Is PM Your Key to Digital Nomad ? Reflections from My 4-Month Digital Nomad Life as a PM

What Is Digital Nomad? If you hear the term "Digital Nomad" for the first time, you can start from the brief introduction below. Digital Nomad can be divided into two parts for better understanding - "Digital" and "Nomad." Digital: It refers to your primary source of income, which can be acquired from software or the internet. With the help of a computer and a stable internet connection, you can earn your income by completing a task or providing a service online Nomad: refers to those who can freely move around. With the nature of digital work mentioned above, you can break the limitations of specific geographic locations (e.g., physical office, meeting room, etc.). Wherever there is a stable internet, and you can work and build your business. So in my understanding, digital nomad means: You are a remote worker who can "freely move" to various locations in the world and "earn income" through "internet-related" business or work. How to Describe the Lifestyle of Digital Nomad? Morning at Bali-Canggu beach (Photo by Mars) "Freedom to travel and live in different parts of the world, immersing in local cultures while making money online." "One-second finishing meetings and tasks, the next second heading to the mountains or the beach." "Earning a salary comparable to that of developed countries while living in a place where the cost of living is equivalent to that of developing countries." Which Professions are More Suitable for Digital Nomads? Freelancer: Includes but not limited to website building, software engineering UI/UX design, marketing, video editing, writing, video creation (YouTube, TikTok), consulting... and so on. E-commerce or Other Online Services: For example, selling products through e-commerce platforms or your website. Starting your online courses or tutoring are also popular choices. You can combine multiple methods from above and diversify your income, such as obtaining subscription fees through software or content, shared profits from influencer marketing, course/tutorial fees, project/consultation fees, advertising or ad fees, etc. Software Industry: Due to the nature of its products, the software industry only requires specific physical spaces to complete sales or generate profits. Therefore, employees may have more opportunities to become digital nomads or remote workers. Whether you are an engineer, product manager, marketer, social media manager, PR specialist, operations personnel, HR personnel, legal personnel, sales, or other positions, as long as there is permission, theoretically, you can try to become a digital nomad, choose the city you want to stay and live a digital nomad life. It is worth mentioning that in Web3, many teams adopt a remote working model from the first day! (Photo by Mars) My Work and My Experience as a Digital Nomad Since 2021, I have been working in the Web3 industry as a Product Manager. The team implemented remote work not only for COVID-19 at the time but also due to considerations of office costs and team members being in different time zones from the US to the Asia Pacific region. So, since then, I have become a remote worker in the software industry. Some of my colleagues have never seen me in person or even on video calls. We communicate mostly through documents and files. Regarding my digital nomad experience, during the troublesome period from 2021 to the first half of 2022, I worked in various locations in Taiwan. The places I frequently visited include Yilan, Liuqiu Island, Kenting, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, and Qingjing Farm in Nantou, among others. I would carry my laptop and work at a more relaxed pace, away from the urban atmosphere. In the morning, I would take a walk and enjoy the local scenery. Before noon, I would work at a café or hostel. In the evening, I would take another walk, visit local markets or night markets, and end the normal day with a touch of freshness. I start living abroad in October 2022. I visited Thailand (Bangkok), Turkey (Istanbul), Portugal (Lisbon/Sintra/Ericeira), South Korea (Jeju/Busan/Daegu), Indonesia (Bali), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), and Sri Lanka (Colombo/Galle/Kandy), spending more than four months as a nomad in different places. My lifestyle was similar to remote working in Taiwan but with more opportunities to meet people worldwide and experience different cultures and lifestyles. Most of the time, my daily routine involved waking up early to visit local landmarks (such as mosques in Istanbul and churches in Lisbon) and attending meditation or music therapy sessions (Bali has great music therapy and spiritual courses). I started working at a café or co-working space before noon, finding time in the evening to enjoy the sunset and unwind from work, and either going to a night market or bar or staying at a homestay to meet fellow travelers. During weekends, I arranged tourist activities or explored hidden gems that tourists may not know or have time for. However, as a PM in the rapidly changing Web3 industry, is this "work and travel" lifestyle abroad really suitable? I will provide some experiences for you to judge and decide for yourself. Alright, Let's Finally Start Sharing My Insights :) As a "digital nomad," although we all carry laptops and work in various locations, I believe each person will have different experiences and feelings throughout the process, depending on your personality, attitude, expectations, and the nature of your work. The following sharings reflect my experiences as a "PM" in the "Web3" industry after embarking on digital nomadism abroad, including its advantages and disadvantages. A Sense (or an Illusion) of Freedom and Choice Looking back, I feel that although I am currently employed in the Web3 industry as an "employee," choosing where I want to work remotely gives me the illusion of having some flexibility and choice in my job. Although my time is bound by tasks and work, as long as I can finish them on time, I have the freedom to arrange the rest of my time. My free time can be during the day, at night, on weekends, or at any specific period. I have the entire freedom to decide when to stay and explore a country deeply when and where to move on, or just come back to Taiwan. It's all up to me. Additionally, I still receive a fixed income every month. Receive an International-Level Salary While Working and Living on an Island Furthermore, working in the Web3 industry, I can earn a salary higher than the average in Taiwan. In the future, I may earn a salary that is equivalent to developed countries (reference). Currently, I am traveling on a Southeast Asian island, eating meals that cost NT$ 50-100, enjoying massages for NT$ 200 per hour, and staying in accommodations for NT$ 500 per night. For transportation, I rely on Grab motorcycles, which cost about NT$ 30 per ride, or I rent a motorcycle for NT$ 150 a day. Now, I am starting to understand what it feels like for Europeans and Americans receiving a salary of tens of thousands of US dollars per year to live the life of wealthy people in Southeast Asia. It's not that I want to follow in the footsteps of the wealthy, nor are they all living as wealthy people! After starting to live a digital nomad life, I have a different experience and living standard, and even a feeling of financial freedom. Start to Love and Appreciate Natural Landscapes, Material Desires Suddenly Decrease This was particularly noticeable during the months spent in island countries like Bali, Jeju Island, and Galle (the southern coast of Sri Lanka). I stayed in these island regions longer because I enjoyed these opportunities to immerse myself in natural landscapes! Whether diving in the sea, climbing mountains, exploring forests, or observing terraced fields, it's all about embracing Mother Nature. Another advantage of islands is that the sunsets are stunning! For a while, I would go to the beach to watch the sunset for several consecutive days. The post-sunset sky (aka. Magic Hour) moved me many times and made me grateful for everything around me. Material desires also noticeably decrease, not caring much about clothing, brands, or fashion, instead focusing more on nature. During my month in Bali, I only bought a pair of shoes for the convenience of walking and exploring the jungles while enjoying the thrill of bargaining. (Photo by Mars) Increased Happiness and Friendliness (Primarily in Southeast Asia/South Asia) This comparison is explicitly experienced in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. The locals' pure heart and smiley character infected me when I was there. The locals or those who reside here are very proactive in smiling and saying hello to me. I also unconsciously smile and greet people or engage in casual conversations. Gradually, this eye contact and language exchange became a habit. It's the first time I have experienced such friendly and non-awkward communication between strangers can happen so naturally. Opportunity to Meet Travelers from Various Places and Locals This is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things I have experienced during my digital nomad life! If it weren't for this digital nomad opportunity, I wouldn't have been in so many different countries, cities, B&Bs, or hostels. And I wouldn't have contacted these people and then chatted with them. Through this opportunity, I discovered that there are still people in the world who live in a completely different way and with different skills than me. It's different from watching videos; it's about meeting and trying to understand each other's countries, lifestyles, interests, cultural characteristics, and even discussing future possibilities of doing business together, among other topics of conversation. For example, during my time in Jeju Island, I stayed in 6-7 different hotels and got to know many talented South Koreans and foreigners, including engineers, navy soldiers, artists, perfume brand owners, street artists, designers, café owners, professional singers, bakers, musicians, medical students, graduate students, and political teams, among others. Each person has an interesting story behind them. (Photo by Mars) The Savior of Office-Social Anxiety! Remote work allows me to avoid office social as well, which is a plus for someone like me who is slightly afraid of socializing ! However, the downside is that colleagues don't meet each other, making it harder to understand each other's personalities. Also, communicating only through text and phone sometimes makes it harder to grasp the true meaning behind the words. You'll also run into unclear instructions and misunderstandings all the time. These might not be good news for a project manager or product manager. Ignite Creativity, Pursue 100% Efficiency Sometimes, changing the environment can inspire creativity. As a PM, this is helpful while planning the roadmap of a product, developing new product features, and drawing Wireframes. In addition, since I am already traveling abroad, I want to complete my work as fast as possible, which inadvertently enhances my work efficiency. I might enter a flow as soon as I sit down and focus on work for the next 4 hours. During my time as a digital nomad, I realized that I cherish every day and make the most of it, maximizing the value of each minute and second. So It's Just Working in a Different Place? Now let's talk about the downsides. Although the work is relatively flexible, the work style in the Web3 industry and the role of a PM can be quite demanding. Sometimes, I work almost 12 hours a day (possibly starting to work continuously after waking up at 1 p.m. or working from 2 p.m. until bedtime, adding up all the time I spend on work).Under such long working hours, I sometimes think, "Hey? Isn't this just working overtime in a different place? Why did I spend money on plane tickets and accommodation?" Of course, working overtime saves me some money (no time to play and spend). Still, I have temporarily lost the meaning of remote work abroad during those times. It makes me feel anxious and regretful when I encounter challenging and troublesome tasks or unexpected issues that require me to work extra hours or take part in more meetings, missing all kinds of scheduled activities and the chance to enjoy the sunset by the beach. Decreased Efficiency in Team Collaboration During remote work, I don't have the convenience of directly approaching engineers and designers in the office for any problems. Even though we work together through software like Telegram, Trello, Figma, etc., direct discussion is still more efficient. Especially during the requirement review, product testing phases, and final launch, the efficiency of remote work is slightly lower compared to working together physically as a team. What I can do is meticulously list out each discussion item and imagine the other person in front of me so that I can convert what I originally wanted to say into written descriptions, avoiding situations where we need to confirm repeatedly. A PM Is Not Suitable for Digital Nomad Life? There are many remote workers and freelancers whose work (Web3 PM) offers more flexibility and choices. I have met several freelancers, such as UI/UX designers, visual designers, marketers, keyword advertisers, and writers, who choose to work only 4 hours a day and still earn a decent income. For the remaining time, they would spend on experiencing the local lifestyle, making friends, or joining in local activities and travel plans. In short, it provides the ability to choose a work-life balance more autonomously. It's said that there is no pain without comparison. As a PM who sometimes has to work overtime and is constantly summoned by bosses, supervisors, and partners, it is inevitable to feel a bit unbalanced compared to freelancers. In my day, I often have to manage several products and features at the same time. I have to think about the priorities, conducting surveys and research. If I reply to any message late, it will affect the team's work. And I also have to be very cautious before any product launch. To sum up, a day of mine is constantly checking and replying to messages and handling situations that happen throughout the day. In this regard, it is crucial to have clear awareness and adjust one's mindset. This issue becomes significant for PMs who are currently digital nomads. One should first understand their work situation and think carefully about what kind of life they really want. Finally, if you are currently working as a PM or preparing to become one, and you want to try out digital nomadism, I have some suggestions for you. Undoubtedly, living a digital nomad life works for PMs from the software industry. However, can a PM truly be free to choose their working hours? Can they avoid overtime work? Or is it inevitable for a PM to end up working long hours? I don't have the answers to these questions. At least for now, being a digital nomad with the flexibility to manage your work schedule may not necessarily make Web3 PM the best choice. Of course, during my stay, many priceless things were beyond measure. During these four months, I've learned so much from travelers and locals from all over the world. I've heard many stories, seen many famous landmarks, and experienced various local cultures. Although work sometimes gets tiring, seeing a remarkable sight before starting work, taking a new path after work, witnessing a beautiful sunset, and encountering the smiles and friendliness of passersby, all give me a feeling of happiness and a sense of the value of being alive. The above are some of my experiences and insights as a digital nomad after four months, as well as my thoughts on whether "people who work as project managers are suitable for a life of working and traveling at the same time." If you are curious or want to know more, please feel free to ask me. That's it for this sharing. Thank you ! -- This article is reprinted from:Mars Web3 產品火星球 (article) (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)

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Taiwan Digital Nomad Guide  | Visa, Currency Exchange, Weather, Internet All in One View

Taiwan Digital Nomad Guide | Visa, Currency Exchange, Weather, Internet All in One View

Located in East Asia, Taiwan has long been a popular destination for digital nomads. With its affordable cost of living, safe society, stable internet, affordable healthcare resources, and a welcoming attitude toward diverse cultures, Taiwan is highly favored by digital nomads. The Economist recently published the “The Global Liveability Index 2024”, where three Taiwanese cities—Taipei (ranked 66th), Kaohsiung (72nd), and Taichung (74th)—made it to the top tier of global cities. Taiwan also ranks among the top digital nomad destinations worldwide. If you're planning to become a digital nomad in Taiwan, this "Taiwan Digital Nomad Guide Series" will provide all the essential information you need. In this edition, we cover: Taiwan Nomad | Visa Details Taiwan Nomad | Travel Seasons Taiwan Nomad | Internet Recommendations Taiwan Nomad | Currency Exchange Methods Taiwan Nomad | Living Costs Taiwan Nomad | Emergency Situations Taiwan Nomad | Visa Details Most foreign digital nomads come to Taiwan with a visa exemption or a visitor visa, allowing a stay of up to three months. Taiwan is also planning to introduce a digital nomad visa, which will allow a stay of up to six months once launched. Additionally, eligible individuals can apply for a "Taiwan Employment Gold Card", allowing a stay in Taiwan for one to three years. Here are the details: The Taiwan Employment Gold Card is a 4-in-1 card, that includes a resident visa, work permit, Alien Resident Certificate (ARC), and re-entry permit Holders can freely search for, take up, and change jobs within the validity period. Applicants must have a monthly salary of at least TWD 160,000 (from either domestic or foreign employers). High-skilled professionals in 11 fields, including Science & Technology, Economy, Education, Culture & Arts, Sport, Finance, Law, Architecture, National Defense, Digital, and Special cases recognized by the National Development Council, are eligible to apply. Photo from Taiwan Employment Gold Card Office Extended Reading: Taiwan "Employment Gold Card" for Digital Nomads:Steps on How to Apply for It Taiwan Nomad | Travel Seasons Taiwan experiences mild seasonal temperature changes, but the characteristics of each region are different. Be sure to check the weather before your trip. Spring (March - May): Warm and comfortable, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Rainy season starts in May (May - June), bringing more rainfall. Summer (June - September): Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, especially in July and August. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and this is also typhoon season. Autumn (October - November): Cool and dry, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. This is the most pleasant season in Taiwan, ideal for outdoor activities and travel. Winter (December - February): Average temperatures between 16°C and 20°C, with larger temperature differences between day and night. Northern Taiwan is colder and more humid, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C during cold fronts. Northern Taiwan (Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung): Humid winters with frequent drizzle, hot summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Central Taiwan (Taichung, Miaoli, Changhua): Relatively stable climate, dry year-round with moderate temperatures. Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Pingtung): Hot climate, with sunshine and little rainfall most of the year, also in Winter, the temperature in winter is about 19°C to 20°C. Eastern Taiwan (Hualien, Taitung): Humid and hot, with abundant sunshine throughout the year. However, the region is frequently affected by typhoons in summer. Taiwan Nomad | Internet Recommendations As a digital nomad in Taiwan, you can choose from three short-term internet solutions: buying a SIM card, using eSIM, or renting a Wi-Fi router. Here are the details: Buying a SIM Card Taiwan’s main telecom providers include Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone, each offering prepaid Taiwan SIM cards for tourists (Tourist Taiwan SIM) and general prepaid SIM cards (Prepaid SIM). These are available at Taoyuan International Airport, Songshan Airport, train stations, telecom company stores, and convenience stores. It’s recommended to pre-order through the telecom provider’s website or travel platforms like KKday and Klook, and pick it up at one of the mentioned locations. Tourist Taiwan SIM: Available in 3-day, 5-day, 7-day, 10-day, 15-day, and 30-day plans. Insert the SIM card and start using it immediately, but it cannot be topped up with other plans and will expire automatically after the selected period. Prepaid SIM: Buy a general SIM card and top it up with plans based on your needs, such as daily, hourly, or data-limited plans. How to choose between the three telecom providers? Chunghwa Telecom: Best for outdoor activities in mountainous or island areas / faster and more stable internet. FarEasTone & Taiwan Mobile: Suitable for use in cities / lower prices and more discounts. Using eSIM eSIM is a virtual SIM card. If your phone supports eSIM, you can purchase a plan from a telecom provider and set it up directly on your phone, eliminating the hassle of switching physical SIM cards and the risk of losing them. Renting a Wi-Fi Router You can pre-order a Wi-Fi router from rental platforms like Rent WiFi in Taiwan, KKday, or Klook, and choose home delivery or pick up and return the goods at the airport or store. The advantage is that multiple devices can connect at once, and rental periods are very flexible. Taiwan Nomad | Currency Exchange Methods Photo by johan10 from iStock. Exchange money at the counter Taiwan’s major banks include Bank of Taiwan, Mega Bank, Cathay United Bank, E.SUN Bank, CTBC Bank, First Bank, SinoPac Bank, Hua Nan Bank, Taipei Fubon Bank, and Taishin Bank. You can visit any of these banks to exchange currency in person. Bank of Taiwan and Mega Bank also have service counters and ATMs at international airports. Here’s the detailed information: Taipei Songshan Airport Bank of Taiwan Arrival Hall: 06:00 - 22:30 Departure Hall: 06:00 - 07:30 Mega Bank Arrival Hall: 08:00 - 22:30 Departure Hall: 06:00 - 07:30 Taoyuan International Airport Bank of Taiwan / Mega Bank Service hours: 05:30 - 22:30, but each counter has different hours. It’s recommended to check online before your visit. Additionally, three locations offer 24-hour foreign exchange counters: Terminal 1 Arrival Hall, 1st floor, restricted area Terminal 1 Arrival Hall Terminal 2 Arrival Hall, 1st floor, restricted area Taichung Airport Bank of Taiwan Departure Hall: 06:00 - 23:00 Arrival Baggage Claim Area: 09:00 - 17:00 (adjusted based on arrival flight schedules) Kaohsiung Airport Bank of Taiwan 3rd Floor, Departure Hall: 05:30 - 16:30 1st Floor, Arrival Hall: 09:00 - 24:00 Mega Bank 3rd Floor, Departure Hall: 05:30 - 17:00 1st Floor, Arrival Hall: 09:00 - 21:00 Online Currency Exchange You can handle currency exchange in advance using the online exchange system or mobile banking apps from various banks, and pick up the cash in person at the designated bank. It is recommended to pre-arrange online exchange and select a bank based on the airport you’ll be arriving at to save time and hassle. However, only a few airport banks provide 24-hour services, and most banks outside the airport are open from 09:00 to 15:00. If you need to exchange currency during off-hours, foreign currency ATMs are also an option. Foreign Currency ATMs There are two types of foreign currency ATMs. The first type allows you to withdraw US dollars, Japanese yen, or Chinese yuan using any bank card (some ATMs from Bank of Taiwan and E.SUN Bank also offer Euros and Hong Kong dollars). The second type of machine, a foreign currency cash ATM, allows users to scan their passport or entry permit to instantly withdraw cash in US dollars, Japanese yen, or Chinese yuan. These ATMs are available 24/7 and can be found in airports, banks, major train stations, high-speed rail stations, tourist attractions, large hotels, shopping malls, or specific convenience stores. It’s best to check the locations and the available currencies beforehand. Extended Reading: What’s the most cost-effective way to exchange currency? Check out exchange methods, fee collection, and tips for saving money on domestic and international exchanges at once! Taiwan Nomad | Living Costs Many people wonder: Is the cost of living high for digital nomads in Taiwan? According to Numbeo, the monthly living cost for a single person (excluding rent) is around TWD 24,000 in Taiwan, TWD 38,000 in the U.S., and TWD 29,000 in Japan. However, actual expenses vary depending on the region. For example, the average monthly expense per person in Taipei last year was nearly TWD 34,000. In New Taipei City, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, it was around TWD 26,000. In Tainan, it was TWD 23,000, and in Hualien and Taitung in eastern Taiwan, it was TWD 21,000. If you want to experience the vibrant city life in the north but are worried about higher living costs, you can choose to live in more affordable areas such as New Taipei City and commute using convenient public transportation. Alternatively, Taichung is also a great option with excellent living conditions and moderate expenses. If you place more emphasis on enjoying a slower-paced lifestyle, the southern and eastern regions may be more suitable for you! Lover's Bridge in Tamsui District, New Taipei City(Photo by nevereverro from iStock.) Blue Highway Night View in Dadu District, Taichung City(Photo by bernie_photo from iStock.) Liyu Lake in Hualien County(Photo by GoranQ from iStock.) Taiwan Nomad | Emergency Situations Although Taiwan is generally safe with excellent law and order, there are still some emergency situations to be aware of: Health and Medical Emergencies Taiwan has many clinics and hospitals, and when you’re feeling unwell or injured, you can search for the nearest clinic or hospital. Foreign nationals with an Employment Gold Card can benefit from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI), while those with a general visa will need to pay for medical expenses themselves. The registration fee typically ranges from TWD 500 to TWD 1,500. In case of an emergency, you can call 119 for an ambulance. Emergency room fees are higher than regular consultation fees. Legal Disputes (e.g. theft, traffic accidents) Taiwan's emergency police number is 110. If you encounter lost property, traffic accidents, or any legal issues, be sure to call the police for assistance immediately! Earthquakes Taiwan is located on a seismic belt and experiences frequent minor earthquakes. It’s possible to encounter one or two major earthquakes (above magnitude 6.0) each year, especially in the east (Taitung, Hualien) and northeast (Yilan). Although Taiwan has excellent earthquake-resistant infrastructure, it’s important to stay alert and know how to protect yourself during an earthquake. Indoors: When an earthquake occurs, take cover under a sturdy table or in a corner, protecting your head with your hands. Avoid standing near windows to prevent injury from shattered glass. If you're in a tall building, do not use the elevator; remain in place until the shaking stops before evacuating. Outdoors: Quickly move away from buildings, utility poles, and billboards that could fall. Move to an open area. If driving during an earthquake, slow down and pull over. Stay in the car and wait for the earthquake to end. Listen to Government Announcements: After an earthquake, stay updated with announcements from the Central Weather Bureau or local government. You can track earthquake alerts, magnitude, and epicenter information through the Central Weather Bureau’s website, which will also provide warnings about aftershocks. Typhoons Taiwan is prone to typhoons from June to October, which can bring strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and landslides. It’s essential to prepare ahead of time and stay alert during typhoon season. Before the Typhoon: Monitor forecasts from the Central Weather Bureau and prepare emergency supplies like enough food, water, lighting, batteries, fully charged power banks, medications, and cash. Check that doors and windows are secure, store potted plants indoors, and ensure drainage systems are clear. Avoid parking vehicles in low-lying areas. During the Typhoon: Stay inside a safe building and ensure windows and doors are tightly closed. Move valuable items to higher floors to prevent damage from flooding. Stay updated with the latest information from the government and weather bureau. In case of a power outage, use a mobile phone or flashlight instead of candles to avoid fire hazards. Avoid unnecessary travel, but if you must go out, check the road conditions in advance. -- Written and edited by / Irene Lin Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (@digital.nomad.press)!

November 5, 2024

Taiwan to Introduce 6 - Month Digital Nomad Visas

Taiwan to Introduce 6 - Month Digital Nomad Visas

Taiwan is also set to launch a digital nomad visa! To attract international talent, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand have all introduced digital nomad visas. Recently, Taiwan government mentioned that Taiwan also plans to introduce a "Digital Nomad Visa" in the future, allowing international talent to come to Taiwan with the opportunity to stay longer. In the past, digital nomads usually came to Taiwan with a tourist visa or visa exemption, which allowed them to stay for up to 3 months. With the introduction of the "Digital Nomad Visa," digital nomads will be able to stay in Taiwan for up to 6 months. More details are still being worked out. Since the "Digital Nomad Visa" does not require legislative amendments, it can be quickly implemented after coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The proposal is expected to be submitted in the next legislative session. In the past, Taiwan also introduced the "Employment Gold Card" policy for high-level foreign talent. The Employment Gold Card is a document that consolidates work permits, residence visas, foreign resident certificates, and re-entry permits into one, providing eligible foreign talents the flexibility to freely seek employment, work, and change jobs during its validity. The Employment Gold Card is valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on the applicant's preference, with the option to reapply upon expiration. The future introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa will further open the door, attracting more international talent to Taiwan.

August 15, 2024

"Digital Nomad" Reader Submissions|Themes and Methods for Submission Revealed at Once

"Digital Nomad" Reader Submissions|Themes and Methods for Submission Revealed at Once

Are you on the digital nomad journey? Are you trying freelancing, remote work, or entrepreneurship? We sincerely invite you to share your experiences and stories to everyone! I. Submission Themes Feel free to share under themes such as digital nomadism, remote work, freelancing, entrepreneurship, personal branding, media management, overseas work, etc.: 1. Your Work Experience and Skills E.g., freelancing techniques, personal branding strategies, overseas job hunting experiences, etc. 2. Introducing Various Digital Tools Beneficial for Work and Life E.g., effective digital tools for managing remote teams. 3. Methods for Improving Work Efficiency and Time Management E.g., overcoming procrastination, enhancing efficiency in online meetings, etc. 4. Essential Knowledge on Work Visas, Payments, Cross-Border Financial Flow, Contract Signing, etc. 5. Sharing Experiences of Living in Different Places and Local Customs E.g., sharing information about local prices, culture, safety, etc. For more themes and content, please refer to the articles on the Digital Nomad official website. II. Submission Format Please send your submissions to digitalnomad@ftpm.com.tw, with the email subject titled "Digital Nomad Reader Submission: Please Fill in Article Title," and provide "Self-Introduction" and "Submission Article." 1. Self-Introduction To help us understand you better, please provide a self-introduction of about 150 words. 2. Submission Article Word Count: 1000 words. Language: Chinese or English are both acceptable. Submission File: Please provide a Google.doc cloud link with editing permissions enabled. Image Format: If you wish to provide images, please attach them to the email in .jpg format, along with captions and image sources. If there are copyright concerns regarding the images you provide, we will not use them. Contact Information: You can include your blog or social media links at the end of the article. We will create hyperlinks so that readers can get to know you better through these links. Reader submissions are unpaid, and the Digital Nomad editorial team reserves the right to decide whether to publish them. Titles may be adjusted, and content may be edited, with your consent, before publication. Due to the high volume of submissions, we will reply to your email within two weeks. Digital Nomad hopes to be a platform for digital nomads to exchange ideas. Your articles will be featured in Digital Nomad, and we will also promote them through Facebook and Instagram to help you gain visibility and explore more collaboration opportunities. The Digital Nomad team also hopes to use this opportunity to collaborate more deeply with outstanding creators in various aspects. Welcome to submit and share your journey on the digital nomad path. We look forward to the opportunity to exchange and learn together.

April 12, 2024

Podcast "Digital Nomad" | “Lifehacker" Raymond: Improve Work Efficiency by Experimenting on Yourself First!

Podcast "Digital Nomad" | “Lifehacker" Raymond: Improve Work Efficiency by Experimenting on Yourself First!

Do you ever feel like life is overwhelming, with a mountain of tasks piling up, never enough time, and constantly forgetting things? Do you also find that the software tools available on the market aren't useful, or you're unsure how to make the best use of them? Raymond, founder of the self-media brand "雷蒙三十 Lifehacker", may be the most systematic, organized, and even "technological" digital nomad I've ever encountered. For instance, he uses Notion, ChatGPT, or various computer software to enhance his work efficiency and manage effectively. He has a variety of smart devices on his computer desk and at home to optimize his life. He truly integrates the word "digital" into his lifestyle. In fact, if you ask Raymond casually about his expenses for the whole year of 2016 or which project had the highest expenditure, or where certain collaboration data from five years ago is stored, he can immediately find the answers amidst a vast amount of data just by opening his computer. Reflecting on the past, Raymond started freelancing as a student in university to earn tuition and living expenses. Despite being a student during the day with 10 hours filled with exams and classes, he began to "systemize" his work and life due to limited time and numerous tasks. Three years ago, Raymond founded the self-media brand "雷蒙三十 Lifehacker" to share various methods of improving work efficiency, self-management, and unpacking digital tools, which gained much popularity among readers. His online course "Notion 線上訓練營 "(Notion Training Camp) even accumulated over ten thousand registrations. Raymond jokingly says his memory is very poor. His ability to manage his work and life systematically and efficiently lies in finding the "right" tools and methods that suit him best! Especially as a digital nomad, when you have a better grasp of your work and life, it's crucial to manage your life well. So, what are the best tools and methods for yourself? This article summarizes them for you! First, How to Be Effective? Try Experimenting! Many people aim to enhance their productivity and efficiency by learning from successful individuals, yet they find those methods ineffective. For instance, you might have seen media reports about Mark Zuckerberg or Steve Jobs, who are productive and efficient due to early rising. Consequently, you attempt to emulate their practices by trying to wake up early, only to find yourself unable to do so or feeling groggy, leading to even lower efficiency. Raymond emphasizes: "You don't have to follow mainstream methods; personalize your approach instead!" During college, Raymond heard about the notion that "early risers are more productive," but is it true? He decided to experiment and find out! For a month, he woke up at 7 a.m. every day, and for another month, he slept until 3 a.m. and woke up at 10 a.m., documenting his work mood, focus, and other factors daily. And then? He discovered that he was naturally a night owl, achieving better focus and productivity at night. "Early rising for productivity" didn't apply to him, and he found the most suitable working hours for himself. Raymond suggests, "To find the method that suits you best, experiment and keep records, rather than adhering to mainstream definitions of 'how things should be done' or methods used by successful individuals!" You can also refer to Raymond's articles about Lifehacker to gain a better understanding of how to establish a systematized life that suits you. Second, The Key to Choosing Tools Lies in "Goals" Many people use tools like iPads or various life management software to organize tasks, but they often give up midway or find them ineffective. How can you find the most suitable and effective tools for yourself? Raymond suggests starting with a blank sheet of paper and jotting down everything you do from waking up in the morning to going to bed at night. It could be a work flowchart or a mind map, nothing too complicated. Then, review your day. The key to choosing tools is to start from your needs and the goals you want to achieve. For example, if you enjoy reading articles online in the morning and often have many tabs open, wanting to manage your pages and data efficiently, you can use management tools or RSS to integrate information from different websites. "Identify what each work or life need is, and then find the corresponding tools. I believe this is the initial point of solving the problem!" says Raymond. Otherwise, when you have too many tools, you'll have to remember what Tool A is for, and what Tool B is for, leading to chaos in your life. "Your brain is meant for problem-solving, thinking, and creating, not for memorizing and storing information!" Raymond says. Trimming the fat, identifying your true needs, and using tools and methods that suit you can help you establish a more systematized life. If you're interested in Raymond's digital nomad journey and methods for systematic life management, feel free to listen to "JB's Small Talk" Digital Nomad SP1: Freelancers Need to Construct Personalized Systems for Long-term Balance Between Income and Freedom | Interview with "雷蒙三十 Lifehacker" Raymond. -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (@digital.nomad.press)!

March 21, 2024

BI Analyst Angel Chen Exclusive Interview | The Value of Digital Nomadism Lies in "Choosing" the Lifestyle You Want

BI Analyst Angel Chen Exclusive Interview | The Value of Digital Nomadism Lies in "Choosing" the Lifestyle You Want

"In my digital nomad journey, I've met many extraordinary people. For instance, when I was in Hainan, I had a friend from Beijing who only worked about half the year. During the winter, he did marketing at a ski resort, and the rest of the time, he surfed in Hainan." As I expressed my surprise, Angel on the other end of the video call continued, "Yes, I was also like, 'Wow, is that even possible?'" Currently working as a Business Intelligence Analyst in a Singaporean company, Angel has been a digital nomad for about two years. Passionate about surfing, she has lived not only in Yilan and Taitung but also in cities such as Hainan in China, Chiang Mai in Thailand, and Bali in Indonesia. A few weeks before the interview, she embarked on a long-awaited journey to Sri Lanka alone with her backpack. At the time of the interview, she had returned to her "nomadic hub" in Bali. Talking about her nomadic life, she smiled and mentioned that she always loved traveling. Therefore, even with a nine-to-five job with demanding responsibilities, she found immense joy in the nomadic lifestyle. However, as her travel experiences expanded and she met more people, she realized that her happiness didn't solely stem from traveling itself. Delving deeper, she discovered that digital nomadism created a larger space than before, enabling people to freely "choose" the kind of life they want. Don't Let "Nomadism" Limit You; Life Can Be Diverse When discussing "digital nomadism," many people often have a misconception that it means constantly moving from place to place. But according to Angel, we don't need to be restricted by terminologies. The proclaimed freedom of the nomadic lifestyle offers various possibilities. "Some people like frequent changes of location, finding it refreshing, while others, like me, prefer staying in one place for a longer period, maybe spending a few months deeply exploring a destination. Some people can travel, but they choose to stay in Taiwan and travel occasionally," she explained. For her, these are all valid options. Some might wonder if being a digital nomad means a decrease in income. After all, the conventional perception of "success" often involves working in modern, tidy offices rather than traveling around. However, Angel suggests otherwise. With the right career strategies during nomadic life, it's entirely plausible to maintain or even increase one's income compared to before. Understanding digital nomadism in this light, it's not difficult to comprehend: It doesn't signify one "ideal" way of living but rather prompts individuals to contemplate the kind of life they truly desire and make choices accordingly. Angel working remotely by the beach. (Photo from Angel) "Moreover, embarking on nomadic life has exposed me to various lifestyles, expanding my imagination about life," Angel added. She elaborated that after graduating from university, she worked in Shanghai. In the fast-paced metropolitan city, her perception of what life should be like was similar to that of most people—working in tech giants or internet companies, earning a substantial income, and climbing up the career ladder. However, after embracing the nomadic lifestyle, she met many new friends from different backgrounds and countries during her journeys. She mentioned a few examples: Friend A, who works only half the year, spending the winter working at a ski resort and the rest of the time surfing in Hainan; Friend B, who quit her job in the tourism industry to run a homestay in Taitung, Taiwan; and Friend C, who moved from Spain to Indonesia simply because they loved the lifestyle in Bali. "I used to believe there was only one way to live life, but now I realize there are numerous possibilities. Whether one focuses on their career or pursues their interests, as long as their income supports the life they desire, it's the most important and fulfilling choice," Angel concluded. Choices Always Come with "Costs"; Accept Reality and Find Solutions Although Angel has gained a lot during her nomadic journey, she also acknowledges that every choice comes with its own set of costs. For her, there are two significant costs she feels in her current lifestyle: 1.It's challenging to establish stable new relationships because she typically stays in one place for only a few months. 2.Due to spending long periods away from Taiwan, she naturally has less contact with her old friends. However, over the past two years, she has developed coping mechanisms for these challenges. Regarding building stable relationships, she gradually reduced engagement in social activities that she wasn't good at or fond of, such as parties where she had to chat with large groups of people at once. Instead, she focused on connecting with like-minded individuals through shared interests like surfing. This not only provided surfing companions but also fostered deeper interactions and friendships. She also shared a memorable experience from her nomadic journey: "Last year, I celebrated my 30th birthday in Bali. I went diving with a Spanish roommate who brought a slate underwater with 'Happy Birthday Angel' written on it. Looking back, I was really touched. I never expected to make such close friends during my solo nomadic journey, let alone celebrate my birthday in such a surprising way." The Spanish roommate surprises Angel with a "birthday message" underwater. (Photo from Angel) Angel (front right) poses with roommates from Russia, Germany, New Zealand, and Australia in Bali. (Photo from Angel) Regarding the second challenge—reduced contact with old friends—her approach is to make the most of opportunities to meet with friends when she returns to Taiwan. After all, as adults, everyone has their own lives, and actively inviting important friends to hang out is more practical than waiting for them to reach out. Making "Choices" Rationally: Consider 5 Self-Assessment Aspects + 6 Nomadic Destination Considerations After weighing the feasibility of your job conditions, if you have a nomadic plan similar to Angel's, she offers five aspects for further consideration: What kind of travel/lifestyle suits me: Do I prefer frequent movement? Staying in one city for a few months before moving? Or mostly staying in Taiwan and traveling occasionally? Am I capable of living independently: Can I handle everyday tasks (like laundry, cooking, etc.) by myself? How capable am I of traveling alone: Can I solve various problems during travel alone? Is my language Do I have the ability to be alone: Does being alone make me uncomfortable, or do I enjoy it? How can I make friends: Do I enjoy participating in social activities? Or how do I plan to make friends during my travels? It's important to note that the implications of these five aspects are not "I can't do it, so I can't be a nomad"; rather, they help evaluate the corresponding skill requirements based on the type of nomadic lifestyle one is suited for or desires. If you currently don't meet the requirements, how can you enhance or adjust your travel/lifestyle? If you're unsure about some aspects, such as solo travel experience, you can start with minimal endeavors (like short-term trips) to test the waters. In addition to pre-departure assessments and improvements, when it comes to choosing the first nomadic destination, Angel shares her approach: "I think the priority is to determine whether I'm interested in this city and if there are places I want to explore here." Then, she evaluates factors such as internet stability, cost of living, safety, and visa requirements (including application difficulty and duration of stay). You can find this information on nomadic websites like Nomad List, or you can search using keywords like "city" and "digital nomad." "Besides, time zone differences are also crucial," Angel added. Although she wishes to nomad in Europe, she considers her current job requiring frequent collaboration with colleagues in Singapore, which might be inconvenient in different time zones. Therefore, she temporarily keeps this wish in mind, waiting for a time when it can be realized in the future. Thinking about the future, Angel said, "Nomadic life has brought me immense happiness. I may not stay in my current job forever, but I will find ways to maintain this lifestyle that I love." For friends who have been contemplating nomadism but haven't taken action yet, she encourages with a bright smile, "Just do it! After all, the happiness I currently enjoy also comes from the 'choice' I made two years ago, mixed with caution and a little impulsiveness." If you're curious about Angel's digital nomad journey, you can also refer to "JB's Small Talk." -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (@digital.nomad.press)!

March 12, 2024

3 Special Experiences Brought by Freelancing|You Should Try It At Least Once in Your Lifetime!

3 Special Experiences Brought by Freelancing|You Should Try It At Least Once in Your Lifetime!

For many, the term "entrepreneurship" embodies dreams and passion. The startup stories of Apple, Google, and Tesla have become epics and legends of our time, akin to the clarion call of adventure, urging the brave to embark on risky ventures. However, among the millions of workers in Taiwan, only a minority ultimately choose entrepreneurship. For most of us, even after graduation, we opt to join companies to utilize our skills. However, today, I want to persuade you of one thing: even if entrepreneurship isn't your choice, I still recommend trying freelancing or earning some extra income outside your regular job, at least once. Because it will bring you many unique and interesting experiences, some of which could even pave the way for your future career. 1. Experience of Flying Solo There's a documentary about Air Force pilot training called "Taiwan's Elite Warriors :Fighter Pilot", which I highly recommend. Regardless of how many flights rookie pilots take under the guidance of instructors, they must ultimately pass the test of "solo flight" to become true pilots. Many professions are similar. For instance, a surgeon can only truly become a proficient doctor when they can operate independently. It's like when we were kids learning to ride bicycles; no matter how stable our rides were with training wheels, it wasn't until the day the adults removed them that we could proudly say, "I can ride a bike!" Similarly, even if you always accomplish your missions at work, have you ever wondered, if you didn't have a boss or supervisor guiding you, could you solve a problem from start to finish or produce an output? I suggest you frequently ponder this because more and more companies are particularly interested in whether job applicants have the ability to "work independently" or even "make independent decisions," which has almost become a standard interview question. Unless you never have to look for a job again in your life, you'll have to prove to others that even without an "instructor" or "training wheels," you can still independently create value. My first freelancing experience was being a lecturer for a company. At that time, I had experience giving lectures within the company to my colleagues. Later, a friend asked me to give lectures to the employees and the boss of a small company. I thought it wouldn't be a big deal, just revisiting my previous PowerPoint presentations, but after agreeing, I realized that when I used to give lectures within the company, everything from timing, location, venue equipment, attendees, notifications, and tracking results was arranged by supervisors and colleagues. The learners also knew each other well. Many "invisible" tasks and responsibilities were taken care of by others. It wasn't until this freelancing gig that I truly felt the thrill of "flying solo." Despite the immense pressure, I grew immensely. Nowadays, many companies require job seekers to have the ability to "work independently," especially for positions involving "remote work." If you have had several successful experiences of freelancing independently, it can definitely serve as a strong testament to your capabilities. 2. Experience of Market Value I remember my first freelancing gig as a lecturer, where I charged an hourly rate of NT$ 4,500. For someone under 30 years old with no professional teaching experience, this was quite high. After successfully completing the project, I realized: People are willing to pay NT$ 4,500 per hour for my time! I quickly compared this to my hourly "rate" at the company, which was only a little over NT$ 200.NT$ 4,500 compared to NT$ 200, a difference of 22.5 times - this stark contrast left me astonished! This led to a new realization. I thought, if I have a market value of NT$ 4,500 per hour, why would I accept a company's hourly wage of just over NT$ 200? You might think, NT$ 4,500 per hour gigs aren't available every day, but the company's monthly salary is stable! But what's more important, I believe, is that by working at the company, I'm "earning less" byNT$ 4,300 per hour. So, I must "earn it back" from elsewhere; otherwise, working in the company would be too costly! How do you "earn back the difference"? Certainly not by stealing office supplies or tea bags! It's by diligently learning skills, accumulating experience and contacts, obtaining these intangible yet valuable company resources, so that in the future, there's a better chance of selling yourself for NT$ 4,500 or even higher per hour. So, I would suggest trying freelancing independently to understand how much you're worth from the perspective of the market? This way, the next time you complain about low company salaries or aim for a higher pay, you'll have more confidence! And when you plan to switch jobs, you'll have a more precise understanding of your market value! 3. Experience in Business Operations Working in a company, especially in highly specialized roles in large corporations, often creates a sense of dependence. Because each of us only does our part, and there's often an SOP to follow, we can become mere cogs in a big machine, losing our ability to solve problems and be creative. If being a little screw all your life brings you happiness, that's fine. But in this era, where companies have shorter lifespans, and entire industries rapidly decline, if you're a young person under 40, you must think carefully about how to support yourself and your family in the future. Although Taiwan's legal retirement age is 65, in recent years, people in their early 50s have trouble finding jobs, and there are more and more "retirees." If these "old screws" have the ability to operate a small personal business independently, wouldn't that provide more career security? In recent years, I've seen many seniors around me who were high-ranking executives in companies, receiving retirement benefits, wanting to start small businesses (usually cafes or food stalls), but most of them failed. "I led hundreds of people in a listed company, expanded business globally, why would opening a small coffee shop be difficult for me?" However, "professionalism" and "entrepreneurship," though only differing by a word, are entirely different games. Being good at management is going from 1 to 100, while starting a business is going from 0 to 1. There are too many different know-hows and challenges between the two, being proficient in one doesn't guarantee an easy transition to the other. Therefore, for office workers within the stable framework of a company, if you can allocate some extra time to try "freelancing," experience the feeling of going from 0 to 1, face the market alone, and take on the new role of "principal and bell ringer," you'll be building strength for your career. Even if you face career risks in middle age, you'll have more chips to deal with it. Conclusion Most office workers, when they hear "freelancing," first think of "earning money," and if the money isn't much, they lose interest. But what I want to say is, even if you're not interested in earning extra income and have no intention of starting a business, just want to be a professional office worker, the rare experiences brought by freelancing, such as "flying solo," "market value," and "business operations," will help build excellent assets and moats for your career, making it worth trying when you have some free time! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (@digital.nomad.press)!

February 27, 2024

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