The Rise of the Digital Nomad and the Future of Remote Work

Even before the coronavirus pandemic struck earlier this year, the digital nomad concept was building buzz. What’s a digital nomad? Think of them as the ultimate remote workers. They are location-independent, roaming from place to place. But they’re not fancy-free travelers. Instead, they’re combining work and travel in a new way, using telecommunications technology for their jobs. The digital nomad wants to see the world, while still maintaining a forward-moving career.

In 2020, the pandemic has resulted in a truly changed reality. A huge amount of the population is working remotely – usually from home. Having proven that remote work is actually a realistic option, these housebound professionals are eyeing the digital nomad lifestyle with envy. Who wouldn’t want to find a safe, stimulating destination to ride out the pandemic for a few weeks … or even a whole year? Destinations and hotels have noticed this growing trend - here’s how they’re luring the next generation of digital nomads.

Work From Bermuda Certificate

Long, empty stretches of pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, pastel buildings … Bermuda might just offer the change of scenery we all need in 2020. But what if you weren’t just vacationing there? The island’s just-launched Work From Bermuda Certificate program makes Bermuda every remote-working professional’s ideal home base for an extended stay. It’s a very nice deal: for just a $263 application fee per person, the new incentive allows travelers to move to the island for a year while working remotely. The program also includes the flexibility to travel back and forth seamlessly and to bring the family along as well.

In promoting Work From Bermuda Certificate program, the island has highlighted its safety and cleanliness. Add in its proximity (less than 3 hours from most East Coast flight hubs) and you have the perfect spot to ride out the pandemic. The island has proven to be one of the most successful countries in the world at controlling the virus and testing per capita. Bermuda reopened to visitors in July with extensive health-and-safety measures in place. The island already has a reputation as an excellent place in which to do business, with modern digital and telecommunications services.

Book An Office With A View At Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w30jR4N1cd4 Having been hit hard by the COVID-19 crisis, hotels and resorts have had to come up with new and creative ways to get heads in beds. We may have a winner with Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa’s Office With A View program. Before the pandemic struck, the Grand Cayman resort was on its way to a record-breaking year, thanks to its privileged location on Seven Mile Beach, impeccable service and luxurious accommodations. All of that came to a halt the minute the island nation closed its borders to international travelers.

Luckily, as a result of the island’s very strict Covid-19 procedures, stay at home orders were relaxed enough to allow residents to move around a bit more. That gave Seafire the opportunity to entice locals to enjoy a staycation at their resort. The Office With A View Program offers the chance to book an oceanfront room for the day, enjoying outstanding wi-fi, the resort’s spectacular pool, room service and other amenities. While it’s aimed at Grand Cayman residents, there’s no doubt that digital nomads with an incurable case of wanderlust wouldn’t mind taking advantage as soon as they are able to!

The Future of the Digital Nomad

• Digital nomads may skew slightly higher income, but they’re also bargain hunters. They’ll definitely be looking for the most bang for their buck, especially during an extended stay.
• Look for temporary visa programs like Bermuda’s to become more common, with added incentives and perks to sweeten the deal.
• The digital nomad is the definition of the “bleisure” traveler. They’ll be looking for every type of business travel amenity, alongside authentic cultural and culinary adventures. Destinations and hotels who can blend and streamline these types of experiences will rise to the top.
• Safety and hygiene will continue to be top-of-mind for travelers — especially digital nomads who are seasoned globetrotters. Stay on top of protocols; if one digital nomad has a bad experience, he or she is going to tell other digital nomads.
• Most countries offering a remote working option will require health insurance so do you research to find the right package for you.