alivewithad

alivewithad is a newsletter for Digital Nomads, sharing real stories and advice from experienced nomads to help you make the most of this lifestyle.

Read Time: 8 Minutes

Hey, Shagufta here! Welcome to the 17th edition of alivewithad.

Now, let me introduce today’s guest!

Lights, Camera, and Action 🥁 👟🧗🏻‍♀️

Nomad of the Week is Norbert 🦘

Let’s hear his story in his own words!!

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The Nomad Story

1. How did you start your digital nomad journey?

I started my digital nomad journey in 2021 after a life-changing decision to leave my successful real estate career. I wanted more freedom to travel and focus on happiness. I bought a one-way ticket, packed my backpack, and started working remotely while exploring new countries. It was a big leap, but it was worth it!

2. How do you balance work, travel, and personal time?

Balancing work, travel, and personal time comes down to planning. I schedule my work hours around my travel plans, ensuring deadlines are met. I also make time for personal moments, whether exploring a new country or relaxing. It's all about finding a routine that fits my lifestyle while enjoying every experience.

3. What’s your most memorable travel story?

My most memorable trip was to Syria. It wasn’t just about visiting a new place; it was about seeing the effects of war and meeting people with incredible stories. Even after so much hardship, the people still had hope, which was truly inspiring. One last thing to add is that the kids of Homs stole my heart.

4. What’s your biggest challenge as a digital nomad?

The biggest challenge for a digital nomad is managing different time zones while working with clients worldwide. Meeting deadlines and staying productive requires careful planning. Sometimes, finding stable WiFi or a quiet workspace can be tricky, but adaptability is key to making it work!

5. How do you stay healthy while traveling the world?

Though I'm a big foodie, I try to avoid junk and fast food. I always try local dishes in every country. Considering my backpacking style of travel, I often cook my own meals from the accommodation. Staying fit is also part of the travel game, so taking random walks to disconnect, hike a forest, or trek a mountain keeps me active and always healthy.

Through the Lens of a Nomad

6. What’s the most affordable country you’ve visited?

It's definitely Moldova, Ukraine and Syria.

7. What’s one item you can’t travel without?

Macbook

8. What’s the quickest way to meet people in a new city?

One of the reasons I'm on a mission to travel the world is to meet new people. I'm quite an extrovert, and I find it easy to meet new people, especially like-minded people, in great places like Hostels and coworking cafés where many digital nomads settle in for their shifts. One of my favourite ways is using platforms such as Couchsurfing.

9. What’s the best travel hack you’ve discovered?

After so many logistics, the best travel hack is to travel light—a backpack is way easier than a suitcase. When it comes to costs and to save money, I hitchhike when I can, cook my own meals, and stay with locals instead of booking accommodations. Trust me, those locals often become lifelong friends!

10. How do you find good Wi-Fi while traveling?

WiFi is super important for my digital nomad life. When booking accommodations, I always check if they have a good connection. If not, I will find a nearby café or coworking space. I don’t worry much in Europe because my phone plan covers over 30 countries!

Know Your Nomad (Rapid Fire)

11. Favorite city?

Istanbul

12. Top bucket list destination?

Indonesia

13. Best travel season?

Summer

14. Essential travel gadget(s)?

GoPro

15. Favorite way to travel (plane, train, etc.)?

Trains

16. One word to describe nomad life?

Freedom

Favorite Digital Nomad Resource/s

17. Please share your go-to app, website, or a resource that helps you stay connected, manage finances, find accommodation, etc.

Here are my go-to apps and websites:

• WhatsApp – To stay in touch with family and friends.

• Social Media – Instagram, Facebook & TikTok to share my journey.

• Finance – Revolut to save on fees, Money Lover & Trail Wallet to track expenses.

• Transport – 12go for booking buses and trains.

• Flights – Kiwi to find cheap flights.

• Accommodation – Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Airbnb.

Let’s Wrap Up

18. If you could give one piece of advice to new nomads, what would it be?

Take it slow and enjoy the journey. Plan wisely, but don’t forget to live in the moment. We only get one life; we must make the most of it by doing what we love. Being a digital nomad has ups and downs, but once you step out of your comfort zone, there’s no turning back. Go for it!

For any inspiration or tips, please feel free to hit him up on LinkedIn at or follow his travel journey on Instagram.

Thank you for reading the 17th edition, I appreciate your support. ❤

I will keep publishing such interesting interviews every Sunday at 11:00 AM sharp. To not miss any edition, subscribe to the newsletter here. 👐

I see you next Sunday, till then keep traveling and conquering the world!

Your nomad,

Shagufta

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