The Remote Worker Who Traveled to 20 Countries in One Year

The Remote Worker Who Traveled to 20 Countries in One Year

When I first set out on my remote work journey, I never imagined that my laptop and a reliable internet connection would become my golden ticket to the world. In January of that year, I was just another remote employee working from my apartment, watching the seasons change through the same window every day. I had a good job, steady clients, and a predictable routine, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that life had more to offer. One evening, while scrolling through my social media feed, I came across a post about a woman who had worked remotely while traveling full-time. Something clicked. That night, I opened a fresh document on my laptop and typed, “20 countries in one year let’s go.” It was both a goal and a promise to myself. Over the next twelve months, I transformed airports into waiting rooms,coffee shops into offices, and sunsets into meeting backdrops. I worked from beaches in Bali, cafés in Paris, mountain lodges in Peru,and tiny apartments in Tokyo. This is the story of how I made it happen, the lessons I learned, and why I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything in the world.

Deciding to Leave Comfort Behind

The first step in my journey wasn’t booking a flight it was breaking free from my comfort zone. Comfort can be intoxicating; it feels safe, but it can also keep you stagnant. I had a stable work environmen, a supportive circle of friends, and my own cozy apartment. But with every passing day, I could feel the pull toward something bigger. I began by asking myself some hard questions: “What’s the worst that can happen if I leave?” and “What’s the best that can happen if I go?” The answers shocked me. The worst? I might run into challenges and return home earlier than planned. The best? I could see the world while building my career. That realization made the decision easier. I sold most of my belongings, kept essentials in storage, and told my clients I would continue delivering quality work just from different corners of the globe. It wasn’t a leap of blind faith; it was a calculated risk, and it was the most liberating decision I’ve ever made.

Planning the Route

I didn’t want to just wander aimlessly; I wanted my travels to have structure while leaving room for spontaneity. I started by mapping out regions of the world that I had always dreamed of visiting. Southeast Asia, Europe, South America, and parts of the Middle East made the list. I grouped countries by proximity to minimize travel fatigue and cut down on costs. My plan was simple: spend two to three weeks in each country, with a few longer stays for places that felt like home. While I had a rough outline, I also allowed for flexibility. Opportunities like meeting fellow travelers, learning about local events, or chasing a seasonal festival could alter my route, and I was okay with that. This planning stage was thrilling; it felt like I was already halfway there. Every pin I placed on my digital map was a future memory waiting to be made.

Making Remote Work

The romantic idea of working from a hammock on a tropical beach quickly meets reality when deadlines, unstable internet connections, and time zone challenges come into play. I knew that if I wanted to sustain this lifestyle, I had to set clear boundaries. My first rule was to prioritize internet reliability over scenery. No matter how beautiful a location was, if I couldn’t guarantee stable Wi-Fi, I wouldn’t stay there long. My second rule was to create a work schedule that aligned with my clients’ time zones, even if it meant working odd hours. This sometimes meant starting my day at midnight in Bangkok or wrapping up just before sunrise in Rio. I also invested in portable tech gear noise-canceling headphones, a lightweight laptop stand, and backup power banks. These tools became my lifeline, turning cafés, co-working spaces, and even train stations into productive work environments.

Southeast Asia

My first stop was Southeast Asia, a region known for its affordability, vibrant culture, and reliable digital nomad communities. I started in Bali, Indonesia, and it was everything the travel blogs promised lush rice terraces, affordable villas, and co-working spaces with infinity pools. From there, I explored Thailand, working from bustling Bangkok cafés by day and wandering night markets by evening. Vietnam became my favorite surprise, with its incredible street food and breathtaking landscapes in Ha Long Bay. What made Southeast Asia perfect for starting my journey was the blend of low living costs and high quality of life. I could work efficiently while also enjoying unforgettable adventures like snorkeling in turquoise waters, visiting ancient temples, and taking weekend trips to nearby islands. It was here that I truly found my rhythm balancing work with exploration without feeling burned out.

Europe

After months in Asia, I craved a change in atmosphere, so I flew to Europe. My first European stop was Paris, and I instantly felt the shift in pace and culture. Working from chic Parisian cafés felt straight out of a movie. On weekends, I hopped on budget trains to cities like Brussels, Amsterdam, and Prague. Europe had its challenges the cost of living was significantly higher, and finding budget-friendly accommodations sometimes required creativity. Still, it was worth it for the chance to walk through centuries-old streets, visit world-class museums, and enjoy cuisines that varied from country to country. I even worked from a small apartment in Rome that overlooked a cobblestone alleyway where street musicians played every evening. Europe was intense, but it was also incredibly enriching.

South America

From Europe, I flew to South America, starting in Colombia. Medellín’s spring-like climate, colorful neighborhoods, and friendly locals made it an immediate favorite. I then moved on to Peru, where I balanced deadlines with hikes to Machu Picchu. Working in South America brought a different set of challenges, including language barriers and less predictable internet connectivity in some areas. But it also brought deeper cultural immersion. I learned basic Spanish to navigate daily life, joined local cooking classes, and stayed in family-run guesthouses that made me feel at home. This part of the journey taught me that travel isn’t just about seeing famous landmarks it’s about connecting with people and understanding their way of life.

The Middle East

After months in South America, I craved something completely different, so I booked a ticket to the Middle East. My first stop was Dubai, where the futuristic skyline contrasted beautifully with traditional souks and golden deserts. I set up my workspace in a high-rise apartment with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Burj Khalifa. Between meetings, I explored the old Al Fahidi Historical District and enjoyed sunset camel rides in the desert. From there, I visited Oman, a country less talked about in travel blogs but rich in natural beauty towering mountains, turquoise wadis, and endless sandy beaches. Working here meant adjusting to a new rhythm: mornings started early due to the heat, and evenings were spent outdoors under star-filled skies. The Middle East reminded me that travel isn’t always about ticking off famous spots it’s about discovering unexpected gems and learning from cultures with deep-rooted traditions.

Finding My Work-Travel Balance

By the time I reached my eighth country, I realized that full-time travel wasn’t just about booking flights it was about maintaining balance. The excitement of constantly moving could easily turn into burnout if I didn’t manage my time and energy wisely. I created a “travel work cycle” that helped me stay productive while still making the most of each destination. The first few days in a new place were reserved for exploring, photography, and cultural experiences. The next phase focused heavily on work finding a quiet café, co-working space, or apartment where I could dedicate uninterrupted hours to my projects. This balance ensured I wasn’t sacrificing my income for my travels or missing out on the very adventures I’d set out to enjoy. Learning to blend these two worlds seamlessly was one of the most important skills I developed during my journey.

Solo Travel and Self-Discovery

Traveling alone for a year brought its own challenges and rewards. On one hand, there were moments of loneliness birthdays celebrated without family, or dinners eaten solo in a bustling restaurant. But those moments were overshadowed by the deep sense of independence I gained. I learned to rely on my instincts, make quick decisions, and adapt to unexpected situations. Solo travel also pushed me to connect with people I might not have approached otherwise. I joined walking tours, struck up conversations with strangers in coffee shops, and even made lifelong friends in hostel common rooms. Most importantly, I learned more about myself than I ever thought possible—my strengths, my limits, and my values. It’s amazing how much personal growth can happen when you step outside your familiar surroundings.

Unexpected Challenges on the Road

Not every part of this journey was glamorous. There were missed flights, lost luggage, visa complications, and internet outages at the worst possible times. I once had to deliver a major project while sitting in a noisy train station because my accommodation’s Wi-Fi went down unexpectedly. There were also cultural misunderstandings—like ordering something off a menu and receiving a dish I had no idea how to eat. Each challenge taught me patience, problem-solving, and the importance of staying calm under pressure. Over time, I stopped seeing these obstacles as setbacks and started viewing them as part of the adventure. If everything went perfectly, there wouldn’t be nearly as many stories to tell.

Budgeting for a Year of Travel

One of the biggest questions people asked me was, “How do you afford to travel for a whole year?” The truth is, it’s all about budgeting and prioritizing. I kept my accommodation costs low by staying in short-term rentals, hostels, or co-living spaces. I booked flights in advance, took advantage of low-cost carriers, and used buses or trains whenever possible. I also cooked my own meals often, especially in more expensive countries. My goal was to spend less than I would if I had stayed home in my apartment, and surprisingly, I succeeded. Remote work income covered my expenses, and I avoided unnecessary splurges focusing instead on meaningful experiences and local adventures.

The Role of Co-Working Spaces

Co-working spaces became my second home during this journey. These places weren’t just about Wi-Fi they were hubs of creativity and networking. In cities like Lisbon, Medellín, and Chiang Mai, I met other remote workers who shared similar goals and challenges. We exchanged tips, collaborated on projects, and even planned trips together. Having a consistent workspace, even temporarily, made a huge difference in my productivity. Plus, co-working spaces often organized social events, workshops, and cultural activities, which enriched my travels even more. It was a reminder that while remote work can be isolating, it doesn’t have to be if you find the right communities.

Language Barriers and Communication Hacks

Traveling through 20 countries meant encountering dozens of languages, many of which I didn’t speak. At first, it was intimidating to order food, ask for directions, or negotiate prices in an unfamiliar tongue. But I quickly learned that language barriers are rarely insurmountable. I relied on translation apps, learned basic greetings and phrases, and used plenty of gestures and smiles. In some cases, these interactions led to funny misunderstandings, but more often than not, they resulted in genuine human connections. People appreciated the effort, even if my pronunciation was far from perfect. This taught me that communication is more about intent and respect than perfect grammar.

Staying Healthy While Traveling

Maintaining health on the road was another challenge. Constant movement, unfamiliar foods, and irregular sleep patterns could easily take a toll. I made it a priority to stay active by walking everywhere, finding local gyms, or doing simple bodyweight workouts in my accommodation. I also paid attention to my diet, balancing indulgent local treats with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Sleep was harder to regulate due to changing time zones, but I used blackout masks and earplugs to create consistent rest conditions. Staying healthy wasn’t just about avoiding illness it was about having the energy to fully enjoy each new place.

Finding “Home” in Every Country

Even though I didn’t have a permanent address, I learned to create a sense of home wherever I went. Sometimes it was as simple as finding a favorite coffee shop or a quiet park bench where I could relax after work. Other times, it meant forming friendships with locals or fellow travelers who made me feel welcome. I also carried a few personal items a favorite mug, a lightweight blanket, and some printed photos that gave each space a familiar touch. Home, I realized, isn’t a fixed place; it’s a feeling you create.

Capturing the Journey

Traveling to 20 countries in one year meant experiencing an overwhelming number of beautiful moments. I wanted to capture them, not just for social media, but for myself. I carried a lightweight camera and kept a digital journal where I recorded daily highlights. Every month, I organized my photos into albums, which became visual stories of my journey. Looking back at them now, I see more than just pretty landscapes I see the small details, like the shop owner who offered me tea in Morocco or the street musician in Lisbon who played my favorite song. These captured memories are my most valuable souvenirs.

Learning from Different Work Cultures

Working while traveling exposed me to a variety of professional environments. In Japan, punctuality and precision shaped my work habits. In Brazil, I learned to embrace flexibility and creativity. In Germany, efficiency was key, while in Thailand, I discovered the importance of balancing work with relaxation. These cultural influences enriched my approach to remote work, making me more adaptable and open-minded. It also helped me better understand my clients’ perspectives, especially when working with international teams.

Staying Motivated Far from Home

One of the biggest risks of long-term travel is losing focus on your work. Without structure, it’s easy to get caught up in exploration and neglect professional responsibilities. I stayed motivated by setting clear goals, both for my travels and my career. I treated my remote work schedule as non-negotiable, blocking out hours just as I would in an office setting. I also rewarded myself finishing a big project often meant booking a special experience, like a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia or a scuba diving trip in the Philippines. This system kept me productive without feeling deprived of adventure.

Lessons I’ll Carry Forever

By the end of the year, I had learned more than I ever expected. I discovered that the world is far more welcoming than news headlines often suggest. I learned that problems are rarely as big as they seem, and that resourcefulness is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. I also learned that happiness comes from experiences, not possessions. Every country, every conversation, and every challenge added a new layer to who I am. This journey wasn’t just about seeing the world it was about becoming a better version of myself.

Returning Home

When I finally returned home, everything looked the same but I was different. My apartment, my neighborhood, even my favorite café felt familiar yet somehow smaller. I realized that travel had expanded my view of the world, making me appreciate both its vastness and its interconnectedness. I returned with a deeper sense of gratitude, a stronger belief in my abilities, and an unshakable curiosity about what comes next. I may have completed my goal of visiting 20 countries in one year, but in many ways, the journey is just beginning.

Why I’d Do It All Over Again

Looking back, traveling to 20 countries while working remotely was not just a personal dream come true it was a life-changing education. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of human connectio. It showed me that with the right mindset, it’s possible to balance career ambitions with a love for adventure. I discovered that the world is full of opportunities, and that the only real limit is the courage to pursue them. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone considering a similar path, it would be this: start now. The world is waiting, and your dream life is closer than you think.

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Photo by Kaleidico on Unsplash