Flexible, Nomadic, Ever-Changing

Flexible: to be or not to be?

The incredibly flexible landscape of every digital nomad’s life appears when we follow Lyda’s journey. From the wanderlust that drove them to explore 63 countries to their recent venture into life transitions coaching, it has been quite a ride. But it is in such fluid conditions that the concept of home takes on a unique meaning. For people like Lyda, the idea of a base is necessary even while traversing different corners of the world. So let us delve into the delicate balance between flexibility and stability, and how it shapes Lyda’s pursuit of dreams.

transformative power of life coach

Wandering Off

Lyda, a true multi-tasker, has left footprints across the globe, from the vibrant landscapes of Chile and Mexico to the serene beauty of Canada, Switzerland,and Portugal. Yet, amidst the constant change, a pivotal moment emerged during the pandemic, prompting Lyda to embark on a different adventure – one that aligned with their life purpose.

Life Transitions Coaching

Already acquainted with the transformative power of life coaching, Lyda decided to take a more formal route by pursuing a credentialed coaching certification with a niche in life and identity transitions. The motivation was clear. They wanted to offer a safe haven to those navigating the tumultuous seas of life changes. Lyda emphasises that the challenges people face after loss or a breakup combined with the social demands for lifestyles more flexible than ever before, can be daunting. Drawing from personal experiences, Lyda creates a nurturing space for clients, supporting them through the intricate process of decision-making with heightened self-esteem and comfort. Having been supported by a life coach themselves, Lyda’s goal is to contribute positively to the tough times people experience.

Transfromations

New Horizons

True to their nomadic nature, Lyda envisions their future as a flexible digital wanderer. Vietnam, Japan, and New Zealand are the next conquests on their travel agenda, each destination a stepping stone toward fulfilling their dreams. The flexibility Lyda embraces is not just a lifestyle choice but a vital component of their identity, keeping them in high spirits and fostering a sense of adventure.

While always on the move, Lyda cherishes their different bases around the world, such as Stone Soup, where their journey as part of a community began and is now continuing. These locations hold a special place in their heart, beckoning them to return after every expedition. Lyda is not just inspiring but fiercely independent, demonstrating how one can remain grounded even while constantly moving forward.

Lyda’s journey encapsulates the delicate dance between the flexible and the stable which defines the life of a digital nomad. As they continue to inspire others through life transitions coaching and pursue their dreams across the globe, Lyda demonstrates that finding a balance between these seemingly opposing forces is not only possible but crucial for a fulfilling and purposeful life on the move.

transform be flexible

Check more of Lyda’s work in their very interesting and informative blog and feel free to watch her enlightening presentation at the Digital Nomad Conference of Montreal here

#10 FAQs About Remote Working From Athens: A Practical Guide for Digital Nomads

As a digital nomad, the idea of being able to work from anywhere can be both exciting and daunting. With the rise of remote work and the increasing popularity of Athens as a travel destination, it’s no wonder that more and more people are considering the city as a potential base for their work-from-anywhere lifestyle. But before you pack your bags and head to Greece, it’s important to have all the information you need to make an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll answer 10 of the most frequently asked questions about remote working from Athens, so you can feel confident in your decision to live and work in the city..

1. How is digital life in Athens?

The internet connection in Athens is generally reliable and fast. Most cafes, coworking spaces, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi, so you won’t have to worry about finding a hotspot. If you need a more reliable connection, you can also purchase a mobile data plan or sign up for a broadband plan in your apartment or hotel.

2. What is the cost of living in Athens?

Athens is considered one of the most affordable cities in Europe. The cost of living is low compared to other popular destinations for digital nomads, such as Berlin or Amsterdam. You can expect to pay around €700 to €900 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Monthly utilities come in at around €150 to €200. When it comes to food and drink, prices are similarly affordable. A cup of coffee costs around €3 and a meal for one at a restaurant comes in at around €10 to €15.

3. What is the climate like in Athens?

Athens has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. During summertime, temperatures can reach up to 40°C. Therefore, taking regular breaks from the sun and staying hydrated it’s very important. The winter months are milder, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, and occasional rain showers.

4. What is the local language spoken in Athens?

The official language in Greece is Greek, but many Athenians speak English, especially those in the hospitality and tourism industry. If you’re looking to brush up on your language skills, there are plenty of language schools and courses available in the city.

digital nomad working remotely in Athens

5. How easy is it for digital nomads to get around Athens?

Athens has a well-developed public transportation system. A combination of buses, trolleys, and metro trains make it easy to get around the city. If you prefer to travel on two wheels, there are also several bike-sharing options available, including Athens by Bike and Kineo.

6. What is the food scene like in Athens?

The food scene in Athens is diverse and delicious, with a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international cuisine. From street food stalls selling souvlaki to high-end restaurants serving up contemporary Greek cuisine, there’s something for everyone. And of course, no trip to Greece would be complete without trying the famous Greek yogurt, which is widely available in the city. 

7. What are some must-see places in Athens?

Athens is a city rich in history and culture, with plenty of iconic landmarks and sites to visit. Here are some of the must-see places for digital nomads in Athens:

  • The Acropolis: This ancient citadel is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a symbol of Athens.
  • The National Archaeological Museum: This museum is home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greek civilization, including the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market: This is a popular shopping destination for digital nomads, with an array of vintage clothing, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
  • Plaka: This is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens. It is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, historic houses, and traditional tavernas.

8. What are some of the best spots for digital nomads to go in Athens after work hours? 

As a digital nomad, you might be wondering where to spend your evenings after a day of remote work in Athens. Fortunately, there are plenty of exciting nightlife spots in the city to explore. Here are some alternative options to consider:

  1. Gazi: Gazi is a vibrant district known for its nightlife and cultural scene. It has a wide range of bars and clubs that cater to different tastes, including live music venues, gay bars, and alternative bars.
  2. Exarchia: This neighborhood is popular with the younger crowd and offers an alternative nightlife scene. It is known for its political activism and street art. It is also home to a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues.
  3. Psirri: Psirri is a hip and trendy district that has a thriving nightlife scene. The area has many bars, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s a great place to enjoy a night out with friends.
  4. Kerameikos: Kerameikos is an up-and-coming neighborhood that is quickly becoming one of Athens’ trendiest areas. It has a growing number of bars and cafes, and it’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for something different.
  5. Kolonaki: Kolonaki is an upscale neighbourhood that has a more sophisticated nightlife scene. It’s home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and rooftop lounges, offering stunning views of the city.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you can take a dip in one of the city’s many outdoor pools or enjoy a sunset from one of its many rooftop bars.

9. What kind of work environment can digital nomads expect in Athens?

Athens offers a variety of work environments for remote workers, including coworking spaces, cafes, and public parks. Most coworking spaces are equipped with high-speed internet, ergonomic chairs, and other amenities to make your workday as comfortable and productive as possible. If you prefer working from a café, you’ll find that many cafes in Athens have a relaxed atmosphere and good coffee, making them ideal for long work sessions. Additionally, public parks in Athens are great for taking a break and getting some fresh air.

10. What kind of coworking spaces are there in Athens and where are they located? 

Athens has become a truly attractive destination for ex-pats, while at the same time, locals are seeking new working environments and longing to socialize in the after-COVID-19 era.  That is why many different types of coworking spaces have sprung up as well! You may find everything in the Greek capital and there are online search engines specifically for this, like coworkies.com. You may find coworking franchises, international hub brands, and independent Greek businesses like Stone Soup! These workspaces are scattered all over Athens, from Marousi in the North to Exarcheia, and all the way to Peiraeus next to the port.

In conclusion, Athens offers a wealth of opportunities for digital nomads looking to work remotely. With a thriving tech and startup scene, a rich cultural heritage, and a friendly and welcoming community, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to balance work and leisure. If you’re looking for a coworking space in Athens, we invite you to check out Stone Soup. Our coworking space is designed specifically for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. We offer a diverse, innovative, and collaborative community that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a team, we have everything you need to work, connect, and grow.

Interview with BRF: an NGO for people on the move

HOW TO EMPOWER PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

At Stone Soup we are happy to cowork with Boat Refugee Foundation. BRF assists and empowers people on the move or stuck in remote parts of Europe. Vicky, manager of the Athens program, talked to us about the ways the Netherlands-based NGO works.

BRF operates two programs in Greece. The one in Lesvos provides medical and psychosocial support. The one in Athens provides psychological support and group empowering activities to adult refugees & migrants, while it provides advocacy for a fairer asylum policy.

BRF’s goal is to motivate, empower, inform and link people on the move. The team consists of a psychologist, a social worker and a volunteer mental health professional. It offers various forms of psychosocial support, helping service users to take control of their lives and claim their rights.

IS IT TABOO TO ASK FOR ASSISTANCE?

“Many BRF beneficiaries who come from different cultures and backgrounds are not familiar with western terms like “mental health”. By pointing out the importance of self-care we try to destigmatize the seek for support.  Therefore, we work together with the service users on the life skills and resources they could develop to cope with difficulties, to feel more empowered and to make the first steps towards personal recovery”

HELPING THE HELPERS!

We know that BRF trains members of other NGOs, since we’ve seen them organize training events in our officesAs Vicky explained, the aim is to introduce basic mental health and psychosocial concepts to also empower non-mental-health professionals operating in the field. In this light, we connect them with practices and resources that increase their awareness helping them approach relevant cases more effectively.

HOW DOES COWORKING HELP?

Although we have a private office, we feel part of a bigger community with a variety of professionals around us. As a result, we both decompress while we connect with people from completely different areas. Observing their work and problem-solving routines can be of great support to us. It offers new ways to approach decisions concerning your own work and see things from a different angle”.

James: This Game Dev is on (Gold)fire!

James Simpson joined Stone Soup, all the way from Oklahoma, USA. He is not just a game developer, who studied Entrepreneurship at the University of Oklahoma, but he also has his own company named Goldfire! He explains that he started his company to develop his own ideas, and for the last 10 years he’s been doing just that. His team includes developers, engineers,3D artists and voice actors, and he has employees from many different parts of the world.

James’ company logo

Life as a Digital Nomad: The Journey has just begun

James was ready to explore the world when the Pandemic hit, so he had to postpone his plans a bit, but, maybe finally being out of quarantine gave him an extra push to pursue his dreams:  He and his wife began their journey in Portugal, just a couple of months ago. There, James finally got to meet a colleague he’s been working with for the last 2 years, but had never seen in person! His year-long plan continued with his arrival in Athens, where he plans on staying for 4-6 weeks.

Welcome to the Mediterranean, James

Coming from Oklahoma, the differences between his home and the countries he’s visited so far are hard to miss. Both Greek and Portuguese people seem open, friendly and approachable, and the landscape of the two countries is similar as well. But what made James choose Athens as his second destination? Well, for one thing the history: James even got a permit to take drone pictures of the Parthenon, as drone photography is one of his favorite hobbies. The city’s weather and mediterranean lifestyle sure helped, and James is excited to meet Athens’ culture and people.

Game on!

James’ newest game is titled “Arctic Awakening”, and it’s gonna be set in the snowy landscapes of Alaska. This sci-fi mystery game invites players to explore the frozen scenery. Since this is his first game where he’s building a snowy landscape, James sure faced some challenges, but Goldfire has always been very open to their audience: As you can see in their website, they post news about the process of each project, while making sure their audience can partake in the whole process.

(Co)Work-Life balance

James, who sure has a lot of responsibilities, is definitely a planner when it comes to his work. In his personal life, however, he prefers to go with the flow. He likes his work and home environment to be separate, so, coworking spaces are ideal for him.

Plus, Working with professionals from different backgrounds helps him focus on his own thing, while also giving him the opportunity to get out of his shell and socialize. 

If you wanna learn more about James’ games (we sure are looking forward to playing “Arctic Awakening”), you can find him here.