When is a tourist not a tourist, when they are digital nomads!
Probably the only real connection between these two groups is that they both love to travel and see new sights, and that’s about it. It’s almost like trying to compare apples with pears, yes, they are both fruits but what else do they have in common, nothing.
What is a tourist? These are people who travel to a destination with the primary goal to relax, and of course there is nothing wrong with that, but it should come as no surprise that they prefer to roll out a towel on the beach rather than dive into the local culture. They aren’t working, in fact a big reason for their trip is to get away from work. Digital nomads, on the other hand, are remote workers. Not remote holidaymakers. So how can you spot a digital nomad? Well, there is a good chance that a remote worker starts off their travelling life as a tourist. Seeing new places, new languages, sights and sounds that all make up the rich tapestry of travelling. They then however, go on step further, and decide that yes, they can move away from their offices and take their desks on a journey with them.
Now whilst tourist have certain, and rather obvious demands, such as accommodation, restaurants, attractions, etc. Nomads have themselves conditions that they are seeking. These have some similarities with tourists but just one a different level. Toothache, you’ll need a dentist. Having a bad hair day, need a hairdresser. Out of shape, time to hit the gym. As you can see the services a remote worker requires are pretty much the same as a local, in other words they are locals from another country.
If you plan of staying, and indeed working, away from home for up to a year, then you’re going to need a plan, both a financial plan as well as a life plan. Breaking the 9 to 5 commuter lifestyle isn’t easy. But the rewards are so great that it’s a “no risk, no profit” life decision. Or as many nomads like to say “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Whereas on the flip side tourists are looking for that comfort zone in abundance and preferably with a sea view.
