Forget Bali: 6 hidden gems for this winter

Hey Freaking Nomads,

European summer is officially behind us. For many of us, that season is such a double-edged sword: while the weather is great in many parts of Europe, so many of the “classic” nomad hubs around the world are either overcrowded with holidaymakers or hard to reach because of natural disasters and extreme climate events elsewhere in the world.

That’s why I always see autumn as a reset. It’s the perfect moment to slow down, plan ahead, and think about where to spend the winter months.

And instead of going back to the same overhyped hubs, I'm always a big fan of trying something different. So, for this winter, I thought to share my top 6 hidden gems that I think might deserve your attention.

I’ve been lucky enough to see most of them myself, and two are still on my list, one of which I’ll finally get to experience this winter (Kenya!!). I hope they will give you some inspiration for new places to explore, even beyond this list.

1. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

I think this is still one of the most underrated islands in Southeast Asia. People kept telling me it was resort-ish, but when I got there, I found one of the most authentic places. I stayed in an authentic fishing village called Rach Hàm, in a hostel called Hai Anh Guesthouse and in the island I found reliable internet, a growing scene for remote workers and among the kindest Vietnamese people.

2. Samana Peninsula, Dominican Republic

I’ve only seen photos before going there, but when I finally arrived I couldn't believe my own eyes. I found a mix of jungle, waterfalls, and the most beautiful beaches I've ever been! It was pure magic. The Samana Peninsula it’s nothing like Punta Cana and it’s more raw and authentic. I stayed in Las Galeras, a tiny village that I loved every second of my time there. Not much of a nomad community but plenty of time to get to know locals and explore.

3. Sal, Cape Verde

I'm such a fan of Cape Verde. I've been there twice and I think I'll come back again in the future. This one had been on my bucket list for a while and it didn't disappoint when I first went. Its mix of cultures, easygoing beach lifestyle, and constant sunshine make it hard to resist. The crowd in winter is made of water sport lovers like kite surfers and surfers who work remotely from there, so you will definitely get to meet cool people!

4. Diani Beach, Kenya

Everyone I talk to raves about its endless white sand and turquoise water. I’ve been told it’s as stunning as Zanzibar but with a calmer, more local feel. There seems to be a growing nomad community and a lot of people I met back in Bansko who have been there, recommended it, so I can't wait to visit it this winter!

5. Ometepe, Nicaragua

A volcanic island in the middle of a lake? That's something unique you can't miss. I would describe it as adventurous, affordable, and unlike anywhere else I've worked from. I would highly recommend this place because it's just beautiful and with that hippie vibe that's hard to find.

6. Barra Grande, Brazil

A couple of nomads I trust swear by this spot for kitesurfing and slow living. No cars, sandy streets, and sunsets where the whole town shows up. Sounds like the kind of pace I’m craving, so this is on my bucket list and I can't wait to go there soon!

Wherever you’re headed next this winter, let it be somewhere that fills your cup, not your calendar. Don’t fall into the trap of always chasing the next hotspot. Sometimes the real magic happens far from the crowds.

Talk soon,

Luca

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🧑‍💻 The Nomad Resource of the Week

One of the things you quickly learn as a digital nomad is that not all stress comes from work or Wi-Fi. Sometimes it’s just about keeping your stuff safe. Nothing ruins a trip faster than losing your passport or wallet.

That’s why I love travel wallets and money belts. My favorite (and the one I personally use) is the Eagle Creek Undercover Hidden Pocket. It’s not flashy at all (and that’s the point). It clips onto your belt, tucks under your clothes, and keeps your cash, cards, and passport completely out of sight.

I like it because it’s so light I forget I’m wearing it, but it gives me peace of mind when I’m wandering through busy places or hopping between buses in a new country. It doesn’t carry everything, but it holds exactly what matters most.

If you want a simple, no-nonsense way to keep your essentials safe while traveling, this little pocket is the best item you should be buying as a nomad.

Check out more travel-friendly tools in our full gear guide or browse all our recommended resources.

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We'll see you there, Freaking Nomads 👋

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Written by Luca Mussari

Digital nomad and co-founder of Freaking Nomads. After leaving a corporate job in London, I co-created Freaking Nomads to inspire others to embrace remote work and find happiness wherever they go.

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