In a world where the norm of the digital nomad is to relentlessly seek, the question arose — could there be a stead where the seeker could pause, yet continue to discover? This is the untold narrative of how Uwe, a fervent location independent and curious mind, turned the quaint town of Bansko into a haven for his tribe.
The seed of Coworking Bansko was sown not on solid ground, but amidst the rolling waves of the Bengal Sea. It was during an adventurous sailing expedition, as we navigated the open waters, that a bunch of Nomads and visionaries found ourselves caught in a thrilling narrative of our own. Our vessel, carrying nine spirited souls, was momentarily held captive at the Nicobar Islands, where the welcoming committee was an unexpected cadre of armed forces with guns poised. It was a dramatic pause in our journey, yet amidst the tension, the idea of creating a space for like-minded individuals began to take root. Find the entire sailing story here.
The days that followed on that sailing yacht were filled with nothing but the vast expanse of the sea, the camaraderie of a remarkable crew, and endless conversations about sailing, living, and the essence of community. It was amidst these fluid discussions, against the backdrop of endless horizons, that the idea of Coworking Bansko was nurtured. The concept of creating a co-living or coworking space began to morph into a palpable vision. The essence of community, collaboration, and shared adversity that we experienced on that adventure encapsulated the spirit we aimed to foster in Coworking Bansko.
This adventurous prelude set the tone for the voyage we were about to embark upon “on the shores” of Bansko. It wasn’t just about establishing a coworking space; it was about recreating that atmosphere of collaborative spirit, shared experiences, and the thrill of venturing into the unknown, together.
In December 2016, amidst the serene grandeur of Bansko’s mountains, a unique vision nurtured by Matthias and myself came to fruition. The idea was clear and pioneering — create a coworking haven dedicated to Digital Nomads, away from the bustling cities and sun-kissed shores traditionally associated with coworking spaces. So, in a quaint town celebrated for its ski slopes rather than its startup scene, Coworking Bansko was born. Our official opening, graced by the Mayor of Bansko, was an occasion marked by joy and anticipation on the 15th of December 2016. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by about 30 enthusiastic individuals, symbolised the culmination of our efforts and the beginning of a new chapter. Even before our grand opening, we had set up a swiftly rented place, which we later affectionately named “Social Space.” This space, one of many we rented in Bansko to accommodate our growing community, played host to myriad events and workshops over the years. It not only served as a working space but evolved into a vibrant hub for community interactions, housing events that fostered learning, bonding, and the shared joy of exploration and creation. The energy and promise of that beginning reverberated through the many fulfilling days that followed, days filled with innovation, collaboration, and the shared pursuit of dreams and ideas under the cosy roof of Coworking Bansko.
The beginning was a journey of hard work sprinkled with the joy of small victories. Bansko was a hidden gem on the digital nomad map, and our ambition extended beyond merely creating a coworking space; we aspired to unveil Bansko as a sanctuary for nomads. With persistent promotion and an unwavering spirit, we started to see a gentle stream of likeminded souls discovering the quiet charm of Bansko. Although the first couple of winters saw a modest number of members, each individual brought a unique essence, contributing to a close-knit community that thrived on shared experiences and mutual support. The summers bloomed with more members, but it was the warmth of friendships forged during those early winters that held a special place in our journey. Each day was an investment not just in building a coworking space, but in nurturing relationships that have stood the test of time. The small community we formed in the beginning turned out to be the foundation of great friendships, many of which I cherish to this day. Through the ups and downs, the spirit of community kept our vision alive, each member adding a stroke to the beautiful canvas that Coworking Bansko was becoming.
Neither Matthias nor I had previously ventured into this domain, yet our hearts resonated with the ethos of coworking or coliving spaces and the kinship of the Digital Nomad community. The idea was not just to ease the nomadic wandering but to foster a community amidst the tranquility of nature — a stationary hub for minds bound by a similar zest for exploration.
Every corner of Coworking Bansko had a touch of love and a dash of meticulous care. I was all about crafting a vibe that would hit the right chord with everyone who walked through our doors. The welcoming scent, the first sight that caught their eyes, and even the soft hum that filled the air, were all chosen with thought. Taking a leaf out of the book from Asian toilets, we fixed a loudspeaker in the loo to cover up the natural sounds, adding a quirky touch to the ordinary. I can still feel the thrill as I watched the faces of members stepping into the space for the first time. Their wide smiles, the kind that reached their eyes, were the silent pats on the back that kept me going.
The heart of Coworking Bansko beat with its unique and diverse community — a mixed bag of bright minds and creative souls. Our “showtimes”, for instance, were the stage where this mix shared its tales, dreams, and sometimes, a line or two of heartfelt poetry. One such showtime turned into an evening to remember, knitting bonds so tight that some folks decided to stick around for three more months. The comradeship nurtured in the peaceful backdrop of Bansko went beyond work chats, morphing into personal bonds. Our jam sessions were more than just a blend of tunes, they were where our spirits met and melded, tying us together in the sweet rhythm of shared dreams and laughs.
For me, as well as the majority of our members, it wasn’t about how sleek the space looked, but rather how it felt. It transcended beyond merely having a good time; it was about the heartfelt conversations that unfolded around shared meals, the clinks of glasses not just in celebration but in acknowledgment of our collective journey, and the late-night discussions that delved into meaningful topics. It was about the warm, fuzzy feeling of not just being part of our unique group, but belonging to a familial ensemble that shared not only workspace but dreams, aspirations, and a genuine care for one another. It was about creating a home, where every individual could find a sense of belonging and engage in dialogue or activity that mattered, all while nurturing a bond that went beyond the professional realm into a space of personal growth and shared understanding.
In the midst of rough trails and snowy peaks, our little community found its groove. Quiet mornings often rolled into evenings filled with laughter, music, and lively chats. The town, with its quiet charm, was a world apart from the hustle and bustle of big cities, bringing everyone a bit closer, a bit more communal. As our community grew, so did the array of shared adventures. From calming meditation sessions to engaging daily workshops, every day painted a new picture of shared learning and growth.
We all cherished those ‘coworking moments,’ where orchestrated serendipity often played its part. It was my personal endeavour to nurture a fertile ground where members felt at liberty to share their ups and downs, frequently igniting fresh ideas or uncovering solutions as others lent a sympathetic ear. The ‘aha’ moments occurred occasionally and unpredictably, yet they were so powerful that everyone who witnessed them had goosebumps. The sheer value of those moments was beyond measure.
While a lot of our brainstorming and fellowship blossomed within the cozy corners of Coworking Bansko, the captivating allure of Bansko’s outdoors often beckoned. Whether it was a soothing dip in the nearby hot springs or a quick movie outing to the next town, the sense of unity didn’t stop at the coworking space’s doorstep. The spirit of community was like an unseen thread tying us together, a companion in every shared laugh, every new discovery. This bond extended beyond the bounds of Bansko, with members often finding each other in far-flung cities across the globe. I vividly recall the joy of bumping into members donning our Coworking Bansko t-shirt in Chiang Mai, and enjoying a delightful reunion. Similarly, many members shared anecdotes of fortuitous encounters or planned meet-ups in different corners of the world, a testament to the enduring connections forged within the warm embrace of Coworking Bansko.
Coworking Bansko wasn’t just about creating a place to work; it was about building a community thriving on shared journeys and clever chats over a cup of coffee. Sure, there were bumps along the road, unexpected twists and turns, but every day was a lesson in community building and discovering a bit more about ourselves.
Fast forward three years, and our modest venture had blossomed into a buzzing community. The idea in 2019 was to morph Coworking Bansko into a cooperative, with each member owning a slice of this wonderful pie we had baked together. But alas, the stars didn’t align for that vision, and the coop plan didn’t take off.
Then came the crossroad. Matthias and I, we found ourselves standing at a junction where our visions for Coworking Bansko started to take different paths. It wasn’t easy, but after some soul-searching, I decided it was time for me to step back and let Matthias take the reins. I had faith that he’d keep the spirit of Coworking Bansko alive and kicking, growing our little haven in his own unique way.
Coworking Bansko was never about minting money. The real treasure lay in the solidarity, the intellectual sparks flying across the room, and the collective ‘aha’ moments. Witnessing the growth and evolution of what we had nurtured was a rewarding experience in itself. Venturing into Coworking Bansko was so much more than just a business pursuit; it was a rich tapestry of community, togetherness, and the unyielding spirit of exploration. Reflecting back, the memories carved against the tranquil trails and amidst the vibrant community of Coworking Bansko echo the essence of a journey well embarked upon. The shared laughter, the nurtured intellects, and the friendships fostered are the indelible imprints of an unforgettable chapter.
The journey of shaping, nurturing, and eventually re-imagining Coworking Bansko unfolded as an enriching expedition, laden with discoveries at every juncture. It was more than just a professional venture; it was a tableau of human connections, a confluence of diverse yet harmonious narratives. The friendships forged, the intellects ignited, and the kaleidoscope of experiences shared by the eclectic members of this community have not merely added a rich hue to Bansko’s tapestry but have significantly adorned my own personal and professional journey. Each face, each story, intertwined with the essence of Coworking Bansko, now resonates as a cherished chapter in my odyssey of community building and shared explorations.
The anticipated transition to new ownership is a voyage in full swing, with a promising horizon awaiting Coworking Bansko and its valued members. The prospective new owner, fortified with experience and a shared vision, is set to steer Coworking Bansko towards a flourishing future. Cherishing the long-standing memberships (decade memberships), there’s a clear intent of honouring past commitments while opening a new chapter. The unfolding and ever changing nature of Coworking Bansko continues to be a living testament to the boundless potential nestled in the core values of community, experiences, activity, and fellowship, all grounded on a foundation of shared values. This tale transcends the physical realm of a coworking space; it’s about hearts and minds converging to weave a new fabric of unforgettable experiences, with the narrative now awaiting fresh ink with the entry of a new steward.
I extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every individual I had the pleasure of meeting through this venture. Your stories, enthusiasm, and the unique color you brought to Coworking Bansko have left a lasting impression. Among the myriad compliments and feedback I’ve received, the one that resonates profoundly is when members expressed that they ‘found a place where they could be themselves.’ This, to me, represents what we strived to create — a space where everyone can celebrate their individuality and be themselves without reservation.
As I venture into new horizons, my commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and individuals seeking to establish a base in Bulgaria continues. Through my platform, MyStartBulgaria.com, I extend a warm invitation to anyone looking to explore residency, company formation, or seeking a solid tax base in Bulgaria. Our dedicated team is here to provide tailored solutions and guide you through every step of your transition.
Should you wish to discuss your plans or need assistance with setting up in Bulgaria, feel free to get in touch. I look forward to contributing to your success story in this beautiful and opportunity-rich country.
As always, sincerely, yours
Uwe
Testimonials:
“The coworking space in Bansko is amazing and Coworking Bansko has done a great job over the years building a strong community here in Bansko. When we look for new locations as digital nomads we always focus on three things: community, how close it is to nature, and the cost of living.“— A blog post on Red White Adventures.
“The major reason for choosing Coworking Bansko is its reputation. Through my years of digital nomading, this place kept cropping up as the prime European destination.” — A member’s review on CoWork Review.
“Co-working Bansko is the best co-working space I’ve been so far. Great community and many events made by members, who like to share their profession or passion. Other events are to get to know each other and just having a great time together like board games night, BBQ, hot springs or hiking events.” — Philipp Goldmann on servicedoffice.com.
“We were about 40 members during that week and 5 new members were onboarded by our community. There were plenty of events during that week and everyone helped to keep the space up and running. The members even attended a reception ceremony organized during that time to receive an award on behalf of the coworking space.” — An article on Coworker Mag.
“My role as a content writer allowed me to interview members, describing the experience as ‘quite fascinating.’ I enjoyed the diverse community of digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs at Coworking Bansko and cherished getting to know them and hearing their stories.” — A volunteer at Coworking Bansko.
“We were ‘blown away’ by the management’s dedication after spending a few days there, implying a positive impact on their experience.” — A review from Red White Adventures.
“Coworking Bansko has turned a sleepy resort town two hours from Sofia, Bulgaria into a ‘top destination’ for digital nomads seeking new adventures.” — A review from coworkaholic.com.
#DigitalNomad, #sailing, #LocationIndependentLife, #CommunityBuilding, #CoworkingAdventures
