Hey team, I just returned from Barcelona for a bit of winter sun. I used Hivegeist, a new accommodation style for creatives and digital nomads. It was something unknown, and I was a little hesitant at first, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Here are the facts:

• You live for a fixed monthly payment in elegant apartments all over Europe (and Asia), with a home base everywhere. The fee depends on the membership level and if you’re with a partner.

• Locations currently include Palma, Lisbon, Barcelona, Gran Canaria & Bali. I understand that Berlin might be coming up.

• There are monthly meet-ups and various events. We enjoyed a dinner together with other members and a cocktail-making night. There was no pressure to attend, and everything felt relaxed, which I appreciated.

• The apartments/ properties have a high standard of living. Our Barcelona space was shared with two others and had three bathrooms, a well equipt kitchen and a balcony.

• Hivegeist has 4.7 out of 5* on Trustpilot, which is pretty good.

• Communication was clear and quick. The team are active.

• Access was super simple for check-in, using Nuki.

• There’s a great members section on the website and Whatsapp groups for local areas to arrange meet-ups.

I keep checking for locations and see that more of the ‘hives’ are getting busier, and the demand is increasing. They also have two new properties coming in Lisbon, which is exciting. This seems to be one of the popular locations which I didn’t manage to book due to availability.

My conclusion would be that this is something you have to try. I’m in my thirties, and meeting new people isn’t always easy. I couldn’t think of anything worse than a hostel, and I don’t feel the need for parties until 10 AM. Hivegeist fits young professionals who want to have fun but not go over the top, and still like to get their shit done. I have a positive feeling about the brand and will keep an eye out on their website for availability in future.

Spanish Nomad Visa

As well as offering some excellent accommodation in many locations, they can support your application for the Spanish Nomad Visa. Great for Brits like myself who have specific limits on spending time in Schengen countries. I would recommend an app called Schengen90 for those who struggle with counting days!

Are you ready to hear about the Spanish Nomad Visa?

This new visa is a hot topic among digital nomads and remote workers, allowing them to legally reside and work in Spain for up to a year.

So, what are the benefits of this nomad visa, you ask? Let me break it down for you:

1. Sunshine, beaches, and paella – Need I say more? Spain is a beautiful country with a rich culture, delicious food, and a warm climate that will make you feel like you're on a permanent vacation.

2. Easy visa application process – Unlike other countries requiring you to jump through hoops and fill out mountains of paperwork, the Spanish Nomad Visa application process is straightforward. Just gather the necessary documents, submit your application, and voila! You'll be sipping sangria in Spain before you know it.

3. Affordable cost of living – Spain is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, especially when it comes to housing and food. You can rent a decent apartment in a big city for a fraction of what you'd pay in places like London or Paris, and the food is delicious and cheap.

4. Vibrant digital nomad community – Spain has a growing community of digital nomads and remote workers, so you'll have no trouble finding like-minded people to hang out with. Plus, there are plenty of co-working spaces and cafes with free Wi-Fi where you can work and network.
   

What are the documents required?

1. Original and copy of your passport and copies of your family member’s passport.

2. Copy of employment contract, which must be for at least three months income before filing OR, if self-employed, proof of previous agreements, which is for at least three months of wage, no less than 2,200 euros per month.

3. Authorisation from employers that specifically allows you to work remotely in Spain regardless of one is employed or self-employed.

4. If self-employed, you must show ongoing or future contracts for at least several months, preferably a year from the filing.

5. Proof that the company you work for, if an employee, has been incorporated for no less than a year.

6. Proof that you have at least three years of work experience or have graduated from a renowned university, college or technical school.

7. Proof that work can be executed remotely.

8. Proof of health insurance.

These are slightly different if you’re applying as a family, and please be aware this might not be perfect!