Which accommodation is best for digital nomads?
As a digital nomad, choosing the right accommodation is a crucial factor in working productively and enjoying your stay to the fullest. Whether you are looking for a relaxed hostel, prefer the comfort of private accommodation or opt for a shared workation in a coliving space - there are options for every preference.
But which accommodation is right for you? It depends on what you want: are you looking for a community, a quiet working environment or a place that combines both? In this article, we take a look at the most common options for digital nomad accommodation, highlight the pros and cons and give you tips on where you can find these accommodations.
Hostels: budget-friendly and social
Hostels are among the most popular accommodations for digital nomads, especially if you are traveling on a smaller budget or just starting your travel journey. They vary greatly in quality - from simple shared rooms to hostels that also offer private rooms or even coworking areas.
An important tip: check in advance what kind of hostel it is. Some tend to be party hostels with a lively atmosphere, others are quieter and are better suited to relaxing or working. Increasingly, there are also hostels that are especially designed for digital nomads, with coworking or coliving concepts.
If you are looking for hostels, Hostelworld and Booking.com are the best platforms to find accommodation that meets your requirements.
However, you should bear in mind that hostels usually don’t offer an optimal working atmosphere, especially if you are staying in a shared dormitory. You might want to look for an alternative for the working day, for example a coworking space or a cozy café nearby.
Hotels: comfort and convenience
Hotels are a classic choice when it comes to accommodation for digital nomads - especially if you are looking for more comfort, peace, and quiet. They are usually in the mid to more expensive price category, but can be a good deal if you travel as a couple or sharing a room with a friend.
If you are planning to work from your room, it might be worth checking the Wifi speed beforehand as well as the setup of the room. Not all hotel rooms offer a desk, and working without one can quickly become impractical.
For booking hotels, platforms such as Booking.com and Trip.com offer a wide range of options in different price categories.
Hotels are also ideal if you are working with time differences - be it very early in the morning or late at night. Having a stable and quiet place you can work from is very valuable during those hours. One downside, however, is that most hotels don't offer a kitchen, so you'll have to rely on restaurants or takeout for longer stays.
Guesthouses: The local touch
Guesthouses - sometimes also called homestays - are a popular type of accommodation for digital nomads, especially in Asia. Originally, this type of accomodation meant staying with local families, but many guesthouses now resemble small hotels. There are usually several rooms with private bathrooms, a shared garden and often a shared kitchen.
Guesthouses are particularly attractive for longer stays, as they are often rented out on a weekly or monthly basis at reasonable prices.You can find them via airbnb.com or Booking.com, but it's also often worth searching for local options on Google Maps and contacting the owners directly via WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for better deals.
In terms of atmosphere, the experience can vary greatly. From very social guesthouses that feel more like a large shared home, to those where anonymity is the main focus. If you are looking for a long term option, this is probably the best choice for you.
Private accommodation: Flexibility and independence
Private accommodation such as apartments, studios or even entire houses are a great option for digital nomads who value privacy and flexibility.
You have the ability to work at your own pace, prepare your meals and settle into an environment that's all yours - ideal for longer stays, traveling in a group or if you are looking for that extra comfort.
A big advantage of private accommodation is the option to find accommodation that is specifically designed for working. Platforms such as Soulwork.de offer luxury coworking villas in Spain that are perfectly tailored to the needs of digital nomads with high-quality workspaces, fast WiFi and inspiring design. Another great platform for private accomodations around the world is airbnb.com.
Of course, private places also have its disadvantages. They can seem lonely if you miss contact with others, and they are often more expensive than the above options. However, you get an environment that you can completely design yourself.
Coliving: living and working in community
Coliving spaces are one of the most popular types of accommodation for digital nomads who value community and productivity. These accommodations are designed for nomads and combine living and working in one place. There are usually integrated coworking areas with fast internet connections, ergonomic desk setups and often even meeting rooms.
A major advantage of coliving spaces is the strong community. Regular events such as networking meetings, workshops or joint activities make it easier to connect quickly and exchange ideas with like-minded people.
You can find the best coliving spaces on platforms such as Coliving.com or through targeted Google searches for specific locations in your desired destination.
Of course, coliving spaces also have downsides. They are usually more expensive than other options and there’s always a bit of luck involved whether you vibe with the other guests or not. Nevertheless, they offer a great opportunity to work productively and be part of an inspiring community at the same time.
Conclusion
As a digital nomad, you have the freedom to choose the location and accommodation that best suits your lifestyle. Whether you prefer the social atmosphere of a hostel, enjoy the benefits of a guesthouse, opt for the community in a coliving space or seek the comfort and privacy of private accommodation - the options are as flexible as your nomadic life itself.
Platforms such as Soulwork.de, Booking.com or Coliving.com can help you choose your accommodation. To make the best decision, make sure you pay attention to the following points:
- Check internet speed: Read reviews carefully and see if Wi-Fi quality is mentioned. If nothing is mentioned, don't be afraid to ask in advance.
- Flexible cancellation policy: Especially if your plans change, it is important that you can easily rebook or cancel your accommodation.
- Have some trust: Don't be put off if a guesthouse only has a few reviews. Many smaller accommodations are not represented on large booking platforms and can still be a real highlight. They are often paid for in cash directly on site - it's worth contacting them directly via WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
In the end, what counts is that you feel comfortable in your location, can work productively and at the same time have enough freedom to enjoy the nomadic life to the full.
