Curious about life as a digital nomad?
The idea of working remotely while living in a charming European city sounds like a dream—and it can be. But when I first set out to become a digital nomad and move abroad, I had a lot of assumptions about what it would be like to live and work in another country.
If you’re thinking about making the leap—whether you’re researching jobs in Europe, planning to move abroad, or just daydreaming about becoming a working nomad—here are five lessons I learned the hard way.
1. Travel Before You Settle
If you’re taking time off between jobs or making a career shift, use that gap to explore. One thing I didn’t realize until I arrived in Spain was that I actually wanted to travel less at first—to focus on building community and getting grounded.
Take a short stopover to a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, especially if it’s off the beaten path. You might not get that kind of flexibility again for a while once remote work starts in full swing.
2. Don’t Rush Into a Lease
It’s tempting to secure an apartment before you even arrive, thinking it’ll save you money and stress. But flexibility is gold when you’re new in town. I moved twice before I found the right little beach town outside of Barcelona.
If you’re moving to Europe to work remotely, start with a short-term rental like an Airbnb or a coliving space. Give yourself time to discover the neighborhoods, local rhythm, and what you really want in a base.
3. Community Matters More Than Location
You can be in the most stunning city in the world—but if you feel isolated, it won’t matter much.
Digital nomad life can be lonely, especially if you’re not working in a team or office. That’s why community has become one of my top priorities. Whether it’s joining a coworking space, going to local meetups, or connecting with other expats online, finding “your people” is what makes this lifestyle sustainable.
4. It’s Not a Vacation
Instagram might paint the picture of working from a hammock on a tropical beach—but real life as a digital nomad means… you’re still working. Most days, that looks like sitting at a desk, answering emails, managing deadlines, and attending Zoom calls—just like any other job.
Whether you’re freelancing, running your own business, or searching for remote jobs abroad, the key is treating it like a real career. If you do, the perks (like an afternoon swim in the Mediterranean) feel even sweeter.
5. You Still Need a Routine
One of the biggest challenges of remote work is staying disciplined without external structure. When you can work from anywhere at any time, it’s easy to lose momentum.
Setting a basic schedule, creating a morning routine, and blocking out focused work time has been a game-changer for me. The freedom to work from anywhere is incredible—but it’s only sustainable if you can also manage your energy and time well.
How I Became a Digital Nomad in Spain
After years of working in education and coaching, I realized I wanted more freedom—and more sunlight. I transitioned into remote work as a freelance consultant, then relocated to Spain using a visa that allowed me to work independently.
It wasn’t always smooth. I made some wrong housing choices, underestimated the visa paperwork, and spent too long trying to figure everything out on my own. But over time, I created a lifestyle that balances meaningful work, deep friendships, and a home base by the sea.
To find more about the digital nomad visa in Spain, you can visit the official Spanish government website by clicking here.
Common Questions About Becoming a Digital Nomad in Europe
❓ Can I move to Europe with a remote job?
Yes—but it depends on the country. Spain, Portugal, and a few others offer digital nomad visas that let you live in Europe while working remotely. Other countries may require a freelancer visa or permit tied to local clients.
❓ What kinds of jobs allow you to work abroad?
Popular fields include tech, marketing, education, design, writing, and consulting. You can either find remote jobs abroad or transition your existing role into remote work if your employer allows it.
❓ Is it expensive to live in Europe as a digital nomad?
It depends on the country and city. Southern European countries like Spain, Portugal, and Greece have gotten much more expensive in recent years due to the influx of foreigners in these popular destinations, but are still generally more affordable than places like the UK or Switzerland. Cost of living can be quite manageable—especially if you avoid the most touristy areas.
Ready to Start Your Work Abroad Journey?
Becoming a digital nomad doesn’t happen overnight—but it’s absolutely doable with the right strategy and support.
As a Work Abroad Specialist, I help people find clear, personalized pathways to become working nomads, living and working internationally—whether through remote jobs, a local job offer, or study-to-work strategies. Please click here to learn more about me.
🌍 Want to learn how to move abroad, find a remote job in Europe, or make digital nomad life a reality?
Send me a message or book a free 1:1 Work Abroad Exploration call to get started.