Building Connections: The Power of Community

Author

Marco Barrio
June 14, 2024

U-CO Newsletter

A digital nomad community exploring the world. The place where we feel at home no matter where our journey takes us.

Got a question or feedback? Please send me an email at [email protected]

Hey U-Co Fam,

Marco here, checking in from Mexico City. This week, I want to highlight something special about our community here at U-Co.

Back in 2019, when I started U-Co, my vision was to create a safe space for like-minded travelers to stay, meet, be productive, explore, and build connections. Coliving was gaining popularity in Asia and Europe, and I felt it was the perfect time to introduce it in Mexico. Fortunately, a vibrant digital nomad community was emerging in Mexico City, making it a hub for us nomads. Word spread among travelers, and U-Co became a haven for you all.

Thanks to you, we’ve hosted over 12,000 guests from around the world. We rarely need to run ads for new guests because 60% of our bookings come directly from our website—thanks to your referrals. Online platforms help, but word of mouth and reviews have made our journey smoother, even during tough times. We know we’re not perfect, but we strive to give you a great experience that leaves a lasting impact. I’ve met thousands of you, and each one of you has made a difference in U-Co and my life personally. Thank you for sharing U-Co with your friends and family.

There are thousands of community-based organizations out there—non-profits, for-profits, and even government entities. Yesterday, a guest shared a story about teaching entrepreneurship to a local community in Kenya when he was younger. Now, he's interested in helping local economies thrive by sharing his skills with locals. That got me thinking: we are all world travelers with the potential to make an impact wherever we go. Imagine if each of us built or joined a community-based organization, using our unique skills to solve problems. We are fortunate to learn and experience new cultures. Let’s connect and build something meaningful that drives local and hopefully global impact in the future.

Here’s a basic guide to getting started on building a community-based organization:

  1. Pick a Niche: Choose an area where you understand the customers' pain points.

  2. Find Local Groups: Identify where your potential customers gather, both online and offline.

  3. Share Stories: Talk about how you’ve solved similar struggles.

  4. Provide Solutions: Offer a product or service that addresses the community's needs.

  5. Iterate: Get feedback, learn from it, and continuously improve your product. Repeat this process.

If anyone is seriously considering building a community, I’d be happy to share my experiences and skills with you all.

Stay connected, stay impactful.

Community News

As we’re on a mission to hit 160 beds by the end of the year, we’d love your input. What would you like to see in future U-Co locations?

Remember to keep an eye out for new locations at U-CO.CO

U-CO WORLD is a marketplace for new locations, experiences, and of course, FOOD 🌮 around the world. Keep on your radar if you’re traveling around Mexico. Our goal is to have a Fee-less marketplace for you all.

Current Monthly Guests

  • Carlos (Mexico)

  • Alberto (Mexico)

  • Karina (Mexico)

  • Martina (Korea)

  • Salome (USA)

  • Fernanda (Mexico)

  • Marilu (Mexico)

  • Lewis (UK)

  • Brady (USA)

*If you’re looking for a longer-term lease in Mexico City, I’d be happy to help. Send me an email with your wants/needs.

Events / Activities

I have no new events for you this weekend but let’s enjoy some of the beautiful spots of the city.

Parque de Chapultepec

Daily

Sunday Bike Ride down Reforma St.

June 16

Accommodations

Looking for a summer vacation spot, head to Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita and San Pancho. Great cities to unplug.

Experiences

Heading to Sayulita? Plenty of things to do.

Tips, Tricks and News

In this week's edition of the digital nomad newsletter, we delve into the latest tips, tricks, and trends shaping the nomadic lifestyle.

If you or someone you know is considering launching a Hostel, Airbnb, or Coliving property anywhere in the world, feel free to send us a message. We're eager to collaborate with you. UCOGO

If you like U-Co Newsletter and want to support my work: