It didn't take long for me to fall in love with Croatia. I've lived most of my life in rainy, congested England, where the cost of living is absurdly high and the standard of housing ridiculously low. After a few days in the shadow of the Velebit, I felt I could breathe again.

Like any other nation, Croatia is far from perfect, but I believe it's an excellent choice for digital nomads who want a little more sun, peace, nature, and (aside from the tourist season on the coast ) fewer expenses. Here are 5 pros to living in this Balkan paradise.

1. Nature. Croatia contains some of the most beautiful nature in the world. Nestled between tall grey mountains and the clear, gently lapping waters of the Adriatic Sea, the coastline boasts myriad picturesque beaches and features many islands, each with its own unique feel.

Inland, there's a diverse range of landscapes including forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and caves. The Plitvice Lakes National Park, for example, is a World Heritage site known for its series of cascading lakes and waterfalls. The country is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Welcoming to foreigners. Croatia has a long history of tourism and many locals tend to speak good English or German. Generally, the Croatian people are very friendly to non-locals, so don't be surprised if you're invited in for a glass of Rakija!

3. Affordable accommodation. Rent prices vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. Roughly speaking, the cost of rent is lower in Croatia than in many other European countries. However, prices can be higher in tourist areas and cities, such as Split and Dubrovnik.

In smaller towns and cities, you can find a one-bedroom apartment for an average of around $300 to $500 per month. However, unless you have a 12-month rental contract, it will likely be very expensive to stay on the coast during the season.

4. National parks. Croatia offers some of the most awe-inspiring national parks in the world. Located in the Dinaric Mountains, Risnjak National Park has opportunities for hiking and skiing, and Krka National Park is home to the Krka River along with many beautiful waterfalls.

Mljet National Park is situated on the island of Mljet and contains clear blue waters, lush vegetation, and saltwater lakes. All in all, there are 8 stunning national parks and 11 nature parks providing diverse natural landscapes, unspoiled nature, and lots of outdoor activities.

5. Low crime. Out of 163 evaluated countries, Croatia ranked number 15 on the Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest places to live. While it depends on where you are, and theft may be more common during the season, you'll most likely be fine walking around day or night.