Where in the world can you spend crypto like real money?

In 2024, paying with bitcoin in a store is not fiction. There are already countries where you can have breakfast, rent an apartment, or buy a car with crypto without anyone looking at you strangely.

The pioneers: El Salvador was the first in 2021, making bitcoin an official currency alongside the dollar. Today, most stores accept BTC via Chivo Wallet. RCA followed in 2022.

Where it works without drama:

• Switzerland (Zug): The “Crypto Valley” was accepting crypto before it became trending. Bitcoin and ether in stores, restaurants, and even government services.
• Japan: Bitcoin has been a legal means of payment for years. Bic Camera, online platforms, already have it integrated.
• Germany: Especially Berlin. Cafés, shops, accept it as a private means.
• Portugal: Attracts crypto-nomads due to tax benefits. Some hotels, restaurants, and even real estate agencies accept it.
• U.S./Canada: It depends on the state/province, but there is infrastructure. BitPay integrates with major retailers. Vancouver and Toronto are the hotspots.
• Dubai: Luxury stores, real estate, restaurants. The government is fully into crypto.
• Australia: Payment terminal network that supports crypto in supermarkets and cafes.

On the rise: Argentina and Brazil are using more crypto due to inflation. South Korea is integrated into tech hubs. The United Kingdom (London) already has QR codes in stores.

Not official but it works: If your country is not on the list, services like BitPay, CoinGate and crypto cards (Visa/Mastercard) convert your BTC to fiat instantly at checkout.

The reality: Adoption is not uniform. There are countries where it is legal but almost nobody uses it, and others where it works but without official backing. The infrastructure and local mindset make the difference.