As large companies embrace remote work as the way of the future, being productive away from the office is becoming a real option, especially for those in rural areas like ours. Studies show that remote work can increase productivity, shorten commute times, be less at the whim of distractions, and even lead to savings on things food, clothing, and transportation. It’s no wonder that this new way of working is becoming wildly popular with tech and creative companies.
But where can remote workers head when they need to escape the confines of their home offices? We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite places to get work done.
BEST FOR coffee & conversation: The Quirky Carrot
The Quirky Carrot ( 1 Main St. S., Alexandria) is a comfortable café located in the heart of town. It’s a sun-filled spot, with a casual setup that makes you feel like your working from your living room. Julia, the owner, and her staff serve up strong coffee to keep you productive, as well as good-for-you grub to battle brain fog. The conversation flows freely here—it’s one of the hottest rural gathering spots for bright locals and entrepreneurs.
BEST FOR PEACE & Quiet: SD&G Library
Libraries are the original remote worker’s ideal space and setting up shop at the Ingleside branch of the SD&G Library (32 Memorial Sq., Ingleside) will remind you why. Free internet, endless resources including the friendly and helpful staff, plus guaranteed, er, mandatory quiet.
BEST PLACE FOR WORK AND PLAY: NAV CENTRE
NAV CENTRE (1950 Montreal Rd., Cornwall) is a remote worker’s dream. Tons of natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere plus endless nooks and crannies to tuck into work. We especially love that NAV also has a gym, spa, pub, café, and restaurant on site which means that when your brain needs a break, you can escape for some playtime.
BEST FOR PEOPLE WATCHING: Simply Jennifer
Located on Cornwall’s main drag, Simply Jennifer (110 Pitt St., Cornwall) is a happening, vegan/vegetarian coffee shop where owners Jennifer and Patrick always know your name. Aside from the delicious food and friendly service, they offer free wifi and bar seating in the large front window that overlooks the streetscape. That makes for plenty of people-watching opportunities while you pick away at your projects. As a bonus, you can snag a delicious take-home dinner from their freezers after your hard day’s work.
BEST PROFESSIONAL SETTING: Akwesasne Business Center
The Akwesasne Business Centre (447 Frogtown Rd., Hogansburg, NY) has all the bells and whistles of a professional, modern office building and it clearly caters to remote workers. The hub includes private offices, a conference room that you can rent out by the half or full day, free WIFI, and all the amenities that come with renting a traditional office space. The spaces are available for a fee and are open to anyone who needs a remote workspace.
BEST FOR THE EARLY BIRD: Cup of Jo’s
This gem of a café in North Dundas ( 515 Main St. W, Winchester) reminds us of a charming Gilmore Girls’-inspired hangout. Cup of Jo’s opens at 6am seven days a week it’s perfect for early risers who want to get to work at the crack of dawn. Enjoying a yummy coffee and breakfast (we endorse the hearty Breakfast Skillet) can make the transition into work time a little easier too. Sidenote: You may even run into Member of Parliament Eric Duncan getting work done there too!
BEST SOON-COMER: CREATE
Set to open later in 2020, CREATE (705 Cotton Mill St., Cornwall) will have close to 50 coworking and private offices, as well as a concierge, copy machines, mail facilities, and all the amenities you would expect from a regular office. As a bonus, you’ll have access to a makerspace with 3D printing and other tools, and you’ll be able to rent the event space in the evenings. Stay tuned for the launch party!
Feature image: mushakesa from canstockphoto.com
