Thriving as a Digital Nomad, Creative Ways to Work from a New City

The life of a digital nomad is as thrilling as it is challenging—especially when you find yourself in a brand new city, ready to merge work with wanderlust. I've found that focusing on setting up a comfortable workstation at home is the first step, followed by identifying unconventional workspaces that I could pop into to when the work I was doing was more creative, and inspiration was needed.

Here's how to redefine your office and keep productivity high, no matter where in the world you are.

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1. Set your workstation with essential gear

Every digital nomad knows that the right gear is the key to a seamless transition into a new working environment. I travel with essentials like a portable monitor and a reliable keyboard to replicate the comfort of my home office setup. These tools help maintain a familiar and efficient workflow, even when I'm thousands of miles away from my usual workspace. Traveling with these items isn't the most practical - the cost for the suitcase and to check the luggage adds up over time. Instead, purchasing or renting for less locally is an interesting approach if it's easy to find and secure.

In addition to gear, having elements that feel like home help round out the space. Learn more here >

2. Secure Your Connection, Wi-Fi Wins

Once your station's setup, what's the next task upon arrival? Secure a stable Wi-Fi connection. Whether it's through the accommodation’s internet or a local SIM card for tethering, ensuring you have a robust and fast connection is a must. This keeps the workflow smooth and the video calls clear, helping maintain professionalism and productivity. A stable connection is your lifeline, ensuring seamless meetings and uninterrupted work hours from your home when you need it.

3. Tune Into the Local Vibe, Musical Motivation

To really settle into the work groove and set the vibes in the new home, I curate a playlist that reflects the vibe of the city. Local music can serve as a backdrop to your workday, offering a cultural immersion that keeps the energy up and the creativity flowing. It's not just about filling the silence—it's about embracing the local culture and rhythm. For playlist ideas, use Shazaam to capture songs as you wonder about and create a playlist specific to the city. Here are a few of mine (coming soon). This auditory backdrop will boost your mood and inspire creativity.

5. Co-Work with Creativity, Explore Co-Working Spaces

Co-working spaces are the backbone of the remote working community in many cities. These spaces offer not just a desk or a booth but a chance to connect with fellow nomads and local entrepreneurs. In most cities, I usually check out at least one co-working spot, since each offering unique amenities, from bottomless coffee to networking events, making them a great option for both work and social interaction. I've tried day rates, week-long, and month-long rates; it really depends on your working style but I've found teh day pass works well to check a new environment but to be honest - I don't usually go back! I feel there are more interesting, creative spaces to work from and Co-Working spaces often have rules that I don't find as productive for me. If you can find a space that allows you to join evening events and networking then this is well worth it (and of course, if it's dog-friendly).

6. Café Office Days, Coffee Shop Productivity

There’s something about the buzz of a busy café that can boost productivity and creativity. I seek out local coffee shops with strong Wi-Fi and an inviting atmosphere. This isn’t just about the caffeine fix—it’s about finding a spot where the energy is high and the change of scenery can spark new ideas. Discover coffee shops with strong Wi-Fi and great coffee — they’re the traditional choice for a reason! The change of scenery can spark new ideas and keep your workflow fresh. It's true, not all cities welcome laptops at their cafe. I've found this most relevant in Madrid, which makes you turn to even more creative options (read below).

7. Step Outside the Box, Unconventional Workspaces from Bars to Beaches

Why limit yourself to traditional workspaces? Challenge yourself to push the boundaries of where you can work. Bars during their quiet hours can be surprisingly productive spots, with their relaxed atmosphere and usually excellent internet. Similarly, setting up for a few hours on a park bench or a quiet spot on the beach allows for fresh air and fresh perspectives—just make sure your battery is charged! As inspo, here are a few unexpected places I've worked from, that lead to unparalleled productivity and a change of perspective. (coming soon - beach, Michelin star restaurant, oldest bars in the world, bars on the Top 50 list, City bus tours)

8. Balance Work and Wanderlust, Explore and Work and determining the right environment for the type of work you're doing

Working from a new city is an opportunity to explore and grow. I balance work hours with exploration, ensuring I experience the city beyond my screen. This could mean early morning runs to discover hidden paths, or evening strolls through the city’s vibrant streets. It’s about creating a lifestyle that blends productivity with exploration. Integrate work with exploration. Take breaks to visit local attractions or enjoy a quick stroll in a nearby park. This balance keeps your spirits high and fosters a deeper connection with the city.

Not all work can get done in a coffee shop - what if you need to take meetings? What if you need to focus on writing, or math, or draw. Different types of environments can help you get in the right mindset for the type of work you're doing.

Read more >

9. Night Owl or Early Bird? Optimize Your Schedule

Adjust your work hours to match your most productive times. Whether you're a night owl enjoying the calm of the evening or an early bird catching the sunrise, find your rhythm to maximize efficiency.

10. Be Print-Prepared, Local Printing Locations

Even in our digital age, some tasks still require a good old-fashioned printer. I make it a point to locate a local printer or a copy shop early on, just in case I need to print documents, contracts, or marketing materials. This preparation saves you from last-minute scrambles and ensures you're ready for anything. Identify nearby printing services for those unexpected needs. Knowing where to go to print documents and contracts will save you time and stress. This has happened to me several times - it's not a big deal, I'd just find a local printer which is a journey in itself. Just remember that with working remotely, access to these things might be needed.

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Being a digital nomad is about more than working remotely—it's about creating a life that is as dynamic and adaptable as the work itself. In each new city, by setting up a space that feels both productive and inspiring, and by venturing into unconventional workspaces, you not only get your work done but also embrace the full experience of your travels. This lifestyle isn’t just about where you work from; it’s about redefining what work looks like and making every destination an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.