Today, we bring a conversation with Irene Ripoll Serrano, a new coliving owner who has just recently opened a small, curated, residential coliving in the heart of Palma de Mallorca.

Laberint Coliving is looking to become a place of those who want to explore Mallorca with a bit more depth and a bit more time.

It’s an intimate, spacious 4-bedroom coliving, perfect for those who need privacy and modern amenities, combined with the culture and history of the island.

Irene is an experienced traveler herself – she values community, wellbeing, and work-life balance. Her passion for this project is radiating and we’re so happy to have the opportunity to explore it up close this early.

Enjoy the read – and of course, don’t forget to check our last two catch-up interviews with Pitaya Coliving and Coliving 1907, to see what operators say today after years of operating and what’s different to when they jut opened like Laberint did.

Beginnings

“Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”

-Carl Jung

1. Could you share more about yourself and the journey that led to the opening of Laberint Coliving in Palma de Mallorca?

Irene: I’m Irene, originally from Mallorca, and I have always felt deeply connected to the way places shape who we are, how we live, and how we relate to others. I grew up in an active family, surrounded by nature, sport, languages, learning, and friends. Many of those things stayed with me.

Today, trail running and long-distance running are an essential part of my life, as are balanced nutrition, time with friends, and moments of solitude to reconnect with myself.

I have also always carried a nomadic side. The Balearic Islands feel like my base camp, but I have never imagined life as something fixed in only one place.

When I was 15, I spent a full school year as an exchange student in Ohio, USA, with a wonderful family I still keep in touch with. That experience opened my mind in a way that is difficult to explain. It was not only about learning English; it was about discovering how many ways there are to live, think, connect and belong.

After that, I lived in different places in Spain, including Madrid, Barcelona and Menorca, and also spent time in Berlin and Coimbra, learning their languages and cultures. I love those small expressions you take with you from another language — words like saudade in Portuguese — because they remind you that every culture has its own emotional landscape.

Professionally, my background combines tourism, service management, project consulting and international experience. After several years working in consultancy, I took a sabbatical and travelled around the world. Before taking that one-way flight, I remember thinking: this cannot be just about travelling. It had to be a time to come back to myself. During that journey I realised that endless leisure is beautiful, but purpose is essential. I wanted to create something that brought together what I love most: hospitality, making people feel comfortable, sharing cultures, opening my home, and helping others discover the real beauty of a place without disturbing its authenticity.

Laberint was born from that intersection: my love for hospitality, interculturality, thoughtful living and meaningful connection. Coliving felt like the concept that could hold all of it — and the possibility of shaping it with my own Mediterranean sensitivity is something that genuinely excites me.

2. How would you describe the concept behind your space and experience?

Irene: Laberint is a curated coliving in the heart of Palma for professionals, remote workers and internationally minded people who are looking for more than just a room. The idea is to create a home between journeys — a place where global lives can feel local.

The concept is very connected to my own story. I wanted to create a space where work, physical wellbeing, emotional balance and human connection could coexist naturally. A place for people who may be in similar life stages — building, creating, transitioning, exploring — and who want to meet others in a genuine way. Sometimes we long to meet stimulating people, to have meaningful conversations, to expand our circle, but we do not always know where to find that. Laberint tries to create the conditions for that to happen.

The experience is built around three balances: privacy and community, productivity and rest, local life and an international mindset. Each person has their private room and personal space, while sharing common areas, daily rituals and moments of connection with a small community.

For me, Laberint is also a reminder of how important it is to care for the body, the mind and the essence of who we are. My hope is that people do not leave feeling that they simply visited Mallorca, but that they lived it — that, in some small way, they became part of it. We want to offer a more respectful and deeper alternative to superficial ways of consuming a destination, one that honours the place, its rhythm, its people and its culture.

3. While developing Laberint, were there specific influences or inspirations that shaped your approach and led to the creation of the space and experience you will offer?

Irene: The inspiration comes from several layers. One of them is clearly my own experience of living abroad and travelling. I know how meaningful it can be to arrive somewhere new and find people with whom you can share a conversation, a meal, a walk or a simple routine, without losing your independence.

Another important influence has been the coliving movement itself. I spent time researching many coliving projects in Spain and abroad, trying to understand the model beyond the surface. I also completed a strong coliving training programme where I had the chance to meet professionals in the sector whom I deeply admire. What inspired me most was discovering that many people in this field truly believe in coliving as something beyond real estate. Beyond bricks. There is a genuine desire to help people live better, feel less isolated, and create healthier ways of sharing space.

I am also inspired by the symbol of the labyrinth. For Laberint, a labyrinth is not about confusion; it is a path towards the centre, towards what is essential. That idea is very present in the brand: creating spaces that invite people to slow down, listen, connect and choose how they want to live.

And of course, the Balearic Islands inspire me deeply — Mallorca and Menorca — with their landscapes, silence, local culture, nature and sense of soul. Laberint Coliving starts in Palma, but it carries that wider Mediterranean sensitivity: respect for place, for rhythm, for authenticity and for the quiet beauty of everyday life.

4. Laberint is still at very early stage, but what are some of the biggest challenges of opening your own space that you came across so far?

Irene: One of the biggest challenges has been turning a very emotional idea into a solid and operational project. Coliving may look simple from the outside, but it actually requires a lot of clarity: legal structure, house rules, space design, communication, resident selection, services, daily operations and relationship with the local environment.

Another challenge has been finding the right balance between inspiring people and not overpromising. Laberint wants to offer community, but real community cannot be manufactured. You can design the conditions, care for the space and create the right atmosphere — then you have to leave room for people to connect naturally.

It has also been important to adapt the project to Palma and to a home inside a residential building. That makes us very conscious of silence, neighbours, respect and a more residential, non-touristic way of living.

And of course, entrepreneurship itself is a challenge in any field. There is a lot of uncertainty, decision-making, learning and resilience involved. But I also feel that this is part of the beauty of the process: building something step by step, with care, intention and trust.

Management

“When you give someone an opportunity, do not give them a script. An opportunity without autonomy is just another task.”

-Unknown

5. What is the management style or approach you will follow at Leberint?

Irene: The management style at Laberint will be warm, clear, and intentional. I don’t believe in rigid management, but I also don’t believe in leaving everything to chance. When people share a home, freedom works better when there is a simple and well-communicated framework.

Our approach is based on trust, but also on responsibility. There will be clear guidelines around coexistence, rest, guests, common areas, and care for the house. Not to control people, but to protect the atmosphere we want to create.

I like to think of Laberint as an accompanied community, not a directed one. The idea is to be present when needed, to listen, to solve small frictions early, and to care for the tone of the space. Each person should feel at home, while understanding that they are part of something shared.

The goal is to create a house that feels natural, but not improvised; human, but also professionally cared for.

7. To what extent will you as the owner be involved in the community and day-to-day activities in Laberint?

Irene: I think my role will be somewhere in between. I don’t want to be a distant figure managing everything from outside, but I also don’t want to invade the natural space of the colivers. Laberint needs a human presence, especially at the beginning, because the tone of a community is built through details.

I will be involved in the welcome, in listening to feedback, in improving the experience and in making sure the project remains true to its essence. I’m interested in understanding who arrives, what they are looking for, and whether the experience is aligned with what we promise.

I also genuinely enjoy sharing experiences and recommendations as a host — not in a hotel-like way, but in a human way. I love helping people discover places, small rituals, local corners and ways of experiencing the island that feel more authentic.

At the same time, my role is professional. It is not about creating dependency or organising people’s lives. It is about creating a safe, warm and well-cared-for framework where each person can live at their own rhythm, with both privacy and connection.

8. What types of activities are offered or encouraged to colivers during their stay at Laberint, and what is your approach to organizing them?

Irene: Activities at Laberint will be designed to accompany real life, not to fill it artificially. We want to encourage small, natural and low-pressure moments: shared dinners, walks, wellbeing sessions, conversations around meaningful topics, cultural plans, connection with the city and local experiences.

The approach I have in mind is very curated. For me, curated does not only mean what we do, but why we do it. It is not about doing more; it is about creating moments with quality, intention and meaning. As we get to know each coliver better, we can suggest plans that genuinely resonate with the group and with the island.

Participation will not be mandatory. Community does not mean being together all the time. It means that, when you do share, there is quality, respect and affinity. We also want many of the activities to happen outside the house, in contact with Mallorca, its culture, its food, its landscapes and its rhythm.

Another idea I love is encouraging colivers to share their own passions with the community. If someone loves photography, cooking, running, music, yoga, entrepreneurship or any other practice, we would like to help them create a moment around it. I believe this is one of the most beautiful ways to nourish each other: not only receiving an experience, but also contributing to it.

8. What is your opinion about coworking being a crucial component of coliving?

Irene: For Laberint’s profile, coworking is essential, but I don’t see it only as a desk and a good internet connection. That is the minimum. What really matters is creating an environment that helps people work with focus, while also helping them not to live trapped inside work.

Coworking is also a symbol of what differentiates coliving from other types of shared living. It shows that the space is designed for people who are in a productive stage of life — people who need to work, concentrate, create and organise their days while living somewhere for a season. It is not a holiday space; it is a place to live and work with intention.

Many remote professionals have freedom, but they also need structure: a comfortable place, silence, routines, good light, reliable connection and the possibility of mentally separating work from rest. In that sense, coworking within a coliving adds a very important layer of affinity.

But coliving should not be simply “bedroom plus desk”. For me, the value is in the full rhythm: working well, resting better, moving, cooking, talking, going out into the city and returning to a home where people understand your lifestyle.

Visitors

“Values are not just what we preach; they are what we live. When our business values align with our customers’ beliefs, it forms an invisible bond that is impossible to break.”

-Unknown

9. Who do you expect to be your ideal coliver profile (habits, occupation, hobbies, etc.)?

Irene: The ideal Laberint coliver is someone aligned with the values of the project: a person who wants to connect with others, with the island and with local culture in a genuine way. Someone who is not looking for a superficial experience or the standard routes, but for a deeper way of living a place.

They will probably work remotely, run their own project, work in a digital or creative field, or have a flexible professional life. But beyond occupation, what matters most is attitude. We are looking for adults who are independent, respectful, curious, and open to meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds.

They may enjoy nature, movement, walking, running, hiking, discovering local places, trying new activities or simply having good conversations at home after a focused workday. They are active, but they also respect rest, silence and the needs of others.

Laberint is not designed for those looking for parties, noise, or a quick tourist experience. It is for people who want to live more intentionally, find their rhythm and share a home with others who are also in a stage of work, creation, transition or discovery.

9. What do you think is the ideal length of stay to fully emerge in the community and experience at your place?

Irene: I believe one month is the minimum to start understanding the rhythm of the house and the city, but the experience becomes much richer after two or three months. The first month is usually about arrival: getting to know the space, adapting, finding routines, understanding the group and discovering Palma.

After that, something more interesting appears. You begin to have your own places, your own rhythm, your conversations, your small rituals. Community stops being an idea and becomes part of everyday life.

So, while Laberint can welcome monthly stays, the ideal stay is one that allows people to live without rushing. Coliving works best when there is enough time for trust to appear, relationships to mature, and the person to feel that they have not only visited Mallorca, but truly inhabited a part of it.

10. Do you offer some special offers/discounts? (For longer stays, group bookings, couples, etc.)

Irene: In this opening phase, we want to take special care of the first people who become part of Laberint. That is why we have Founding Member spots, created as a recognition for those who take the first step and help build the community from the beginning.

Beyond that, we prefer not to build the project around aggressive discounts. Laberint should not be chosen only because of price, but because of fit, quality of the space, community and lifestyle. We can consider specific conditions for longer stays or authorised double occupancy, when it makes sense for the room, the house and the balance of the community.

What matters to us is that the proposal is clear, fair and sustainable. People should understand what is included, what they can expect and why Laberint offers something different from a conventional rental. The value is not only in the space itself, but in the care, the rhythm, the community and the feeling of arriving somewhere that has been designed with intention.

About the Future

“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

11. Lastly, how do you see Leberint developing in the next few years? Do you have a vision of what it will grow into or some aspirations and goals that you’ve set for it?

Irene: I see Laberint growing slowly, but with a lot of intention. The first goal is to consolidate this first space in Palma: to learn, listen, refine the model and create a small, beautiful and well-cared-for community. For me, growth does not mean opening many doors quickly. It means proving that the model works without losing its essence.

In the long term, I would love Laberint to be recognised as a very Mediterranean and human way of understanding coliving: spaces with soul, community by affinity, balance between life and work, and real connection with the local environment.

If the project grows into other locations — whether in Mallorca, Menorca or beyond — I would like each Laberint to have its own personality while sharing the same philosophy. A crucial thread for us will always be respect for the authenticity of each place: its culture, its customs, its people and its natural rhythm.

The aspiration is to create spaces that help people live with more presence, work with more balance and feel part of a community that accompanies without invading.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

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The post Building a Curated Community in the heart of Palma – Laberint Coliving’s mission to show a different side of Mallorca appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

Just a bit before our collaboration during our second Coliving Spain project initiative in the late fall of 2022, Pitaya Coliving had just opened its doors. We had the opportunity to be one of the first groups to ever experience this vibrant community in the capital of Lanzarote, so we were more than excited to come back after almost 4 years and see how it evolved.

With the interview below, we hope to show you how collaborative, honest, and intentional Pitaya’s community has grown to be (as it has been from the beginning, actually), as a direct mirror of its operator, Laura.

Being here for the second time, observing, but also listening to the story of Pitaya’s journey so far makes questioning what makes a good coliving silly – it’s the intention, the art of the community, and the love for what is being created – and Pitaya has it all.

Four years later – new stories with the same vision

“The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.”

-Bob Marley

1. Last month, Pitaya Coliving marked its 4th anniversary. Can you tell us a bit more about
how you celebrated it??

Laura: It was actually amazing. We felt this milestone was a really important one, so we decided to celebrate it with a big party.

We also used the opportunity of our 4th anniversary to launch Pitaya merchandise for the first time. We invited an amazing artist to the coliving and worked together on a design for different pieces, including T-shirts, jumpers, hats, and tote bags. We presented the merchandise during the party, which made the celebration feel even more special.

2. What achievements, big or small, brought you the most joy in these 4 years?

Laura: I would say the biggest achievement, and the thing that brings me the most joy from running Pitaya Coliving, is the possibility of bringing something meaningful to people’s lives.

For me, it is about being able to make people happy and to create a place where they can come and feel safe, calm, and supported. A place where they can find new friendships, discover a new culture, experience a different way of living, and simply be in a peaceful environment.

Over the years, we have welcomed people who were going through very different stages in life. Some came to Pitaya after a breakup, some during a difficult moment, some while changing jobs, and others at a time when they were still figuring themselves out. Being able to support them through those moments, even in a small way, is what gives me the most joy.

Creating a space where people feel happier, more connected, and more at home is definitely what makes me proudest.

3. As an operator, do you have a specific day that you will never forget (good or bad) – perhaps a hard day that taught you a lesson, or an extraordinary, unexpected, or delightful situation in the coliving that will be forever engraved into your memories?

Laura: There are a few things that come to mind when I read this question.

The first one is not one specific day, but a moment that has happened many times over the years: when someone who has been really special to Pitaya leaves. Some people become part of the place in a way that is hard to describe. When they leave, I always have this double feeling.

On one hand, I feel very lucky that we had that person at Pitaya, and I know that their contribution will stay with us forever. On the other hand, it is also very sad, because they are leaving and you never really know when, or if, you will see them again. It is a very happy and sad moment at the same time.

What is funny is that, even after four years, this feeling has not changed. It is not something you simply get used to. You still miss people a lot when they leave.

And then, of course, the opposite feeling happens when people come back. That is honestly one of the most beautiful things. When someone returns to Pitaya, you know they are coming back because they really enjoyed the experience and because they know what to expect. It makes me incredibly happy.

But if I had to choose one very specific moment that I will never forget, it would be connected to my family, because my husband and my children are also part of this project in their own way.

When I was about to give birth to my second child, my son Diego, I was actually working at Pitaya. I was having a meeting with Ale, our community and house manager. We were sitting together in the coworking space, having a catch-up, when suddenly my water broke, and I realized that labour had started.

So my son Diego basically decided to start coming into the world while I was at Pitaya. Ale and I will never forget that moment, when I suddenly had to leave the meeting and go to the hospital because my son was about to be born.

It was unexpected, funny, intense, and very special. Definitely a Pitaya memory that will stay with me forever.

4. With the experience you have today, what piece of advice would you give to someone who is opening a coliving for the first time today?

Laura: I would say: go for it, enjoy the experience, and let others help you create the space.

When I opened Pitaya, I thought I would have to do everything on my own. But very quickly, I realized that people were extremely happy to co-create and help develop the project. Even today, after four years of running the coliving, I still co-create with our guests.

Whenever I want to do something new, I ask them for their ideas, their help, and their participation. And I always get the same reaction: people are happy to help. They are happy to be part of it, to contribute, and to collaborate.

At the end of the day, they are the ones enjoying the facilities, the community, and the activities, so it makes sense that they want to be part of shaping the experience too.

So my advice would be to allow your guests, your friends, and the people around you to help you. Coliving is a very collaborative sector and a very collaborative business, and I think we should make the most of that.

When you are building a project like this, it can feel very big if you think you are doing it alone. But you are never really on your own — you are always surrounded by a community.

5. In the coliving space, the most important question seems to be what makes a coliving successful. In your 4 years of operations, what would you say was the most important thing for Pitaya (e.g. the space, the community, the activities, something else)?

Laura: The community, 100%. No question. For me, that is the most important thing in a coliving.

Of course, the space matters. The activities matter. The surroundings matter, and so do the opportunities that the city or town around you can offer. The group of people who happen to be there at the same time also plays a big role.

But the most important thing is to create a strong, committed, and happy community. That is the key to a good coliving.

It requires a lot of work and intention. You need to actively manage the community, take care of people, encourage them to look after each other, and make sure residents feel involved and part of something. It is important to have a programme, a structure, and a well-thought-out approach to community building.

At the same time, it is just as important to give residents the space to create and enhance that community themselves. The community should not only come from the operator; it should also grow naturally from the people who are living the experience.

Over the years, what I have learned from our residents and colivers is that the people they meet are what they remember the most. More than the room, the activities, or even the island, what stays with them is the group, the friendships, and the feeling of belonging they experienced at Pitaya.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

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The post Catching up with Laura – 4 years of Community & Co-Creation at Pitaya Coliving appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

They say the first year is the most dynamic, and we appreciate that we were there to hear about it while it was still fresh. Raquel was just getting comfortable and settling into her new role as a coliving owner and operator, and the coliving scene was blooming, especially in the Canaries.

For us, Coliving 1907 would introduce Las Palmas and Gran Canaria to us, a place we’d later return to so many times, so we naturally had it on our list to come back to this beautiful historic house in the old town of Las Palmas for so long.

Well, we thought that 2026 was the perfect year to do so, especially because Coliving 1907 will celebrate its 5th birthday🎂🥳

There had been so many learnings from that first year that Raquel told us in 2022 so many learnings from that first year that Raquel told us in 2022, but what are they now, almost 5 years after opening?

Read it in our catch-up interview with Raquel below!

Celebrating 5th Anniversary

“Milestones make the targets achievable.”

-Harjeet Khanduja

1. Coliving 1907 is approaching its 5th anniversary this November. Now when you reflect on what’s behind you, how would you summarize the first five years in three words?

Raquel: People, Learning & Experiences.

2. What would you say are the main differences in operating a coliving space today and back when you opened? Has it become easier for you as an operator, and would you say the reality of operations is different to what you imagined they would be in your first year?

Raquel: When I first opened the co-living space, everything was much newer. There weren’t many precedents or a clearly defined concept, so a large part of the work involved trial and error, fine-tuning, and really understanding what the co-livers needed.

Today, however, co-living is much more established: theres more choice and a clearer guest profile. That forces you to be more strategic, pay much closer attention to detail and stand out not just through the space, but through the experience.

As a manager, Id say that experience gives you perspective and allows you to anticipate many situations. But at the same time, expectations have risen: guests compare more, value more aspects and expect a very carefully curated experience.

The day-to-day reality is different from what I imagined in the first year. I thought more about the visible aspects, such as the community, the connections and the experience, and less about everything behind the scenes: emotional management, logistics, social media. And, above all, the constant energy required to maintain a space like this.

3. What achievements, big or small, brought you the most joy in these 5 years?

Raquel: What has made me happiest over the past five years have been the achievements that can’t always be measured. Seeing how people who arrived without knowing each other end up forming genuine bonds, including working on projects together or forming friendships that last over time. Thats something that makes me very happy.

Also those little everyday moments: an unexpected chat in the kitchen, someone staying a bit longer because they feel at home, or a review that doesnt just talk about the space, but about how they’ve felt here. Thats when you know that what youre creating makes sense.

And, without a doubt, one of the greatest achievements is looking back and seeing that, almost five years on, the project is not only still going strong, but has evolved, grown stronger and continues to make an impact on the people who pass through it.

4. Whats one hack (a thing or an approach) that you’ve seen that worked for other colivings but didnt work for yours? (e.g. a certain activity or collaboration method, or an operational approach like hiring an external operator, etc.)

Raquel: Trying to over-structure community life: rigid schedules of activities, compulsory group dynamics or a constant stream of social events.

On paper, it makes a lot of sense, because it facilitates interaction and ensures movement within the space. But in my experience, what really works here is exactly the opposite: leaving space for connections to emerge more naturally.

Whats more, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has a large community of digital nomads. There are activities every day and something for everyone.

5. In the past 5 years, was there a day that you will never forget (good or bad) – perhaps a hard day that taught you a lesson, or an extraordinary unexpected or delightful situation in the coliving that will be forever engraved into your memories? (think of a mishap, a special event like celebration or a surprise, a misunderstanding, or just an operational chaos).

Raquel: It was one of those days when several things went wrong at once: minor glitches and last-minute changes. In short, a certain sense of chaos. Luckily, far from causing tension, people began to adapt naturally.

That day taught me something important: a co-living space isn’t defined by everything running perfectly, but by how people respond when it doesnt. Through experience, Ive come to understand that its not about having absolute control, but about being quick to find solutions.

6. You’ve opened the doors of Coliving 1907 in the midst of the remote work and digital nomad boom. Now that that period has calmed, do you see a change in the digital nomad trend, specifically, do you see the difference in your target audience? Has the profile of travelers changed at all, or the remote work is still booming, and have you noticed any changes on the traveling trends and how long people tend to stay in one place?

Raquel: When we launched, we were right in the midst of the remote working boom, during a period of rapid expansion when everything seemed possible and there was a widespread sense that I can work from anywhere in the world without limits.

Remote working hasn’t disappeared, but it has become more structured. Many companies have moved to hybrid models or ones with greater oversight, and that has slightly altered the behaviour of digital nomads. It is no longer so much about constantly moving around, but about finding a balance between work, life and stability.

More and more people prefer to stay in one place for between 3 and 6 months so they can work better, establish a routine and truly connect with their surroundings. We have also noticed this in co-living, where stays tend to be longer and less impulsive.

The profile has also changed. Previously, younger profiles predominated, very much geared towards adventure and constant movement. Now we see a more diverse community: established professionals, people working remotely for companies (not just freelancers), including couples or people seeking something more stable and sustainable over time.

In short, I wouldn’t say the phenomenon has declined, but rather that it has evolved into something more conscious, more stable and, in a way, more in line with what co-living can truly offer.

7. With the experience you have today, what piece of advice would you give to someone who is opening a coliving for the first time today?

Raquel: Define your target audience clearly. Dont try to appeal to everyone. The clearer your profile is, the easier it will be to create a consistent experience.

Take care when selecting residents. Its not about filling places, but about ensuring people get on with one another. A poor living environment can affect the whole group. Establish a culture from the outset. You set the tone: rules, communication, values. This comes across in every detail.

Spend time in the space at the beginning. Youll understand your residents better, spot areas for improvement and be able to tweak the model as you go along.

Dont just think like a property manager; think like a host. Youre creating a place where people live, work and connect.

8. In the coliving space, the most important question seems to be what makes a coliving successful. In your 5 years of operations, what would you say to that – is it the community, the space design, how you approach remote work, your location, or something else? Is there a blueprint at all?

Raquel: The design of the space. Its not just about it looking nice, but about it being designed to encourage interaction in lively communal areas whilst also allowing for privacy when needed.

Location is very important. Coliving 1907 is situated in the city centre, in a neighbourhood right at the heart of the citys historic, cultural, commercial and gastronomic centre, with a wonderful atmosphere. As it is not a tourist area, it is the best option for living and experiencing the true Canarian spirit.

In my opinion, it is essential to pay attention to detail and offer a personalised service that caters to each persons individual needs.

What Future Brings for Coliving 1907

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

-Helen Keller

9. And lastly, looking ahead, how do you see Coliving 1907 in the next 5 years? Do you have any specific goals in mind that you would like to achieve?

Raquel: Id like Coliving 1907 to remain, five years from now, a place where people connect, grow and keep coming back. A hub for the community.

A space with a strong personality, offering something unique where the experience is just as carefully curated as the accommodation.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Coliving 1907 – A historical house telling a unique story of Las Palmas

• ByMarko
• November 5, 2022

• • The Coliving Spain Project

Coliving Spain 2022: #6 Coliving 1907 – Your peaceful refuge in the Digital Nomad Center of Gran Canaria

• ByGala
• November 16, 2022

The post Catching up with Raquel – A Brief Reflection on 5 Years of Coliving 1907 appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

In that light, today we’re bringing you the interview with Jonatan, the owner, and operator of EcoIsleta Coliving, the first coliving with the goal of becoming Zero Waste and helping its residents and its local neighborhood embrace an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

EcoIsleta is a relatively new space, one of the few ones in Las Palmas, and located in one of the most convenient locations of the city – the La Isleta neighborhood.

Read what Jonatan has to say about their idea and values and follow our journey while we’re staying at their space.

Disclaimer: This piece of content may contain some affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase or book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How it all started

“If we wish to rebuild our cities, we must first rebuild our neighborhoods.”

-Harvey Milk

1. Can you tell us a bit more about yourself and the journey that led you to open EcoIsleta Coliving?

Jonatan: We are a family from the Canary Islands. Our relatives have been living in our neighborhood for more than 100 years.

Basically, we started working for our local community in 2008, and since that year, we have done many different activities in the neighborhood.

Eco Isleta Coliving is just one of our projects through which we try to support the neighborhood.

2. Tell us a bit about the Eco Isleta brand/ecosystem – the vision of the concept and the offering that come together under this name.

Jonatan: EcoIsleta is a tool to regenerate our neighborhood.

We have an organic shop and a coliving, and everything we do is focused on the sustainability of this part of the city.

3. Before opening your place, have you had the opportunity to stay in some other coliving spaces or any similar accommodation? Tell us a bit more about that experience.

Jonatan: No, we have never been in a coliving or visited any coliving before opening EcoIsleta Coliving. Perhaps it could be helpful, but I’m not sure that what works in other colivings can work in our neighborhood.

We are not offering a room and a desk, we don’t want to be the best coliving in the city, we want you to understand our identity, we want you to discover the uniqueness of the La Isleta neighborhood.

4. When building your coliving space, was there something that influenced your approach or inspired you to create the space and experience you have now?

Jonatan: We got a lot of inspiration from reading the book Art of Coliving by Gui Perdrix.

We also took inspiration from some colivings we admired and whose philosophy we liked, such as Sun and Co.

5. What is the story behind you choosing Las Palmas as the location of Eco Coliving?

Jonatan: There is no other option for us. We live 300 mt from our shop and 350 mt from our coliving. We love our neighborhood, so it doesn’t make sense for us to do it in other places. EcoIsleta means working for the future of La Isleta neighborhood and that’s why we’re here.

6. Not one coliving is the same as the other! Being on an island with many other coliving places, what would you say is Eco Coliving’s signature – some uniqueness that you offer compared to other coliving places?

Jonatan: As far as I know, nobody has this “crazy” goal of becoming a Zero Waste Coliving…

Not too many colivings in the world can tell you the amount of compostable trash turned into a resource they have produced every month. I would say that is our biggest differentiator.

Management

“There’s nothing wrong with staying small. You can do big things with a small team.”

-Jason Fried

7. What type of management do you practice in the coliving?

Jonatan: We are a family. My wife Rita runs the shop and I (Jonatan) run the Coliving.

We don’t have employees because we can´t afford it. Sustainability sounds very cool, but it is very difficult to be profitable with a sustainable business.

That’s why we do it all; we do cleaning, maintenance, check-in, community dinners, etc.

Our calendar to manage the bookings is in Excel. We don’t have any booking application, we answer emails manually, we read carefully each application, talk to people, we do a bit of ” amateur marketing” when we have time, like social media, but we prefer old fashion “marketing”: mouth to mouth.

We make many mistakes and don’t like to hide them away. Instead, we are transparent about our business with future colivers before coming.

This is a workers’ house from 1912 – are you ready to experience how they lived?

But to be honest, I love what I do… believe it or not…

8. How much are you involved in the community and daily activities of Eco Coliving?

Jonatan: As much as possible. I love to meet and talk with people from all around the world.

We consider ourselves part of the community; we cook every week for our community and it is something very powerful…

9. What kind of activities are included for people who stay at your place?

Jonatan: We do all sorts of different activities like International Dinners, Mojo Remote (trying the typical Canarian cuisine and homemade mojo), hikes in a natural area near the house, Tandem (language learning game), Paella Remote (Paella workshop and dinner), La Isleta Learning Remote when we go to the High Schools and share about the digital nomad life with the children, Vegan Dinner, etc.

10. How do you approach organizing activities and events?

Jonatan: We don’t have a closed schedule or any kind of program, we improvise. We are in a city full of activities, and our community is very small and familiar, we see what works for the week ahead and plan in that direction, and mostly we are open to the suggestion of the community. We are small and we can move fast or organize a dinner or any other activity very fast, which is very helpful.

EcoIsleta Community

“All we have to do is find something we love doing each day, surround ourselves with like-minded people, and put all of our effort into that one thing at all times.”

-Jason Calacanis

11. What is the typical coliver profile in EcoIsleta Coliving (age, occupation, etc.)?

Jonatan: The typical coliver in EcoIsleta is someone who wants to live more sustainably, a conscious traveler, or simply a remote worker.

We had people of all ages, from 25 years to 60 years.

12. What would you say people who come to EcoIsleta Coliving are searching for; what is the most frequent reason people come?

Jonatan: Meeting like-minded people, finding purpose in their life…

13. What do you think is the ideal length of stay to fully emerge in the community and experience at your place?

Jonatan: At least 1 month.

14. Do you offer some special offers/discounts?

Jonatan: Not at the moment. First, we need to be profitable, and then we can think about discounts.

Expenses in a Coliving are very high, amenities, community, maintenance, cleaning, taxes, we only have 7 rooms.

In today’s economy profitability really starts when you scale, but that is not in our plans. It doesn’t make any sense to us. We don’t want to be big; we want to be useful, so we have to figure out how to be profitable with a single unit. And we are still learning how to do it…

We do have different prices for high and low seasons, though.

About the Coliving Movement

”We have all known the long loneliness, and we have found that the answer is community.”

-Dorothy Day

15. Do you think coliving is only dedicated to a specific group of people such as freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers, or do you think it can gain popularity beyond that group of people?

Jonatan: Hopefully, we will see colivings in the future for different kinds of people, not only for remote workers, why? Because living together is more sustainable and also, we are facing a loneliness challenge in the cities.

16. Do you think coworking is a crucial component of coliving and why?

Jonatan: Yes, because people need to work, but we are not here to be the best place to work, we are here to offer you a sustainable community experience that helps our neighborhood find answers to change the way we live.

17. What would you say is the most crucial element of a coliving?

Jonatan: Community. We live in a world where we are all extremely connected, but more alone than ever.

I would suggest throwing away your mobile phone for a few hours a day and getting real connections, going to the beach, smelling the ocean… love is all around.

18. One of the main selling points of colivings is the possibility to meet new people, share experiences, and maybe even develop new partnerships. Is this something you also had in mind when opening your place?

Jonatan: Of course, Sustainability is about collaboration, sharing, and helping each other. The challenges we are facing in the new paradigm are based on solid communities that embrace a new philosophy based on collaboration. Competing is driving us to a very dangerous situation.

19. Lastly, how do you see both Eco Coliving and Eco Isleta ecosystem developing in the next few years? Do you have a vision of what it will grow into or some aspirations and goals that you’ve…

Jonatan: We see ourselves working to help La Isleta to become the first sustainable neighborhood of the Canary Islands.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Coliving Madrid: Creating a Tranquil Community on the Outskirts of the Spanish Capital

• ByMarko
• April 22, 2023

The post EcoIsleta Coliving – Sustainable Community in the Digital Nomad Center of Gran Canaria appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

Welcome to Rivas-Vaciamadrid, the home of what will possibly become one of the first real community-focused colivings in Madrid.

Simply named (for now) Coliving Madrid, this soon-to-be ex-Airbnb is slowly turning into a different kind of shared space. The operator and owner, Lu, who had a few experiences as a coliver himself, now wants to take what he learned and build a coliving community in no less than the Spanish capital.

His coliving project is still in the early phase so we’re very excited to see where it goes.

Take a look at the interview we did with Lu below to find out his vision and the idea of Coliving Madrid.

Disclaimer: This piece of content may contain some affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase or book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How it all started

“Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is full victory.”

-Mahatma Gandhi

1. Walk us through the journey that led you to opening your own coliving space in Madrid.

Lu: When I was in quarantine in my flat in Barcelona for 3 months, I realized that I needed a change in my life. I felt stuck in my routine and longed for a sense of adventure and new experiences. That’s when I decided to try out coliving and went to Tenerife.

It was an eye-opening experience for me, as I discovered a new way of living that allowed me to be in a beautiful location, work hard, and meet amazing people at the same time. I found that I thrived in this environment, and I felt more fulfilled and inspired than I had in a long time.

As I continued to explore coliving spaces, I knew I wanted to make this feeling a permanent part of my life.

That’s when I decided to open my own coliving space in Madrid.

2. How would you describe the concept behind your place?

Lu: Coliving Madrid is more than just a place to live and work. It’s a community that fosters personal and professional growth, and where people can connect on a deeper level.

I believe that in today’s fast-paced world, it’s important to have a space where people can slow down, disconnect from technology and distractions, and focus on their passions and projects while surrounded by a supportive and like-minded community.

At Coliving Madrid, we strive to create an environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and personal development

3. You rented your space as Airbnb accommodation. What are some of the main changes you had to (or will have to, since you’re still developing the concept) to implement in order to convert the concept to coliving?

Lu: My idea is to leave only one room in Airbnb for outsiders to be able to book in the coliving, so we also have newcomers experience the coliving experience.

4. You’ve also had the opportunity to stay in other coliving spaces, how would you say your stays have influenced your approach to creating your own space?

Lu: My stays in various coliving spaces have truly shaped my approach to creating my own space.

Each experience taught me something new and inspired me to bring the best of each space into my own. I am constantly striving to create a space that provides the same sense of community, comfort, and creativity that I have found in my own travels as a digital nomad.

5. You partially started the concept in March this year, with some upgrades still under until it’s fully completed – what are some of the biggest challenges you came across in these first few months of going into market as a coliving?

Lu: Starting Coliving Madrid has been a wild ride so far. I’ve learned that creating a community takes time and effort, but it’s worth it.

One of the biggest challenges has been figuring out how to balance the needs of our colivers with the practicalities of running a business. However, seeing people connect, share experiences, and create lasting friendships has made all the hard work worthwhile.

I’m excited to continue growing and evolving Coliving Madrid and providing a unique and memorable experience for our community.

6. Is there something that you wished you knew before starting this project?

Lu: Before starting this project, I wish I knew how challenging it is to establish the core values and culture that would shape our community.

Other colivings make it look so easy, but creating it from scratch was a whole different ball game. It took me a while to identify what unique value I could offer to our community that would make it thrive and flourish.

7. What is your relationship with other coliving spaces in Spain (and further)? Do you receive support or advice from some of them?

Lu: I maintain close communication with other coliving spaces, and we even visit each other to exchange ideas and collaborate.

We believe in a win-win approach and strive to build a supportive community of coliving owners, as the essence of coliving is all about sharing and collaboration.

8. What is the story behind you choosing Madrid as the location of your coliving space, and especially, Rivas-Vaciamadrid?

Lu: Our family bought the house 30 years ago when Spain was using pesetas instead of Euros. There was nothing around the house but rural paths and some plantations.

At the time, Rivas was known as the garbage disposer of Madrid, but the residents slowly turned the garbage disposer into the most wanted neighborhood in the community of Madrid.

I thought that was a sign: where better to start a coliving community than in a place like that?

9. What are some advantages and disadvantages of your location?

Lu: Coliving Madrid has many advantages that make it an ideal place for digital nomads and those seeking a unique coliving experience. One of the biggest advantages of the location is its proximity to Madrid.

Rivas-Vaciamadrid is just 17 kilometers away from Madrid, making it an easy commute for those who work in the city but prefer to live in a quieter, more peaceful area. The town is also conveniently located near the Madrid-Barajas Airport, making it easy for visitors to travel to and from the coliving space.

Another advantage of Rivas-Vaciamadrid is its natural surroundings. The town is located next to the Southeast Regional Park, a protected area that boasts a large lake and many hiking trails. This provides a great opportunity for residents to connect with nature and explore the outdoors.

Additionally, the town is known for its many green areas, including several parks, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities like picnics, sports, and exercise.

While there are many advantages to the location of Coliving Madrid, there are also some disadvantages to consider. One of the biggest challenges for digital nomads and remote workers is that the town may not have as many entertainment options as larger cities like Madrid, which could be a downside for those looking for a bustling nightlife or a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.

10. Which uniqueness do you think Coliving Madrid offers or will offer compared to other colivings in Spain?

Lu: I believe the uniqueness of Coliving Madrid lies in its personal touch and community-focused approach. Our coliving is not just about providing a place to sleep and work, but also about creating a sense of belonging and fostering relationships between our guests. We have a strong emphasis on community events and activities, such as shared meals and workshops, which allow our guests to connect on a deeper level.

Management

“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.“

-Eleanor Roosevelt

11. What type of management do you practice or are you planning to practice in the future?

Lu: Currently, we are practicing internal management where our team lives and works on-site providing services to our residents.

We believe that this allows us to provide a more personalized and dedicated service to our residents. However, we are open to exploring external management options in the future if it aligns with our vision and values.

12. How much are you included in the community and daily activities of Coliving Madrid?

Lu: I am not just the owner, but also a member of the community. I actively participate in daily activities and events, and enjoy getting to know my guests and learning about their experiences.

I believe that being involved in the community is an essential part of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone who stays at Coliving Madrid.

13. What kind of activities are included for people who decide to stay at your place or will be included in the future?

Lu: At the coliving, we believe in creating a strong sense of community and offer various activities to encourage residents to interact and connect with one another.

We organize community dinners, game nights, movie nights, hikes, and other social events. Additionally, we offer workshops and classes such as cooking, yoga, and skillshares.

Our aim is to provide a space for residents to not only work and live comfortably but also to foster personal and professional growth through shared experiences and learning opportunities.

Coliving Madrid Community

“We become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.“

-Jimmy Carter

14. It still might be too early to speak about the profile of people who usually come to Coliving Madrid, but – so far, what are some of the things your colivers have had in common? Who is your target audience?

Lu: At the coliving, we have welcomed a diverse range of individuals from different backgrounds and professions. However, most of our colivers so far have been digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who value work-life balance and seek to live and work in a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Our target audience is individuals who are open-minded, community-oriented, and interested in cultural exchange and personal growth.

We welcome people of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds who are willing to contribute to our community and embrace our values of respect, collaboration, and sustainability.

15. What do you think will be the main reason people will choose to come to Coliving Madrid?

Lu: It’s likely that the main reason people will choose to come to Coliving Madrid is a combination of factors such as the location, the community, the amenities and services provided, and the opportunity for remote work.

Our location in Rivas-Vaciamadrid offers a peaceful and quiet environment, while still being close to the city center of Madrid. The community aspect is also important, as we offer a supportive and inclusive environment where people can connect with like-minded individuals from all over the world.

16. What do you think is the ideal length of stay for colivers to fully enjoy the experience you are creating?

Lu: I think you need at least 15 days to fully enjoy the experience.

17. Do you have some special offers/discounts?

Lu: Yes, we offer a 15% discount for monthly stays.

About the Coliving Movement

”No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.”

-John Donne

18. Do you think that coliving is only dedicated to a specific group of people such as freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers, or you think there is a possibility for it to gain popularity beyond that group of people?

– Coliving can be a great fit for a variety of people beyond freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers. It can also appeal to entrepreneurs, artists, and anyone who values community and shared experiences. Additionally, coliving can be an attractive option for those seeking a more sustainable and affordable lifestyle. As the concept of coliving continues to evolve and expand, it is likely to attract a broader range of individuals from different backgrounds and with different needs.

19. What do you think is the most important aspect of a coliving?

Lu: The sense of community and social interaction that it offers. Colivings provide a space where individuals can connect with like-minded people, form new friendships, and participate in group activities.

20. How important do you think coworking space or areas are for a coliving?

Lu: It is considered an important component of coliving communities. Many people who choose to live with us are freelancers, remote workers, or entrepreneurs, and having a designated workspace where they can be productive and interact with others is essential. Additionally, coworking spaces can foster a sense of community and collaboration, which aligns with our values.

21. One of the main selling points of colivings is the possibility to meet new people, share experiences and maybe even develop new partnerships. Is this something you also had in mind when opening your place?

Lu: Absolutely. Fostering a sense of community and creating opportunities for connection and collaboration among our colivers is a top priority at Coliving Madrid. We believe that sharing experiences and developing new relationships can lead to personal and professional growth, and we strive to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where this can happen.

22. Lastly, how do you see Coliving Madrid developing in the next few years? Do you have a vision of what it will grow into, or some aspirations and goals that you’ve set for it?

Lu: Yes, we have a clear vision for Coliving Madrid in the next few years. We aim to become a hub for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote workers from all over the world who seek a community that supports and inspires them.

We plan to expand our facilities to accommodate more colivers, and to continue providing excellent amenities and services that cater to their needs.

We also plan to offer more community-building activities, such as workshops, seminars, and cultural events, to encourage interaction and collaboration among our members.

Ultimately, we hope that Coliving Madrid will become a model for sustainable, community-driven living that inspires others to pursue similar ventures.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

FEM Coliving – The house of the Pyrenees, Community, and Personal Growth

• ByMarko
• July 9, 2022

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

The post Coliving Madrid: Creating a Tranquil Community on the Outskirts of the Spanish Capital appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

Many coliving operators take inspiration from Sun and Co. but where did Sun and Co. get their inspiration? If you missed the first interview part, where Jon talks about their beginnings, we suggest checking that out first.

If you’ve already been there, it’s time to hear a bit more about their team, their projects, and their plans.

We’re not going to share anything else so you can just jump right in and enjoy!

About Management

“Leadership is the art of giving people a platform for spreading ideas that work.”

-Seth Godin

1. What type of management do you practice in the coliving?

Jon: We have Eduardo, who is the CEO, and the owner, and he’s not that involved in the day-to-day.

Then, there is me as the general manager. I am in charge of leading the team and making the whole business run. I’m also focused on business development. When I say business development, I’m referring to a few projects that we have running at the moment.

We also have Fernando on the team who is in charge of the offline experience – operations, logistics, community experience, etc., and we have Iva, who is in charge of the online aspect – marketing, sales, and booking, but she also helps with hosting.

We have three people hosting, and we also usually support ourselves with an intern who is supporting both the offline and the online.

2. Can you tell us a bit more about the Sun and Co.’s Community Pass? Who is this for and how can people benefit from it?

Jon:  We recently opened a coworking space in town, so our idea was not only to provide a better working environment for our residents at the coliving space but also to provide the opportunity for those who have already moved from that life stage.

For people who have settled in something more stable, more long term, or maybe something more private, like renting their own apartment in Javea. We wanted them to still have access to the coworking space and the community.

3. Depending on the season, Sun and Co. changes the business model from coliving to hostel and vice versa. Can you share a bit more about how this works, the differences in operating and experience, and give a few tips for people who want to book one or another?

Jon:  From the beginning, we knew we were not going to mix two types of clients. When the hostel is open, the coliving is closed, and vice-versa. We still keep up with that rule and that helps us bring the best of both experiences.

4. Lastly, besides the regular Sun and Co. coliving experience, you also organize pop-up experiences. Can you tell us a bit about this idea and the difference between the regular experience and the pop-up?

Jon: This year we’re going back to the Basque Country, my homeland, for one month of pop-up experience in a beautiful villa. The main idea behind the popup was to provide our members with the same Sun and Co. experience but in a new location.

We wanted to replicate our experience the most we could, but because of this new location, we had to implement some changes.

Like, for example, to facilitate buying food because the house is very rural. In Jaeva, there is everything you need: supermarkets, restaurants, and everything in town making it easy for people to be independent. That is not the case in the popup location. So we decided to put up a system through which everybody will buy food together and share expenses.

The system is that we order online and from Monday to Thursday, every night, we switch groups and one group cooks dinner for everybody else.

In this case, the experience is more intense, because it is more remote and we have dinners together every night. You spend more time with people, more often, so it’s more intense when it comes to relationship-building.

Last year, we had two blocks of people, the first that stayed for two weeks, and then the second that stayed for another two weeks. I think checking in and out at the same time also gives a certain experience. You are with the same people from the beginning to the end. That is another thing that makes the experience different from the coliving in Javea.

And finally, the venue is a very luxurious villa with a swimming pool. So, the house quality is higher than one in Javea, so part of the offering to our members is also this higher quality product that differs from the one in Javea.

About Visitors

“Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again, and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.”

-Walt Disney

5. What would you say people who come to Sun and Co. are searching for; what is the most frequent reason people come?

Jon:  Most people don’t come because of Javea or because they need accommodation. They mostly come to experience Sun and Co. and then discover the beauties of Javea through it.

Of course, it’s Spain, and I would lie if I said people don’t feel attracted to being in the sea and in a sunny destination. It’s definitely an important aspect of why people come. I believe it would be different if we were located in a rainy or cold location, but it’s not the main aspect.

I think even back in 2015/16 when coliving wasn’t that popular, it was easier to attract people to a sunny destination with nice weather than a cold or a mountainous area. Nowadays, there is room for colivings in different types of locations and people love going to the mountains as well.

So, people end up coming to Sun and Co. mostly because they heard about it from someone and they liked what they saw through our website.

I think we were also lucky when it comes to the community part. I think it would be harder to build this focus on the community if we were in a more popular destination, such as Barcelona. When a destination is that popular, you are probably receiving more people who are only looking for accommodation and are not really interested in the community part. Then it can happen you have people with different expectations and friction between different communities that can harm the overall community experience.

I think that also helps us with expectation management. Of course, people have expectations about Sun and Co., but they don’t have that many expectations about the destination, so they are often pleasantly surprised. Once they come and discover the place, many people return for the destination.

On the other hand, being in a more popular destination makes the marketing of your space easier. People are already interested in the destination and it’s easier for them to find you.

For us, this was always a bit of a challenge, leaning only on our brand to market our space. We didn’t have any support around with the municipalities or the local authorities or the government trying to make this destination attractive. So, being in Javea was both a challenge and a benefit. The good part is that we managed to attract everybody to come exactly for what we marketed.

Generally, about the coliving movement

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

-Henry Ford

6. Lastly, how do you see Sun and Co. developing in the next few years? You already have many years of development behind you, but is there a future vision of how Sun & Co. can grow even more in the next years, or some aspirations and goals that you’ve set for it?

Jon:  I think one of the goals is to transform our brand into a community brand more than a coliving brand. As I mentioned before, we are already expanding beyond the Sun and Co. walls.

One is the coliving experience, another is the community or the coworking experience, and the third is the pop-up, so we already have more than only a coliving space.

So, ideally, in the future, I would love to see Sun and Co. go beyond the Sun and Co. world, expanding the brand and the concept into something more generic, where we talk about the Sun and Co. community beyond the space. And see how that expansion can absorb the needs of more different types of people and more people in different stages of life like those who are about to start their journey, those who are already settling down or even thinking of having a family, those who might want higher qualities or to discover new places, etc.

The main focus is still on Javea and we’re spreading the concept to see how we can cover the needs of the different workers who have different requirements but keep that purpose and connection we started with. Continuing to be meaningful. If the work is not connected to your values, then it’s impossible to transmit its value to others.

This is just the second part of the interview we did with Jon from Sun and Co. If you missed the first interview part, where Jon talks about their beginnings, we suggest checking that out too!

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Sun and Co. (Part 1) – 8 years of Hosting, Learning, and Community-building in Javea

• ByMarko
• April 4, 2023

The post Sun and Co. (Part 2) – 8 years of Hosting, Learning, and Community-building in Javea appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

Located in the beautiful small town of Javea, just about 100 kilometers from Valencia, Sun and Co. earned its recognition due to its long history and a thoughtful, dedicated, community-first approach. And today, we’re bringing you a part of their story.

Jon Hormaetxe, the co-founder and former general manager of Sun and Co., one of the first colivings in Spain, shares their journey from opening the coliving in 2015 until today, just days before leaving Sun and Co. after 8 years of being at its heart.

This is also the first Travel & Tapas interview focused on showing the beginnings and the journey of the pioneers in the coliving world in Spain.

Without saying too much, we invite you to read the first part of the interview with Jon below and learn about Sun and Co.’s beginnings, followed by years of exploration of the community, dedication to hosting, and reinvention of the work-life balance in the digital nomad era.

Disclaimer: This piece of content may contain some affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase or book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How it all started

“To make great ideas a reality, we must act, experiment, fail, adapt, and learn on a daily basis”

-Jocelyn K. Glei

1. Could you tell us a bit more about the journey that led to opening Sun and Co. back in 2015? As one of the first colivings in Spain, it must have been a different motivation and path than what we typically see today.

Jon: It all started in 2015. I was attending a coworking conference in Valencia. I used to work in real estate in Edinburg (The Melting Pot) for about 2 years and was already familiar with the coworking movement so I decided to attend this coworking conference in Spain.

That is where I met Eduardo, the owner of Sun & Co. Eduardo already had the idea of creating a coworking space in Javea (the town where Sun & Co is, about 100 km from Valencia) as there was nothing similar there.

He was one of the last speakers at the conference and presented this idea which I loved. I remember thinking to myself Wow, this looks like the best idea ever.

Javea is a gorgeous destination surrounded by beautiful beaches, nature, with great weather, and this seemed amazing to me – especially after living in Scotland for years and originally being from the Basque Country, I’ve never actually lived in a sunny destination. So, after Eduardo presented his idea, all I could think of is how it sounds like such a cool project.

Fast forward to the conference end, there was one last dinner for the attendees, and by chance, I ended up sitting next to Eduardo. It was a complete coincidence, but we started talking about his project with Sun & Co. and started brainstorming around the idea some more.

At one point, he told me he was looking for somebody to join the team and help him launch it; somebody who could do marketing and just a bit of everything else along the way. Even though I love the project, I wasn’t sure at that moment as I was not planning on staying in Spain, but we kept in touch. I went back to Edinburgh for another 3 months. During that period, we had another chat and I decided to come to Javea and launch Sun & Co. with Edu.

The property was Edu’s family house he previously refurbished and redesigned to be a hostel. He’s an architect so he made quite a nice place. The reality with the hostel was that there was a high demand for this service during the summer as there was nothing like it in Javea back then, however, during the colder seasons, it was not fulfilling its full potential and was sitting empty.

That’s why he wanted to find a solution how to fill the space up during the low season, and that’s how we came up with the whole concept of a coliving.

We already had a few references. There was already a space in the Canary Islands called Surf Office, another one in Morocco (SunDesk), and there was also one in Galicia named Sende. We also knew the market was growing and that there were more and more digital nomads traveling to Southeast Asia.

In 2015, there was already a group of pioneer digital nomads leading the path and setting foot for others to follow. Being a digital nomad was still a new concept, something unique and innovative that brought together different people ready to try out new concepts like coliving, so it was a great time to open a space like this and experiment.

2. Even though there were not as many direct reference points (colivings) to take influence from, when building your coliving space, was there something that influenced your approach or inspired you guys to create the space and experience you have now?

Jon: I think when you start, it’s always good to look at some other references that are already making this happen. Of course, you get some inspiration, copy the things that you enjoy or improve things you think you can do better.

For us, in the beginning, it was very important to see that there was already something like this existing; that there were already a few places like this, and that they were getting clients.

Background in the Coworking niche

Jon: The biggest influence, however, I think, in one sense, came from the fact that I had already been involved in the coworking movement. Back when I moved to Javea, in a way I was already a part of the coworking community in Spain. I had already attended a few coworking conferences, so that helped us gain inspiration.

Also, in 2013/14, I couldn’t say it was the very beginning of the coworking movement, but it was still in the early phases. The conferences were full of small operators. The biggest ones had only 2-3 locations, no more.

The coworking movement came from something very aspirational and very passionate. Most coworking owners put a lot of passion into what they were doing, and there was a lot of focus on community. They used to see the coworking space as a tool to create meaningful connections that will improve people’s lives.

The coworking was supposed to provide a nice space that will spark those connections and potential collaborations that could be born by meeting other freelancers.

So, there wasn’t a big focus on growing and making a very successful business out of a coworking space but rather putting a lot of focus on the community aspect. So coming from that atmosphere of co-working communities to co-living, I think it was one of the biggest influences.

We knew the importance of creating a community and putting our focus there and making sure we create opportunities for our guests to connect.

Experience in hospitality

Jon: Besides that aspect, we also had Eduardo’s perspective that came from his experience in running a hostel for two years before opening the coliving space.

So we had a lot of input on how to run a hospitality business in general. The logistics were more or less already implemented when I arrived.

Providing the local experience

Jon: And the third influence to me would be the booming of Airbnb.

In 2015, there was this vision of utilizing empty rooms and renting them to other people so they can make the most out of them. You rent them out, people use them, and you get some money. It was kind of a social impact project. Many people started getting interested in hosting and trying hard to provide the best hosting experience: to welcome their guests, show them around, make them feel special, etc.

And also, there was a big focus on how you can get a local experience by going to an Airbnb because you will be sharing a house with local people who will welcome you and show you around. So there was also this aspect of the local atmosphere, the local experience, the local host, and so on.

That was something that we knew we really wanted to implement. We wanted to allow people to experience the local culture and create this local atmosphere where not only me or Eduardo are the locals but also other people working with and around us. We knew we wanted to involve different local people in the experience.

Creating a personal experience

Jon: And lastly, we wanted to make this experience as personalized as possible. This was not supposed to be a place that you come to and just leave like another client or just a number on our guest list. We wanted to make sure that our guests feel that we know who they are and we welcome specifically them into our experience. We know your name and what you do and what you like and welcome you to our family when you arrive. That was the experience we wanted to provide (and still do).

So those are more or less a few influences we had back then.

The interesting thing was that for us, there wasn’t a huge risk involved in opening this space, because we already had the hostel. We already had a good business, even if it was open only for 2-3 months. The space was also already refurbished and renovated for the hostel, so we didn’t have that challenge or the need for that kind of investment. That gave us a lot of security and allowed us to be patient and take our time with the Sun & Co. coliving brand and work on the concept.

The security from the hostel allowed us to be flexible in the first few months and not rush into any decisions. In the first month, we didn’t have anybody in the coliving, it was just me living there. After two whole months, we had our first client ever – a Finnish girl named Kaisu.

We went to pick her up in the car and I stayed with her for two weeks and we had our first real coliving experience.

Kaisu had an amazing time and came back to Sun & Co 10 more times after that stay. She even met her boyfriend in Sun & Co. And that’s exactly what we wanted to create – a place where people can create meaningful connections and a place they’ll want to come back and feel like a part of something. And after a few months, little by little, we had the first few people and by having them, we were able to slowly improve the experience.

3. Did you have any challenges in marketing/educating people on the coliving concept at the beginning of your operations? How did you approach the market back then when people still haven’t had much knowledge of this concept?

Jon: Mostly in the rural areas or those who are more focused on digital and remote workers, the operators might fear offering a product or a service where the main value is the community, but being empty when they open the space. But, I always say the same: the space is never empty because you are there. You are the first member of your community.

The same went with us. In the beginning, we knew that if anybody was going to decide to come to stay with us, they first had to like our personalities, or at least like our values and our way of doing things.

So during the first few months, even a year, we were exposing ourselves quite a bit. We used a lot of comedy and humor because that was something representative of us. A lot of funny videos were a big marketing tool for us because we wanted to share a part of ourselves in the marketing. If somebody comes, we don’t know how many people will be around, but we will, so if they seem to like what we do, they will probably like the experience.

So in every email we sent, we were adding a picture, not of us, but a picture of the concept so they get a taste. There was a lot of marketing around who we are, our values, and our visions in order to connect and link other people who identify with the things that we envision or enjoy doing.

I think this is the very best way to start a community, to connect with the founders’ personalities and values.

A community is something that always starts very small and then grows by word of mouth, and little by little because human relationships evolve slowly. Building a relationship with someone is not something you can do in one day; it’s something you need to work on and invest time in. So, when you’re building a community, you also need to build it slowly, one person at a time, starting with yourself.

That is why the passion and the transparency the owner puts into setting up their space is critical. It is the only way to make other people connect to the same values, and the same vision, and make them engage. And then, slowly, people start talking about you and their friends start talking about you, and that’s how it begins.

Having said that, for us, there weren’t many coliving around when we opened. So if you were to type on Google Coliving in Europe or Coliving in Spain, we were coming out on the very first page. Even though the term wasn’t very popular and not many people were searching for it, it definitely helped us get discovered by the few who were.

There was also a growing trend for people searching for coworking spaces or coworking in a hotel or similar, trying to figure out how to work and travel, and they were finding us. The people who came like that also helped us shape the concept throughout the years.

I remember the first year, being there with everybody was a part of my everyday life. We were all together, working socializing, and I think the people who came then really felt as if they were a part of what Sun & Co. is today. I think they feel that Sun & Co. maybe wouldn’t be what it is now if they haven’t contributed with their presence. And it is true. It’s all about belonging.

That’s more or less how we started and marketed. We also went to a few conferences and marketed ourselves in Facebook groups.

4. After 8 years of operating, what would you say was the most difficult or challenging phase of operations and the most difficult year/period for the business?

Jon: The most difficult was the Covid situation and the lockdown.

We had a few guests stay in the house when the Spanish government announced that all of the hotels and hostels had to close their spaces. So since we are registered legally as a hostel, we had to close our doors.

It was a struggle, so we decided to launch a crowdfunding campaign. It was just donation based.

We asked our members if they could donate some money to keep Sun and Co alive during this period and to make sure that we were able to cover our costs to open again when the situation gets better. And one of our main quotes at Sun and Co is Communities are built when you give to others without asking for anything in return. So we always try to encourage everyone to give unconditionally to others and care about each other.

But we were asking ourselves how can we ask our members to give something to us without expecting anything in return. But, of course, they knew that there was an end goal there. So the campaign was quite impressive because we raised 17000 euros out of donations.

Our biggest donation was made by a guy whose name is Javier. He said that he felt that Sun and Co was like his own house and when you have your own house, you sometimes need to pay for some additional costs to keep it in good shape. He donated 1000 euros just for this reason. So, for us, all that was extremely surprising and we weren’t expecting that at all. We were constantly thinking of what makes Sun and Co affect people’s lives in a way they want to support us and donate their money.

When that was happening, one of our members, Remi, who actually moved to Javea now, posted on Facebook how much money was collected and said how we were always so generous with everyone in Sun and Co, so now they wanted to be generous towards us and give back. This made me think a lot. Generosity is a big word. And with generosity, there is care. When you put generosity and care together, you create a safe space.

With only a few of these ingredients, you create a space where people truly feel comfortable and free to express themselves; a place where people feel comfortable sharing their biggest fears, talking about love, family, or those type of topics that actually make us grow, and improve and transform our lives through relationships and conversations that we build in an environment like this.

So even though it was the hardest period, it let me realize that we’re creating this kind of environment in Sun and Co. that creates a transformative experience where people actually end up donating 17,000 euros for it to keep going.

5. Lastly, after many years of operating, where do you find the driving force/passion?

Jon: First of all, I think coliving is a very aspirational business. Like often with hostels, many people open a space like that just so they can combine their life with their work and meet people who fit that picture. For example, people who want to move to a rural area open hospitality space there so they can remain there, meet like-minded people, and share their passion for the region or the lifestyle.

I also started this business from a bit of a selfish perspective. I wanted this lifestyle for myself and it seemed like a great job to do. But after we opened, I started questioning myself if I am really making an impact, leaving something good for the world.

We talked about this in one of our mastermind sessions and I had some of our members telling me how they found inspiration here and that’s the impact we’re leaving with Sun and Co. but I still struggled to see it clearly.

I later volunteered as a case study participant in a session about finding your life purpose, and this helped me realize how connected my current life was with my childhood and my younger self. I found connections in my family relationships and realized that I was building this company and the customer experience based on something rooted in myself.

I realized one of my goals or missions in life is to create safe spaces where people connect in meaningful ways and that I was doing it every day by running a coliving space. When you look at it from that perspective, from your life purpose, the chances for you to keep the excitement and motivation about what you do for a long time are higher.

Over time, I run more than 100 mastermind sessions in Sun and Co. And how we do these mastermind sessions is that usually for an hour, we focus on one person who is facing a challenge and for that hour, we all try to help them solve it.

The session is usually run or moderated by one of the hosts. But for me, hosting these sessions, and seeing that 10-12 people are willing to spend an hour focused completely on somebody else, all thinking together to help another person, a stranger they met only a few days ago, solve their challenge, and then the outcomes – it was very enriching. That was very much aligned with my life purpose.

And of course, this is only my example. We all have different purposes and life paths, but connecting what you do to that is what helps you maintain the motivation and excitement for it.

On the other hand, in this business, even if it aligns with your life purpose, it indeed seizes to be sustainable at one point, and you need to know when to take a step back or go further. Meeting so many people over and over again, it’s true you get a bit blind. Instead of seeing one individual at a time, you start unconsciously grouping. So, at that point, you need to take a step back and give space for other people to run things while you focus on other parts of the business and take more managerial roles. For the past few years in Sun and Co., I’ve been taking care of things operationally while the other team was running things more from the management, leadership, and BD aspect.

This month, after seven and a half years, I’m leaving Sun and Co. to continue creating spaces where people connect in meaningful ways but through other coliving brands and projects. That is my step further.

It’s very easy for the host to burn out if he/she lives in the house because it’s very easy to mix what work is and what is not. You might have a great relationship with your clients and even become friends, but I think it’s important to differentiate between when you’re working and when you’re not. It’s a very social job, but it’s crucial to take clean breaks and know when you’re going home on your own to rest and do your thing and then come back to work and be in full working mode.

Then, another challenge is when you have a small coliving space to provide opportunities for your employees to grow and advance in their careers, and the job and day-to-day easily become very repetitive. And if your employees feel like their job is repetitive, they might get frustrated, tired, burnt out, and so on. That’s another challenge.

That’s why you have to be really, really connected to your mission in life or the lifestyle that you want, and you really need to be able to balance that lifestyle properly. Because, if not, you can easily get tired (literally, but also from what you do).

This is just the first part of the interview we did with Jon from Sun and Co. To find out more about the Management, Community, and Future goals of Sun and Co. check out part two.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

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Coliving movement

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Coliving & Surfing: Explore the Benefits of the Community and Remote work in Fuerteventura

• ByMarko
• March 7, 2023

The post Sun and Co. (Part 1) – 8 years of Hosting, Learning, and Community-building in Javea appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

We’ll tell you that it can easily be, because, in Corralejo, you will find a coliving and coworking space tailored to answer all your remote work needs while you enjoy the beauties of the island.

Meet Coliving & Surfing and its operator and community manager – Diego.

We recently did an interview with Diego to understand how this project came to life and what digital nomads and remote workers can expect by staying in Coliving & Surfing. We’re not going to spoil the interview, but the focus is on the community, learning, growth, and leaving a social impact on the island.

Inspired by the surfing culture of the island, positive vibrations, and eco values, Coliving & Surfing puts its efforts into making the best experience for its colivers but also uses its space to support the island and promote impactful ideas.

Read the interview below and get inspired!

If you missed some of our last interviews with coliving owners in Spain, be sure to check them also.

Cheers!

Disclaimer: This piece of content may contain some affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase or book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How it all started

“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”

-Albert Einstein

1. Can you tell us a bit more about the Coliving & Surfing brand/ecosystem – the vision of the concept and the offering that come together under this name?

– We built the brand around surfing and personal development since the brand is under the umbrella of the Surfing Colors Hotel – a surf camp concept integrated into a 200-bed hotel (150 bedrooms, 50 apartments).

2. Before opening your place, did you have the opportunity to stay in some other coliving spaces or any similar accommodation? Tell us a bit more about that experience.

– Not really, but I had similar professional experiences in the past. For more than 4 years, I have been working for Mondragon University in the LEINN degree (leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation).

It is a degree where students have to create a real company with KPIs instead of grades. It includes both individual and teamwork, and it is a methodology that comes from Timmi Akademia in Finland.

During the process, these students must travel for a month to Berlin, another month to San Francisco, another to China, and another month to India. These trips are called learning journeys.

During this process, I lead the Berlin campus for all receiving students from all campuses. Many tools that are used used to create cooperation are the same for different communities just with different names: family meetings, personal skills events, masterminds, feedback, etc.

In those four years, I created the experience (learning journey, hosting more than 400 students in Berlin.

3. When building your coliving space, was there something that influenced your approach or inspired you to create the space and experience you have now?

– I know quite a few coworkings, such as Betahaus in Berlin and Utopicus and Impact Hub in Madrid. I saw them being born, growing, and adapting the business to their clients and the market, so that gave me a lot of insights and inspiration.

But what really happened is that 5 years ago, I met John Hormaetxe (Sun & Co.) in Hub Fuerteventura, the first coworking in Fuerteventura, and he quickly became our reference.

4. What is the story behind you choosing Corralejo and Fuerteventura as the location of Coliving & Surfing?

– Sebas (the host of Hub Fuerteventura) opens the first coworking on the island – Hub Fuerteventura, and without knowing each other, he invites me to give a course on digital marketing on the island.

Not being able to pay me at the time, he flies me in, invites me to stay in his home, and teaches me how to surf. This experience makes me get to know this wonderful island and this unique way of life and I make some great friends along the way.

Among those friends, one was Miguel Fariña, the director of the hotel Surfing Colors. During the pandemic, Miguel decided not to close the hotel, even though the rest closed. This gamble turned out good as it caused the hotel to fill up with remote workers escaping the lockdown. Seeing that, he realized there was an opportunity in the middle of the crisis and decided to take three rooms and create a coworking space and a communal kitchen out of them.

This was an interesting bet, but the communal kitchen (which is now a part and the heart of the community) allowed the concept to switch the business model from hotel to hostel and vice versa.

So, in the middle of the pandemic, Miguel offers me the opportunity to start a coliving inside the hotel. Something that is pure innovation within the hotel sector.

I liked the idea and the challenge, so I agreed but under one condition – to call Jon Hormaetxe to help us define the concept.

For 10 days, we got involved. We did interviews, a map of empathy, value proposition, and finally, we defined a strategy between the three of us to integrate a coliving inside a hotel with our different experiences.

We created a very interesting Minimum Viable Product and after almost two years, I can say that it is a success story. We have reached our objectives and exceeded them.

5. The Canary Islands are known for their strong coliving industry and friendly and supportive relationship between coliving owners. Can you tell us a bit more about your relationship with other colivings in the rest of the Canaries and Spain as well?

– For me, networking is very important. It is part of my skill set. I have visited different colivings in the Islands and met with their operator: Nacho (Repeople), Marina (Amarilla), Maria (Cactus Coliving), Carlos and Elsa (Pueblos Remotos), and Talleres Palermo coworking.

With the hotel, we have also created Escuela de Canarias (Hencansa) the first course in the Canary Islands on how to create a coliving. I motivated them to do the same as we did: interviews, empathy map, value proposition, design the space, and the community, and how to do marketing. Many of them have created wonderful spaces like Jonathan with Ecoisleta.

Also, in our business model, we have seen that B2C has worked very well, so we moved to explore B2B as well, directing to companies. Company retreats are another different model with another type of client. Many colivings on the islands have helped me by providing their spaces to sell these retreats to companies in Germany and create a wonderful experience for them.

6. Not one coliving is the same as the other! What would you say is Coliving & Surfing’s signature – some uniqueness that you offer compared to other coliving places?

– Each coliving is different and it is very important to work on values, mission, and vision. Also, the person behind the coliving gives a lot to the personality of the space and experience.

Our challenge, in this case, was to integrate the coliving into a hotel without affecting its personality. I am thankful that we created a wonderful team with Ari and Ricky from Loswiththeflow. They specialize in videos for colivings. After visiting many spaces, I think we found the formula.

We have integrated all the people that create this special atmosphere in Fuerteventura: surf schools, mindfulness, and above all, other similar communities on the island (we do not see them as competitors but as business partners).

Lastly, of course, there is the social impact, inviting social agents of Fuerteventura. Our mission is to help personal development within a community creating social impact on their journey.

Coliving & Surfing approach to Management

“The fastest way to change yourself is to hang out with people who are already the way you want to be.“

-Reid Hoffman

7. What type of management do you practice in the coliving?

– Creating a community within a hotel has its advantages and disadvantages. We have 24-hour reception, housekeeping, and maintenance services.

Our current team for the management of the coliving (apart from everything provided by the hotel) is Ari and Ricky from Lostwitheflow and myself. The three of us live in the coliving and are part of the experience.

8. What kind of activities are included for people who stay at Coliving & Surfing, and how do you approach organizing them?

– When we set the challenge and Jonh Hormaetxe helped us define our community, it was clear to us that the first thing we had to do was to connect the people within the community.

For that, we have the family dinner every Monday where we embrace new colivers and give each other feedback to improve everyone’s experience. On Tuesdays is the Open hour talk, where we exchange our skills. Once a month, we have a mastermind, and on Fridays, we have an after-work activity.

The other challenge is to connect our community with other communities similar to ours on the island.

Our space is also a coworking space, open to people from outside. Every day, we create events with different topics, inviting coaches and specialists from the island so they can share their knowledge for free (most of the time) with our colivers and people from outside.

Monday is Fit Monday, Tuesday is Open hour talk, Wednesday is wellbeing Wednesday, and Thursday is our dance day.

On the social impact part, which we believe is very important for our footprint when we travel, every week, we invite people from the island to talk about the challenges of the island (lack of water, recycling, gentrification, migration of young people due to lack of opportunities, migration in general, etc.).

In addition to this, every morning we have yoga or pilates, and, of course, all the facilities provided by the hotel (heated swimming pool, pool bar, etc.)

9. Can you tell us more about your skill-sharing events?

– We call it Open Hour Talk and do it every Tuesday. After the session, we have paella and live music at the hotel.

It is not only to exchange our skills; we take the opportunity to invite interesting people from the island to make a social impact with them. For example, El Capitan Canarias, who talk about recycling and participating in eco-activities.

Community

“When people are free to choose where in the world they want to work, they simply enjoy their day-to-day work more“

-Brian De Haff, CEO of Aha

10. What is the typical coliver profile in Coliving & Surfing (age, occupation, etc.)?

– Most of our clients are between 20 and 50 years old, but we don’t really have a fixed coliver rate. Of course, our brand is aimed at people who do surfing or water sports, but only 20 percent of them actually practice this on a constant basis; the rest discover it on the go.

We promote well-being, sports, and personal development, which are the hallmarks of the island and especially Corralejo. People come to the Canary Islands for tranquility and the sun; personal discovery, both spiritually and physically, and of course, our wonderful weather – the constant spring.

11. What would you say people who come to Coliving & Surfing are searching for; what is the most frequent reason people come?

– Of course, the most frequent reason people come is to work remotely. Our client’s first priority is to have a good bandwidth and a comfortable place to work and hold their meetings.

From there, we designed everything around the experiences that focus on having a before-work and after-work in a wonderful environment. With an inspiring atmosphere, sun, paradisiacal beaches, water sports, well-being, and a lot of people coming from all over Europe with the same mood and vibes.

12. What do you think is the ideal length of stay to fully emerge in the community and experience at your place?

– From an economic point of view, most of the coliving spaces can offer a better price for a longer stay.

But if you really want to take advantage of the community there is always a process of integration with it. This is normal. My recommendation is one month. The average stay of our clients is almost a month and a half (six weeks).

It is the greatest satisfaction, and I have to say that we have 34 percent of people who extend their stay, or those who come back, which has been 16 percent so far, in a window of a year and a half of operation.

13. Do you offer some special offers/discounts? (For longer stays, group bookings, couples, etc.)

– Of course. We can make offers for long stays (we consider it more than 21 days) and to groups.

In fact, we are now launching a new brand called innremote.com, which specializes in corporate retreats in the Canary Islands, because most of the spaces in the Canary Islands (and many that you mention on your website) are part of the search brochure for the companies in Northern Europe who are interested in coming here and doing retreats.

Generally About the Coliving Movement

”A true community is not just about being geographically close to someone or part of the same social web network. It’s about feeling connected and responsible for what happens. Humanity is our ultimate community, and everyone plays a crucial role.”

-Yehuda Berg

14. Do you think coliving is only dedicated to a specific group of people such as freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers, or do you think it can gain popularity beyond that group of people?

– Of course. In fact, new community concepts will appear. For now, we have it clear, our client is someone who works and travels. But we have realized that it is no longer only the digital nomad. After the pandemic, the remote worker has emerged.

The difference is that he works for a remote company and has other needs. For example, families, those traveling with pets, makers, seniors, disabled, etc. There are many types of new customers and for each one, there is a new type of community.

15. Do you think coworking is a crucial component of coliving and why?

– Without hesitation. Our client needs a quiet space to work in, either with a computer or his hands.

I repeat what I said before, the main common denominator is to telework, travel, meet other people like yourself, and experience the social reality of the place where you travel.

16. What would you say is the most crucial element of a coliving?

– As in any community, whether that is a company, a family, a high-performance team, remote workers, etc., the basis for the creation of a community are two things: commitment and trust. This is achieved through tools such as feedback, skill-sharing, values, common goals, etc.

Most companies that offer remote work to their employees made a cultural change within the company, the famous organizational design, which at the base the same and works similarly.

17. One of the main selling points of colivings is the possibility to meet new people, share experiences, and maybe even develop new partnerships. Is this something you also had in mind when opening your place?

– Of course. Two years ago, when we designed the experience we did a lot of user interviews, built the empathy map and the value proposition, and in the end, created the user journey. We analyzed everything, from marketing, sales, the user experience in the coliving, and the after-sales.

This was one of our hypotheses, and we confirmed it in the customer study we did.

We also believe that it has to happen not only between the colivers but also within the island. That’s why we want those who want to contribute to leave their mark on the island with their knowledge.

For example, we are working with the institutes of the islands so that young people and remote workers can design solutions to the challenges of the islands.

18. Lastly, how do you see both Coliving & Surfing developing in the next few years? Do you have a vision of what it will grow into or some aspirations and goals that you’ve set for it?

– Just next month, we will be revisiting our mission, vision, and values as a team. For us, it is clear that we want to make an easier life for remote workers and motivate them to move to Fuerteventura.

Another goal is to allow these remote workers to meet other people like them and leave a footprint with social impact. We have several projects in mind, such as creating other spaces (always with our values present), consulting to develop communities, corporate retreats, etc.

Personally, I teach about innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship in several business schools. Last year, we created the Hecansa, which is the first course that teaches how to create communities of workers on the island – something I also want to encourage the locals to do. And why not? In the future, we could help young people from the island to acquire skills to work remotely and teach them how to answer the needs of the companies – help them become professionals in programming, UX, data, etc., and show them they can work from this wonderful space for the world.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Pitaya Coliving – The First Coliving for Remote Workers in Lanzarote

• ByMarko
• November 23, 2022

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

The post Coliving & Surfing: Explore the Benefits of the Community and Remote work in Fuerteventura appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

Located in the island’s capital, Arrecife, Pitaya Coliving is a unique coliving concept that ensures the best remote work experience.

With three separate but open-access units in a building, a spacious office space with a view of the city marina, and cozy rooms with the boho spirit, Pitaya is a perfect place for nature lovers’ next remote-work adventure.

Read our interview below to find out what Laura’s vision behind Pitaya is, and how she intends to connect remote workers with the beauties of the island while offering them a valuable and reliable work-life experience

Disclaimer: This piece of content may contain some affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase or book through one of our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

How it all started

“Remember to enjoy the freedom of being able to work from anywhere and the flexibility to adapt your work to your life rather than the other way around.”

-Alex Muench

1. Could you tell us about how you decided to open Pitaya Coliving and a little bit about the journey that led you to that decision?

– Back in 2018, I took a leave of absence to travel the world.

On that journey, I met many digital nomads who struggled to find hostels with good infrastructure to work from.

It was during my travels that I decided to leave the crazy city life of London upon my return, and open what, at the time I had in mind, was a Boutique Hostel. Within my place, I wanted to offer these Digital Nomads a safe space to stay and work. And so, the Boutique Hostel idea evolved into a specialized hostel for remote workers.

When I started researching the market, I discovered that the idea I had in my mind existed, and it was called Coliving. This is how it all started.

2. How would you describe the concept behind your place?

– I like to describe Pitaya as an ecosystem of specialized services for remote workers. Well, that sounds very serious, right?

It really is just a space where those seeking to work remotely, can find a good quality space to do so, and an authentic community that focuses on what the island has to offer. The idea is that nobody leaves Pitaya without getting to understand that they have been in an island full of art, nature, powerful energy, and unique landscapes.

3. Have you had the opportunity to stay in some other coliving spaces or any similar type of accommodation before you decided to open your own place?

– Not really! I was a remote worker myself and I got to travel loads for work, getting to understand what is necessary when you are away from home and you need to get work done, and also how lonely this can be.

However, I never really had the opportunity to stay in a Coliving before opening one myself. Now that I have experienced it at Pitaya, I am so looking forward to being a Coliver myself. And so next year I am booking a few colivings to go as a customer. Can’t wait!

4. Did you find inspiration in some other coliving spaces in Spain (or beyond) that influenced your approach to building your own space?

– Of course! I did a deep research about other coliving businesses in Spain and abroad and I got to know loads about what I found a very exciting sector.

Work-wise, it was clear what a remote worker needed. Community-wise, I have been a big fan of hostels all my life, having experienced many around the globe.

In the Canary Islands, the colivings that inspired me the most initially were Nine in Tenerife and Repeople in Gran Canaria. I have discovered many more since then that I truly admire, such as Maraya in Tenerife.

They all have something that makes them special, just like Pitaya. In my case, I do believe that the colivers and I get on well. I pretty much work on offering something I would like to receive from a Coliving myself. When you work this way, what you do is authentic, and you do it well.

5. You opened in April – only 6 months ago – what were some of the biggest challenges you came across in the first few months after you opened?

– It can be crazy scary opening a business such as Pitaya, where people rely on you for being able to work and live. You feel a big responsibility and so you want to have it all perfect from day one. This isn’t possible, and the community itself contributes towards putting things in order. Fear was a big challenge when I opened.

6. Only 4-5 months after opening, you decided to expand the coliving to one more apartment. Congrats! Can you share how and why this decision came to life and what changes have you noticed since you’ve expanded?

– Even though I opened the coliving in May 2022, the Pitaya ecosystem was born 6 months before that with Pitaya Festival, our regular event that connects the remote workers community with local life; I will talk about this more later.

Since then, I was looking for what would be home to Pitaya and shared this journey with everyone interested in Lanzarote as a temporary home.

By the time I opened with 6 rooms, I had many people following Pitaya, wanting to come to experience the Coliving. Since the beginning, I knew we needed more rooms. I, therefore, sought the expansion opportunity and made it happen.

Pitaya has changed very much since then. Managing 9 rooms is a completely different story than managing 6. It is so much more fun, and more of a challenge, of course. I am constantly working on improving the services and creating initiatives to manage a community that is constantly growing.

Customers with experience in other colivings play a big role in making the experience better. Collaboration is the key to success in life, but when it comes to a Coliving, it is a no-brainer.

Pitaya is growing each day thanks to the beautiful souls who add their expertise to the overall experience. This is also so much fun!

7. Is there something that you wished you knew before starting this project?

– I wish I knew how well it was going to work 🙂 I could have avoided the initial fears. However, even those moments of fear were necessary to get to where we are now. So, I guess the answer is, not really.

8. What is your relationship with other coliving spaces in the islands? Do you receive support or advice from some of them?

– My favorite part of this sector is that it is extremely collaborative. When I was working on getting Pitaya live, I reached out to many other professionals in the sector, who helped loads.

Now, I am making efforts to get to know the other coliving owners to share experiences and grow together. I am actually designing a collaboration process between us all in the Canary Islands.

9. What is the story behind you choosing Lanzarote as the location of Pitaya Coliving?

– For a long time, Lanzarote has been my happy place. I visited the island every year seeking peace, beauty, and happiness. My love for this island which adopted me two years ago is reflected in Pitaya. I am originally from Madrid.

On top of me personally choosing this island to live in, I got to appreciate the opportunity to open Pitaya here since there was no other Coliving on the island. We are still the only one, and we are actually looking forward to welcoming other colivings, joining forces, and making the community grow even more.

10. What are some advantages and disadvantages (for you as owner) of building a place in a remote island like Lanzarote?

– Opening a business that nobody has heard of before is exciting and scary at the same time, anywhere you go. When this happens in a small island like Lanzarote, difficulties multiply, but so does the excitement.

As the only coliving owner in Lanzarote, I feel responsible for raising awareness within the local community about the benefits for us all as residents of receiving remote workers. I personally love playing this role.

The community is smaller, but this is a great opportunity, as I get to shape the existing community to match Pitaya’s values.

I don’t really see any disadvantage, aside from the obvious challenge logistically speaking.

11. Which uniqueness do you think Pitaya offers compared to other similar places in the islands?

– As I hear from my clients, what makes a Coliving space unique is the person who runs the place. All of the Canary Island colivings offer something special: location, the house, the views, etc. But what really makes a difference, is the spirit and the energy that the owner spreads around the community.

I absolutely love running Pitaya, and that is simply reflected in the services I offer. I work hard in offering what I believe is the unique experience of staying at Pitaya, and this is to connect the coliving community with the local community.

Lanzarote has a lot to offer in terms of local art, culture, nature, and history. I aim to act as the bridge between the colivers and the magic the island has to offer.

Management

“Hospitality is the key to new ideas, new friends, new possibilities. What we take into our lives changes us. Without new people and new ideas, we are imprisoned inside ourselves“

-Joan Chittister

12. What type of management will you practice?

– External, I act as a community manager and I don’t live in the Coliving myself. I play an active role in the house, organizing and being part of the organized initiatives.

13. How much are you included in the community and daily activities of Pitaya Coliving?

– I am part of the daily life at Pitaya. I love sharing valuable time with my colivers. My clients are my ideal friends: interesting people who have traveled loads and have much to share, open-minded, community-driven, and an amazing bunch of people to share my time with.

I have set up initiatives where we all contribute towards the daily activities at Pitaya, such as the weekly planning session we run on Wednesdays. This to me is key to a great coliving experience.

14. What kind of activities are included for people who decide to stay at your place?

– As part of a stay at Pitaya, weekly yoga and breakfast are included. On top of this, we do family dinners, game nights, island routes I organize for the weekends, knowledge-sharing sessions, etc. We do many outdoor activities such as surfing, diving, hiking, etc.

In collaboration with local artists, I am currently creating the “Come meet my art” program, where we will have one workshop a month to learn different artistic skills.

15. Besides the coliving, Pitaya also has a festival. Can you tell us a bit more about this festival, the relationship it has with the coliving, how you manage it, and what value this has for your community?

– Pitaya Festival was born to showcase what the island of Lanzarote has to offer: Healthy life, amazing gastronomy, a huge variety of artwork, and loads of creativity.

Pitaya Festival is the first event in the island that was born to connect communities through gastronomy, well-being, Canarian art, and live music.

It takes place every other month in La Geria, the spectacular wine region on Lanzarote Island.

This project is a clear example that, when we join forces, we create uniqueness. Back in December 2021, a group of women entrepreneurs and myself identified the need to offer Lanzarote a unique space where the island’s values convey. And that was when the Pitaya project was born.

Pitaya Festival adds loads of value to the Coliving experience. Not just for the event itself, but for all the other collaborations that arise from it, which nourish the day-to-day life at the coliving.

Pitaya Community

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.“

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

16. It still might be too early to speak about the profile of people who usually come to Pitaya, but – so far, what are some of the things your colivers have had in common? Who is attracted to Pitaya and why?

– Oh no, it isn’t early at all, since we opened, we have had more than 70 beautiful human beings staying at Pitaya. The island of Lanzarote attracts a very special type of people, and this is reflected directly in Pitaya.

People come to this island to experience nature, outdoor sports, and in general practice a healthy lifestyle. The weather in Lanzarote is mild all year round, it is an eternal summer here. And so, people come seeking good weather too, of course.

The purpose of opening Pitaya was to pull together a group of interesting people who seeks to travel in a special way.

The value of this business for me personally is to be able to meet people from everywhere in the world, without having to travel it.

17. What is the ideal length of stay for colivers to fully emerge in the experience you have created?

– There is so much to see and do in Lanzarote, people are often surprised by how much an island this size has to offer.

Apart from the island itself, a coliving stay requires at least 4 weeks to fully immerse in the experience.

In the first week, you are getting used to the house and learning about the island and what you can do here, in the second one you start realizing you should have stayed longer 😉

I have loads of customers who come initially for a week or two, and they return for longer stays afterward.

18. Do you have some special offers/discounts? (For longer stays, group bookings, couples, off-season, etc.)

– We work on a weekly and monthly basis, offering different tariffs depending on the length of our stay.

About the Coliving Movement

”Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.”

-Jack Kerouac

19. Do you think that coliving is only dedicated to a specific group of people such as freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers, or do you think there is a possibility to gain popularity beyond that group of people?

– That really depends on what a Coliving business focuses its energy on. I strongly believe specialization is the key to offering a good experience.

My focus at the moment are remote workers and digital nomads that want to experience a more authentic, less stressful way of living.

20. Do you think coworking is a crucial component of coliving and why?

– 100%! There is no coliving without a professional, well-equipped coworking space.

One of my main objectives with Pitaya was to offer a professional space with a view. Our coworking has natural light and overlooks the sea and the historical town of Arrecife.

21. One of the main selling points of colivings is the possibility to meet new people, share experiences, and maybe even develop new partnerships. Is this something you also had in mind when opening your place?

– Yes, on top of this, my aim was to connect these people with the local community, as I mentioned before. The objective is that nobody leaves Pitaya without knowing more about the island they have lived in.

22. Lastly, how do you see Pitaya developing in the next few years? Do you have a vision of what it will grow into or some aspirations and goals that you’ve set for it?

– This question is very exciting. I see Pitaya being a happy place for many remote workers for years.

I will keep growing and improving, and developing initiatives such as Pitaya Festival, to connect the colivers to the local community.

It is now the time to stabilize the recent expansion, to continue growing in a healthy and sustainable way.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

FEM Coliving – The house of the Pyrenees, Community, and Personal Growth

• ByMarko
• July 9, 2022

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

The post Pitaya Coliving – The First Coliving for Remote Workers in Lanzarote appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.

This beautiful family house, located in the historical and cultural heart of gorgeous Las Palmas in Gran Canaria can be your home for a few months.

Converted into a lively coliving in the city center in one of the most beautiful cities in the Canary Islands, Coliving 1907 can be your next digital escape.

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in an authentic Canarian house and connect with other like-minded digital nomads and artists.

Check out this interview about Coliving 1907 we did with its founder – Raquel.

How it all started

“You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself”

-Diana Ross

1. When and why did you decide to open a coliving space of your own?

– I had been working at a local newspaper for 12 years and needed a career change. I had been looking for it for a long time, but I hadn’t found something that fitted in with my personal life. Then, in March 2021, I decided to open the coliving.

The coliving is housed in a family home. My mother lived there when she was a child.

At the beginning of 2021, she put the house up for rent. Several people visited and showed interest in setting up a coliving. So, I made up my mind and, with the help of my family, I started the Coliving 1907 project.

The improvement and refurbishment work went on from March to July. Then decoration, website, social networks, and a thousand other things.

On 1 November 2021, I opened the house. And the first guest arrived on the 6th of the same month.

2. Have you ever stayed in some other coliving space or any shared accommodation before you decided to open your own?

– During my time as a student, I lived in residency halls and shared flats.

3. Do you remember your beginnings and what was the most difficult for you when you started the coliving?

– The worst thing was the construction work. The coliving has 8 fully equipped rooms which, while preserving their original spirit, have been carefully refurbished to provide them with the best comforts to make a pleasant stay.

I wanted the tenants to be comfortable and to maintain the essence of the house at the same time.

I started the business from scratch. No social media, no reviews. It was amazing that the clients believed in me from the beginning. I will always be grateful to the first tenants who stayed here. I will remember them forever.

4. Is there something that you wished you knew when you started with coliving?

– Have well-defined house rules. Especially in the common areas. I think it is beneficial for everyone, and it creates a respectful atmosphere.

5. Have you had the opportunity to visit other coliving places since you opened yours?

– Personally, no. I have visited many websites of colivings. I also follow them on social media to see what they do and share opinions with them. In this sector, experience is very important.

6. What is the story behind you choosing Spain for opening your coliving space there?

– Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is my home city. I was born here and have spent most of my life here. It is a wonderful city to live in; culture, gastronomy, beach, and leisure.

The city has one of the best telecommuting communities in the world. You have everything you need to enjoy a productive stay while meeting and sharing with other professionals from all over the world.

7. What is your relationship with other colivings on the Canary Islands?

– I have relationships with several colivings in the Canary Islands. I know some of them personally. We talk from time to time to share experiences and concerns.

We also have a Whatsapp group with colivings and coworkings from the islands. Whenever we can, we help each other.

8. What are the advantages of opening a coliving in a remote place such as Gran Canaria, and are there any disadvantages?

– The main advantage is the climate. The island averages 22 degrees Celsius all year round making it the destination of choice for millions of tourists every year.

The location of Coliving 1907 is a privilege. It is situated in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and perfectly communicated with the whole city.

Walking distance to beaches, parks, museums, supermarkets, theatre, and shopping. It is in the Triana – Vegueta area that has a great life during the day and night. The bus station is less than five minutes walk away and links to any point on the island.

Management

“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.“

-Eleanor Roosevelt

9. How much are you involved in the community and daily activities at 1907? Do you consider yourself as an equal part of the 1907 community?

– From Monday to Friday I work in the coliving. Sometimes in my office and sometimes in the common areas with the others. I don’t live in the coliving, so I don’t participate in the daily activities.

On Mondays, there is “Monday dinner! Better together“. The idea is that they all cook together.

Another day we play padel. We play against other digital nomads or against local players. The important thing is to have a good time.

Some guests have recommended I do more activities and thus achieve a stronger community. I am already in contact with several companies on the island for wine and coffee tastings, guided tours, learning how to make cheese, and more. We are working to incorporate activities for guests.

I am learning that this leads to more connections and therefore, a better community. This is what my guests are asking for and I am working to gradually build on this.

10. How much time do you spend inside the coliving?

– I am here every morning from Monday to Friday. In addition, once a month I organise a dinner with everyone in the coliving; pizzas, typical Canarian food, barbecue.

11. What additional activities are included for people who stay at your coliving? And what approach do you practice when organizing those events?

– The coliving has agreements with different companies in the city, and we offer discounts to our clients (surfing, diving, guided tours, weekly menus).

In addition, it is very common for guests to organise get-togethers to go to the beach, for a walk or an excursion.

Community

“At 30 you finally start to catch up to those dreams you’ve been chasing for the last 10 plus years.“

-Bonnidette Lantz

12. What is the profile of people who are most likely to stay at your place?

– It is very varied. Mainly digital nomads and freelancers.

13. What is the average age of people who are visiting your accommodation?

– Between 30 and 40 years old.

14. How long do people usually stay at your place?

– The average stay is 1 month. Some people stay for a week, and others have been there for almost six months. Stays of more than one month allow you to get to know the other guests and the island better.

15. Do your visitors tend to return to your place?

– I hope so! The coliving has only been open for seven months. Many of the people who have been there, told me that they really enjoyed the house and the experience and that they will be back, so I hope to see them again!

Many guests have extended their stay – a good sign!

16. Is there some trend where people from specific countries come to your place?

– Mainly from Europe; Germany, Finland, France, Malta, Israel, Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic.

We have also been visited by several people from the United States.

17. Do you have some special offers for startups and group bookings?

– No. Special offers are for long-term stays and couples.

About the Coliving Movement

”You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”

-Dale Carnegie

18. Do you think that coliving is only dedicated to a specific group of people such as freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers, or do you think there is a possibility to gain popularity beyond that group of people?

– I don’t think so.

Artists from different fields (musicians, photographers) have stayed at Coliving 1907.

Even for people born in the Canary Islands who have lived abroad for many years and decide to spend some time in a coliving when they return to the island. I think it is suitable for any activity.

19. Do you think that coliving cannot exist without a coworking space?

– This is not necessary. Our rooms are perfectly prepared for work and with all the comforts. You can also work in the dining room or on the roof terrace.

From what I have seen so far, everyone prefers to work in their own room. The common life is done in the kitchen or on the rooftop during non-working hours.

20. One of the main selling points of colivings is the possibility to meet new people, share experiences and maybe even develop new partnerships. Is that really the situation?

– Meeting new people and sharing experiences, of course. It is one of the wonders of living in a coliving. You exchange views on jobs and ask each other for advice.

Developing new partnerships is more complicated.

21. Do you have some examples where people who had the opportunity to meet at your place later managed to develop successful partnerships or relationships?

– Not professionally. Many of the guests keep in touch and maintain friendships after they have left from here.

Secure yourself the best coliving experience

• italki – Why not learn some Spanish before your trip and make your coliving even better? italki is the perfect platform for that! You will find more than 3500 native speakers waiting to help you with your Spanish.

Disclaimer: This article contains some affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you, we can earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase.

Coliving movement

• • Interviews with Coliving Operators

Vivarium: Urban nook for the city-loving nomads in the center of vibrant Valencia

• ByMarko
• April 22, 2022

• • Coliving Movement

Why are the Canary Islands one of the most popular places for coliving?

• ByMarko
• February 8, 2023

The post Coliving 1907 – A historical house telling a unique story of Las Palmas appeared first on My Coliving Space: Spain.