Hostels with Coworking Space

Remote work changed backpacking's rules. More travelers are combining work and travel at the same time, and out of that mix came a category that barely existed five years ago: the hostel with integrated coworking.

What it actually means

It's not a desk shoved into the corner of the common room. It's a physical space set apart, with furniture built for hours of work rather than a quick phone check, high-speed internet with backup so an important call doesn't drop mid-sentence, schedules built around different time zones, and a community of remote professionals to share lunch with between meetings.

Why this trend is growing in Latin America

Medellin became the epicenter of this model for a simple reason: competitive cost of living, stable weather year-round, and an already-established nomad community that keeps attracting more nomads. The model that works is hybrid — serious coworking by day, hostel community by night.

How to choose well

Before booking, it's worth asking: is the coworking space capped, or do you need to show up early for a spot? Is there a private room for calls without stepping into the hallway? What happens if the wifi drops — is there a backup plan?

FAQ

More expensive? May carry a slightly higher rate, but pays off vs. renting separate coworking.

Need to book ahead? Depends on the hostel.

Which cities lead this trend? Medellin, followed by Mexico City and Buenos Aires.

Good for video calls? The best-designed ones include call booths.