Our interview with Matthew Philipps, AARP’s Director of Travel this month talked about the 9 million (and growing) number of digital nomads that have been liberated from their office courtesy of Covid 19. The emerging friendly countries for your consideration are Spain, Thailand, Vietnam, Estonia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Canada, United Kingdom, Romania, Sweden, Denmark, France, Switzerland, Australia, Croatia and Georgia (the country, not where Valdosta onions are grown). Bermuda has caught our eye with a “Work from Bermuda” a one year Visa. Just get your Covid 19 test and vaccination.

As a digital nomad, you have the freedom to travel all over the world and make money, as long as you have internet access. Our tips based on having worked in five different countries as we live seasonally:

1. Do your research on the locations you choose. Sure, you have the freedom to work from anywhere, but you have to look at a few factors about that country because going to the wrong country can negatively impact your work.

2. Make sure your Visa works. Look at Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa program, the first of its kind in the European Union. You can establish your business without any travel or residency issues. Watch for this catch on!

3. Check with your CPA on U.S. tax policy and taxes that may apply in your country of choice. The following review is credited to Gertrude Rodriguez who provides wonderful commentary on several countries. She saves you some of the leg work, getting your digital nomad journey off to a good start.

1. SPAIN Not only is Spain one of the top 10 European countries to visit in 2020 by Earth & World, but it’s also one of the best countries to live and work in for digital nomads! Spain is a country full of daily inspirations. You could be walking to a local coffee shop or commuting a short distance, and you’ll be in awe of the beautiful landscapes, the breathtaking architecture, and the overall rich history you’re intaking. Not only is the environment captivating, but the country is leading the way for upcoming small business owners and freelancers every day. Not only will you be able to find co-working and co-living spaces throughout the country, but you’ll also be able to find digital nomad communities there as well, all you have to do is search for them.

2. THAILAND Why is Thailand so great for digital nomads? Well, its cost of living plays a significant role in all of it. You know that as a digital nomad, you work as little or as often as you want, but to earn an income, you have to work. Still, because Thailand’s cost of living is so affordable, you don’t have to stress yourself trying to do as much as possible to pay your rent or accommodations. Thailand also has lots of house sitting opportunities as well, so instead of paying rent at all, you can get paid to house sit and work on your online business as well. House sitting in itself is payment enough, allowing you not to have to pay for a hotel or hostel. Then there’s the food. No more ordering Thai food because when you move to Thailand, you’re just ordering food! Not only is the food in Thailand delicious, but it’s authentic and affordable! The food and price of food alone is a digital nomad’s dream come true!

3. VIETNAM Vietnam isn’t just great for digital nomads because of its rich culture and history. It’s also great because of its better transportation system, affordable living, and its excellent communications infrastructure. Those aspects alone make Vietnam’s capital, Ho Chi Minh, the fastest growing cities in Southeast Asia. In addition to its affordable living and fast-growing economy, Vietnam is also one of the friendliest countries as well. As a digital nomad traveling from country to country, there are going to be plenty of places where you’re not going to know or understand the language. Some locals get impatient with that, and some don’t, but in Vietnam, the people are very hospitable and friendly. Their positive attitude and welcoming hospitality will help you overcome the stress of culture shock. You’ll be blending in with the locals before you know it!

4. CZECH REPUBLIC The Czech Republic is notorious for being a hub among entrepreneurs, freelancers, and, of course, digital nomads. Much like Spain, the Czech Republic has fantastic public wifi and tons of co-working spaces. Here, coffee houses are much more than just coffee houses. they’re a commonplace for networking and building and establishing positive professional relationships.

5. HUNGARY Not only is Hungary a fast-growing country, but from an affordability standpoint, Hungary is a digital nomad’s dream. Did you know that you can rent an apartment in the city’s center for around $500 to $600 a month, give or take? Because of its affordable cost of living, there are tons of digital nomads and like-minded individuals that live there. So if feelings of loneliness ever overwhelm you during your stay, check out the digital nomad communities in the area. It’s pretty significant. A complete list of 85 countries can be found at https://www.circleloop.com/nomadindex.