Choosing Your Cliffside Office
The main attraction of Varkala is its unique cliffside setting, a bustling stretch of cafes, shops, and yoga studios. Not all cafes, however, are created equal for remote work. When scouting for your daily workspace, look beyond the view. Check for comfortable
seating, preferably in a quieter corner away from high foot traffic. Cafes like AUM Cafe, located just off the main cliff, are known for a calmer atmosphere ideal for focus. Others such as Caffe Italiano and Rabbit Cafe are also popular spots that welcome digital nomads. Observe the environment: if you see other people working on laptops, it's a good sign the cafe is receptive to remote workers. A varied food and drink menu is also a plus, as you'll likely be there for a few hours.
The Connectivity Question: WiFi, Power, and Backups
For any digital nomad, reliable internet is the top priority. While many Varkala cafes offer WiFi, the speed and stability can vary significantly. It's wise to test the connection before settling in. While some cafes boast reliable WiFi and power outlets at every table, this isn't universal. Power cuts can happen, so having a backup is crucial. Your smartphone's mobile hotspot is an excellent safety net; providers like Jio and Airtel offer decent 4G coverage along the cliff. To be fully prepared, carry a fully charged power bank and perhaps even a portable monitor and noise-cancelling headphones to create your own productivity bubble.
Crafting a Productive Routine
The key to successfully working while travelling is to establish a routine. Without the structure of an office, you need to create your own. A typical day for a nomad in Varkala might start with sunrise yoga or a walk on the beach. Use the quiet morning hours for deep, focused work before the cafes get busy. Schedule a proper lunch break to step away from your screen, stretch, and enjoy the surroundings. You could block out your afternoons for lighter tasks or calls, reserving evenings for exploring local markets or watching the sunset. Setting clear work hours and communicating them to colleagues helps maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevents burnout.
Mastering Cafe Etiquette
Working from a cafe for an extended period comes with unwritten rules. Be a good customer. Don't occupy a large table by yourself during peak lunch hours. To justify your long stay, make sure to order food and drinks at regular intervals — don't just nurse a single coffee for four hours. If you need to take a call, be mindful of your surroundings. Step outside for longer conversations and always use headphones for calls or music. Being a considerate patron ensures that cafes continue to welcome the growing community of remote workers.
Beyond the Screen: Embrace the Varkala Vibe
The goal isn't just to work from a new location, but to experience it. Varkala is a hub for wellness, spirituality, and adventure. Build activities into your routine that allow you to disconnect and recharge. Learn to surf, take a yoga class, explore the local temples, or simply take a walk down to the beach at the end of your workday. The town has a slower, more mindful pace that is best enjoyed when you allow yourself to adapt to its rhythm. This balance is what makes working from a place like Varkala a truly rewarding experience rather than just a change of scenery.
