How to Become a Digital Nomad and Work Remotely in 2020

How to Become a Digital Nomad and Work Remotely in 2020

 
According to a recent Buffer report, 99% of people would love to work remotely. When you’re working as a digital nomad, there’s no one to tell you when you should take vacations and when you should work. However, being the owner of your time comes with responsibilities and you’ll also have to be the one that makes sure you stay productive. You’ll have to say good-bye to procrastination and distractions, especially when working from home. Digital nomads can struggle to create an effective work schedule because their daily activities look like a puzzle, with multiple airplane or train schedules that aren’t always accurate. But, this is something you need to think about if you’re considering becoming a digital nomad as the world continues its gradual reopening. However, despite the crazy schedules and uncertainty, digital nomads still have many benefits that make it very appealing. Here we’ll show you how you can become a digital nomad and land a remote job.

Why you should become a Digital Nomad

Being a digital nomad allows you to travel when you please and get paid while doing so. This is the most appealing aspect for those who want to become a digital nomad. There are also many opportunities to work online. Companies today minimize expenses related to having a physical environment like offices so they can allocate resources to something that brings more revenue. They also save money from utility expenses because there are fewer people at the office that need electricity. This makes hiring remotely appealing to certain companies.

If you’re on retirement and still want to make some money, being a digital nomad will allow you to extend your career a couple of years more. It’s never too late to go visit your dream locations and natural paradises.

Browse Remote Job Listings for Career Ideas

Before you dive into the ocean of remote work, you should consider what type of job would make you happy. You will also need to think about the salary. Many high-paying jobs allow you to work remotely. This will depend on the skills you already have, and if you feel that you don’t have any skill for the type of job you want, you can always learn through a bootcamp. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs for digital nomads.
 
  • Software Engineering: Software engineering consists of developing digital products like software or applications by using programming languages. Some of the most common programming languages are JavaScript, Python, and C++. Do you have any idea of how important a software developer is in a company? A Stripe and Harris report revealed that 70% of a company’s sales success depends on its software developer. As a user, we usually make our opinions of any company based on the quality of its platform, whether it is a website or an app.
 
  • UX/UI Designers: UX and UI designers create better user experiences in digital products such as websites or applications. These two professions are a mix of designing and programming skills. That’s why software developers and UX designers usually work shoulder-to-shoulder. UX is related to functionality and UXdesigners research and test products to improve user experience.UI takes care of the quality of the interface, from the voice commands to the keyboards. UX designers make up to $113,000. If you’re trying to learn this skill, you can go for Thinkful’s UX and UI boot camps. Thinkful offers flexible payment methods that go from deferred tuition to loan financing payment.
 
  • Digital Marketing: Digital Marketing is different from traditional marketing despite what most people think. Digital marketing is related to SEO, YouTube, and social media platforms, such as Instagram or Facebook. Most companies are allocating their resources on digital marketing rather than the traditional ones because users and customers today spend more time on their phones and computers rather than watching TV. Digital marketers can make $85,000 in a yearly salary. General Assembly’s digital marketing bootcamp is a good option if you’re trying to learn this skill. This course teaches you everything from audience segmentation to the best strategies to implement in digital marketing strategies.
 
If you would like to become a digital nomad and are interested in learning new skills to do so, check out Career Karma for bootcamps on learning new and relevant skills. You could also check out our resources page for more information on remote work.
 
 

Written by Artur Meyster from Career Karma.

How to Stay Motivated During Turbulent Times

How to Stay Motivated During Turbulent Times

 

A Global Lockdown

We are living in extraordinary times. The world has come to a standstill in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This pandemic has created unique challenges for our global society, and for most of us, it is the first time we’ve ever experienced a global lockdown. We all have a part to play in tackling this crisis. Physical distancing and staying indoors have helped to stop the spread of this virus. At the same time, it is easy to feel suffocated, overwhelmed, anxious, or flat out unmotivated. We all go through ups and downs and many of us are taking things day by day. That is okay. Here are some ways you can stay motivated as you navigate the bumpy road ahead.

Start with Reflection

It’s not easy dealing with this situation. We all led our own, individual lives in the days leading up to lockdown measures enacted around the world. As nations responded to the rapid spread of COVID-19, we had to come together as one global community. With the dramatic changes to our social conditions, it’s easy for us to feel unmotivated. To start, reflect on your life, as it was, a few months ago. Did you have a job that you went to every day? Did you move to a new city or country and immerse yourself in a new culture? Were you running a business or starting a freelancing journey? It may feel like it’s been a while, and for some it has, so take a moment to reflect, and remember how far you have come. Visualise what your day to day life was like. Recall the emotions that you felt as you lived it. Do your best to recall experiences that created both positive and negative emotions. Write them down. Record each memory and the emotion that you’ve associated with these memories. Identify the activities in your daily life that made you feel good or bad. Your positive experiences could include:
 
  • your daily interactions with your work colleagues
 
  • discovering new cultures and places during your travels
 
  • the day you closed a big deal with a new client or customer
 
While your negative experiences might include:
 
  • the monotony of a daily commute
 
  • a particularly distracting colleague
 
  • your most time-consuming client and/or customer
 
We are now in a new state of normal. Identify your positive experiences, and then focus on those actions that will bring more of these experiences to your life. Identify your negative experiences, and determine what you can do to minimize or eliminate the root of these experiences. If you dread your daily commute, try negotiating for a remote work policy (now might be the best time).

Define Your Goals and Quantify Them 

One of the most important factors when setting a goal is to make sure that it genuinely interests you. Goals have to be important and provide value to you. Otherwise, the chances of you achieving them are low. Take a look back at your experiences. What are the common underlying themes that generated a specific emotion?

Reflect on Your Positive Experiences

Create goals around how you can enjoy more of your positive experiences in the midst of this new normal. If you feel a need to stay connected to colleagues whose company you value, reach out to a few of them and set up a weekly call. Find a colleague you are already close with and talk to someone you want to get closer to. If you enjoy interacting with select clients that make you feel valued, set up a weekly feedback call. Do not make the purpose of the call to sell more of your products or services. Use it as a touch-point to enhance the relationship. If you enjoy immersing yourself in new cultures and places, make a list of the countries or cities you want to visit when the opportunity is available again. Then make a point to learn more about those countries and cities, as though you were already on your way.

Reflect on Your Negative Experiences

Create goals around how to reduce or eliminate the negativity in your life. If you find that certain colleagues are distracting or undermining your work, start by tracking how much time you spend with them. Then find ways to reduce the time you spend interacting with them by 5%-10% each week over the next month. There are many ways to do this, and it’s probably even easier right now:
 
  • schedule a quick voice call instead of an in-person, or video meeting
 
  • have meeting agendas prepared, so that your meetings are quicker and to the point.
 
  • just ignore them for a day (this may be difficult to do, depending on the person, but you might be surprised by how little some people notice it).
 
If you find that certain clients are using up far more of your time than you think it’s worth, cut them loose. It can be hard to turn down a client. After all, they are the person paying you, so try using the 80/20 rule. Do you have clients that are always negotiating prices, or asking for refunds and chargebacks? Establish which 20% of your clients cause 80% of your problems, and stop working with them. Use the time instead to find a new, amazing client, who doesn’t waste your time.

Next Steps 

Goal setting is only the start of your new journey. Once you write down your goals, check-in with yourself weekly. Check to see that you’re actually meeting these goals, or where you might be falling short. Falling short could mean:
 
  • That you’ve set very aggressive goals for an unreasonably short period of time
 
  • That the goals themselves are unfeasible
 
  • That you may need to re-evaluate your motivations for setting the goal in the first place.
 
It’s crucial to point out that the goals you are setting for yourself should focus on improving your happiness. Try to avoid focusing on material pursuits. Center your focus on developing the habits that further your career, generate more business, or expand your network.
 
We are big advocates of using goal setting to stay motivated during uncertain times, now, and in the future. They are one of the best ways to keep your mind occupied, and will continually fuel your desire to improve your livelihood, however you define it.
 
There is a silver lining to every hardship. Never stop looking for it, no matter how tough it gets. It’s unlikely that we will get another opportunity to take a step back and reflect on our lives as deeply as we can right now. Let us continue to play our part as we work through this crisis, but let’s also do our best to enjoy it while we can.
 
Cheers,

CV

How an Unconventional Career Enables This Woman to Travel

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature some of their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and advice for someone thinking about traveling more.

Today’s community feature, Katherine McCombs, has a rather unconventional career. She runs a circus – in Dubai – we’re not kidding. This energetic woman spends half a year managing a circus of performers from around the world in Dubai. The other 6 months she spends in NYC. This summer she decided to spend one of those months in Barcelona. Read more about her unique lifestyle below!

You have a very interesting job, can you share more about what you do for work?

unconventional career“I’m very lucky that my work is rather unusual. Six months of the year I work at a theme park in Dubai, as the Circus General Manager, or as I was more often called, the Mother of Clowns. I handle everything from running the show and daily schedules, to the venue details including repairs, security and the general public. It’s hands-on, a lot of work and wildly fun. I come back with nearly unbelievable stories and strange tan lines. That along with immense gratitude that I can take the other six months at a slower pace, doing one-off events, writing, and house managing at a theatre in NYC.”

Can you share some of your favorite memories from your travels?

“My favorite memories always involve food! I joke the reason I travel is to eat my way across the world. While living in Barcelona for the month, I took a side trip to Mallorca. There, I was brought to a friend’s neighborhood bar where she and her friends insisted I sample all the local favorites while flamenco music was played by the owner. It’s still my favorite night and some of the best food I had in Spain.

Or my friend’s invitation to celebrate Vishu (South Indian celebration of the completion of Spring Equinox). There I was given a sari and enjoyed a traditional feast, eating with my fingers and praying I wouldn’t drop curry on myself.

I love how food brings groups of people together no matter their backgrounds. It’s the one thing we all have in common.”

How has Behere helped you on this journey?

“Behere is an amazing resource! I’ve been telling everyone about it since I found them on Instagram. After a few misjudged living situations in my past, I do get nervous about traveling alone as a small woman in unknown areas. But not enough to stop doing it. Behere takes so much of that worry off of my shoulders. I know it was a woman who chose the apartment and neighborhood, and that makes a difference.

It was also amazing to have Meesen as a city host, and friend, to introduce me to other women and show me her favorite places. Knowing there’s someone local who you can trust if you have a problem was an incredible stress relief (and my mother was also a fan). Everything was so easy. All I had to do was arrive and everything I needed to succeed in Barcelona was waiting for me thanks to Behere.”

Park Guell

 

Can you share your #1 piece of advice for someone who’s thinking about traveling long-term?

“Do it! Just take the plunge and go. I went back and forth for nearly a year about going to Barcelona before I booked the trip through Behere and am still kicking myself for wasting the time. I chose to go freelance so I could have more freedom to live the life I wanted. Yet here I was, only going where work took me and not taking the time to see the places I have always wanted to see. You never know what can happen if you book that trip, send that email, or strike up a conversation with that stranger. I answered a Facebook post and wound up getting my dream job in Dubai. Literally, anything can happen if you want it to and put it into the universe.

Also if you’re traveling, do your research and invest in good luggage! I had a cheap suitcase that I traveled with and the wheel jammed as I arrive for my flight at JFK. My first night in the UK was spent using a penknife to try and fix it. I do not recommend this. Make sure the wheels will last (or have a good replacement warranty!). Also make sure anything you’re carrying on your back is designed well and won’t put you at risk for injury if/when you over pack it. (On the injury note, travel insurance! You might not need it, but you do not want to be without it if you do, especially if it’s a long term trip.) I’ve become so hugely into researching luggage and travel gear, it’s become a banned topic at the dinner table.”


Feeling the need for adventure? Learn more about how Behere can help make it a reality. Check out our locations below!

Words and images by Katherine McCombs.

How Traveling Abroad Helped This Consultant Gain A Fresh Outlook

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by our amazing community. We’re thrilled to feature their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and their advice for someone thinking about living in a new city for a month.

Today’s Behere community feature, Sarah Bartholow, is a consultant from Dallas, Texas. She spent a month in Barcelona using Behere which quickly turned into a multiple month euro adventure. Read about her journey below!

‘Bartholowna’

“I had hit a few walls in my life and needed to remind myself that a meaningful escape and experience to regroup and reset my notion of ‘possibility’ was far more within my reach than I had been telling myself. As a brand consultant, exploration is paramount to adding ‘color’ to my capabilities, and global connectivity only broadens my offer to clients as I discovered. The ‘no brainer’ quality of going on this adventure while focusing on a new angle of my consultancy revealed itself in a shockingly short amount of time once learned more about Behere. A friend of mine heard about Behere and sent me the info and I then went on to contact a former journey-er who regaled me with her experience which encouraged me to set forth. (Thank you again, Joyce!)”

What did a day in your life look like while living abroad?

“I did not set any expectations other than to enjoy each moment, each day and whatever challenge I invited, big or small. I’d plan a daily adventure before or after a half day at the coworking space, or sometimes would turn a park bench into my ‘office’ for the day!”

What is your biggest take away/ learning while abroad?

“The biggest takeaway is that I need to get back and pronto!

Being abroad was very doable and only benefited my work to expand my network, use my eyes differently, feel history with every step, meet new people – the list goes on. I also realized how vital environment is to me to feel inspired and that the American methodology of ‘doing-doing-doing’ lacks an emotional quotient I find Europeans have in spades in order to enjoy life more fully while also keeping work meaningful. I learned that I can live in smaller spaces and that I really don’t need that much and that good ingredients in food means you eat less. ‘Satisfaction’ takes on new meanings across almost every category and more simplistically.

To this day, I keep in touch with everyone I met while in Barcelona. To think that I now have a Catalan / European network is something I had not envisioned for myself prior to taking this trip. It will stay with me forever and I will continue to cultivate my new web of relationships.”

How has Behere helped you on your journey?

“When anyone gets bogged down, it should not be taken lightly– we all need a source of inspiration and a newfound sense of being to push us into the next phase, and Behere ushered this in a palatable way. Behere actualized the possibility for me and I cannot herald their idea and platform enough to open up the world to those who seek revelation or simply just a work setting that contrasts one’s status quo. There’s no way it’s not a benefit to oneself and to a business as the landscape change alone spurs perspective and productivity. Behere onramps structure if needed, alongside recommendations from the city host, or you can just freewheel it completely with the confidence that someone is a WhatsApp message away. It is a brilliant premise all around. I also got to tap back into my Spanish speaking which had been dormant, so it felt amazing to reignite my love of the language.”

What was your favorite memory or place you went?

“This is a hard one! Too many to count and this is a good ‘problem’ to have!

parkguellI initially started with my checklist of attractions to ensure I covered them, but I kept an open mind to abandon any sense of ‘itinerary’ to allow for the awesome, fortuitous happenings that really make travel. I’m sort of a glutton for unforeseen moments that can expand my perspective in even the slightest of ways or just make me laugh. Just walking down the street in Barcelona can stir an unexpected moment, ducking into a restaurant for a cava can lead to an ad hoc dinner with interesting ‘strangers,’ and meeting ex-pats and locals alike enriched my experience. I am garrulous and extroverted by nature so this wasn’t hard for me but I re-seized the power that all I had to do was just start chatting to find an entry into a conversation and the world opened up.

I absolutely adored my walk to my co-working space via Parc de Ciutadella from my apartment. As an art enthusiast who studied Spanish Art extensively, the Fundació Joan Miró reinstated my passion. Casa Vicens, Gaudí’s first private commission, had just reopened and I went twice because it was that remarkable. El Born was a favorite neighborhood and I loved all the little squares.

And how do I accurately convey the food? It’s simply unreal and you can’t imagine how much you can stretch a Euro for a memorable meal. I went to Anthony Bourdain’s beloved Quimet y Quimet and met the family who’s been carrying its legacy for decades. Jumping on a train is just something we don’t get to do so readily in the states. Refamiliarizing myself with the ease of Europe and how they make places and experiences so accessible is something I will mimic – to the best of my ability – until I get back Europe-side ;).”

What is your #1 piece of advice for someone who’s thinking about traveling longer term?

“This is doable and achievable for anyone who has any inkling to experience something for just one month and wants to be enveloped by culture. (I ended up staying longer, btw!) Save enough to invest in this experience and reap its immanent rewards. It really is simple, and I think we ALL need a reset or new perspective to evolve. If you need a change of scenery to revitalize your work, hold your nose and jump, do not preoccupy yourself with the details ;).”


Are you looking for a change of pace and want to experience new cities without the headache of planning? Behere makes moving to a new city for a month (or more!) seamless, learn how here. Find and book private apartments, workspaces and fitness studios around the world, plus connect with our local hosts. Check out our locations below!

Managing Travel and a Freelance Career, How She Does Both

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature some of their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and advice for someone thinking about traveling more.

Today’s community feature, Jen Pellerito, spent 6 weeks this summer traveling and living in Europe. Originally from Michigan, she loves to travel and has made it a priority. After spending a month in Lisbon, she’s already planning her next adventure. Read how she manages fulfilling her love of travel, plus full-time freelance career below.

You travel a lot, what do you do for work that allows you to?

“I’m a freelance copywriter, journalist and social media manager, and I also run a travel blog! I went full-time freelance about two years ago after realizing I could earn more than I was making in my 9 to 5 job. Freelancing is wonderfully liberating because I can manage my own workload, set my own hours, and work remotely. While there are drawbacks (having no employer contribution to my benefits), ultimately, the ability to maintain a well-balanced quality of life makes it worthwhile for me.”

How has living abroad affected your work?

“I strongly believe that changing up your normal routine and environment promotes creativity and inspiration. For someone in the creative field like me, I value having new surroundings every once in awhile to keep ideas fresh. When life looks the same day in and day out, it’s too easy for me to get “stuck in a rut.” Oddly enough, even working in a different time zone than some of my clients helps moderate anxiety and the constant pressure to always be ‘on’.”

travel and freelanceHow did Behere help you on your journey?

“Behere allowed me to find community while living abroad, which was a huge help while transitioning to a new city. I was able to start my month out in Lisbon having a friend in my city host, Paulina, who showed me around and answered all the questions I had. It made a big difference to have a network already built in a new city. Right away, I had places to go, people to hang out with, and I felt like I belonged.”

Finally, what’s your #1 piece of advice for someone who’s thinking about traveling long term?

“Do it! 

Bite the bullet and get out there. Long-term travel has now become my favorite — if not the only way — I ever want to travel again. When you’re short on time, there’s so much pressure to “fit it all in.” 

Seriously, FOMO is the worst! Long-term travel gives you the opportunity to catch a breath, sink into a culture and reflect on your own life at home through a different lens. I learned more about myself and the direction I wanted to take in my life by stepping back and gaining distance. Traveling for a longer period of time is one of the greatest gifts I have given myself.”


Connect with Jen on her blog: jenontherun.com, IG @jp_ontherun, Twitter @jp_ontherun or Pinterest jp_ontherun.

Are you feeling the need for adventure now? Learn more about how Behere can help make it a reality. Check out our locations below!

Words by Jen Pellerito and images by Emanuele Siracusa.

Women Making Moves | Skylar Schneider, Team USA Cyclist

Our team connected with this driven, forward-thinking woman, Skylar Schneider. Since a young age, she has traveled and pushed herself out of her comfort zone. A Team USA Cyclist, Skylar shared her journey into cycling (that started when she was just 4 years old!), some of her greatest challenges and how it got her to where she is today – living in and biking for Holland.

Where are you from and where do you currently live?

I’m from West Allis, WI which is just outside of Milwaukee. Home is still West Allis, however my base in Europe is in Southern Holland.

Tell us about your journey to cycling. What inspired you to start?

My dad was already a cyclist when he met my mom in high school, although she didn’t think the sport was cool enough and swore that she would never touch a bike. Later in their relationship he built her a custom hot pink bike, which was enough to change her mind.
Both of them raced around the US and passed on the love of the sport to my siblings and I. I did my first race at four years old and am now one of the youngest women in the World to be racing at the highest level of the sport.
skylar schneider

What has been your greatest achievement?

In 2016 I qualified for the World Championships and represented Team USA in Doha, Qatar. I went on to finish 2nd place and earn a silver medal in the road race. Standing on the podium in the red, white, and blue of the United States uniform is a feeling I’ll never forget and hope to achieve again one day!

And your greatest challenge?

The greatest challenge is the time spent away from home. In a given year, I spend more days away than I am home. Therefore, I sacrifice a lot of time with my family and miss out on holidays. During the Spring while I was living in Holland, my dog passed away and this broke me. I knew that when I returned home it would never be the same. I grew from this experience by realizing that it was OK to cry and it was OK to talk about it with my family as we mourned together, despite being so far away from them. In other words, communication is key – especially with loved ones – and something I’m constantly working at to keep our relationships strong despite the distance.

How has traveling and living abroad inspired/pushed you and provided you with valuable life experiences?

I have realized that every time I travel, I am changing a bit as a person. My own understanding of the world has been shaped by the beautiful and imperfect places that I have had the opportunity to see, and the people I meet along the way.
With these valuable and raw life experiences, I’ve been pushed and inspired to have more compassion and an understanding for other cultures. You can learn a lot from people by observing- especially the locals who have a rhyme and a reason for the way they’re doing things. Like this, you’re opening your mind to doing something different than you might normally and developing a better understanding for the people around you.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned since moving abroad? Any advice for someone thinking about living abroad?

At 19 years old I essentially moved abroad where a lot of unknowns and lessons awaited me. I was living in a place where my only transportation was by foot, bike, or train. I learned to strategically plan my grocery store trips, load a train card, and plan logistics for getting the places I needed to be (…and so much more).
For anyone living abroad, there’s a balance between letting go and living in the moment, while also understanding when it’s super important to plan for the future. Ultimately, you’re going abroad to enjoy it and not be stressed out the whole time, so really take advantage of learning from your mistakes and remembering that ‘que sera, sera’.

What is your fav place you’ve been? Where you’re off to next?

“My favorite place to travel to is Colombia! There’s something about the charming towns, happy people, and fresh food that makes me fall in love every time I’m there! The culture is dramatically different than what I’m used to in America or Europe, but what I’ve learned from Colombians is that you truly don’t need a lot to be happy- in other words- money doesn’t equal happiness.
Although 99% of my travels throughout the year have to do with cycling, my next trip is an actual vacation! My family and I are going to Montreal, Canada. My grandma grew up in Montreal but hasn’t returned in many years, so the family is going with her to learn more about her roots. It has been in the works for about 3 years and now it’s just 2 weeks away!
Overall, I hope women will feel encouraged to travel using Behere, and inspired to learn more about themselves by embracing the challenge and independence of going abroad.”


Connect with Skylar at myscarletsky.com or on IG @sky_schneider.
To learn more about Behere, click here.

How This Business Owner Conquered Her Fears to Travel Alone

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature some of their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and advice for someone thinking about living in a new city for a month.
Today’s Behere community feature,  Nevica Vazquez, is business strategist that started her company to have more freedom. She shared how as a business owner conquered her fears to travel abroad alone. Originally from New York, Nevica booked her month in Lisbon this summer on Behere. In Lisbon she focused on work, getting amazing photos taken and connecting with the community. Read about her summer in Lisbon below!

You started a company to help woman realize their full potential, tell us about it.


“I’m a Business Strategist at NevicaVazquez.com to digital bosses who know their businesses have huge potential, but don’t have a business plan spelled out and locked in place. The women I work with are past the beginner stage and are ready to refine and restructure their business so that it’s built to grow to six figures.

My clients are online service providers and have been in business for 2-4 years. They’ve tried, tested, and launched a lot of things. Their business has made around 20k – 40k, so they know their ideas can make money, but they haven’t been able to make their business consistently sustainable. So, I come into their business and help them figure out what is, and isn’t, working. Then I help them refine and restructure what they have, to create a business that’s built to grow.”

What did your typical day look like in Lisbon?


A day in My Lisbon Life went like this:
8:00 am – Wake up + meditate in my beautiful living room, which had floor to ceiling windows and looked out to the amazing streets of Lisbon
8:30 am – Workout. Though Behere has the option of a gym membership, I chose to workout from my apartment with Youtube videos and workout apps because I had the space and it was what I preferred!
9:00 am – Get ready for a day of work!
10:00 am – On a good day, when I wasn’t rushing to start working, I would get a smoothie at my favorite lunch place in Lisbon, Sama Sama
10:30 am – 3:00 pm – Work, which means: client calls, emails, creating business plans, sending clients their action steps
3:30 pm – 4:00pm – Back to Sama Sama for my favorite crepe (the Charles), and chat with the owners, Sofia and Malte, about life and what was going on that day
4:00pm – 5:00pm – Go for a walk along the Tagus river to work off lunch, people watch, get refreshed and inspired!
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm – Squeeze in 1-2 more hours of work
7:30 – 8:30 – Walk up to my favorite lookout, with other women from the Behere community, at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, to watch sunset
9:00 pm – Find somewhere cool and new to go for dinner (my fav dinner spot was Mez Cais LX in LX factory)
11:00 pm – Get a pastel de nata for dessert at Manteigaria
11:30 pm – Go to Tasca Do Chico to listen to Fado music and end the night!”


What would you say is the most important thing you learned while in Europe?


“Traveling abroad on my own was always a big dream, and fear, of mine. I knew I wanted to do it but was afraid of being alone. One day while reading a book in front of the Tagus River, it hit me that I did it/was doing it. I had the courage to get over my fear and travel alone to somewhere I’d never been before, where I didn’t know the language. Realizing that I overcame a fear in that moment was so empowering, it made me feel limitless. 

I really feel I can do anything since I had the courage to get over this fear.

business owner conquered her fears

Another huge takeaway I had in Lisbon was that there are people living their dream lives. Depending where you come from, you can sometimes feel life can only happen one way, because it’s all you see. But when you get out of your comfort zone, and surround yourself with people with different perspectives, you realize there is no one way to do life. And that you can create the life you want, if you have the courage to do it!”


How did Behere help in your journey?

“The most impactful way Behere helped on this journey was connecting me with other women in Lisbon and providing a City Host. My biggest fear of traveling was being alone. But the second I landed I had the opportunity to make friends and meet my city host.
Our city host connected the Behere community before we arrived and set up a welcome dinner so we could all hang out. She was an amazing host and connected me with other groups of people in Lisbon so I was always meeting new people and going to new places. Having her there for me in Lisbon really made it a special experience!
There’s nothing like visiting a place with a local! I’m so grateful Behere connected me with other amazing female business owners.”


Are you running a business and want to travel to experience new cities without the headache of planning? Behere makes moving to a new city for a month (or more!) seamless, learn how here. Find and book private apartments, workspaces and fitness studios around the world, plus connect with our local hosts. Check out our locations!
Connect with Nevica on her website, NevicaVazquez.com or on Instagram @nevicavazquez.

Images and words courtesy of Nevica Vazquez.

How Living in New Cities Helped Me Find My 'Purpose'

At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature some of their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring new places a priority. They share their biggest learnings, favorite memories, and advice for someone thinking about living in a new city for a month.
Today’s Behere community feature, Carrie, is a consultant and writer from San Francisco. Carrie spent the summer living in new cities across Europe, snapping amazing photos and writing her book. She booked her time in Lisbon and Split on Behere, and although she’s returned home, she’s already planning her next adventure. Read her story below!

You’re able to work remotely, what is it that you do?


“While I primarily work as a consultant helping companies with operational challenges, I’m 
also a writer. I’m currently working on my first memoir about travel, love, and the difficult process of trusting yourself (working title “Bamboozled”).

Six-years ago, I was laid off from a job I enjoyed. At the time, it seemed like I had everything – I had spent 15 years working long days for – and should have made me happy. I had a promising career, a condo in San Francisco, and a partner that wanted to make plans with me. And yet, something was missing. Instead of taking the safe path, and against others’ advice, I took the severance from my layoff to pursue a lifelong dream to travel the world solo.

My story is about coming to terms with what we think we want, versus what we really want– as well as my misadventures from Reykjavik to Tokyo and many points in between. 

carrie lisbon

In addition, I’ve been brainstorming new business ideas on how I can help other women transition from their “safe path” jobs, into more entrepreneurial and creative pursuits. I think it’s vital to share success stories and experiences of women living life on their own terms. I met many of these women during my time in Lisbon and Split.”

What was the most important thing you learned while living in new cities?

 

“I think living in a new environment helps us discern what we think we want, versus what we really want at a lightning-quick pace. Where ever we are in life, it helps right-size our boundaries to shut out less of what we don’t want, and open us to more of what we do want.

Because we can’t rely on our regular structures, environment and assumptions, we have to rely on our instincts and intuition. We’re forced to live in the moment and listen to our own inner voice, versus researching the pros-and-cons of every decision.

For example, if I’m exploring a new, unfamiliar city I have to make split-second decisions on whether a certain street may be safe to walk down at night, or whether a person I meet has good or ill intentions toward me. At home, I have more resources to research these things. I may have friends, family, or coworkers providing me input that runs counter to my gut instinct. But the
more I make decisions with limited input, the faster I’m able to make them and have more confidence that they are the right decisions for me.

On the opposite side, I found myself more open to different opportunities than I would have been at home. I connected more deeply with people at restaurants, in classes, in public spaces than if I was at home among familiar friends.

I learned to say ‘yes’ to things more quickly and definitively because I realized those opportunities were unlikely to re-present themselves. Once I was able to right-size my boundaries to shut out what I didn’t want, open up to what I did, and trust my instincts, I found myself in a travel flow where I seemed to be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people, hearing the right message.

I experienced so many moments of synchronicity, I feel like I could write a separate book on the topic! Maybe it’s my sequel.”

How did Behere help on your journey?


“Behere helped provide access to communities where I could really feel connected to a place 
and its people. As an experienced traveler, I could have piecemealed flights and accommodations for myself, but I wouldn’t have had the in-depth experience I was seeking without Behere’s help.

carrie croatia

The founders and their amazing team were instrumental in connecting me with people and organizations within the community that shared my interests. As a result, I was able to walk Lisbon’s winding streets with a fellow photographer, continue my meditation practice in Portugal, talk Croatian design with a former NYC fashion industry professional, and even tour an eco farm in a kaštela outside Split.

The options Behere provide are flexible, enabling you to be able to participate as little or as much as you like. There is no one to define what your time in that new city should or shouldn’t be – just resources and people to help along the way. I loved feeling the flexibility to explore and play in my new surroundings, knowing the Behere team was supporting and encouraging my journey.

Plus, their entire team is inspirational. It’s easier to feel inspired when you are surrounded by inspiring people.”

We love hearing highlights from our communities adventures, what was one of yours?


“There are too many memories to choose from!

But if I had to choose just one, it was speaking at my workspace in Split’s, ‘Sofa Series’ event about the power of travel. Beyond being able to speak about my passion, how it started and came together was the perfect application of all the travel lessons I had learned on the road, especially the ones about trusting yourself.

I had gone to Montenegro for three days to relax and write. While I had the opportunity to extend my stay a few extra days – and some intriguing incentives do to so – I had a gut feeling I had to return to Split. There was a party at my workspace that I felt I couldn’t miss.

I should mention I’m not the most naturally outgoing type, so I would be happy to bypass a networking social for a glass of wine with a friend if I was home.

At the party, I had a conversation with the founder, Tanja, and somehow the idea came up that I should talk about my book and travel experience at their kick-off Sofa Series – at the end of the week, no less.

While my initial thought was, “Wow, I would love to share my travel experiences,” it was also joined by thoughts of, “What am I getting into? I have never done this before.”

At home, these more “rational” thoughts may have outweighed the loftier ones, but I decided to trust that I was there for a reason and said yes.

I had prepared notes to talk about how travel helps clarify our self-concept, leads to better decision making, and helps us strengthen our intuition. Now I was being put to the test in not only living it but sharing it with others.

The day of the event, I was nervous. I was used to speaking to clients in a business suit and with PowerPoint presentations, but not to people halfway around the world about my passion! My fears soon dissipated when handed a glass of wine and comfy seat on the sofa.

split carrie

For the next hour or two, I had a dialogue with the most interesting and insightful group of individuals – who also shared their travel experiences, fears, and aspirations. Sometimes as a solo female traveler, I’ve felt like an outsider and that there’s not a place where I comfortably fit in, but among that group I felt at home.

It marked the close of my Croatian experience, but beyond that, it marked a feeling that one can have a sense of belonging and home in a place as far away as Split. And that if we share ourselves openly and honestly, there are always opportunities for genuine connection wherever we roam.”

How did living in new cities affect your work?


“Living abroad improved my creativity and problem-solving skills exponentially.

The break from my daily routine ushered in a flood of new ideas – from novel ways to approach my book to an entirely new business idea. My ideas finally had space to roam and develop. I saw new connections between the various – and at times competing – aspects of my work.

The best part is my creativity hasn’t waned since I’ve returned home. Perhaps it’s because traveling helped me recognize when I’m in a rut and what I need to do to break free from it.

For example, some of my best ideas came while hiking through Marjan Park outside Split. Alenna, Behere’s Split City Host, encouraged me to hike the park with her at day-break one morning, which was 4:30am.

split hike

Anyone that knows me knows I don’t get up at 4:30am for anyone or anything! But at the end of it, I was refreshed, renewed and refocused. I had so much energy to tackle the day and pages of new ideas to act upon.

Now I know when I need inspiration or to view a problem from a different vantage point, I need a long hike. Which is another benefit of living abroad and setting your own schedule. It becomes a little trickier to block your calendar for a 2-hour walk in the middle of the day at a traditional 9-to-5 job – and yet so much more productive at times than 2-hours’ worth of conference calls.”

Finally, what’s your #1 piece of advice for someone thinking about living in a new place for a month?


“Beyond just making the commitment to yourself to do it; travel light.

I mean that mentally, emotionally, and physically. That’s not to say don’t be prepared; but leave behind any expectations about how you think the experience should be.

Allow your best plans to bend, shift, and be arranged. Experiencing a new place is about finding flow and freedom –not checking off a do-to list or seeing certain sites just because you feel the obligation.

Living abroad also allows you to reset some of the less-savory habits and patterns you’ve accumulated. Make a resolution to leave these habits back home. For me, that was creating a new morning ritual that did not include reaching for my cell phone upon waking.

Finally, pack less than you think you need. Pack your bag then unpack a third of it. It makes saying ‘yes’ to last minute excursions easier when you don’t have to schlep (and possibly pay for) that extra suitcase. And I promise you will not miss the shoes, that shirt, the books you left behind.

In fact, you may feel liberated to discover how little you really need to be happy.”


Do you run a business or work flexibly? (If not, we’ve got you covered with our Free Resources). Do you also dream of traveling but feel overwhelmed with where to begin? Booking on Behere helps make traveling to a new city seamless, learn how here.

Connect with Carrie on Instagram @carriewithacamera.

Images and words courtesy of Carrie Breinholt.

How this Freelancer Keeps Focused While Traveling

[vc_row padding_setting=”1″ desktop_padding=”no-padding” ipad_padding=”sm-no-padding” mobile_padding=”xs-no-padding”][vc_column][vc_column_text]At Behere, we’re constantly inspired by the amazing women in our community. We’re thrilled to feature their stories and share how they’ve made traveling while working possible. From unconventional roles, to starting businesses abroad, these women have made exploring travel a priority. They share their biggest learnings and favorite memories. Plus, they share advice for someone thinking about living in a new city for a month.
Today’s Behere community feature, Tiff Ng, is a social storyteller. She became her own boss to have more freedom and this is how this freelancer keeps focused while traveling. Originally from Australia, she’s visited over 12 countries and is a creative, adventurous soul. She booked trips to Barcelona and Belgrade on Behere this summer. She returned home to Australia, already itching for more adventures. Read her story below.

You created a job that enabled you to work from anywhere, tell us about it.

“I’m a social storyteller; I help small businesses and influencers to tell their unique stories through a social and content strategy that is bespoke to their business and the audiences with whom they want to connect.”

What was the most important thing you learned while living in new cities?

behere member feature tiff living abroad

“To be honest, it’s not always that easy. We often fall into the trap of thinking that quitting our jobs to travel, or having this Instagram-worthy ‘nomad’ life, is the dream. But it does take a lot of hard work and can be really tough. Having a positive mindset, the courage to keep going and a solid support system (and yes, that includes Behere) is key to helping you get the most out of this experience. But it is all up to you and your mindset.”

How did Behere help in your journey?


“It can often get very overwhelming being so in charge of every decision in your life. While I’ve been adjusting to location-independent work and building up my own business, it’s been amazing to have Behere take care of the rest. It’s given me peace of mind. I can focus on my work and have the comforts and WiFi I need to support that.

In particular, the network of city hosts and members of the Behere community have gone above and beyond to help me settle into each location. They were a friendly face on a journey that can often feel very isolating.”

We love hearing highlights from our communities adventures, what was one of yours?

“It’s not quite one, singular memory but rather a thematic experience throughout my time abroad. But my favourite will always be a sunset. There’s something about the rainbow of colours and the poeticism of another day passing that is truly spectacular. I particularly love chasing sunsets as I travel.
For one, it’s a luxury I wasn’t always afforded while working long hours in a corporate job. Now, working remotely, I can afford myself that break to just take a beat, wherever I am, to acknowledge that moment and appreciate it every day.
But secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it’s a phenomenon that happens every day in every place. It’s the unique combination of where you’re enjoying it – because it’s casting crazy silhouettes against the light or reflections over the horizon – or who you’re with, or what you may have been doing at the time, that can make each sunset unique, every single day. I love being able to make this daily moment an adventure wherever I go, by changing one of these variables each time.”

freelancer keeps focused while traveling


How has living in new places affected your work?

“I hate to sound like a cliché, but living abroad has really changed my life.
Living abroad has felt like taking a giant leap off the deep end and learning to fly. While it can be terrifying to think how far you can fall, for me, it’s given me the blind confidence to keep going and back myself in this whole journey. With this confidence, I’ve been able to grow a business that is more meaningful to me. It’s more aligned with where I want to go with my life and career. I’m clearer in my mission, more inspired in my work and I’ve never been more excited about what’s to come.”

Finally, what’s your #1 piece of advice for someone who’s thinking about living in a new city for a month?


“Go for it.

If it’s on your mind already, it will never go away. Take the risk and enjoy the ride. It might not always go to plan but constantly learn and grow from each experience. It will all be worth it.”


Have you been wanting to take the leap to travel for a while? Or travel without the headaches and work of planning, so you can be productive from the get-go? Learn how Behere helps make this possible here.
Connect with Tiff at anytiffng.com, or on InstagramTwitter or LinkedIn.

Images and words courtesy of Tiff Ng.

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Behere Team Highlight | Stephanie James

Stephanie, you’re an awesome part of the Behere team! Tell us about yourself…

“Hey, I’m Stephanie James, and am originally from Colorado Springs, CO. I lived in Baltimore for eight years after graduating college.  I’m passionate about my family and friends, poetry, singing, traveling the world and helping others do the same.

I am fortunate enough to be a Flexible Lifestyle Manager for Behere. What in the world is that, right? Glad you asked. I help women live, work and travel abroad, by helping create their foundation in cities around the world. In my free time, I love to host and perform at spoken word poetry events. I also like to sing for weddings and business functions.  My health is important to me, so I work out often and try to remain conscious about what I’m feeding my body.

stephanie james

How did you start your journey of traveling and working abroad?

I worked for a Fortune 50 company for eight consecutive years and things were great, I was on the fast track for promotion.  I was privileged to be promoted four times in eight years. The company leaders said they saw me reaching a national platform in my career.  I was also traveling quite a bit; to Greece, Italy, Beijing… exploring some of the world outside the US. My desire to travel became insatiable.  I decided to take a leap in 2017 to travel the world for 12 months. My company leaders initially told me that leaving would be career suicide and it wasn’t the best time to go. But sometimes you have to make the harder decisions alone.

I chose the road less traveled and submitted my leave notice. Starting in 2017, I lived in twelve countries for twelve months. I visited a total of eighteen countries in one year. This put my total countries visited at 28! I lived in South America, Europe and Asia for four months each. I’m currently in London, with plans to explore more of Europe and visit Asia again this year.  

What was the scariest thing for you when you first booked your trip? What fears were holding you back?

The most difficult part about the journey was the initial leap.  I had security at my job, a platform that I built and strong rapport with company leaders and peers. What I learned most from taking this chance, was that there are opportunities everywhere when you’re willing to see them.  I learned everyone thinks it’s impossible until it’s done. Now, the company leaders watch my vlogs and follow my journey. They send me encouraging messages about how they wish they did what I did earlier in their careers.

stephanie james

How has travel inspired you and taught you?

Living out of a suitcase and backpack for a year teaches you how little you really need in life. It shows you where the true value of life lies. That’s in relationships built, experiences felt and all the beautiful people, that look different then you, but have so much in common with you, no matter where you go.  It teaches you things are not ‘weird’ but ‘different’. That my way is not the right way or even the best way, it’s just one way. I’ve learned how much I love all food :-). I’ve learned there are kind hearted people everywhere you go. And there are negative people no matter where you go. So choose to surround yourself in beauty and those who bring it.  I’ve learned family is everything. You can be alone at the Taj Mahal having an amazing time, but you can also be in your dad’s backyard, playing with your little brother, and experience the same joy. I’ve learned everything and every place is what you make it. I haven’t been to a place yet that I didn’t like and I don’t plan on finding one.

I think everyone should live abroad at some point in their lives. It doesn’t have to be long term or as extensive as myself. But to experience the world, is to experience something bigger than you and appreciate all the things in life we take for granted.  

You started your own project when traveling. Tell us about it…

I’ve had the opportunity to perform in almost every country I’ve visited. I have many artist friends who would love to indulge in international performing as well.  I created an international platform for artists called, The Artists Connection (TAC). It helps to “bridge borders for artists worldwide.” I have artists participating from all over the world and it grows every day.  If you are an artist or lover of the arts, join the connection at taconnection.com and follow us on Instagram @taconnection.  

Lastly, I am an international poet, singer and host. If you’re interested in seeing the vlogs from my journey and hearing some of my poetry connect with me justavesselpoetry.com and on Instagram @justavessel22.  


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