Since launching his web design company in 2005, Michael Lythcott has embraced a life of travel. I first met him at a farewell gathering in NYC back in 2014. After keeping up with his journeys on social media, I reached out to discuss the advantages and challenges of running a business while on the go.
Entrepreneur Michael Lythcott enjoying his travels in Pokhara, Nepal in 2014. (Photos provided by Michael Lythcott)
Name: Michael Lythcott
Age: 36
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Countries Visited: 35
Website: www.wheresmikey.com
1. What inspired your travels?
My journey began at 16 when I followed bands across the U.S., discovering my love for new places and faces. Capturing concerts through photography got me into many festivals, where I met incredible people and learned to travel on a budget. By 21, I had just started motorcycling and decided to ride from Atlanta to Vancouver. That trip sparked my obsession with exploring new locations and ticking off states on my list.
2. Can you share details about your business and remote work setup?
I co-founded a web design business in 2004, and by 2005, I was fully dedicated to it. I specialize in front-end visual design for websites and apps. While I sometimes work from our office in NYC, I often set up shop in co-working spaces as I travel. My last home base was Lisbon, Portugal, but I currently live a nomadic lifestyle.
3. Do you maintain a physical office?
Yes, our small team officially operates from an office in Manhattan, where we rent space from a fantastic startup, www.frame.io. During my travels, I use co-working spaces, most recently at www.liberdade229.co.
Sometimes, Southern Thailand's beaches serve as Michael Lythcott’s workspace.
4. Describe your typical workday.
When I’m in NYC or Lisbon, my routine is pretty standard. I wake up, head to the office, work, and return home. While traveling, my office could be a hotel lobby (like the one in Siem Reap, Cambodia), a beach, or even a friend's couch, all while juggling NYC hours.
5. How has remote work influenced your business? What challenges do you face?
As a small firm, we currently lack the staff we once had. When we’re busy, I might need to postpone travel plans. Previously, I could leave for extended periods with a larger team to manage tasks. Now, more responsibilities rest on my shoulders, and working hours ahead of my East Coast colleagues leads to missed experiences and disrupted sleep patterns.
While video calls help, differing schedules make collaboration tough, especially when I can't be there to brainstorm or quickly check on progress.
6. What led you to a remote work lifestyle?
Working remotely wasn’t a conscious choice; I’ve been self-employed since 2005, allowing me to travel freely. As my travel passion grew, it felt just like working from home, only from places like Paris or Istanbul.
“I could travel without worrying about my workload. Working remotely was simply a natural extension of my lifestyle.”
Michael loves working while traveling in Turkey, including a trip to Cappadocia last year to see its stunning landscapes.
7. What has been a travel highlight for you?
Turkey is full of enchanting history. Every visit to Istanbul brings new discoveries, whether it's a restaurant, bar, or landmark. Friends in the area own some nightlife spots, ensuring fun evenings. Exploring the country always offers surprises, from the castles in Bodrum to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. My recent trip to Cappadocia showcased its extraordinary beauty.
While I could list my favorite destinations, the people I've met along the way truly define my experiences. The memorable moments wouldn't mean as much without them.
8. What advice do you have for those aiming to mix work with travel?
Being self-sufficient and mastering your craft is key. Working remotely often involves coordinating with others on different schedules. To find a balance, hone your skills and accept that your timetable might be inconvenient. If you have a team, strategize work distribution to allow travel without sacrificing deadlines or team harmony.
I've missed great experiences while working, but often I found myself in beautiful locations with unique cuisines. Ultimately, being present in a new environment is rewarding enough.
When not working in a co-working space in Lisbon or NYC, Michael explores destinations like Sri Lanka.
9. What are three essentials you always pack?
First, my iPhone wide angle lens is a must-have. It’s compact enough to fit on my keychain and lets me capture stunning images without lugging around my camera.
Second, I bring an electronics kit with various plugs (Asia, UK, Australia), a mini power strip with multiple U.S. outlets and USB ports, allowing me to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Lastly, I always pack a nice outfit, like my black button-up from Zara, a tie, and versatile jeans. This way, I’m prepared for a night out, even while relaxing on a beach in Thailand. I travel light, making room for these essentials along with my clothing.
10. What’s your next travel destination?
Soon, I’ll be venturing to South America, starting with Colombia, Brazil, Guyana (my birthplace), Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Ecuador. My next major trip is planned for later this year or early next year. In between, I'll squeeze in short trips to Eastern Europe to visit friends and explore new places like Poland, Lithuania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Croatia.
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