Realized my coworking membership was costing me more than a cafe

I was in Bali last month paying $200 a month for a coworking desk I barely used. One morning I stopped by a local cafe called Kopi Kaki and spent $3 on a coffee while working there for 4 hours. The wifi was just as fast and I actually got more done without the constant networking distractions. Has anyone else ditched the fancy memberships and just worked from random spots instead?

4 comments

4 Comments

waderamirez1d agoTop Commenter

Yeah but that's kind of missing the whole point of why people pay for coworking spaces in the first place. It's not just about having a table and wifi it's about having a reliable consistent spot where you can leave your stuff and not worry about your laptop getting stolen when you go to the bathroom. Cafes are fine for a few hours but good luck finding an outlet that works and a seat that doesn't hurt your back after hour three. Plus the constant noise and people ordering food gets old real fast when you're trying to have a video call or focus on something complex. I've had way too many mornings wasted hunting for a decent cafe that isn't packed with tourists or playing music too loud to think straight. The $200 desk might seem like a lot but it buys you peace of mind and a consistent work environment that a $3 coffee just can't match.

mitchell.thomas1d ago

Finding a quiet library with private study rooms solved that for me, honestly.

the_sage1d ago

Laughing at the idea that leaving my stuff unattended in a public space is a selling point. Guess I'll just take my chances with the $3 coffee and a sore back.

miaprice1d ago

Jumped on that train hard last year. I was paying $250 for a WeWork desk in Austin and realized I'd spent maybe 10 actual work days there in two months. Found a little taco joint near my apartment with patio seating and an old guy who runs it who just nods at me when I walk in now. I set up shop for five hours, buy a $4 breakfast taco and two coffees, and nobody bothers me. The owner actually saved my spot one time when I ran to my car for a charger. No networking, no awkward small talk at the kombucha tap, just me and my laptop and a surprisingly solid wifi connection. My back does hurt sometimes but honestly the wooden chairs at the coworking spot weren't any better.