The island life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
If we’re honing in on Bali, there are a lot of frustrations that come with living here and some, ironically, point the finger at the invasion of digital nomads.
More traffic, higher prices, less authenticity – you know, the dreaded G-word that comes with these sorts of things.
Sure, gentrification is a cause for concern, but the fix may be to swap the idyllic island life for the hustle and bustle of big cities used to a mix of cultures where you’ll feel welcome.
Asia ticks off all the boxes for every type of travelers, not just Taipei personalities.
Across this vast continent, digital nomads have a laundry list of options of amazing cities to make their base.
But it’s time to say goodbye to Bali and hello to the phenomenal city of Taipei, Booking’s ideal destination for digital nomads.
All That’s Missing Is A Digital Nomad Visa – Coming Soon?
Try to erase the fear-mongering narrative regarding Taipei over the past couple of years. Those talks have died down.
In actuality, Taipei has been on the receiving end of positive hype lately.
For example, Taiwan’s top destination was recently named Asia’s most affordable destination based on data from both Kayak and Travel and Leisure.
The budget category is usually a top concern for digital nomads no matter where they reside. Point being Taipei won’t break the bank across the board.
Other factors are safety, navigability, reliable Wi-Fi connections, and comfortable workspaces.
Taipei has glowing remarks for all of these, including its global reputation as an LGBTQ+ haven.
Plus, there are never-ending things to do here, including action-packed markets, relaxing hot springs, immaculate temples, and panoramic views from one of the world’s tallest buildings.
Never a dull moment between your work tasks!
The only thing missing is an official digital nomad visa, but word on the street is it’s in the works.
For now, Taiwan offers the Taiwan Employment Gold Card – a work permit, residency permit and re-entry permit wrapped in one.
Otherwise, tourists can stay up to 90 days visa-free.
Endless Adventures
90 days is more than enough time to explore Taipei and beyond. Digital nomads tend to live out of their backpacks, essentially.
You can’t pack a car, nor can you ever pack materialism, meaning sometimes you have to bear the brunt of doing things the old-school way.
Here, that means exploring by foot or rail – both are great options!
Taiwan recently released an incredible unlimited train pass for tourists valid through September.
Given the popularity, it wouldn’t be surprising to see an extension.
However, rail travel in general is very cheap, especially around the city. Tickets are as low as 61 cents!
Taipei is made to be explored day and night with astounding natural attractions like free-to-enter Yangmingshan National Park to infinite food options from street vendors to fine dining.
Taiwan may be relatively small, but ease of access allows you to visit a multitude of cool spots, leaving no stone unturned in its most sought-after city.
Tip: If you’re an adventurous eater, make sure to try local delicacy, Stinky Tofu! Smells like a barnyard, but tastes surprisingly good!
Cheap Stays And Trendy Cafes
If you’re a full-fledged digital nomad, chances are you won’t be ordering room service at nice hotels but rather whopping up dinner yourself in a cozy Airbnb or hostel.
The good news is that Taipei’s accommodations are very affordable. Expect to pay no more than $900 at most, but also keep an eye out for great values on the outskirts as low as the $200s!
While you may not want to spend your entire time in a capsule hotel, more and more of these unique stays are popping up across Asia, including Taipei.
Check out the Capsule Inn Taipei, which is equipped with a work lounge to get your Taipei trip started off right.
The city boasts dozens of new co-working spaces as well and all you have to do is scroll through #Taipei on TikTok to see all the trendy eye-popping cafes for boba and coffee.
One is Yaboo Cafe, outfitted with charging stations and zippy wifi.
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