While being a digital nomad has been a possibility for a select group for many years, over the last few, it has really democratized. More and more of us are able to build our lives around being digital nomad and exploring the world while working our nine-to-five jobs from anywhere. It is truly a marvelous thing!
If you are thinking about starting off on this new lifestyle but are still unsure about where to go, here are some tips for living as a digital nomad in Southeast Asia.
Maintaining Your Old Routine
When we are living as digital nomad, we are living in a liminal space between vacations and a work routine. For this reason, maintaining some elements of your old routine can bring about a nice sense of stability. This may present some challenges, as some activities you are used to doing are not as common or even not allowed. For example, retail casinos are not allowed in Thailand at all.
A good alternative is signing up at an online poker site, known in Thailand as โป๊กเกอร์ออนไลน์. Here, the experts will recommend the best sites available in Thailand to play poker online. They also cover the biggest welcome bonuses and the different banking options available for online Thai poker sites. If you want to try some new types of poker, they will show you how to play Texas Hold ‘em, Pai Gow, Seven Card Stud, and more.
This is an example of how maintaining your routine may require you to look for alternatives that are close to what you are used to. Even if it is not exactly the same, it can still be quite comforting and an important part of your transition.
Finding Room For New Things
Of course, as we travel, we also want to explore new things. Maintaining a sense of comfort is important, but so is learning and trying new activities. Make sure to keep yourself open to this. With so many great places to visit in Asia, you will be awash with new and exciting experiences! You will not want to miss them!
For example, many Southeast Asian nations are renowned for their excellent cuisine. Vietnam has a very unique cuisine that is heavily influenced by French cuisine. You can see this in the baguette that is used in bánh mi. Whether sipping phó in the evenings or trying red bean desserts, opening yourself up to new cuisines may be one of the ways to make your experience unique to this delicious region.
Preparing Yourself
In addition to tips on your experience there, there are some things you will need to keep in mind as you prepare for your trip. To organize this monumental task, it can be helpful to separate it out into three categories: how to prepare yourself culturally, technologically, and emotionally.
Culturally
Preparing yourself culturally can mean everything from learning a few words in the native language to understanding meal etiquette. There is a lot to learn, so do not expect this to be a completely smooth process. Inevitably, you will be surprised by some of the new things.
An important tip is to brace yourself so that you can interpret these surprises as positives instead of shocks. These unexpected and sometimes uncomfortable experiences are learning experiences that help us grow!
Technologically
Especially for those of us who are using digital devices for our work as digital nomads, preparing ourselves with the right technology is essential. Think about what you will need to do your best work. Consider edge cases that will not be the most common but will still happen now and then.
For example, if you think you will use an extra screen once a week, there are travel versions that could be perfect for you. Consider if it is cheaper to buy and carry with you or purchase on-site.
Emotionally
Traveling comes with lots of emotions. Everything from the excitement for new experiences to dealing with the fear of flying. This is not the only fear you may face. When we are new somewhere, we will not have the same support network we are used to having. Be sure to have regular check-ins with people who love you around the world. This will keep you grounded!