A startup has launched a new program to make it easier to pack up your life, work remotely, and see the world.
The company, called ROAM, launched its Explorer program this week. This is in addition to an existing program where you can sign a rental agreement to live anywhere in the world for $500 a week or $1,800 a month. This new initiative aims to offer travelers the opportunity to live and work abroad in one of three locations: Miami, FL; Ubud, Bali. Or Madrid, Spain. Travelers can pony up for six weeks ($3,000) or three months ($6,000). All participants will be given first dibs to re-up and continue with the program after the session ends. Currently, the application-based program has a capacity of 20 people, and is expected to reach capacity by July 11th.
The winners will stay in a ROAM-branded boutique hotel with private rooms with private bathrooms, a shared workspace (including Wi-Fi and printing services), and a communal kitchen. According to co-founder Bruno Hyde, these setups are designed to encourage conversation and collaboration between guests and allow travelers to discover new cities and cultures alongside others.
Mr Hyde said arrangements were also made to ease the process of moving, living and working abroad.
“If you want to move to Bali for a few months, you can plan and book everything yourself, or you can enroll in this program and make your plans,” he said. “We’re trying to remove all the friction of living in a remote location and put people in a position where they can make a decision and go.”
The Explorer program does come with perks. In addition to these unique housing and work arrangements, ROAM provides confirmed participants with 24/7 concierge services. This includes arranging dinner reservations, tickets to cultural activities and destinations, transportation services, and a dedicated travel agent.
The company also leverages partnerships with domestic and international vendors to provide additional benefits. For example, before departure, these benefits may include helping travelers access apartment or home sharing or listing services, arranging a pet sitter (if applicable), navigating the visa process, purchasing discounted airline tickets, and more. Upon arrival, all Explore participants receive a local SIM card and access to ground transportation.
This and more is provided throughout the traveler’s stay. Some managers at specific facilities lead outings and events for Explorer participants. Some host readings and shows where participants are encouraged to share their work.
“We definitely aim to foster a creative community,” Hyde says.
These communities are certainly ready to expand. In the future, there may be more ROAM hotels to choose from. Hyde said the company is rebranding hotels in London and Buenos Aires and hopes to add several more hotels in U.S. cities by the end of next year.
True, this program is not suitable for everyone. If you’re a stubbornly independent person who likes to book, plan, and execute your own adventures, accepting such a collaborative approach may not be the best idea. We like to think of the ROAM Explorer program as living remotely in a box. It’s up to you to accept the changes in your life.