Introduction
Why go to a tropical paradise when you can set up shop in the middle of nowhere, in a place that Google Maps can’t even spell correctly? That’s right, we’re talking about the forgotten gem of Eastern Europe: Balti, Moldova.Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about Digital nomad in Balti, Moldova!
Atmosphere / Vibes
The atmosphere in Balti is a mix of Soviet nostalgia and Moldovan hospitality. You’ll see crumbling concrete buildings next to colorful Orthodox churches, and the locals are always willing to invite you in for a shot of homemade palinka (or two, or three…).Weather throughout the year
The weather in Balti is the perfect mix of not-too-hot and not-too-cold. In the summer, you can expect temperatures in the mid-70s, and in the winter, it gets chilly but rarely drops below freezing. Basically, it’s sweater weather all year round.Cost of Living
The cost of living in Balti is super affordable compared to other digital nomad hotspots. A one bedroom apartment will set you back about $200 a month, and a meal at a restaurant will cost around $5. Plus, the local currency, the Moldovan leu, is super weak against the dollar, so your money will go even further.8 Reasons Why This is the Best Place for Digital Nomads
- Fast internet speeds: With an average download speed of 20 Mbps, you’ll have no problem getting your work done.
- Friendly locals: The people of Balti are some of the nicest and most welcoming you’ll meet. They’ll invite you into their homes and treat you like family.
- Affordable cost of living: As mentioned above, the cost of living in Balti is extremely low, so you can stretch your budget further and save some money for your next adventure.
- Close proximity to other Eastern European countries: Balti is a great jumping off point for exploring the rest of Eastern Europe. It’s a short bus ride to the capital, Chisinau, and just a few hours by train to the nearby countries of Romania and Ukraine.
- Plenty of co-working spaces: There are a number of co-working spaces in Balti, so you won’t have to work from your cramped apartment all the time.
- Beautiful nature: Moldova may not be known for its natural beauty, but there are actually some really gorgeous spots within a short distance of Balti. The Orheiul Vechi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive away, and the nearby village of Butuceni has some beautiful hiking trails.
- Delicious food: Moldovan cuisine is hearty and delicious, with dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and placinte (savory pastries) being must-tries. Plus, the local wine is some of the best in the world.
- A sense of adventure: Balti may not be the most popular digital nomad destination, but that’s what makes it so special. By choosing to work here, you’ll be stepping off the beaten path and having a truly unique experience.
Top 8 Things to Do
- Visit Orheiul Vechi Monastery: This ancient monastery is carved into the cliffs of the Raut River and is a truly breathtaking sight. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Balti, but definitely worth the trip.
- Go wine tasting: Moldovan wine is some of the best in the world, and there are a number of wineries in the area where you can try it for yourself. The Cricova winery, just outside of Chisinau, is especially famous and offers guided tours.
- Explore the city center: Balti has a charming old town with narrow streets and colorful buildings. Walk around and check out the local shops and markets.
- Take a hike in Butuceni: Just a short drive from Balti, the village of Butuceni has some beautiful hiking trails through the countryside.
- Try some local cuisine: Moldovan food is hearty and delicious, with dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and placinte (savory pastries) being must-tries.
- Visit the Ethnographic Museum: This museum, located in the city center, has a collection of traditional Moldovan clothing and household items. It’s a great way to learn more about the local culture.
- Go to a concert: Balti has a thriving music scene, with a number of local bands and musicians performing regularly. Check out what’s happening while you’re in town and catch a show.
- Relax in the park: Balti has a number of parks where you can take a break from work and enjoy the fresh air. The Central Park is especially nice, with a small lake and plenty of benches to sit on.
Conclusion
Balti may not be the most well-known digital nomad destination, but it has a lot to offer. From the friendly locals and affordable cost of living, to the beautiful nature and delicious food, there are plenty of reasons to consider setting up shop in this Moldovan city. So why go to a tropical paradise when you can have an adventure in Balti?
Wanna find out more about Balti than just digital nomads? Here is another blog post about the top 14 things to do in Balti
Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Moldova, such as Căușeni, Edineț or Comrat.