The global travel industry was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2022, forcing many people to cancel trips and stay at home for extended periods. This left a longing for the days when packing bags and heading off on adventures was possible. Air passenger volume in the US was reduced by over 90% by March 2020, and US hotel occupancy fell to 25% in April of the same year. However, recent trends indicate that people are eager to return to traveling and exploring the world once again. As a result, a new era of travel is emerging – relocation travel.
According to Airbnb’s Q4 shareholder letter from last year, there has been a significant increase in demand for longer-term stays since the pandemic began. Bookings for stays of 28 nights or more rose by 16% since Q4 2019, with long stays accounting for 22% of all bookings in Q4 2021. By Q1 2022, long-term bookings had reached an all-time high. This trend suggests that travelers are not only visiting new destinations but also looking to settle in for longer periods, making relocation travel a popular option.
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As technology has advanced and remote work has become more common, a new breed of worker has emerged — the digital nomad. These are individuals who use technology to work remotely while traveling the world, often living in different countries for extended periods of time.
The rise of the digital nomad has been fueled by a number of factors, including the increasing availability of high-speed internet and the proliferation of digital tools and platforms that make remote work easier than ever before. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend, as many companies have shifted to remote work and individuals have looked for new ways to break free from the constraints of traditional office-based employment.
Digital nomads have a unique lifestyle that allows them to work from anywhere in the world, giving them the freedom to explore new cultures and experiences while still maintaining a steady income. They often work in fields such as software development, graphic design, writing, and marketing, but the possibilities are endless.
As the world becomes more connected and remote work becomes more prevalent, the number of digital nomads is expected to continue to rise. This trend has the potential to reshape the way we work and live, as more people embrace the freedom and flexibility that comes with a location-independent lifestyle.
The Emergence of the Digital Nomad lifestyle
The phrase “digital nomad” was coined by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners in their book “Digital Nomad” in the 1990s. They predicted a future where technology advancements would allow people to work remotely and live a nomadic lifestyle. Their prediction was ahead of its time, as the idea of digital nomads only gained popularity in recent years. Today, people all over the world are embracing this lifestyle by leaving their traditional office jobs in favor of remote work and the freedom to travel.
The COVID-19 pandemic further fueled the rise of digital nomads. According to a 2020 research study by MBO Partners, the number of American workers who describe themselves as digital nomads increased by 49% from the previous year, reaching 10.9 million people. Digital nomads are defined by their freedom to work from anywhere in the world, as long as there’s an internet connection. Some choose to constantly travel, while others stay in one place for a few weeks or months.
Here are some post-pandemic facts and figures about digital nomads:
- According to a Flexjobs survey, 70% of digital nomads are female.
- The average age of a digital nomad is 33.
- A study by ABrotherAbroad.com suggests there are around 35 million digital nomads worldwide.
- 44% of American digital nomads earn more than $75,000 annually.
- Software development is the most common job role for a digital nomad.
What is the driving force behind the trend of “Relocation Travel”?
The trend of relocation travel is being driven by various factors beyond the benefits of flexibility and freedom associated with being a digital nomad. With more and more individuals liberated from the obligation to attend work in person, a growing number of people are making workcations a regular part of their lifestyle. This trend is becoming increasingly popular as relocation travel enables individuals to combine their work with the excitement of discovering new destinations. Additionally, villas and Airbnbs are now designed to cater specifically to relocation travelers, featuring advanced technology and amenities suitable for remote work. Below are some of the crucial factors contributing to the surge of this emerging travel trend.
The transition to Remote Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The shift to remote work, which was largely triggered by the pandemic, has been one of the primary factors contributing to the current trend of relocation travel. Within just a few months, companies across the globe had to transition their workforce from traditional office setups to remote working. Owl Labs found that as of 2021, 16% of all companies worldwide were fully remote.
- In 2022, the number of remote workers increased by 24% compared to 2021, while those opting for hybrid work rose by 16%. However, the interest in in-office work decreased by 24%. Within the past year, almost one-third (29%) of workers changed jobs, and an additional 9% were actively seeking new roles.
- If the option to work remotely was no longer available, two-thirds (66%) of workers would start looking for jobs that offer flexibility, and 39% would quit altogether. Small companies with 10-50 employees were more likely (41%) to require employees to return to the office compared to enterprises with 10,000 or more employees (27%).
- Only 36% of employers upgraded their video meeting technology since the start of the pandemic. A majority of workers (62%) feel more productive when working remotely, but almost half (45%) reported an increase in work-related stress in the past year.
- Half of the workers (49%) feel that managers view those in the office as harder working and more trustworthy than their remote counterparts. Hybrid workers can save $19.11 per day when working from home instead of the office.
- More than half of the workers (52%) would be willing to take a pay cut of 5% or more to have the flexibility to choose their work location, with 23% willing to take a pay cut of 10% or more.
Although there were some initial challenges, the transition was largely successful. Employers and employees were surprised at how well remote work was working for them. Buffer’s survey revealed that 97% of workers responded positively, indicating that they would like to work remotely at least some of the time for the rest of their careers.
The pandemic has forced employers to reconsider their stance on remote working, and many are now more willing to allow their employees to work from anywhere in the world. This is excellent news for digital nomads and relocation travelers who are no longer bound by the requirement to live within commuting distance of their employers.
The popularity of conducting meetings over video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meets, Teams
The pandemic drastically changed the way we communicate with one another, both personally and professionally. In the second quarter of 2020 alone, over 300 million people downloaded the video conferencing app Zoom. This surge in popularity, alongside other platforms like Teams, has made it more convenient than ever to connect with people worldwide.
Although virtual meetings may not offer the same benefits as in-person interactions, they have become an essential aspect of conducting business. This shift to video conferencing has allowed employees to stay connected with clients and colleagues, even when traveling. Attending significant events and meetings from afar is now simple and feasible, thanks to the technology’s acceptance in the workplace. Despite its presence for years, this acceptance has played a vital role in facilitating relocation travel.
Developments in Collaborative Technology
In the past, inadequate collaboration and communication tools hindered remote work. However, with the advent of platforms such as WebEx, MS Teams, Slack, and Asana, this is no longer the case. These platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools that enable team members to communicate, share files, and collaborate on projects regardless of their location, extending beyond just a weekly Zoom call.
Moreover, there are now industry-specific collaboration tools, facilitating synchronous and asynchronous project work across various fields. Software developers can collaborate on code using GitHub and Jira, while Canva and Adobe Creative Cloud provide creatives, marketers, and designers with the ability to collaborate on projects.
The rise of cloud computing and Software as a Service (SaaS) allows companies to work without location restrictions. Thus, employees can work from anywhere without being hindered by access to essential tools and applications, as CRMs and ERPs can be accessed from any location worldwide. This benefits sales teams and customer service reps as they can easily stay connected with customers and team members outside of the office.
The transition towards a globally-oriented workforce culture
The adoption of a global workforce has been expedited by the pandemic and has become a cultural norm for many companies. Prior to the outbreak, it was commonplace for businesses to have employees working in different countries and time zones. However, the pandemic has popularized the “remote-first” approach among organizations, which has enabled them to realize the benefits of hiring a workforce that is not geographically restricted.
With the number of job openings surpassing the number of unemployed workers in many countries, including the US and the UK, companies are exploring remote sourcing to access a broader talent pool. The increasing availability of high-speed internet worldwide has made it easier for employers to hire talent from anywhere in the world. Besides, a remote-first approach can help companies reduce physical overheads and tap into more affordable labor markets.
The pandemic has also influenced how many employees view their work-life balance. Many workers now value their time outside of work and seek more flexibility and freedom in their careers. This shift in priorities has led to the growth of the relocation travel market.
Individuals are compensating for time that was lost
The pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s travel habits, leading to a wave of cancellations for many people’s travel plans in the following year. However, with the roll-out of vaccines and the easing of travel restrictions, people are now eager to make up for the lost time. There is a notable surge in demand for travel that is expected to continue in the coming months and years. Rather than the traditional two-week vacation, people are now opting for extended trips lasting 30 days or more. This trend is driven by a desire to take advantage of newfound flexibility in their careers and to travel purposefully by checking off items on their bucket list, learning new skills, and experiencing the world in new ways. The travel industry is optimistic about this trend, as it brings hope for a return of tourists and the prospect of long-term bookings for hotels, airlines, and tour operators.
The advantages of traveling for relocation purposes
Relocation travel offers an ideal opportunity to leisurely explore a destination and truly immerse oneself in its culture. Without the constraints of time, one can fully experience all that a place has to offer, without feeling hurried or pressured. This form of travel also provides a deeper immersion experience, allowing travelers to live like locals and gain a more profound understanding of the destination, as opposed to simply skimming the surface as a typical tourist. Below are some other advantages of relocation travel.
Good to know: How to Plan Your 2023 Travel: A Comprehensive Guide
The benefits of immersive Relocation Travel
Traditional tourist trips often leave little time for truly experiencing a destination, with only the most popular attractions being checked off the list. However, relocation travel offers a more immersive experience, allowing travelers to settle into a new location and explore it at a relaxed pace. By living like a local, travelers can discover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. For instance, a month-long stay in Paris would give visitors the opportunity to explore beyond the famous landmarks and experience the city’s lesser-known spots such as local bakeries, coffee shops, and parks.
Immersive Travel: Settle in and experience Your Destination
Relocation travel offers a unique opportunity to slow down and truly experience a destination. Unlike short holiday breaks, there’s no time limit to explore all that a place has to offer, allowing you to delve deeper into the hidden corners of a city and get to know the people who live there. By living like a local, you can discover the best bakeries, coffee shops, and hidden parks in the area, and even learn a new language to fully immerse yourself in the culture.
Escape the grind: Relocation Travel for a refreshing change of scenery
Relocation travel is an excellent way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience something new and exciting. Whether you’re feeling burnt out or unfulfilled, a change of scenery can recharge your batteries and leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Forge connections: making friends and discovering new cultures
When you travel to a new place, you can meet new people and make friends from all over the world. Relocation travel takes this a step further, allowing you to get to know the people you meet and develop lasting connections. By immersing yourself in a new culture, you can broaden your horizons, expand your cultural knowledge, and gain a greater appreciation for the world we live in.
Broaden Your Horizons: connect with different cultures through Relocation Travel
Relocation travel offers a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life firsthand. By living in a foreign country, you can broaden your horizons and gain a greater insight into the complexities of the world, while also developing a greater appreciation for your own customs and traditions.
Discover your perfect home: use Relocation Travel to find your ideal location
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, relocation travel can be a great way to explore new places and find your ideal location. With more time to discover the world, you may stumble upon an idyllic place to make your permanent residence, whether you’re looking to move on from your current location or simply seeking a new adventure.
Tips for choosing your next destination
If you’re planning to mix work with travel, there are a few extra considerations to keep in mind when choosing your next destination. Here are some important questions to ask yourself:
Does the destination have reliable internet?
A strong and reliable internet connection is crucial for remote work. Before booking your trip, make sure to research the quality of the internet in the area where you will be staying. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the accommodation you choose has adequate security to keep your valuable work equipment safe.
What is the cost of living?
When choosing a workcation destination, it’s important to consider the cost of living. Accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly, so make sure to create a budget that takes into account these costs. This will help you get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank.
Is the climate conducive to productivity?
While you may be dreaming of a sunny destination, it’s important to consider whether the climate is conducive to work. Extreme heat or humidity can be distracting and make it difficult to concentrate. Be sure to choose a destination where the climate will support your productivity.
What is the time difference?
If your work requires you to attend meetings or stay in touch with colleagues, it’s important to consider the time difference between your destination and your home base. A significant time difference can make it challenging to stay connected, so choose a destination where the time difference will not pose a significant obstacle.
What is next steps?
On the Digital Pilgrim platform, you can find everything you need to know about the growing trend of relocation travel. As futurists predicted in the 90s, advancements in technology and changes in lifestyle have paved the way for individuals and couples to embark on a nomadic journey to experience new cultures and environments.
Our platform features a comprehensive relocation block that provides a section organized by continents:
and detailed breakdown of various countries, here is a short list:
| Singapore | USA | Germany | Italy |
| Czechia | Canada | Mexico | Malaysia |
| Portugal | Indonesia | Israel | Argentina |
| Australia | France | Netherlands | Spain |
While humans have lived nomadically for most of history, the current iteration of relocation travel is unique in that it’s predominantly being undertaken by solo travelers. This trend begs the question: Will it last? In an increasingly isolated world, will people continue to seek out new experiences on their own or will they crave the comfort of familiar surroundings and the company of a community?
Only time will tell, but if recent years are any indication, relocation travel is only just starting to gain traction. Whether you’re a seasoned nomad or a curious beginner, the Digital Pilgrim website is your go-to source for all things relocation travel. Explore our articles, tips, and resources to help you plan your next adventure and join the growing community of digital pilgrims around the world.
