Freedom, courage, networking and traveling are the words you come across most often online when you search for Joana Glória.
The more you read about her, the more you realize that she truly lives by these words, and you get the feeling that her career revolves around her unique gift and talent.
Born and raised in Lagos in the Algarve region of Portugal, Joana began her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 26 by opening two guesthouses in her hometown.
She then moved to Lisbon to take on new challenges, launching a culinary project in March 2019 and venturing into the digital world. Although the pandemic put her project on hold, she began to explore new ways to fulfill and channel her passion for “welcoming, meeting, and connecting” people.
Her new ideas and aspirations during the lockdown gave birth to the “Lagos Digital Nomads" project in 2020, a platform that brings together location-independent professionals and connects them with locals and providers of products and services such as accommodation, coworking spaces, restaurants, leisure activities, entertainment, and Portuguese lessons.
Image source: Joana Glória/LinkedIn
The project, which has attracted around 10,000 members by 2024 and organized over 200 events, has helped promote Lagos as an emerging destination for digital nomads, reduce the seasonality of tourism there, keep local businesses open all year round, boost economic development, and draw in talent and investment.
Acknowledging her successful projects and far-reaching contributions to the Algarve region, the municipality of Albufeira joined forces with her to introduce an initiative called “Albufeira Digital Nomads.”
Like the growing digital nomad community in Lagos, the project in Albufeira has enjoyed increasing popularity since its launch in February 2024. The focus is not only on the natural beauty of the city and surrounding areas, but also on sharing knowledge and experience through regular meetings, contributing to the local economy, and supporting the diversification and innovation of local businesses.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Joana, where she shared her valuable views on her projects, working with the government, and other topics, giving us a deeper insight into the digital nomad landscape in the Algarve, where a growing number of similar projects, such as @faro.olhao.digitalnomads and The Nomad World conference, are gaining momentum.
Read on and be sure to visit Joana’s newly opened The Kitchen by Eat at a Local's in Lagos, where “culinary excellence meets the art of connection!”
Happy reading!
Image source: Joana Glória/LinkedIn
Q: Joana, if you could describe the “Albufeira Digital Nomads” project in one paragraph, what would you say?
The "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project is all about turning Albufeira, Portugal, into a welcoming hub for remote workers. We offer a stunning coworking space with breathtaking sea views, where you can feel more inspired and productive, enjoy the beach just steps away, and make the most of free access to the space.
Plus, you'll find plenty of networking opportunities and a supportive community in this beautiful coastal setting.
Q: What's the most surprising or unexpected aspect of Albufeira that you've discovered since starting this project?
One of the most surprising aspects we've discovered since starting the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project is how quickly the community has embraced the concept of remote work. Not only have local businesses begun catering to the needs of digital nomads, but there's also been an unexpected influx of creative professionals and entrepreneurs who are drawn to the area's unique blend of stunning natural beauty, lively local culture, and the relaxed pace of life.
It's been amazing to see how Albufeira has evolved into a dynamic and inspiring place for work and connection.
Q: What lessons have you learned from your previous projects that have influenced your approach to community building in Albufeira?
From my previous projects, I've learned that genuine community building hinges on establishing authentic connections rather than just creating spaces. This experience taught me the importance of listening to the needs and aspirations of the people involved, ensuring that the community feels heard and valued.
I've also learned that creating shared experiences, whether through events, workshops, or casual meetups, is key to forming strong bonds. In Albufeira, these lessons have guided us to prioritize creating not just a place to work, but a place where people can connect, collaborate, and truly belong.
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Q: What particular challenges or opportunities do you see in making Albufeira a prime destination for digital nomads compared to your previous experience in Lagos?
One particular challenge in making Albufeira a prime destination for digital nomads, compared to my experience in Lagos, is shifting the perception of the town from a purely tourist destination to a thriving hub for remote work.
Albufeira is well-known for its active summer tourism, which can be both an advantage and a challenge - balancing the influx of tourists with the needs of a growing digital nomad community requires careful planning.
On the other hand, this also presents a unique opportunity. Albufeira's beautiful coastline, pleasant climate, and lively atmosphere make it incredibly attractive to digital nomads looking for a dynamic place to work and live.
We see a great potential to leverage these qualities to create a year-round community that thrives beyond the tourist season, offering nomads professional opportunities, local culture, and a supportive environment that is distinct from what I've built in Lagos.
Q: “Albufeira Digital Nomads” is an initiative carried out in collaboration with the municipality of Albufeira. In your opinion, in what three ways this partnership has made a positive contribution to the project?
The partnership with the municipality of Albufeira has positively contributed to the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project in several key ways:
- Local support and resources: The municipality's involvement has provided valuable local insights and resources, facilitating access to infrastructure and services that are essential for creating a welcoming environment for digital nomads. Their support has also helped streamline logistics and regulatory processes, making it easier to set up and operate the project.
- Enhanced community integration: By collaborating with the local government, we’ve been able to establish stronger ties with the community. This partnership has enabled us to promote the initiative effectively and ensure that it aligns with the town’s broader development goals, resulting in a more seamless integration of digital nomads into the local fabric.
- Increased visibility and credibility: The endorsement and active participation of the municipality have significantly boosted the project's visibility and credibility. Their involvement signals a commitment to sustainable development and innovation, which enhances the project's appeal to potential digital nomads and attracts further investment and interest.
Photo by Nick Kane on Unsplash
Q: What are the key elements of the relationship you’re trying to establish between digital nomads and the local community in Albufeira?
The key elements of the relationship we’re aiming to establish between digital nomads and the local community in Albufeira include:
- Mutual engagement: We want to promote active interaction between digital nomads and local residents through events, workshops, and community initiatives. This engagement helps build understanding, facilitates cultural exchange, and encourages collaboration on various projects.
- Support and integration: Providing digital nomads with opportunities to integrate into the local community, such as by connecting them with local businesses, offering language and cultural orientation programs, and encouraging participation in local activities. This support helps nomads feel welcomed and valued, while also benefiting the local economy.
- Sustainable collaboration: Establishing a relationship that promotes sustainable practices and benefits both parties long-term. We aim to ensure that the presence of digital nomads contributes positively to Albufeira's environment and community, and that local resources are used responsibly and respectfully.
By focusing on these elements, we hope to create a harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship that enriches both the nomads’ experience and the local community.
Q: Can you tell us about an interesting collaboration or partnership that has resulted from your work with digital nomads in Albufeira?
Two significant partnerships for our project are with the Nomad World event and the Algarve Tech Summit. These events, along with other activities taking place in Albufeira throughout October, are crucial for highlighting our initiative. They provide excellent platforms for networking, knowledge exchange, and showcasing Albufeira as an attractive destination for digital nomads.
The Nomad World event focuses on connecting remote workers from around the globe, offering opportunities for them to engage with local businesses and communities. The Algarve Tech Summit, on the other hand, brings together tech innovators and entrepreneurs, creating a synergy between tech professionals and digital nomads.
These collaborations not only enhance the visibility of Albufeira’s digital nomad community but also contribute to the local economy and help create an active, integrated community.
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Q: What are the main infrastructural or logistical challenges facing digital nomads when setting up in Albufeira that you think the stakeholders involved should address?
One of the main challenges facing digital nomads in Albufeira is finding affordable housing. To address this issue, stakeholders should collaborate with local real estate agents and property owners to offer flexible rental options and short-term leases that cater to the needs of transient workers.
Ensuring that accommodation in Portugal is both accessible and affordable will help make Albufeira a more attractive and practical destination for digital nomads.
Q: If you could pick one hidden gem in Albufeira that every digital nomad must explore, what would it be, and why?
If I had to pick one hidden gem in Albufeira for digital nomads to explore, it would be the Praia da Marinha. This stunning beach, often regarded as one of Portugal’s most beautiful, is a bit off the beaten path and offers breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliff formations.
It's the perfect spot for a serene break from work, offering a peaceful environment to recharge and find inspiration. The natural beauty and tranquil setting provide a refreshing contrast to the busy co-working spaces in Portugal and can help boost creativity and well-being. Plus, it's a great place to unwind and connect with nature after a productive day.
Image source: Joana Glória/LinkedIn
Q: As someone who values freedom and courage, what's your definition of “freedom” and “courage”?
- Freedom, for me, is the ability to live authentically and make choices that align with my true self and values. It’s about having the space to pursue my passions, express myself openly, and navigate life without unnecessary constraints or fear of judgment. True freedom means having both the physical and emotional room to explore my potential and embrace life’s possibilities.
- Courage, I feel, is the willingness to face challenges, risks, and uncertainties with determination, even when I’m scared. It’s about stepping out of my comfort zone, standing up for what I believe is right, and persisting despite adversity. To me, courage isn’t about not feeling fear but having the strength to act in spite of it and to embrace vulnerability as part of growth and transformation.
Q: What are your long-term goals for the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project, and how do you intend to measure success over time?
My long-term goals for the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project are to establish Albufeira as a premier global destination for remote workers, shape a thriving and engaged community, and create a sustainable impact on both the local economy and the nomad lifestyle.
To measure success over time, I intend to focus on the following:
- Community growth and engagement: Tracking the number of digital nomads who choose to work from Albufeira, their level of engagement in local events, and their feedback on the community experience. Success will be indicated by an active community that feels integrated and valued.
- Economic impact: Assessing the project’s impact on local businesses and the economy. This includes monitoring increased patronage of local shops, restaurants, and services, as well as tracking job creation and economic development related to the influx of digital nomads.
- Sustainability and longevity: Evaluating the long-term viability and growth of the project by ensuring that infrastructure, amenities, and services continue to meet the evolving needs of digital nomads. Success will be measured by the project's ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain relevance in a dynamic global landscape.
By focusing on these areas, I aim to ensure that the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project not only thrives but also makes a meaningful and lasting contribution to both the nomad community and Albufeira itself.
Image source: Joana Glória/LinkedIn
Q: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers, Joana?
Certainly! I’d like to share how excited we are about the journey ahead with the "Albufeira Digital Nomads" project. We believe that Albufeira has so much to offer beyond its stunning beaches - it's a place where creativity, community, and opportunity can flourish together.
We’re committed to creating an environment that not only supports digital nomads in their work but also enriches their experience by connecting them with the local culture and community. If you’re considering making Albufeira your base, or if you’re just curious about what we’re building here, we invite you to join us, explore, and become a part of this evolving community.
Your feedback, ideas, and involvement are incredibly valuable as we continue to shape and grow this initiative.
Cover image source: Joana Glória/LinkedIn
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