Explore the hottest places to visit in summer 

while earning money online

The term wanderlust  means to possess a strong longing to explore and travel. The motivations behind this desire to discover, learn, and explore can be highly personal.

It can be mistakenly assumed that wanderlust is a means of escaping something, particularly for those left behind, but this is not always the case. In reality, venturing outside your comfort zone and embracing the unknown can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and others. 

An increasing number of people worldwide have embraced self-reflection and transformation, wishing for the opportunity to break free from their familiar and predictable lifestyles.

The desire to embark on global journeys while maintaining a source of income on the go has given rise to the emerging professional category of digital nomads. 

There are various avenues for earning income while embarking on your nomadic journey, including roles such as freelance writing, designing, blogging, or becoming an influencer. 

Another increasingly popular option is to teach English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) online. Whether you teach English abroad or online, it’s important to get your qualification. If you want to know more, have a look at a comprehensive TESOL certification resource from The TEFL Org.

How to get into online TESOL

Many individuals who venture into freelance online teaching seek greater flexibility in their work schedules, and online teaching offers precisely that. However, teachers come with diverse requirements, qualifications, skills, and levels of expertise. Take a look at the two available options to determine which one aligns with your preferences.

• Independence at its core: Establishing a solo TESOL business is an attractive prospect for those desiring complete autonomy. In this scenario, though, you’ll require more than just teaching experience; you’ll need legal acumen and marketing expertise, among other things.

Once you’ve set up your website and selected the platform for delivering your lessons, you’ll need to draft contracts, including subscription and cancellation policies. Most importantly, you’ll need to attract students. Currently, social media is the most effective tool for reaching thousands of people—be prepared to record yourself multiple times until you are completely satisfied with your promotional video!

• Guidance from established online schools: Conversely, if you wish to avoid the groundwork involved in establishing your own freelance enterprise, you can offer your services to established online schools that provide language courses to learners worldwide through their platforms.

With this option, you will work on a freelance basis, but you won’t have as much independence. Only a few online schools will allow you to determine your own fees. However, most schools have a reward system in place where your starting hourly rate increases based on your recommendation rates, reliability, and punctuality.

Each of these online institutions has its own set of prerequisites, ranging from qualifications to teaching experience. Therefore, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and identify the one that best suits your profile. 

Choose your destination

Becoming a digital nomad is a phenomenon that is gaining popularity across the globe, transcending generational boundaries. This trend has been further facilitated by various countries introducing specialized visas for digital nomads. 

With a wide range of countries opening their doors to international remote workers,  where will you go?

• Costa Rica

Embracing the present moment, savoring the intricate details of each new day, and adopting a carefree, unhurried way of life is the essence of pura vida—but for the people of Costa Rica, pura vida is more than just a phrase. It embodies a genuine lifestyle, reflecting how Costa Ricans, known as Ticos, lead their lives with simplicity and a relaxed attitude.

Costa Rica boasts a captivating natural landscape, featuring awe-inspiring beaches, majestic volcanoes, and rich biodiversity, making it a truly enchanting destination for exploration. A day spent on the Costa Rican beaches provides the perfect opportunity for relaxation and mindfulness, as well as surfing and observing whales.

For those drawn to adventure, Costa Rica is home to the Poas volcano, which boasts one of the world’s largest craters and remains active to this day. Alternatively, you can visit the Irazu volcano, the country’s tallest volcano with its five craters, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

To immerse yourself in nature, explore one of the many national parks that Costa Rica has to offer. Thanks to its diverse geographical features, this country encompasses a wide range of climates. Don’t be surprised to encounter rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs all within Manuel Antonio National Park!

The local population takes immense pride in their land and is dedicated to its preservation. Approximately a quarter of their nation has been designated as protected areas, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation.

• Thailand

Thailand, often referred to as the Land of Smiles for its 13 different ways of showing friendliness, is a truly enchanting destination for those seeking a base in Southeast Asia. Its central location in the region provides unparalleled convenience for exploring neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar (Burma). 

Before venturing further afield, take the time to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of Thailand. With a tropical climate spanning three seasons, from rainy to dry, the country boasts breathtaking landscapes, from pristine sandy beaches to majestic highland peaks, from serene river valleys to expansive plains.

Bangkok, the capital, pulsates as the economic heart of the nation, offering modernity with shopping centers, skyscrapers, and a comprehensive sky train network. As Thailand’s largest city, it is home to over 14 million residents.

Phuket, the country’s largest island, entices expatriates with its stunning beaches, despite a relatively high cost of living. Over 100,000 expats choose to reside here, attracted by the opportunity for water sports and access to world-renowned golf courses.

For a similar lifestyle to Phuket but at a more affordable cost, Hua Hin is a favored destination. Known for its vibrant outdoor events like the Kite Festival, Jazz Festival, and Vintage Car Rally, it offers an engaging experience.

If sandy beaches don’t capture your interest, Chiang Mai, located in the peaceful north of Thailand, is a city steeped in history and culture. It provides a more cost-effective way of life, drawing people from diverse backgrounds to its serene charm.

• Spain

With its rich tapestry of history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, Spain has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads seeking an inspiring and dynamic environment to work and explore—and this country doesn’t disappoint.

This beautiful country boasts an array of breathtaking landscapes, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean to the dramatic peaks of the Pyrenees. The country’s diverse geography offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate nature and the great outdoors.

Spain’s culture is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. From the historic charm of cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Granada to the contemporary art scene in Madrid, digital nomads can immerse themselves in a variety of cultural experiences. The country’s love for art, music, and gastronomy adds depth to everyday life.

Speaking of gastronomy, Spanish cuisine is world-renowned, and for good reason. Tapas, paella, churros, and a vast array of delicious dishes await your taste buds. Exploring local markets and sampling regional specialties can be an integral part of the nomadic experience in Spain.

The welcoming atmosphere and the low cost of living are two key features of this country. Spaniards are known for their warm and friendly demeanor, making it easy for newcomers to feel welcomed and integrated into local communities. The strong sense of community and family values adds to the overall appeal of living in Spain.

While Spain’s larger cities may have a higher cost of living, compared to many Western European countries, it remains an affordable destination. Smaller towns and cities often offer a more budget-friendly lifestyle without sacrificing quality of life.

Travel and teach online

Becoming a digital nomad can completely transform your life, giving you the opportunity to work online and chase the sun, not just in the summer.

Choose your destination according to your lifestyle preferences and join a large community of professionals who have made online TESOL their source of income.