Remote Work Setup Guide6 min read

Finding and Using Coworking Spaces Worldwide

How to find, evaluate, and make the most of coworking spaces in any city

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Types of Coworking Spaces

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Traditional Coworking

Professional offices with desks, meeting rooms, and business amenities

Cafe Coworking

Hybrid spaces combining coffee shop atmosphere with work facilities

🏝️

Nomad-Focused

Spaces specifically designed for digital nomads and remote workers

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Why Coworking Spaces Matter for Nomads

Professional Benefits

  • Reliable high-speed internet
  • Professional meeting spaces
  • Printing and business services
  • Quiet, focused work environment
  • Professional mailing addresses

Social and Personal Benefits

  • 🤝Network with other professionals
  • 🧠Reduce isolation and loneliness
  • Boost productivity and motivation
  • 🎯Separate work and living spaces
  • 🌍Learn about local business culture

💡 Key Insight

Coworking spaces often pay for themselves through increased productivity, better networking opportunities, and the professional image they provide for client calls and meetings.

How to Find Great Coworking Spaces

🔍 Research Tools and Platforms

Coworker.com

Most Comprehensive
Coverage: Global directory with 30,000+ spaces
Features: Reviews, photos, amenities, pricing
Best for: Comparing options and reading reviews

Nomad List Slack/Community

Coverage: Nomad-focused recommendations
Features: Real-time advice, current pricing
Best for: Getting insider tips and current info

Other Useful Platforms

Google Maps: Local search and reviews
WeWork: Global chain with consistent quality
Regus/Spaces: Professional business centers
Facebook Groups: Local nomad communities
Selina/Outsite: Nomad-focused brands
Local websites: City-specific directories

🏃‍♂️ Location Scouting Strategy

📍 Pre-Arrival Research

  1. Identify 3-5 potential spaces in different neighborhoods
  2. Check their websites for current pricing and availability
  3. Read recent reviews (within 6 months)
  4. Note their Wi-Fi speed claims and test policies
  5. Verify operating hours match your schedule
  6. Check if they offer day passes or trial periods

Evaluating Coworking Spaces: What to Look For

🔍 Essential Checklist

🚫 Deal Breakers

  • • Slow or unreliable internet (< 25 Mbps)
  • • No backup power during outages
  • • Extremely noisy environment
  • • Poor security (no access control)
  • • Uncomfortable furniture
  • • No phone call areas
  • • Hidden fees or restrictive policies

✅ Must Haves

  • • Fast, reliable Wi-Fi (50+ Mbps ideal)
  • • Adequate power outlets at workstations
  • • Comfortable seating options
  • • Climate control (AC/heating)
  • • Clean restrooms and common areas
  • • Security measures and safe storage
  • • Professional atmosphere

💰 Pricing Models and Value

Common Pricing Structures

Day Pass

$10-30

Good for trying out spaces

Weekly Pass

$50-150

Best value for short stays

Monthly

$150-500

Most economical for long stays

💡 Value Calculation Tips

  • • Factor in transport costs to location
  • • Consider included amenities (coffee, printing, meeting rooms)
  • • Compare to cafe costs + productivity gains
  • • Weigh networking opportunities vs. pure workspace cost
  • • Account for time saved not dealing with cafe Wi-Fi issues

Coworking Cultures Around the World

🌏 Asia-Pacific

Thailand/Indonesia: Very nomad-friendly, social atmosphere, $5-15/day
Singapore/Hong Kong: Premium pricing, excellent facilities, $30-50/day
Taiwan/Malaysia: Great value, tech-friendly, strong communities
Japan: Quiet, highly organized, respect for etiquette important

🇪🇺 Europe

Berlin/Amsterdam: Creative atmosphere, startup culture, moderate pricing
London/Zurich: Premium spaces, business-focused, $40-80/day
Lisbon/Barcelona: Nomad hubs, good value, social environments
Eastern Europe: Excellent value, growing tech scenes

🌎 Americas

Mexico/Colombia: Growing nomad scenes, affordable, improving infrastructure
US/Canada: Professional focus, higher costs, excellent facilities
Argentina/Chile: Business-oriented, moderate pricing
Costa Rica: Nature-integrated spaces, eco-friendly focus

🌍 Africa & Middle East

Cape Town: Excellent value, stunning locations, growing tech scene
Dubai/UAE: Luxury spaces, business networking, higher costs
Morocco: Emerging market, cultural blend, budget-friendly
Kenya/Ghana: Innovation hubs, local entrepreneur focus

Maximizing Your Coworking Experience

🤝 Networking and Community Building

Active Networking Strategies

  • • Attend community events and workshops
  • • Join coffee breaks and lunch groups
  • • Participate in skill-sharing sessions
  • • Offer to give talks on your expertise
  • • Use common areas during busy periods
  • • Join the space's Slack or messaging groups

Passive Networking Benefits

  • • Overhearing business conversations and trends
  • • Learning about local business practices
  • • Making casual connections over time
  • • Finding accountability partners
  • • Discovering collaboration opportunities
  • • Building local professional references

⚡ Productivity Optimization

🎯 Workspace Setup Tips

  • Arrive early to secure preferred spots
  • Bring noise-canceling headphones for focus
  • Pack a portable monitor for dual-screen setup
  • Use standing desk options to vary posture
  • Keep a small kit of office supplies
  • Establish routines for maximum efficiency
  • Book meeting rooms in advance for calls
  • Take advantage of printing/scanning services

📱 Digital Tools for Coworking

📍 Discovery Apps

  • Coworker: Global directory
  • Spacehop: Day pass booking
  • Croissant: Membership network

🔧 Productivity Tools

  • Speedtest: Check Wi-Fi quality
  • Noise apps: Background sounds
  • Time tracking: Monitor productivity

🤝 Networking Tools

  • Slack/Discord: Community groups
  • LinkedIn: Professional connections
  • Meetup: Local events

Alternatives and Hybrid Solutions

🏨 Hotel Business Centers

Pros: Professional, quiet, often free for guests
Cons: Limited hours, no community
Best for: Quick meetings, short-term needs
Cost: Free-$20/day

📚 Libraries and Public Spaces

Pros: Free, quiet, cultural experience
Cons: Variable Wi-Fi, limited power outlets
Best for: Writing, research, budget travel
Cost: Free

🔄 Hybrid Approach (Recommended)

Most successful nomads combine multiple workspace types based on tasks and budget:

  • Deep work: Coworking spaces or libraries
  • Client calls: Coworking meeting rooms or hotel business centers
  • Creative work: Cafes or inspiring locations
  • Admin tasks: Accommodation or casual spaces

Building Your Workspace Strategy

Coworking spaces are a valuable tool in the nomad toolkit, but they're not always necessary or the best choice for every situation. The key is understanding when and how to use them effectively.

Start by trying day passes at a few different spaces in each new city. This lets you evaluate the environment, internet quality, and community before committing to longer-term memberships.

Remember that the best coworking space is one that matches your work style, budget, and social preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment and switch spaces if your needs change.

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AI-Assisted Content

This guide was created with AI assistance. While reviewed by humans, it may contain inaccuracies and should not replace professional advice.

Read full AI disclaimerAlways consult qualified professionals for tax decisions