The Hunt for a Good Remote Working Spot in Madrid
The other day, I found myself in a café in Madrid, ready to dive into my work with a cup of coffee. But the venue had a different plan. Before I could sit down and get in the zone, they pointed out I couldn't just whip out my laptop at any table (wtf).
Turns out they had a single "remote work table", and I had to wait in line to use it. And when my turn finally came, I was only allowed to use it for half an hour. This got me thinking. As remote work becomes more common, businesses are trying to adapt, but it's not always in our favor.
So, to help you get ahead of the curve before this technique becomes more commonplace, I decided to take matters into my own hands and share some tips and tricks for finding a good location to work from, plus a couple of my own best places to work in Madrid as an example.
My Personal Tips for Finding a Good Remote Working Spot
Through trial and error, I've learned a few things about finding a good remote working spot. Here are my personal tips:
Look Beyond Cafés: Cafés are great but not the only option. Libraries, parks with Wi-Fi, and co-working spaces can be just as good, if not better. I've found that changing my environment can also help spark creativity.
Check the Rules: Some places have time limits or designated areas for working. It's always good to know the rules before you settle in. I've learned this the hard way!
Consider the Noise Level: I am extremely picky about noise. If you're like me, make sure the place you choose has comfortable enough sound levels to concentrate (or bring headphones).
Check the Wi-Fi: A stable internet connection is a must. I always check the Wi-Fi before I start working to avoid any disruptions. Also, we should probably make a guide on making sure you're connecting to safe public Wi-Fi networks.
Comfort is Key: If you plan to work for a few hours, make sure the place has comfortable seating and enough space for your laptop. I may have written articles while seated on a moving bus, but that doesn't mean that it's fun!
Some Other Places where you can get work done
Coming back to that first point, here are some places that may be interesting to try out for a light work sesh:
Parks
Madrid is home to numerous beautiful parks, providing a serene environment for those who prefer to work outdoors. I've personally found that Retiro Park, with its vast green spaces and Wi-Fi hotspots, is a great place to work. Maybe New York's Central Park, or whichever you've got nearby, could be the same for you?
Libraries
Libraries in Madrid are a treasure trove for remote workers. They offer a quiet, focused environment that's perfect for getting work done. One of my favorites is La Biblioteca Pública Municipal Iván de Vargas, located in the heart of Madrid. It's open even on Sundays, making it a reliable choice for weekend work sessions. Another great one is the Eugenio Trias Library located at El Retiro Park.
Co-working Spaces
If you're willing to cash in and you're looking for a more professional setting, co-working spaces are the way to go. Cloudworks Cibeles, for instance, is a fantastic co-working space that's open 24/7. It offers a productive environment and a sense of community that's hard to find in public spaces.
My Personal Favorites: The Top Remote Work Spots in Madrid
After some research and personal experience, here are my top picks for remote working spots in Madrid in 2023:
Cloudworks Cibeles: Located at C. de Pedro Muñoz Seca, 2, 28001 Madrid, this co-working space is open 24/7 and offers a productive environment for remote workers.
Osom: What started as just a boutique coffee shop quickly became an entire lifestyle. Osom's locations will blow your mind with how well thought out they are. You even get a free lunch with the coworking admission price!
Espíritu23: You know it, you love it. One of Madrid's most popular co-working spaces in Malasaña: C. del Espíritu Santo, 23 to be exact. This one's more of a convenience pick, as it's pretty fantastically connected to one of my favorite neighborhoods. Plus, the amenities leave nothing to be desired.
In the end, finding the perfect remote working spot (wherever you may be located) is not just about productivity or convenience. It's also about creating a space that inspires, energizes, and makes you feel like you're part of something special.
So, don't be afraid to try out new working spots! Explore your options, experiment with different places, and don't stop until you find that one spot that feels like your new office. Happy hunting!
