The Secrets To Building A Digital Nomad Co-living Haven in Chiang Mai - John Ho

In this following conversation, John Ho, a social media marketing strategist and co-founder of Alt Chiang Mai, discusses his transition from a nine-year career in Hong Kong’s hospitality industry to adopting the digital nomad lifestyle and eventually creating Chiang Mai’s first co-living and co-working space for remote workers. He reflects on how his experiences with network marketing and live streaming platforms like Periscope helped him develop self-discipline and accountability, key skills in his entrepreneurial journey.

John explains his decision to settle in Chiang Mai, drawn by its slower pace, affordability, and suitability for raising a family. He also delves into the creation of Alt Chiang Mai, identifying a market need for spaces that integrate convenience, flexibility, and community for digital nomads. He shares the challenges of refining the concept through feedback and experimentation, from improving facilities to fostering a balanced, productive environment. John also offers practical insights on social media marketing, emphasizing authenticity, creativity, and adaptability. Through resident stories—such as praise for the space or an invitation to a wedding—he highlights the value of creating a space that connects people.

1. Background and Journey to Social Media Marketing
-John’s career began with 9 years in hospitality in Hong Kong before transitioning into entrepreneurship.
-He discovered social media content creation through live streaming on Periscope, building communities and monetizing content.
-His digital nomad lifestyle provided new perspectives on work and life.

2. Transition from Corporate to Digital Nomad
-John left the structured corporate world for the self-managed digital nomad lifestyle, highlighting the need for self-discipline, motivation, and adaptability.
-He credits his entrepreneurial mindset to early experiences in network marketing.

3. Moving to Chiang Mai
-John settled in Chiang Mai with his wife, drawn by its laid-back environment, affordability, and family-friendly vibe, contrasting it with Hong Kong's high-pressure lifestyle.

4. Founding Alt Chiang Mai
-Alt Chiang Mai was created to cater to digital nomads and remote workers, combining co-living with co-working spaces.
-John identified a gap in convenient, flexible, and community-driven spaces tailored to nomads.

5. Challenges and Lessons Learned
-Launching Alt required trial and error, such as improving facilities and refining user experiences based on feedback.
-Balancing customer expectations involves filtering actionable feedback from noise while maintaining transparency.

6. Building a Community
Alt fosters connections, from co-working collaborations to personal relationships, creating a unique community-focused experience.
Memorable moments include customers inviting John to milestones, like an Indian wedding, showcasing the relationships built at Alt

7. Marketing and Growth Strategies
-Initially relied on organic marketing and word-of-mouth due to limited resources.
-John emphasizes authenticity in branding, experimenting with strategies, and focusing on improving the core product or service.

8. Managing Personal Life and Burnout
-John avoids burnout by setting boundaries (e.g., no weekend work) and maintaining routines like exercise.
-He highlights self-awareness and prioritizing well-being alongside business demands.

9. Future Plans for Alt
-Plans to deepen Alt’s impact in Chiang Mai through accelerator and mentorship programs for entrepreneurs and nomads.
-Exploring new niches, such as active co-living for seniors, to expand the concept.

10. Final Reflections
-John values the relationships and connections formed at Alt from co-founders meeting to lifelong friendships.
-He encourages embracing opportunities, staying open-minded, and stepping outside comfort zones.

Follow Alt_Coliving & Coworking:
1) IG: https://www.instagram.com/alt_coliving/
2) Website: https://www.altcoliving.com/

Follow John:
1) IG: https://www.instagram.com/johnmho/

#colivingspace #chiangmai #digitalnomad

Видео The Secrets To Building A Digital Nomad Co-living Haven in Chiang Mai - John Ho канала Mindful Metropolis