Digital Nomads' Guide to Finding the Best Co-Working Spaces Around the World

 

Finding the perfect co-working space as a digital nomad can feel a bit like hunting for the ultimate coffee shop, some offer the right vibe but lack reliable Wi-Fi, while others may tick all the boxes on amenities but charge an arm and a leg. The good news? With a little strategy and some research, you can discover co-working spaces that meet your needs wherever you are.

Define What You Need

Before diving into options, it’s helpful to figure out what matters most to you in a co-working space. For instance, are you after blazing-fast internet for video calls? A quiet corner to focus? Or maybe a vibrant atmosphere where networking happens naturally? Everyone has different priorities, so knowing yours can narrow the choices significantly.

If you’re someone who thrives on caffeine and camaraderie, try looking for spaces that include coffee bars and community events. On the flip side, if privacy is non-negotiable, prioritize places offering private booths or meeting rooms. Websites like Coworker and WeWork allow you to filter spaces by features such as Wi-Fi speed, noise levels, and even whether they allow pets (yes, that’s a thing!).

Tap Into Local Networks

When you touch down in a new city, locals often hold the key to finding hidden gems. Facebook groups or apps like Meetup can help connect you with other freelancers or remote workers who know the scene. For example, in Bali’s Canggu area, spaces like Dojo Bali have become popular not just because of their facilities but also thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations within expat groups.

Even asking your Airbnb host or hotel concierge for suggestions can yield surprising results. In Lisbon, many hosts recommend Second Home, a visually stunning space designed for both work and inspiration. These personal endorsements often highlight smaller, lesser-known spots that may not pop up in your typical Google search.

Test Drive Before You Commit

The first impression of a co-working space isn’t always accurate. Maybe the pictures online showed spacious desks bathed in natural light, but in reality, there’s an overcrowded vibe with zero elbow room. Many co-working spaces offer day passes or free trial days, take advantage of these before committing to a weekly or monthly plan.

Take note of practical details during your trial run: Are the chairs ergonomic enough for long hours? Does the Wi-Fi hold steady during peak usage times? Is there enough power access at every desk? In Bangkok’s Hive Thonglor, for instance, the sleek design is appealing at first glance, but frequent users might notice occasional internet hiccups during storms, a dealbreaker if your job involves constant connectivity.

Consider Location and Accessibility

A space could have all the bells and whistles (standing desks, conference rooms) but if it’s an hour-long commute from where you’re staying, it might not be worth it. Convenience matters. Look for locations close to public transportation or within walking distance from your accommodation.

In cities like Mexico City or Berlin where traffic can be unpredictable, proximity saves both time and stress. Some co-working spaces are part of larger hubs with multiple branches around town; this allows you to hop between locations depending on your schedule for the day.

Additionally, pay attention to nearby amenities. Are there good lunch spots within walking distance? What about gyms or parks for mid-day breaks? Urban Station in Buenos Aires offers great connectivity but also happens to be surrounded by restaurants where professionals often gather post-work, something worth considering if networking opportunities appeal to you.

Factor in Cost vs Value

Not all co-working spaces are created equal when it comes to pricing. While some charge premium fees for access to exclusive perks like rooftop terraces or free beer on Fridays (looking at you, WeWork), others offer no-frills affordability that gets the job done without breaking the bank.

If your budget is tight but flexibility is important, look into shared desk memberships rather than fixed ones. Some platforms such as Spaces Works also bundle services like printing or mail handling into their packages, potentially saving costs elsewhere.

For example, Hubud in Ubud offers tiered pricing depending on how many hours per week you need access. This lets travelers who only work part-time avoid paying full-time prices while still enjoying perks like their jungle-view desks.

The Importance of Community Fit

No matter how productive a space seems on paper, if you don’t click with its vibe (or its people) it won’t feel right long term. Some environments cater more toward startups and tech entrepreneurs; others lean into creative industries like design or writing.

A great example is Campfire Collaborative Spaces in Hong Kong, a favorite among tech developers due to its advanced facilities tailored toward product demos and pitches. Meanwhile, L’Atelier Coworking in Vancouver draws creatives with its art-filled interiors and curated workshops. Both are excellent options, but clearly serve very different crowds.

If building professional relationships is one of your goals as a nomad (and let’s be honest, it probably should be), prioritize places hosting regular events like skill-sharing sessions or networking meetups. These organic opportunities often lead not just to new friends but also potential collaborations down the line.

A Few Extra Tips Worth Mentioning

• Check Reviews: Platforms such as Google Maps or Coworker often feature user reviews where people share firsthand experiences about specific spaces, from cleanliness issues to unadvertised perks.
• Look Beyond Big Brands: While global chains like WeWork are convenient because of their consistency across cities, don’t overlook independent or boutique options, they often have unique atmospheres that larger companies struggle to replicate.
• Plan Around Time Zones: If most of your clients are halfway across the globe (say New York while you're working from Bangkok), consider spaces open 24/7 so late-night calls won’t be an issue.

Finding the best co-working space isn’t just about convenience, it’s about creating an environment where productivity meets inspiration while fitting seamlessly into your nomadic lifestyle.