Why Cape Town is a leading destination for Digital Nomads
Category Market Insight
Leading from the tip of Africa
There are many reasons why Cape Town is viewed as a leading destination for digital nomads. The city, which welcomes over 28 million visitors a year and was recently named Africa's Leading City Destination at the 2022 World Travel Awards, is top of mind for travellers. And it is clear to see why, with the abundance of natural beauty and world-class lifestyle available in Cape Town. With every imaginable convenience, like any other large city, it is safe, but the need to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, should be a priority.
Finding your workationing home
More recently and post covid, remote working has become the norm, allowing many, young professionals to adopt a digital nomad lifestyle. For those looking to work, travel and explore, 'workationing in Cape Town is ideal. The influx of working professionals has put increased pressure on the Cape Town property market, particularly apartment living in the city. As block specialists, FMS Sales & Leasing is well positioned to offer the best possible accommodation for digital nomads.
The best of both worlds
As a dream destination for many, Cape Town Tourism has seen significant growth in various areas over the last 4 years. The list of things to do and see in and around the city and into the Winelands areas is long and potentially endless. Active and passive nature lovers have their pick of hikes, parks, and vineyards and living within a short distance of any of the attractions on offer is advantageous. Luckily, no matter which part of Cape Town digital nomads wish to settle in, a space with scenic views, convenience, comfort and luxury will make indoor living as idyllic as outdoor.
Investment City
One of the fastest growing property sectors in South Africa and Cape Town is student housing. Numerous cosmopolitan cities around the world are seeing a similar trend, with a widening gap of supply and demand. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has estimated that the shortage of student beds in South Africa will reach 780 000 by 2025. An investment in student housing or apartments suited to digital nomads in and around the city, will offer a profitable return on investment. Additionally, tax incentives in South Africa for purchasing multiple new properties with the intention to rent them out is favourable. With the rapidly growing youth population entering tertiary education, students who choose Cape Town as their town of study will, in all likelihood choose the city for work and even to begin their family life.
Live, Work, and Play
Ask any digital nomad, and the ability to live, work, and play is at the top of their list of requirements for a workation. Cape Town offers this in spades! Interesting people are around every corner, locals and international travellers alike, and for digital nomads, finding a community to connect with, for work, play and life is possible in Africa's leading city destination.
There are many fascinating places to explore, plenty of memorable experiences to have, and a plethora of beautiful neighbourhoods to settle in. Living and working in a place and space that feeds the soul will, for either a short or long period of time, deliver an unparalleled quality of life experience.
Author: Melanie du Toit
