Digital nomads are always on the hunt for places that balance affordability, infrastructure, and lifestyle. For years, destinations like Bali, Chiang Mai, and Lisbon have dominated conversations. But while these hubs offer undeniable perks, their popularity has driven up costs, overcrowded spaces, and strained resources. After spending the last few months exploring a lesser-known alternative, I’m convinced there’s an untapped gem that outshines its competitors: Da Nang, Vietnam.
Perched on Vietnam’s central coast, this city is more than just a holiday spot. With its exceptional infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and burgeoning global community, Da Nang has quietly transformed into a top-tier destination for remote workers. Think of it as a quieter, less expensive Bali but with smoother roads, less congestion, and a more authentic vibe. Let’s dig into why Da Nang deserves a place on every digital nomad’s radar.
Why Da Nang Works for Digital Nomads
Living and working in Da Nang has shown me that you can have an excellent standard of living without the hefty price tag. Here are the main factors that make it stand out:
1. Affordability That Makes Sense
Living in Da Nang doesn’t break the bank. You can rent a modern, fully furnished, one-bedroom apartment near My Khe Beach for as low as $350/month. Local restaurants serve comforting bowls of Mi Quang or pho for $2 a meal, while café lattes will set you back just $1.50. And it’s not just that it’s affordable, the value for money is outstanding. This means you can enjoy luxuries like spa days, co-working memberships, and weekend getaways without any stress on your wallet.
In stark contrast, living in Bali will cost you nearly double, with added expenses like higher tourist taxes.
2. Infrastructure: Designed for Productivity
Reliable internet is key for any digital nomad, and in Da Nang, you’ll be spoiled with fast, stable connections. Fiber internet is standard in most accommodations; coworking spaces and many coffee shops boast robust Wi-Fi as well. This is a city that prioritizes work-friendly environments.
Transport is also a breeze. Roads are in excellent condition, making scooter rides safe and enjoyable, a massive improvement over some of the chaotic roads in other Asian hubs like Bali. If you prefer not to drive, modern ride-hailing apps like Grab are affordable and easy to use for getting to meetings or just heading out to explore.
The local airport ensures smooth connections to other Asian cities, perfect for people who enjoy regional travel in between work sprints.
3. A Thriving Community Without the Overcrowding
Da Nang is home to a growing number of likeminded digital nomads. Unlike other popular locations, the community here hasn’t been swallowed by tourism. Instead, it thrives on connection and collaboration.
Coworking hubs like Enouvo Space and DNC Coworking Space are spaces where remote entrepreneurs network and share ideas. Events are buzzing with a mix of local and international minds, from tech experts to freelance creatives. It’s easy to integrate, whether you’re new to the scene or a veteran looking for a balance of productivity and connection.
How to Relocate as a Digital Nomad in Da Nang
Getting started in Da Nang as a digital nomad isn’t daunting if you follow these steps:
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Research and Budget
- Allocate around $800–$1,200 per month for housing, food, transport, and entertainment.
- Check out expat forums like Facebook's Da Nang Digital Nomads Community for apartment leads.
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Secure a Flexible Visa
- Vietnam offers a 30-day visa-on-arrival for many countries, which can be extended. Research sponsorship options for longer stays.
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Find Accommodation
- Platforms like Agoda and Airbnb have short-term and long-term rental listings. Check reviews and interact with hosts before committing. Rent monthly to save more.
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Choose a Coworking Space
- Visit coworking locations in person to get a feel for the community and services offered. Many allow for day passes, so you can try before committing to a membership.
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Engage With the Community
- Attend events, workshops, or even casual coffee gatherings. Building relationships here is easy and often leads to opportunities, whether work-related or simply for leisure.
Common Missteps to Avoid
- Underestimating the Climate: Vietnam’s tropical climate can be intense, especially during monsoon season. Prepare your wardrobe accordingly and choose accommodations with good drainage and air conditioning.
- Ignoring Visa Rules: Make sure you’re clear on how long you’re planning to stay and what extensions or sponsorship might be needed. Being lax about this can mean hefty fines or being banned from re-entry.
- Relying Too Much on Western Habits: While there are Western-style restaurants and shops, learning to love the local food and customs makes the experience far richer, and much cheaper.
Why Da Nang Is Different
When I first arrived, I noticed the city offered something unique: calm. Traffic was organized, the beaches were pristine, and the people exuded warmth. There were no inflated egos or hyper-competitive vibes. Instead, it felt like a place where you could focus on building, working, and recharging. While trendy locales like Bali can feel like showcases, Da Nang is just easy. It doesn’t try too hard, which is what makes it so charming.
Additionally, I noticed the diversity in the people I met. It wasn’t skewed towards one nationality or specific type of profession. Every café, coworking space, or beach hangout brought together a diverse crowd. You’d overhear one table discussing code, the other pitching ideas, and another just relaxing after a productive day.
My Go-To Recommendations for Nomads in Da Nang
- Coworking Spaces: Enouvo Space and DNC Coworking Space. Great internet and welcoming environments for working or networking.
- Cafés for Working: 36 Degrees Coffee and The Espresso Station. Both offer great coffee and robust Wi-Fi in peaceful settings.
- Day Trips: A 45-minute drive gets you to the iconic Marble Mountains or the ancient town of Hoi An. Perfect for recharging over the weekend.
- Where to Stay: Look into areas near My Khe Beach for ocean views or Son Tra Street for buzzing local life without it being too noisy.
The world of digital nomadism is changing rapidly, but if you’re looking for affordable luxury, reliable infrastructure, and genuine community in Asia, give Da Nang a try. While others flock to well-worn paths, this incredible city is waiting to be explored, one rich in work-life balance and authentic experiences.
FAQ
1. Why is Da Nang considered a top destination for digital nomads?
Da Nang offers reliable infrastructure, affordable living costs, and a welcoming community, making it an excellent alternative to popular hubs like Bali and Chiang Mai. Learn more about the benefits of Da Nang
2. How affordable is living in Da Nang compared to Bali?
Rent in Da Nang is nearly half of Bali's, with one-bedroom apartments near the beach costing approximately $350 per month. Meals and café visits are also significantly cheaper. Discover the affordability of Da Nang
3. What infrastructure advantages does Da Nang have over Bali?
Da Nang boasts fast, stable internet and well-maintained roads, offering better transportation and connectivity compared to Bali, where overcrowding and chaotic traffic are common. Explore why Da Nang’s infrastructure stands out
4. Are there coworking spaces in Da Nang?
Yes, coworking spaces like Enouvo Space and DNC Coworking Space are popular among digital nomads for networking and collaboration. Check out coworking spaces in Da Nang
5. How easy is it to relocate to Da Nang as a digital nomad?
Relocating involves budgeting around $800–$1,200 per month, securing a 30-day visa (extendable), and finding accommodation. Many resources like Facebook groups and rental platforms offer support. Discover relocation tips for Da Nang
6. Is Da Nang crowded like other popular digital nomad hubs?
Unlike Bali and Chiang Mai, Da Nang’s nomad community is smaller and less affected by tourism, providing a laid-back and genuine experience. Learn about Da Nang’s community vibe
7. What activities can digital nomads enjoy in Da Nang?
Nomads can explore Marble Mountains, visit Hoi An, or enjoy pristine beaches along the coast in their downtime. Find activities in and near Da Nang
8. What kind of food and beverages are available in Da Nang?
Local dishes like Mi Quang and pho cost just $2, while lattes are available for $1.50. The city boasts numerous cafes and restaurants with quality food at affordable prices. Explore food options in Da Nang
9. What makes Da Nang’s remote worker community unique?
Da Nang's global community thrives on collaboration and inclusion, offering workshops, social events, and an authentic cultural experience without tourist overload. Learn about Da Nang’s growing nomad community
10. How is the climate in Da Nang for nomads?
Da Nang’s tropical climate brings intense weather, including monsoon seasons. It’s important to choose accommodations with good drainage and prepare for humidity. Understand Da Nang’s climate challenges
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp's expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the "gamepreneurship" methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
About the Publication
Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic "without any funding and without any code," this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.
Mission and Purpose
Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call "gamepreneurship". By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.
Key Features
The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:
- Skill Lab: Micro-modules covering essential startup skills
- Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
- AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
- SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
- Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
- Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials
Impact and Growth
Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:
- 5,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
- 100+ startup tools built
- 5,000+ pieces of articles and news written
- 1,000 unique business ideas for women created
Partnerships
Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.
Recognition
Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique "play to learn and earn" model.