Staff ReporterA NEW study from research company Global Intelligence Unit has found once again that Spain is the best country in the world for digital nomads – i.e. workers who only need a computer and an internet connection to do their job.
Spain is among the more than 50 countries that offer special visas to attract foreign workers, but has a series of advantages that set it apart from the competition.
“Spain has become the ultimate hotspot for digital nomads,” Laura Madrid, leader of Global Citizen Solutions’ research team within the Global Intelligence Unit, told the magazine Travel + Leisure.
The country, she explained, ‘offers an amazing quality of life’.
“Plus, Spain is much more affordable than many other European countries. Housing, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, so you can live comfortably without breaking the bank,” she added.
One of the key attractions for digital nomads is the country’s high-speed internet, with one report estimating that 96% of households have a connection and that the average speed is 115mbps.
This is thanks to Spain’s investment in telecoms infrastructure, with 89% coverage according to a 2022 report from the European Commission, compared to an EU average of 34%.
Madrid also pointed out two specific destinations that are particularly attractive for digital nomadss.
“Barcelona is a tech hub with lots of coworking spaces, networking events, and a strong expat community. It’s a great place to connect with other professionals and enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle,” she said.
“Tenerife, on the other hand, offers stunning natural beauty and a laid-back vibe, perfect for a balanced work-life experience,” Madrid explained.
The only drawback that Madrid pointed to was the low level of English proficiency among Spaniards.
“This can make it a bit tricky to navigate daily life, especially when dealing with public services if you don’t speak Spanish. Despite this, if you know a bit of Spanish, you can get around quite well, as Spaniards are usually friendly and open to helping,” she told Travel + Leisure.
