If you’re lucky enough to be one of those people who can work from anywhere, then you’ve probably spent a good deal of time in cafes. If you’re a digital nomad, a freelancer, or simply conduct all your business online, then it is great to get out and sit in an environment other than your home. When you’re working in an environment outside the home, you have fewer distractions like the TV, kids, or trips to the fridge. But aren’t you sick of cafes? Cafes may have become the go-to venue for remote working, but other options exist.
Work in a Library
If you’re looking for a quiet workplace, then libraries are a perfect choice. There is usually lots of room to sit, and there is usually free wifi with a strong signal. If you’ve already tried your local library, why not venture further afield and visit a library in a different city. If you’re traveling, visiting libraries around the country gives you a whole new perspective on the people and their way of life. The only time when a library is not a good choice for remote working is if you need to make phone calls or if you want to snack while you work.
Settle into a Restaurant
There is a big difference between a restaurant and a café. In cafes, constantly coming and going with people moving all the time. Parents with babies, loud business people on the phone, and excitable young teens. But in a restaurant, you’ll find a quieter atmosphere. And there will always be nutritious food on hand instead of just coffee. Of course, restaurant chairs are usually a lot more comfortable than café chairs. Choosing the right restaurant for remote work is important. Obviously, you don’t want a restaurant that wants you to eat and move on. You want a quiet, slow restaurant where they won’t mind you lingering. To choose a suitable restaurant for remote working, first, check that they have free wifi. Then choose a restaurant that seems to have lots of unoccupied tables. It is good etiquette to ask the server or owner if it is ok for you to use your laptop in the restaurant and sit there for a while. Finally, it is a good idea to tip generously if you’ve been left to work in peace.
Park Yourself in a Park
Not all parks are suitable for remote working. And not all climates allow it. You’re halfway there if you can find a park with wifi, tables, and chairs. Choose a park that does not have a lot of playgrounds or children running around. Opt for a quiet spot under a tree or far from any activities taking place in the park. There is often a park restaurant or café that can make a nice place to sit. Since COVID, many municipalities are encouraging people to spend more time outdoors; parks often provide special areas for people working on their computers.
Digital Nomads on Campus
Universities and colleges are perfect for remote working. If you’re traveling, it is a great way to meet locals and see a part of the local culture. On campus, you’ll find seating areas dotted all over the area – outdoors, in libraries, cafes, and study halls. On the other hand, universities often limit their wifi to students with a password. If you can ask a passing student for their password, that’s great. Otherwise, you’ll have to use wifi from a business within a range of the campus or your smartphone hotspots. Another downside to working from campus is that they sometimes restrict non-students from entering. But if you find the right campus in the right city, it can be an ideal place to work remotely.
Work From a Hotel Lobby
Feel like a touch of luxury, romance, and excitement? Then head for a nearby hotel and set up camp in the lobby. It is usually a quiet place to work, and there will definitely be seating, electricity outlets, and wifi. In some hotels, the Wi-Fi may be restricted to guests, but you can always ask at reception, and they will usually give you the Wi-Fi details. Working in a hotel lobby means you are not restricted from making phone calls (like in a library), and you always have food on hand from the hotel restaurant. There are usually several seating options, from soft lounge furniture to coffee tables and bar stools. If you are going to try remote working from a hotel lobby, then dress the part and arrive looking like you belong there.
Remote Work in Museums
Museums are an interesting option for digital nomads. They usually offer free admission and free wifi. The surroundings are mellow and quiet, and you probably won’t be disturbed. However, you need to choose a museum where there are seating options. Sometimes there is a dedicated study area for researchers; other times, there is seating in the lobby, and some museums have seating areas in the main section of the museum, which is among the exhibits.
Co-Work Spaces
For this option, you will need to pay! It is not like a café, restaurant, park, or library. There are co-worker spaces across the planet in every large city. Call in advance to find out the price and the regulations. Some co-worker spaces are only for long-term customers. Others will let you work there for a day or week. You could use the offices that can be rented or get access to a desk in a common area. The upside is the space that is set up for serious business and the free coffee. The downside is the cost. Hot tip: try asking for a one-day free trial.
