Growing up in Canada, I always felt a deep connection to the idea of “home,” but I also had an undeniable yearning for adventure. I worked abroad early in life—first with the Navy and later in the oilfields of India—and while those experiences opened my eyes to the vastness of the world, my wanderlust was never truly satisfied. Responsibilities pulled me back to Canada, where I built a life I’m proud of. I’ve been a real estate agent, co-owned an oilfield engineering company, launched a solar business, mined for gold, and now work as a business development advisor for a venture capital company while also being a licensed mortgage broker.
But now, with my kids grown and building their own lives, the world is calling again. I’m ready to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle fully. My ultimate destination? South America, with Ecuador as my chosen landing spot. If you’ve ever dreamed of combining work with a life of exploration, here are 10 reasons why the digital nomad lifestyle might be the perfect fit for you.
1. Lower Cost of Living Abroad
Living in Canada, I saw firsthand how the cost of living can weigh heavily on a family. Mortgage payments, utility bills, groceries—everything adds up. That’s one of the reasons I’m drawn to South America. Ecuador, for example, offers an incredibly affordable lifestyle without sacrificing quality. Rent for a modern apartment costs a fraction of what you’d pay in most Canadian cities, and fresh produce is not only abundant but ridiculously inexpensive.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about getting more value out of life. By lowering living costs, you can enjoy more freedom to travel, explore, and invest in your future.
2. Escape Political and Economic Instability
Having worked in industries like real estate and venture capital, I’ve witnessed how shifts in politics and economics can directly impact stability. While Canada has always been a strong and reliable home, I’ve realized that being mobile offers a unique sense of security. Choosing to live in a country with a more favorable economic climate or political landscape allows you to build a life on your terms.
Ecuador, for instance, offers a peaceful, welcoming environment with a growing economy and opportunities for expats. Knowing I can move freely to a place where I feel more aligned with the pace of life is incredibly liberating.
3. Embrace Wanderlust and Explore the World
When I worked in India’s oilfields, I caught glimpses of a culture so vibrant and different from my own. It sparked something in me—a desire to see more, learn more, and experience life beyond what I’d always known. But back then, work came first, and I couldn’t fully explore.
Now, with the freedom to design my own life, I plan to immerse myself in the colors, flavors, and rhythms of South America. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Rainforest, the digital nomad lifestyle lets me indulge my wanderlust while staying connected to my work.
4. Climate and Environment That Suit You
Canadian winters can be relentless—months of snow and bone-chilling cold. While I’m grateful for the beauty of a white Christmas, I’ve reached a point in life where I’d rather wake up to sunshine and warm breezes. Ecuador’s mild climate and year-round temperate weather feel like the perfect antidote.
Whether you’re drawn to tropical beaches or cool mountain retreats, being a digital nomad allows you to pick a climate that enhances your well-being and lifestyle.
5. Better Work-Life Balance
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—real estate agent, business owner, gold miner, and now a mortgage broker. Balancing those roles with family life taught me how precious time is. One of the greatest appeals of the digital nomad lifestyle is the ability to reclaim that time.
Imagine structuring your day around what you love. Morning hikes in the Andes, afternoons working in a cozy café, and evenings spent exploring vibrant local markets. That’s the life I’m building, and the freedom to create a schedule that prioritizes joy is priceless.
6. Healthier Living
While working in the Navy and oilfields, my health often took a backseat to the demands of the job. Fast-forward to now, and I’m focusing on living a healthier, more intentional life. Ecuador’s abundant fresh produce, outdoor lifestyle, and slower pace are all part of why I chose it as my next destination.
As a digital nomad, you naturally embrace healthier habits—whether it’s walking more, eating fresher, or simply enjoying less stress. The environment shapes you, and in the right one, you thrive.
7. Networking and New Opportunities
Throughout my career, I’ve built relationships across industries. But one of the things I’m most excited about as a digital nomad is the global network of like-minded individuals I’ll meet. Whether it’s at coworking spaces, expat events, or casual coffee shop conversations, the connections you make while living abroad can open doors to new ideas, partnerships, and friendships.
The world is full of incredible people doing amazing things—you just need to go find them.
8. Tax Benefits for Digital Nomads
Taxes can be complicated, but as someone with a background in business and finance, I’ve learned there are often ways to optimize your situation. Many digital nomads take advantage of tax-friendly destinations, where the cost of living is low, and tax policies are favorable. It’s worth exploring how you can make your money go further while building your ideal lifestyle.
9. Cultural Enrichment and Personal Growth
Some of my favorite memories from India weren’t about work—they were about the people, the culture, and the stories I collected along the way. Every country teaches you something new, and as a digital nomad, you’re constantly learning and growing.
I can’t wait to dive into Ecuador’s rich history, connect with locals, and let their traditions shape my understanding of the world. Growth isn’t just about your career—it’s about your soul.
10. Freedom to Create Your Ideal Lifestyle
For me, this is the ultimate reason to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle. After years of building businesses, raising a family, and fulfilling responsibilities, I finally have the freedom to design a life that aligns with my dreams.
Ecuador is just the beginning. From there, who knows? Maybe I’ll venture to Argentina or Chile, or perhaps I’ll settle into a coastal town and spend my mornings writing. The beauty of being a digital nomad is that the possibilities are endless.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’ve ever dreamed of living and working from anywhere, now is the time to make it a reality. At The Mortgage Nomad, I share tips and strategies to help you fund your dreams, whether through real estate, smart investing, or financial planning.
Your next adventure is waiting. Are you ready to explore this big blue marble we call home?
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