If you’re anything like me, the words “coliving” and “community” catches your attention easily. Add “pop-up” to the mix, and suddenly we’re talking about something fresh, exciting, and packed with possibilities. Is it a retreat? A temporary home? A way to find your people and live your best “work-from-anywhere” life? (Spoiler: It’s all of the above.)
Pop-up coliving is basically the cool younger sibling of traditional coliving, and if you’ve ever dreamed of working somewhere breathtaking, bonding with inspiring people, and experiencing a destination like a local—all without committing long-term—this might just be your thing. Trust me, I’ve been to over 10 pop-up colivings and even created four of my own, so I know the magic these experiences can bring. If you want to learn more about pop-up colivings, read more.
Let’s dive into what makes pop-up coliving special (and why I’ll never stop geeking out about it).
So, What Is Pop-Up Coliving?
Pop-up coliving is like the love child of a coworking space, a retreat, and your favorite summer camp. Unlike traditional coliving spaces that are permanent, pop-ups are short-term experiences—think a few weeks to a few months—designed for people who want to live, work, and connect in a unique location.
Here’s the deal:
- Someone (bless their heart) picks an amazing spot, like a cliffside villa in Portugal or a hidden beach house in the Philippines.
- They gather a small group (usually 8-12) of digital nomads, freelancers, or creative souls.
- You live together, work together, share meals, swap stories, and maybe even cry at the sunset together (happy tears, of course).
It’s intentional, immersive, and bursting with “why haven’t I done this sooner?” energy.
Why Pop-Up Coliving Might Be Your New Obsession
Okay, I could talk about this all day, but let’s stick to the highlights. Here’s why pop-up coliving is worth all the hype:
1. Limited Time = Maximum Magic
There’s something electric about knowing your time is limited. You go all in—sharing stories, brainstorming big ideas, and planning spontaneous adventures because you know the clock’s ticking.
My first coliving family in our villa in Madeira
One of my first pop-up coliving experiences was on the island of Madeira. Picture this: six of us crammed into a tiny house (and an even tinier sedan) as we explored the island. It was chaotic, hilarious, and completely unforgettable. We took turns working at the kitchen table, argued over playlists, and bonded like siblings. That finite time together? It made every moment golden.
2. Curated Communities
The secret sauce of pop-up coliving is the people. It’s not just random roommates—it’s a group of like-minded individuals who vibe with your energy. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching your next big thing or a creative chasing inspiration, you’ll find your people.
I’ve seen it firsthand: strangers on day one, family by week four. In one of my own retreats, we had a mix of startup founders, photographers, and a writer who somehow managed to wake up early and stay up late. The conversations we had—over coffee, during hikes, or while staring at the stars—left me feeling more inspired than any conference or webinar ever could.
3. Work Hard, Play Harder
Pop-ups strike the perfect balance between productivity and adventure. Days are for grinding out your projects (imagine visiting different coworking spaces with dreamy views), and evenings are for connecting, exploring, and recharging.
One of my favorite memories? Wrapping up a workday in Chiang Mai with a group brainstorming session, then heading to a local market for Khao Soi (and me crying tears of spiciness afterwards)
Productivity: ✅.
Memories: Double ✅.
Our coliving and coworking space in the Philippines – the only time we’ve taken meetings in bikinis and flip flops!
4. Immersive Experiences, Minus the Commitment
Pop-ups are the ultimate sampler platter of locations. Want to test-drive Lisbon, Ecuador, or the Philippines without going all in? This is your ticket. You’ll get a taste of the culture, the people, and the vibe—plus insider tips from locals or your host—without the pressure of a long-term lease. Additionally, you all start and end the expereince together. So no early cliques or left out conversations!
One of the snaps of our November retreat in Siargao!
Colivings or Pop-Ups? What is the difference?
Let’s face it: traditional coliving spaces can feel intimidating – especially people who have been there for months. Sometimes they’re too corporate, too casual, or just not the right fit. Pop-ups flip the script by being:
- Short and sweet. You’re not tied down.
- Purposeful. Events, workshops, and activities are designed to bring people together.
- Location-forward. Think dreamy, bucket-list destinations.
Only option: Sometimes, amazing destinations don’t have permanent colivings set up yet (ie: Siargao) so pop-ups help a lot in addressing this issue
Pop Up Colivings, should you join one?
Here’s the thing: pop-up coliving isn’t for everyone. But if any of this sounds like you, you’re going to love it:
- You want deeper connections (without the small talk overload).
- You’re all about authentic experiences—cooking with locals, exploring hidden gems, and maybe trying something that scares you just a little.
- You crave balance. Work-life harmony feels real when you’re coworking with purpose and playing with abandon.
- You’re cool with a little chaos. Pop-ups aren’t five-star hotels, but they’re five-star experiences.
Got really lucky that a lot of my colivers love surfing!
My Pop-Up Coliving Journey
After hopping through over 10 pop-ups and creating four of my own, I can confidently say they’re addictive in the best way possible. My first experience—Madeira—was like stumbling into a world I didn’t know I needed. I’ve since been lucky enough to lead my own retreats, including one in Siargao, where we combined coworking, cultural immersion, and weekend adventures (surfing, anyone?).
That’s where Kaya Connections was born—a way to share the magic I found with others. Additionally, the fulfillment of sharing my culture to people I met halfway across the world. Our four-week retreats are designed to help nomads live, work, and grow in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. If that sounds like your vibe, check us out here.
How to Find the Perfect Pop-Up
If you’re ready to take the plunge, here’s how to make it happen:
- Do your homework. Platforms like Mapmelon have all the juicy details and reviews.
- Know your must-haves. Private rooms, fast Wi-Fi, or a host who can double as a tour guide—whatever you need, ask.
- Get social. Follow pop-up groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to past participants for the real tea.
Why Pop-Up Coliving Sticks with You
Pop-up coliving isn’t just a trip or a house-share. It’s a vibe. A feeling. An experience that stays with you long after the suitcases are unpacked and the group chat fizzles out.
So, what do you think? Ready to make your next adventure one for the books? Pack your bags, bring your laptop, and let’s go make some memories.
