The digital nomad lifestyle is one envied by many. And sure, being able to work from anywhere has its perks—travel, adventure, independence and always meeting new people are among the most attractive aspects of working on the go.
But ask any digital nomad about how they stay on top of their work and create a balance between work and travel; most would agree it’s not all first class and room service. Life on the go certainly presents its own set of challenges. One thing that has helped significantly however, is the uprising trend of coworking spaces worldwide.
“If we could be somewhere, experiencing the world in a beautiful setting while working, challenging ourselves, growing professionally, enjoying a community of like-minded people and connecting locally, what’s stopping us?” –Michael Y, Entrepreneur and Digital Nomad
Coworking spaces have popped up all around the globe, from Morocco and Madrid, to Bali, Tel Aviv, and New York. Every coworking space is original—reflecting the unique and vibrant culture of wherever on the map it may lie. While each space has its own diverse style and personality, coworking spaces are quickly capturing hearts of the digital nomad community worldwide as a reliable place for work. Here’s why…
It’s a work space as flexible as your travel schedule
One thing coworking spaces pride themselves on is flexibility. They understand that if you wanted to be anchored to a 40-hour cubicle workweek or a protracted commercial real estate contract, you’d already be there. Coworking spaces are designed to be just as flexible as your travel schedule. You can come in for one day, one week, one month or one year on a month to month office lease, with options like communal workspace memberships, private offices for lease, meeting or conference rooms for rent, you name it.
One thing coworking spaces pride themselves on is flexibility. They understand that if you wanted to be anchored to a 40-hour cubicle workweek or a protracted commercial real estate contract, you’d already be there. Coworking spaces are designed to be just as flexible as your travel schedule. You can come in for one day, one week, one month or one year on a month to month office lease, with options like communal workspace memberships, private offices for lease, meeting or conference rooms for rent, you name it.
You get all the essentials…and then some
These up-and-coming workspaces are known for providing all the essentials (plus some really awesome perks!) Coworking spaces give you a “real office,” no matter where in the world you are.
You have everything you need for a productive workday right at your fingertips: fast internet, a plentiful source of caffeine, state-of-the-art technology, printing, office supplies, recreational activities like ping pong, it’s all included in one simple membership rate. Essentially, coworking spaces put “laptop friendly” coffee shops to shame.
You meet some really awesome people
There are some great resources out there for digital nomads to connect with others—especially if they plan on being in one place for an extended period of time. Expat communities worldwide seem to be exponentially growing with remote workers, and corresponding Facebook groups and chat rooms to connect them digitally (how else?).
But coworking spaces are a fantastic resource for meeting likeminded professionals in person. You immediately gain access to an entire community of digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, entrepreneurs, local companies, corporate virtual office employees, the list goes on. It’s a great way to meet people in your new home base, professionally and socially. Being surrounded by a community of likeminded (yet very diverse) individuals certainly makes the nomadic lifestyle more enjoyable.
It’s a space built for productivity
Digital nomads can work from anywhere—from the swinging hammocks of Costa Rica’s surf towns, to the buzzing coffee shops of New York City. Wherever there’s Wi-Fi, there’s work to be done. But why lose time with distractions in a noisy café when you can be in a real workspace surrounded by people just as motivated and focused as you are?
Coworking spaces give you options—work in a communal space for brainstorming and a chatty office vibe, then move to a private space after lunch for that client call or finishing up a report. These spaces are designed for fostering productivity and your very best work.
You continue to grow professionally
Travel in itself is a mother-lode for learning and personal growth. But when you combine work and travel as a lifestyle, it’s important to stay on top of your professional game and continue progressing in your field. Coworking spaces offer networking events, various workshops and skill seminars exactly for that reason.
