Digital nomadism is an undeniably growing trend around the world, accelerated in force by pandemic precautionary measures. Nonetheless, it’s become a new way of life for many and it’s certainly now a hot new option for those working remotely and looking to do so in a variety of locations.
Ideal for remote workers
Turkey certainly has a lot of appeal for travelers of all kinds looking to stay in a destination for longer durations. The pleasant climate in much of the country, its affordability, its coffee culture and its strong infrastructure for internet and all amenities make it the perfect place from a practical point of view. Then there is the added bonus that Turks are renowned for their hospitality. They are also friendly, extremely social, spontaneous and accommodating by nature. Famous for being last-minute travelers themselves, in many destinations it is easy to find flexible temporary and long-term accommodation.
Urban vs. rural
There are a variety of different lifestyles one can carve out in Turkey. In most rural areas, housing is more affordable and offers options such as single-family homes, while most housing in most cities is more expensive, smaller, and competitive. In cities and most coastal towns in Turkey, you won’t need a car, but in off-the-beaten-path areas, having private transportation can be a near necessity. That said, almost every village in Turkey is served by a “dolmuş” minibus system, so it’s very possible to also live immersed in nature while staying connected to your local community and beyond.
Digital nomad destination guide
Istanbul
Turkey’s cultural capital, Istanbul, is nothing special. Magnificent for multiple reasons and straddling two continents, there’s no comparison in the world to this bustling city if you’re looking for exhilarating views, bustling neighborhoods with cafes and parks, the historic district, which remains still remarkably intact, the Princess Islands a short ferry-ride away, Istanbul has it all. But it comes at a high price and with some traffic.
Ankara
Although the capital certainly deserves an honorable mention, especially for its pristine roads, impressive buildings, museums and lush parks, it is located inland in Anatolia and does not have a body of water. important, which can be a major inconvenience for digital nomads. Occupied mostly by expatriates of a diplomatic nature, Ankara is ideal for families due to its more genteel and surprisingly slower pace of life, given that it is the country’s capital.
Izmir
Located along the Aegean coast and with a wide variety of neighborhoods, ranging from bohemian to suburban as well as proximity to the seaside resort of Çeşme, the windsurfing paradise of Alaçatı and the growing city Urla’s boutique in between, Izmir definitely offers the best of both worlds when it comes to combining city living and rural living.
Bodrum
If money is no object, Bodrum, Turkey’s premier holiday destination, is for many one of the best places to stay. It consists of a dozen different regions along the peninsula, each with its own original characteristics which are closely linked to a prolific “dolmuş” bus transport system. Bodrum’s town center itself consists of winding cobbled streets lined with shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. There is a marina, castle, museum and co-working space and festivals ranging from classical music to jazz, pop and rock held in spectacular settings such as ancient theaters throughout the summer. The downsides are of course that accommodation is competitive and prices are some of the highest in Turkey and traffic can be horrendous in the summer and on holidays. But the sun shines almost all year round!
Marmaris
To the east is Marmaris, which is one of those hidden gems along Turkey’s southern coast. Although still a popular resort, the area is huge and there are different neighborhoods such as Içmeler which are popular among the European expat crowd. But Marmaris has a spectacular coastal cycling and walking path, which means the opportunity to exercise regularly is literally just steps away. The downside: young digital nomads are barely discovering the region and there are fewer established and let’s say “cool” cafes that welcome teleworkers.
Fethiye
One of the best destinations along Turkey’s southern coast is Fethiye, a port town which is linked to many varied holiday destinations from Ölüdeniz to the natural Kabak Valley, thus offering both luxurious accommodation in cabin-type houses or even sleep in treehouses. The sky is the limit and the area is also renowned for being the main paragliding hub of the country and it is right in the center of the historic Lycian Trail. While admittedly hilly, the area offers breathtaking views from almost every vantage point. The city itself has cafes for work, varied accommodation options and suburbs such as Hisaronu which are popular with expats. The downside: The further east you go along Turkey’s southern coast, the hotter and wetter the climate becomes.
Antalya
The sprawling resort town of Antalya sits on the eastern Mediterranean coast and has a castle and an old town with a marina as well as a variety of neighborhoods and suburbs particularly popular with Eastern European expats. East. Offshoots such as the beloved city of Kaş offer the opportunity to live close to the city while enjoying the slower lifestyle of a small town. Alanya is also a popular destination which, like Antalya, is equipped with affordable accommodation throughout the year. Perhaps the reason why Antalya is not yet a hotspot for digital nomads is because it has one of the hottest climates in Turkey in summer and is home to huge hotels all included to welcome customers from the region.
