Home Sweet (Temporary) Home

Or the Art of Making Home Anywhere as a Nomad.

The life of a digital nomad is often filled with ever-changing landscapes, from white sandy beaches to bustling city streets. But what happens when the laptop closes, the workday ends, and the digital nomad returns "home"?

Home becomes a fluid concept when you're constantly on the move. It's no longer tied to a physical location but rather a feeling that can be recreated wherever you go. Here's how digital nomads make themselves at home, no matter where they are.

Create a Personal Space

As much as we love exploring new places and meeting new people, we all need a little personal space sometimes. Whether you're in an Airbnb rental or living the van life, having a dedicated spot that feels like "yours" can be a real lifesaver.

It doesn't have to be anything fancy - just a cozy corner where you can relax and recharge. Maybe it's your favorite blanket from home, a few photos of loved ones, or even a travel-friendly candle with a scent that brings back happy memories. Whatever it is, make it yours! Having a small space that reflects your personality and comforts can go a long way towards making you feel more at ease in your temporary home.

Routine, Routine, Routine

There's something magical about getting in rhythm with the ebbs and flows of life. It provides a sense of stability and familiarity, even when everything else is changing around you.

That's why creating simple rituals and habits can be so powerful, whether it's doing a morning yoga flow, treating yourself to your favorite cup of coffee, or chatting with loved ones before bed. These little moments of routine can help ground you in the present moment and give you a sense of control in an otherwise hectic ride. So go ahead, carve out some time for your own personal rituals, and see how they can help you find your center no matter where you are.

Heck, there may even be something deeper to this, if Carl Jung is to be believed

Local Comfort Food

Whenever I'm in Madrid, I'll first fetch up some "Vaca que Ríe" cheese wedges and some bakery bread to make a sandwich. It instantly teleports me to my broom closet of an apartment in Bilbao so many years ago. The first time I tried out the nomad lifestyle.

Don't underestimate the power of good food to make you feel the fuzzies when you're feeling down. Whether you're a hardcore foodie or just craving some comfort food, trying out local cuisines is a great way to discover new flavors and feel more connected to your surroundings.

And let's be real; there's nothing quite like indulging in a steaming bowl of ramen in Tokyo or twirling forkfuls of pasta in Rome to make you feel like you're right at home. So next time you're feeling homesick or just in need of some comfort, skip the fast food chains and seek out some local eats. When it comes to feeling at home, there's nothing quite like a satisfied stomach.

Community Connections

Feeling like you belong in your community is key to making any place feel like home, even if it's just temporary. Lucky for you, building connections in your local area is easier than ever.

Attend some local events, stop by neighborhood markets, or make yourself a regular at your nearby coffee shop. You might even make some new friends along the way!

These connections will help you feel more at home in your new space and give you something fun to look forward to each week. Plus, isn't it always more fun to be a regular somewhere? So go ahead, get out there, and start exploring what your community has to offer. You might be surprised at how quickly you start loving what you find.

Time for You

Creating "me time" is essential for feeling comfortable and at home wherever you may be. It's all about taking the time to prioritize your own needs and desires, whether that means curling up with a good book, taking a long bath to destress and unwind, or simply sitting quietly and reflecting on the day ahead.

By carving out dedicated "me time" in your schedule, you'll be able to recharge your batteries and approach each day with renewed energy and focus. Additionally, engaging in activities that bring you joy or help you relax can reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve overall well-being.

The DL

We know there's no real replacement for the places you know and love, but we promise it does get easier with practice. After a while, you'll learn to "budget" for these adaptation periods and become a pro at settling in whatever location you find yourself in.

In the end, being a nomad is about more than just the places you'll see. It's about the ability to create a sense of home wherever you are. So, when the time comes when you're missing your friends and family back home, remember: home is not just a place; it's a feeling that can be recreated anywhere in the world with the right habits.