A holistic analysis of the tourist experiences of digital nomads

Digital nomadism, with the widespread use of technological developments and flexible work models, stands out both as a lifestyle and a rising form of tourism. Unlike traditional types of tourists, digital nomads integrate their travels with their work life and exhibit long-term, multi-centered, and experience-focused mobility patterns. This study aims to analyze the travel processes of digital nomads through a holistic approach within the framework of the six-stage tourist experience model (planning, destination selection, traveling to the destination, destination experience, returning, reminiscence). The research is designed in a qualitative design and uses a semi-structured interview form as the data collection tool. Participants consist of digital nomads selected from different geographies, and the interviews were conducted online. The collected data were analyzed using content analysis method, and themes related to each experience stage were identified. Findings show that digital nomads plan their travels according to information obtained from digital platforms such as social media, NomadList, and artificial intelligence–based tools. Factors such as internet access, cost of living, cultural diversity, security, and access to the digital nomad community are decisive in destination selection. Flexibility and ease of transportation are prioritized during the travel process. In the destination experience stage, elements such as co-working spaces, socialization opportunities, and interaction with the local people are at the center of the experience. The Returning Home stage is mostly described by participants as a temporary and emotional intermediate phase. In the reminiscence stage, digital content production, social media sharing, and personal archives play an important role. The study addresses the travel experiences of digital nomads with a multidimensional approach, offering an institutional contribution to this unique tourist type; at the same time, it includes practical suggestions for infrastructure, marketing, and experience management strategies for the development of digital nomad–friendly destinations.