Digital Nomad Life in Mongolia
Summary: Mongolia is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Mongolia are Ulaanbaatar, Khovd, and Erdenet. Digital nomads like living in Mongolia because of its low cost of living, its unique culture, and its stunning natural beauty. A digital nomad can live comfortably in Mongolia on a monthly budget of around $1,000 USD. The culture of Mongolia is a mix of traditional nomadic and modern influences. Popular foods in Mongolia include buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried dumplings), and tsuivan (stir-fried noodles).
How do I meet people in Mongolia?
When we asked people living in Mongolia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Mongolia often join clubs and activities such as hiking, biking, and running groups, as well as language exchange groups and book clubs. Expats also meet people through their work, by attending local events, and by joining social media groups. Additionally, many expats join local sports teams or take classes at the local university. Finally, expats often meet people through mutual friends or by attending social gatherings hosted by other expats," said one expat in Mongolia.
What is life like in Mongolia?
When we asked people living in Mongolia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Mongolia can be both exciting and challenging. The country is full of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore and experience a different way of life. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, from traditional Mongolian gers to modern apartments in the city. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The country is also home to a vibrant expat community, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Despite the challenges of living in a foreign country, expats and digital nomads in Mongolia can find a rewarding and fulfilling experience," explained one person living in Mongolia.
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Where should I live in Mongolia?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One way to find a place to live in Mongolia is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as expat.com, mongolia-rentals.com, and mongolianproperty.com offer a variety of rental listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on popular classifieds websites such as Craigslist and Gumtree. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Mongolia. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Mongolia for recommendations," remarked one member in Mongolia.
What do I need to know before moving to Mongolia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Mongolia, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in Mongolia should be aware that the country has a harsh climate, with temperatures ranging from -40°C in the winter to +40°C in the summer. It is important to be prepared for the cold weather and to have the necessary clothing and supplies. Expats should also be aware that Mongolia is a cash-based society, and it is important to have access to cash when needed. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Mongolia and make sure they have access to quality medical care. Finally, expats should be aware of the language barrier and consider taking language classes to help them communicate with locals," said one expat who made the move to Mongolia.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Mongolia?
"Expats in Mongolia appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music, dance, and art. They also enjoy the hospitality of the Mongolian people, who are known for their warm and welcoming nature. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its vast steppes, mountains, and deserts. Finally, expats enjoy the unique cuisine of Mongolia, which features a variety of dishes made with local ingredients," said one person in Mongolia.
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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Mongolia?
"Expats in Mongolia often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the extreme climate and the lack of modern amenities can be difficult to adjust to. Furthermore, the traditional Mongolian lifestyle and customs can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Finally, the lack of a strong expat community can make it difficult for expats to find support and resources," said one expat who made the move to Mongolia.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Mongolia for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Mongolia for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a valid visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a work visa, student visa, or business visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a residence permit, which will allow you to stay in Mongolia for a longer period of time. You will need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport, and other documents, such as proof of employment or enrollment in a school," said one person in Mongolia.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Mongolia?
We asked people in Mongolia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Mongolia. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to gesture with your whole hand. It is also important to dress modestly, as showing too much skin is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to respect the Mongolian culture and not make jokes or comments about it. Finally, it is important to be aware of the Mongolian customs around food and drink, such as not eating with your left hand or drinking alcohol in public," said one expat in Mongolia.
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What are healthcare services like in Mongolia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Mongolia, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Mongolia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare is generally considered to be good, with a focus on preventive care and primary care services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Mongolia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," said a member in Mongolia.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Mongolia?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Mongolia often appreciate the country's unique culture and the opportunity to experience a different way of life. They also enjoy the low cost of living, the friendly locals, and the stunning natural beauty of the country. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and lack of modern amenities challenging. Additionally, Mongolia's harsh climate and remote location can be difficult to adjust to," explained one digital nomad living in Mongolia.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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