As a digital nomad, finding affordable accommodations is one of the most important aspects of your lifestyle. South Africa is a country with a diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes, but it can be expensive to live in as a digital nomad. However, with a little research and planning, you can find affordable accommodations that meet your needs. In this blog, we will share some tips and tricks for finding affordable accommodations in South Africa as a digital nomad.
1. Research the areas
The first step to finding affordable accommodations in South Africa is to research the areas you are interested in. South Africa has many beautiful cities and towns, each with its own unique culture and vibe. Some areas are more expensive than others, so it’s important to do your research before you start looking for accommodations.
For example, Cape Town is a popular destination for digital nomads, but it can be expensive to live in. However, if you look outside the city center, you can find more affordable accommodations. Johannesburg is another popular destination for digital nomads, and it’s generally more affordable than Cape Town.
Durban is another great option for digital nomads. It’s a coastal city with a vibrant culture and stunning beaches. The cost of living in Durban is generally lower than in Cape Town or Johannesburg, and there are many affordable accommodations available.
Other areas to consider include Port Elizabeth, Pretoria, and Bloemfontein. These areas are less popular among digital nomads, but they offer affordable accommodations and a unique cultural experience.
2. Use online platforms
There are many online platforms that you can use to find affordable accommodations in South Africa. Some popular platforms include Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld. These platforms allow you to search for accommodations based on your budget and preferred location.
Airbnb is a popular platform for digital nomads because it offers a wide range of accommodations, from private rooms to entire apartments. You can also filter your search based on your budget, location, and amenities.
Booking.com is another popular platform that offers a wide range of accommodations. You can search for hotels, hostels, and apartments based on your budget and preferred location.
Hostelworld is a platform that specializes in hostels. If you’re on a tight budget, hostels can be a great option because they are generally more affordable than hotels or apartments.
3. Consider house-sitting
House-sitting is a great way to find affordable accommodations in South Africa. Many homeowners in South Africa are looking for house-sitters to take care of their homes while they are away. In exchange for house-sitting, you can stay in the homeowner’s house for free.
There are many websites that connect house-sitters with homeowners, such as TrustedHousesitters and HouseSitters. These websites allow you to search for house-sitting opportunities based on your location and preferred dates.
House-sitting is a great option if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience. You’ll be living in a local’s home and experiencing life in South Africa from a different perspective.
4. Join digital nomad groups
Joining digital nomad groups is a great way to connect with other digital nomads and find affordable accommodations. Many digital nomad groups have Facebook groups or online forums where members can share tips and advice on finding accommodations.
Some popular digital nomad groups in South Africa include Digital Nomads Cape Town and Digital Nomads Johannesburg. These groups are a great way to connect with other digital nomads and get insider tips on finding affordable accommodations.
5. Consider co-living spaces
Co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads. These spaces offer affordable accommodations and a community of like-minded individuals. Co-living spaces are a great option if you’re looking for a social atmosphere and don’t want to live alone.
Some popular co-living spaces in South Africa include The Bureaux in Cape Town and The Common Room in Johannesburg. These spaces offer affordable accommodations and a community of digital nomads.
In conclusion, finding affordable accommodations in South Africa as a digital nomad requires some research and planning. By researching the areas, using online platforms, considering house-sitting, joining digital nomad groups, and considering co-living spaces, you can find affordable accommodations that meet your needs. South Africa is a beautiful country with a diverse culture, and it’s a great destination for digital nomads who are looking for an adventure.