Building The Network State - Florian Rücker: Launching Vietnam's First Coliving Space @ Hub Hoi An
"Beyond the rice fields, there's a sunset which is really nice. Every day at 1pm we have community lunch... you can eat on a daily basis and feel nourished."
I recently sat down with Florian Rücker, the visionary behind Hub Hoi An. Our enlightening conversation delved into the inception of Vietnam's first coliving space, the challenges of integrating with the local community, the unique amenities offered, and the future vision for digital nomadism in Southeast Asia.
🎙️ Introduction:
Introduction to the visionary founder behind Hub Hoi An.
Discussion on the novelty of introducing the coliving concept in Vietnam, a country previously unfamiliar with such spaces for nomads.
👤 Background:
Diverse journey from working in development aid to transitioning into the tech sector.
Initial visit to Hoi An led to a deep connection with the community and the coworking space.
The global situation with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 played a role in the decision to stay in Vietnam.
Praise for the previous owner, Sarah, and the decision to relocate Hub Hoi An to a picturesque location surrounded by rice fields.
🌱 Evolution of Hub Hoi An:
The space has always attracted a unique crowd, primarily mature nomads aged early to mid-30s.
Many members are entrepreneurs and freelancers seeking a community vibe.
Introduction of the coliving space was a direct response to frequent accommodation requests from members.
The design of the new space focuses on fostering social interaction over traditional hotel-like amenities.
🏠 Details of Coliving Space:
The space boasts 11 rooms, of which two are dormitories.
Mixed opinions about dorms but believes in their potential to foster a strong sense of community.
Vision for coliving members to integrate seamlessly with the coworking community, emphasizing the intertwined nature of both concepts.
🤝 Integration with Local Community:
Efforts are in place to encourage integration between the digital nomads and the local Vietnamese community.
Vietnamese members often come from big cities and are already somewhat exposed to the digital nomad culture.
The space doesn't permit entire teams to join, ensuring a community vibe and preventing the formation of cliques.
💲 Pricing and Amenities:
Dormitory pricing starts at $350, inclusive of a coworking space membership, with discounts for longer stays.
Private rooms begin at $650, which includes airport pickups, community events, and coworking space membership.
The coworking space itself is priced at 155 euros (approximately $65).
The local airport in Da Nang is conveniently located just 30 minutes away.
🌐 Internet and Infrastructure:
Emphasis on the critical nature of reliable internet for digital nomads.
Hub Hoi An is equipped with business-grade internet and enterprise-grade Wi-Fi hardware.
Vietnam's robust 4G mobile internet acts as a backup solution.
Certain websites, including ChatGPT, require a VPN for access in Vietnam.
🔮 Vision for the Future:
Potential expansion for Hub Hoi An, possibly adding another coliving space.
Keen on exploring other Southeast Asian locations lacking coworking spaces, with Myanmar and the Philippines being potential candidates.
The advent of Starlink is seen as a game-changer, opening up possibilities in remote areas.
🏡 Ownership and Investment:
Discussion on the concept of co-ownership of properties, emphasizing its economic and social benefits.
Recollection of growing up in a co-owned coliving space and the potential in such models, especially with the integration of technology like crypto tokens.
🏛️ Government Support and Policies:
Desire for more understanding and supportive policies from the Vietnamese government.
Recognizing the difference between backpackers and digital nomads could lead to more favorable policies.
The potential of countries offering tax incentives for digital nomads is discussed as a lucrative opportunity.
📞 Reaching Out and Conclusion:
Invitation to connect via Hub Hoi An's website and social media platforms.
Optimism about the future of digital nomadism in Vietnam and hopes for Hoi An to become a prominent hub in the region.