursday, April 23rd at 10AM PST. A virtual summit featuring 20 top remote startup CEOs/founders! 100% free, 100% remote. This is not a webinar. There will be ample time for networking via Remo. Reserve a spot.
We got tickets and will be there. GET FREE TICKETS!!
Fairytrail Update
Our virtual dating concept is now being talked about by mainstream media as one of our members explains on NBC.
Entrance fee is coming next week (assuming Apple approves our app update), so invite your friends to join Fairytrail now while it’s free.
Fairytrail Campfire is meant to let nomads and world citizens help each other achieve their business and personal goals (aka make dreams come true). Some of us want to have the freedom to be anywhere which means having a job that lets them work remotely.
Tribe Theory is a new category in hospitality. Their mission is to connect, inspire, and empower the world’s entrepreneurs and enable the creation of ONE MILLION businesses worldwide by 2030. Through their global hostel chain, they are aggregating talent and ideas from every corner of the world and building a full-fledged ecosystem for business services to become a global entrepreneurial platform on which we can fulfill our dreams.
“Tribe Theory empowers startup enthusiasts to build their dream startup while working remotely from their hostels. It enables collaboration and brainstorming!”, says Taige, the Founder of Fairytrail.
Fairytrail is proud to partner with Tribe Theory. Use code “Fairytrail” at checkout to get 10% OFF on booking your favorite startup hostel on Tribe Theory.
Fairytrail is a travel adventure dating app that connects single travelers on group journeys and activities. Its mission is to help people explore the world’s cultures and places with someone they like.
