What Makes a NuNomad-Friendly Location?
When you think about accommodations for a vacation, most people are looking for great locations, comfortable and clean rooms, and great prices. As a nu nomad there is more to think about. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Location is key. If you are planning an extended
stay, think like a native. What
is the cost of living in your destination? What kind of public transport
is available? What area will ease your day to day life the most while giving
you the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding area most?
- Cleanliness and Comfort. As with at “home”,
most of us do not enjoy cockroaches or lumpy mattresses. And what about
the noise and/or odor factor? Is your accommodation over a nightclub or
next to a stable—or a Thai restaurant (where the cooking of garlic
and chilies can subdue a small army?)
- What is the Internet availability in the place
you are staying or in the surrounding area? If it is available in your
accommodation, is it free or is it fee-based? Be sure to ask. Many accommodations
boast Wi-Fi in each room only to find that it costs $10.00 US per day.
This can really add up. If Internet access is not available in your accommodation,
how close and available is one away from the accommodation? Will this Internet
service (café or other service provider) allow you to connect your
laptop directly to their cable or to their router box?
- What access do you have to telephones?
Can you use the phone in the accommodation you are renting for long distance?
If not, is there public service (such as a public telephone room or Internet
café that offers telephony service) available in that area? Can
international calling cards be purchased for reasonable prices in the area?
How difficult is it to obtain your own mobile telephone number (sim card)
for use in your tri-ban mobile (cell) telephone? Is telephony service (such
as Skype) dependable and clear?
- What are the safety
issues? Will you feel comfortable walking in the surrounding neighborhood
with your laptop on your back, or leaving it in the accommodation while
you are gone? Does your accommodation have a lockbox, locker, or other
secured area for your valuables? If not, think twice about that location.
- Does your accommodation have an adequate work space?
A desk (or vanity that can be used as one) or a table is often very important
since working off your lap can be quite wearisome. Does your accommodation
have electrical outlets? (Many budget guesthouses in developing countries
do not provide them.)
- How prevalent are power
surges/spikes in the area you are considering? Are the electrical
outlets in your accommodation grounded? (This is more of a concern for
those whose laptops have a three-pronged plug.) Will you have access
to a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) box? (A UPS can serve as a very
dependable surge protector.)
- Will someone be available if you have questions? If you are renting a house or apartment, is there a management office to consult with for daily issues or will you be completely on your own?
Generally, nu nomads have found that renting houses or apartments where native people live is preferred over hotels or other institutions geared towards tourists. Having access to a kitchen, laundry, and other useful amenities greatly eases your travel experience and saves money. In addition, your neighbors will be experts in the area, unlike being surrounded by other tourists who know as little as you. Many websites exist now for apartment and house rental in other countries. Take a look!