The digital-nomad lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular for those with international wanderlust. Combining the opportunity to travel, experience new cultures, meet potential collaborators, and gain new inspiration, co-working spaces have become the option of choice for many professionals frequenting Southeast Asia. Whether your priorities include somewhere with superfast WIFI, unbeatable views, or just really great coffee, we’ve rounded up our top nine to give you some food for thought.
Here’s part 2 of our list for the top VCs in the region
WeWork, Southeast Asia
With various locations in Southeast Asia, and across the world, WeWork is a fail-safe option for new and established freelancers. Having recently launched in Singapore, WeWork is soon to be opening more branches across the region, including a new site currently under construction in Kuala Lumpur. This well-known co-working chain already has a buzzing presence in Bangkok, Jakarta, Seoul, and Ho Chi Minh City. Popular for its variety of amenities and ability to cater to everyone from individuals to mid- to large-scale workforces, WeWork also hosts regular events and talks to keep the creative juices flowing.
The Great Room, Southeast Asia
Based in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, The Great Room describes itself as a co-working space inspired by hospitality. It’s no wonder, then, that their locations are so elegantly designed with perfect lighting, and are set up to increase the chance of organic social happenings. With options available for those requiring a dedicated office space, a hot-desking service, a day-pass, or even just a virtual office, The Great Room ticks all the boxes for a contemporary work environment.
KoHub, Koh Lanta, Thailand
Complete with a fresh coffee and healthy juice bar, and a ‘Communal Lunches’ incentives, KoHub brings the best of casual cafe culture to a modern co-working space. With a variety of air-conditioned rooms, a tropical garden, and the option of on-site accommodation, KoHub is deceptively spacious and convenient for a variety of needs.
Start Saigon, Ho Chi Minh
A co-working and co-living space in the heart of Ho Chi Minh city, Start Saigon promotes a strong sense of community with a particular focus on tech entrepreneurs. This vibrant space offers in-house workshops and training at discounted rates for its members, as well as access to team consultancy and services. This Vietnamese hub is suitable for small teams looking for a dedicated office space, or individuals searching for hot-desk options.
Freeware Spaces, Jakarta
Placing focus on welcoming a diverse community into their space, Freeware Spaces is a professional home to employees in industries spanning technology, fashion, finance, education, creative pursuits, and marketing. The chance to create fruitful connections and expand your network is almost guaranteed in this popular location. Some attractive benefits for members include discounts from partner vendors, access to networking events, and contact with successful Freeware Spaces alumni.
The Hive, Bangkok
The Hive’s dynamic creative network protrudes across Southeast Asia, with various sites in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, and Ho Chi Minh City. Its original location in Thonglor, Bangkok, is still ever-popular because of its convenient location and eclectic rooftop cafe–perfect for filtering the stress out of your working day. Attracting developers, journalists, and dynamic startups, this productive city haunt is a hive for creative collaboration.
Here’s an overview of the legal tech industry in the region
The Co., Malaysia & Singapore
Inspired by adventure and purpose, The Co. strives to help you achieve a work-life balance. Their team can help you to find the perfect neighbourhood for you to expand your business ventures, connect you with like-minded professionals, and ensure your working environment is as design-focused as you are. This Malaysian and Singaporean hotspot even expands their sense of community onto an online journal so you can virtually meet your future co-freelancers before you arrive.
Acceler8, Manila
The aptly named Acceler8 provides business advice and communities to help you accelerate your company. With flexible memberships and unique facilities that include audiovisual equipment and private phone booths, this neat little space is reflective of The Philipines up-and-coming creative scene.
Hubud, Bali
Guaranteed to offer the most interesting walk to work, Hubud is positioned directly opposite Ubud’s Monkey Forest. Complete with unbeatable WIFI speeds, a chilled out Balinese vibe, and options for both co-living and working, this space is particularly suitable for freelancers completing temporary projects. This eccentric ‘hub in Ubud’ is also aware of the freelancer’s desire for a flexible schedule; which is why they offer a variety of access schemes including the ‘Early Riser’ from 3 am to 11 am and the ‘Night Owl’ from 6 pm to 8 am. Anyone can drop in for a day, pay for an ‘opt in and out’ routine, or go for the unlimited access choice.