The Algarve has long been a popular holiday destination, but more recently, it’s become a favourite amongst remote workers searching for a base while exploring the world as a digital nomad.
The modern-day world means that workers no longer need to be stuck in an office, nor do they even need to be based in the country of their employer. This new way of working has opened the door to combining travel with work, and workers can now move to the city they’ve always dreamt of calling home without sacrificing their career.
The shift to living as a digital nomad also reduces the need to be based in a major city purely for the opportunities it brings in terms of your career. And this is where the Algarve comes in. While the world’s biggest brands might not have HQs in the Algarve, this doesn’t stop you from working for them. But in terms of what is in the Algarve, here are 6 reasons why Portugal’s Algarve is proving to be popular with remote workers.
- Favourable visa laws
Portugal actively tries to tempt high-earning digital nomads and remote workers to their country, something that is reflected in their favourable visa laws. The D8 visa was designed for individuals from outside of the EU to reside in Portugal while working remotely. As a result, digital nomads can stay in Portugal for up to 1 year, provided they earn above the minimum monthly income. It can also lead to permanent residency in the country if that is your preference.
- Weather
Most digital nomads aren’t just looking for somewhere to work; they’re looking for that perfect work-life balance. To many, a big part of balancing work and lifestyle comes down to the weather.
For sun worshipers, the Algarve offers a great year-round climate, perfect for enjoying early mornings before work and long evenings after work. This means that when you do find yourself with a day off, you don’t have to worry about being cooped up indoors all day. The Algarve weather is perfect for those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle or sport-centric hobbies.
- Beaches
What good would glorious weather be without the beaches to match? Thankfully, the Algarve well and truly has you covered with some of the best beaches in Portugal. If you are considering the Algarve for its beaches, choosing the right resort within the Algarve is key.
Southern beaches are more akin to what you’d see on a postcard: golden sand, deep blue oceans and filled with holiday goers and residents soaking up the sun. Western beaches on the other hand, are likely to be quieter with a more rocky terrain and popular with surfers seeking out the biggest waves on the island.
- Property
Whatever your budget, there’ll be a place to call home on the Algarve. And again, if it’s work-life balance you’re looking for (as so many nomads are), then Algarve properties absolutely cater to you.
From beachfront locations to luxury villas in Quinta do Lago, the Algarve property market is hot yet stable at the moment, meaning that workers looking to rent can expect lower prices compared to major cities like London and New York. On the other hand, those looking to purchase property can get themselves an investment that’s only going to rise.
- Lower cost of living
Now, the Algarve isn’t cheap, and the golden triangle region especially is one of the most sought-after locations amongst high earners. But compared to many European capital cities, the Algarve does hold its own in terms of cost of living.
As already mentioned, renting can be far cheaper in the Algarve than in the likes of New York. And the abundance of restaurants and bars fighting for tourists’ custom helps keep prices down. There’s certainly a premium side to the Algarve, but on the whole, it does a good job of catering to all budgets.
- Timezone and Connectivity
If you’re working in the Algarve, there’s a good chance you’ll need to connect with individuals and businesses outside of Portugal. The timezone will allow you to take calls at a similar time to any European colleagues or clients. Being ahead of the Americas also has the added benefit of their early morning calls occurring at your lunchtime.
The main airport of Faro also has good connectivity in terms of flight destinations, and you should be able to fly direct to most, if not all, major business hubs if meetings ever need to be done in person.
While everyone looks for different things when it comes to where you call home, it’s easy to see why the Algarve appeals to so many. But for those pursuing life as a digital nomad, it’s hard to compete with year-round sun, stunning beaches and a country that actively encourages nomads to come and live there.
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