Workation: The New Trend Among Digital Nomads
The concept of ‘workation’ (a blend of work and vacation) perfectly encapsulates the lifestyle of a digital nomad. These individuals work remotely, often from home, but choose to do so in locations that allow them to maximize their leisure time in popular tourist destinations. Marbella has emerged as a prime location for these young professionals, and multinational corporations are beginning to recognize the advantages of promoting such lifestyles to their workforce.
Benefits for Companies and Employees
Companies stand to gain from this trend by attracting talented professionals who might otherwise be deterred by job offers that restrict them to a single location. By offering them the opportunity to work in holiday destinations, companies can enhance their employees’ overall wellbeing and, consequently, their productivity. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the rise of digital nomads, and Marbella has been at the forefront of adapting to this shift in work-life balance.
Marbella: A Pioneer in Adapting to the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Marbella has already established several coworking spaces equipped with all necessary services. Local hotels, cafes, and restaurants have also transformed into makeshift office spaces, ready to cater to this new breed of customer. Eva Lozano, Senior Sales Manager at Boho Club Hotel, notes that these digital nomads often spend their day at the restaurant, ordering food and drinks while working, creating a win-win situation for both parties.
Creating Quality Work Spaces
The Puente Romano Beach Resort hotel has also adapted its facilities to cater to this trend, creating work spaces and meeting rooms to provide an optimal working environment. Cristina Borges, the hotel’s marketing and accommodation manager, explains that they separate the bedroom from the work space to ensure a clear distinction between work and rest.
Co-working Spaces in Marbella
Marbella is home to several co-working spaces, including The Pool, which opened last year and currently hosts around 300 people from 35 different nationalities. CEO Cristhian Rasmusson believes that the pandemic has allowed businesses like his to thrive, as people have come to value the importance of work-life balance.
Marbella: A Paradise for Professionals
The demographic of people flocking to Marbella has shifted from retired foreigners to professionals seeking not just the climate and wellbeing, but also a network of international contacts. Catherine Op de Beeck, a Belgian business owner who launched her decorative painting business on the Costa del Sol a year ago, describes living in Marbella as paradise, highlighting the potential for businesses to collaborate and thrive in this vibrant community.
