Let’s talk about the dream life: waking up to ocean waves, working with your laptop from a chic café, and ending your day with new friends over good food and music. But as Black gay men, our experiences as digital nomads often mean finding places where we can thrive personally and professionally. Luckily, some destinations feel like home even when we’re halfway around the globe. Here are some of the best spots to set up your remote HQ.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has been a hot spot for digital nomads for a minute, and it’s easy to see why. Think affordable living, reliable Wi-Fi, and co-working spaces with rooftop views of the city’s famous terracotta rooftops. Plus, the queer scene here is vibrant. Bairro Alto and Principe Real are two neighborhoods packed with LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. And the Afro-Portuguese vibe? Absolutely undeniable. From soulful fado music to mouthwatering food like bacalhau à brás, you’ll feel connected to a culture that embraces diversity.
Pro Tip: Head to Outsite Lisbon for a co-living/co-working setup that’s made for nomads. It’s equal parts stylish and functional, with a built-in community that makes networking easy.
2. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town feels like it was designed for Black creatives to recharge and thrive. The city’s stunning backdrop, with Table Mountain on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, is pure inspiration. It’s a cultural hub where you can balance Zoom calls with art exhibitions, Afro-centric markets, and beach sunsets. The LGBTQ+ scene is active, with events like the Mother City Queer Project (MCQP) and bars like Pink Panther offering spaces to connect.
Wi-Fi is solid, especially in areas like Sea Point or Woodstock, where you’ll find trendy co-working spots like Workshop17. Oh, and the coffee? Worth writing home about.
3. Bali, Indonesia
If your vibe is zen meets hustle, Bali has you covered. Ubud is great for the wellness-focused nomad, while Canggu is where the remote workers come to play. Imagine working from a café overlooking rice paddies and breaking up your day with a yoga class or surf session.
Bali is also queer-friendly in its expat hubs. While Indonesia has conservative areas, spots like Bali pride itself on being inclusive. Check out Finn’s Beach Club for a day off or The Lawn in Canggu for chill evenings.
4. Medellín, Colombia
Dubbed the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín offers a mild climate and an affordable cost of living, making it a great option for long-term stays. The city is incredibly modern, with a metro system that puts some U.S. cities to shame. Its co-working culture is booming, and spaces like Selina Medellín give you everything from high-speed internet to networking events.
Medellín also has a budding queer scene. Hit up bars like Bar Chiquita for a fun, inclusive vibe that celebrates individuality. And don’t sleep on Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean culture—it’s vibrant, alive, and welcoming.
Final Thoughts
Finding a place that works for your career and identity isn’t just about internet speeds or housing costs. It’s about culture, safety, and finding a community where you can thrive as your authentic self. These cities are just the beginning—where will your laptop and passport take you next?
