How to become a digital nomad – and make money from the beach: experts reveal top tips for living anywhere in the world – from combating loneliness to applying for visas

Imagine a life where your workday starts with ordering an exotic smoothie at your desk at a beach bar.

Sound attractive? MailOnline Travel spoke to two digital nomad experts who explain how you can make this a reality.

They reveal their top tips, from planning and visa applications to avoiding loneliness.

If you dream of becoming a traveling worker, their advice will help you make the transition.

PLANNING FOR THE TRANSITION

Take at least two to three months to sort out “all the logistics of moving as a digital nomad,” says digital nomad and technology expert Michael Moore, from arranging visas to booking longer-term accommodation.

Create a virtual address in your home country where you can scan or forward email, so you have a permanent address for banking, taxes, voting and more.

“For bank accounts, you can find options that allow you to sign up and manage them online from anywhere,” he adds. 'Digital banks like N26 provide this service.'

Also do some shopping.

“Invest in a lightweight, durable laptop that's powerful enough to handle your workflow, plus a spare battery,” says Michael, founder of Dedicated to vinyl, suggests. 'The lighter the better for frequent travel.'

Have a stable mobile WiFi, such as Solis is also crucial, he says. While cloud platforms such as G Suite or Office 365 give you access to files and tools from any device.

He adds: 'Download useful apps like Grammarly, Trello and Slack, which allow you to work efficiently on the go.'

Justin Chia, expert in data analytics, web3 and tech, and founder of Justjooz.comrecommends getting blue light glasses and noise-cancelling headphones, for better focus and fewer distractions.

VISA

Thoroughly research the visa requirements for each country you want to visit to ensure you apply for the country that best suits your needs and length of stay, Michael says.

Where you live may be determined by which visas are open to you, with some locations offering 'digital nomad or freelance visas that offer longer-term options beyond a tourist visa'.

He adds: 'If you plan to stay in one place for an extended period of three months or more, consider obtaining the appropriate long-term visa. It allows you to rent an apartment, open a bank account, and so on.

'Be prepared to provide evidence of remote working or freelancing, such as contracts and letters from clients when applying for visas. Some require minimum income thresholds. And always make sure you have travel medical insurance that covers the duration of your trip or visa period.'

You can visit popular places such as Thailand and Indonesia for 30 days after arrival, Justin emphasizes.

He also suggests Germany, Estonia, Croatia and Mexico as countries offering visas for digital nomads.

ONCE YOU'RE MOVING…

Once on the road, Michael suggests staying at least one to two months at each destination.

He says, “Anything less than that, and you're in a constant state of transport, which can be exhausting.”

Another factor is the tax.

He explains: 'To avoid problems with your tax residence, limit yourself to spending a maximum of six months in a specific country per tax year.

'Consult an accountant who has knowledge of expat taxes and the implications of digital nomads.

'You will probably have to continue filing taxes in your home country.

'Research tax laws in countries where you earn income. You may have to pay taxes in those locations, depending on specific rules and thresholds.

'Look at tax-friendly bases such as the UAE, Malaysia or the Cayman Islands to set up a business or become a resident.

'Services such as Stripe Atlas you can set up a US company remotely, which can provide tax benefits.'

SETTING UP AND MAINTAINING YOUR NEW WORK LIFE

“Start with your existing network and let them know you're looking for remote work,” says Michael, who suggests using LinkedIn, social media and alumni job boards.

Additionally, he suggests using specialized remote job boards such as RemoteOK, We work remotely, Removableand sign up for job alerts and attend virtual networking events.

He adds: 'If qualified, register for online education platforms such as VIPKid, GoGoKid, Qkids. This provides a steady stream of remote income.”

Justin says you should also make sure your resume shows off your remote work skills.

Once you're up and running, Justin recommends creating a work schedule that “works with colleagues at home,” avoiding “odd” work hours and taking advantage of co-working spaces to 'separate your work and your free time'.

AVOIDING WELL-BEING AND LONELINESS

Establish a daily morning routine that “makes you feel grounded”—exercise, meditation, journaling—and keep it up even while traveling.

That's what Michael says, adding: 'Set working hours and stick to them. Working all day can quickly lead to burnout if you don't have regular free time.

“Co-living spaces offer a built-in community. If you go alone, stay in social hostels or use apps to find local language exchanges.'

The experts recommend scheduling video calls or staying in touch with friends and family and making new friends along the way.

Justin adds, “While the digital nomad life offers great freedom, it can also feel lonely.

'Deeper connections with people and places bring more joy than being constantly on the move.”