How Men Can Build Real Networks Beyond Coworking Spaces

Walk into any major city today,Lisbon, Medellín, Bangkok,and you’ll find coworking spaces packed with laptops, iced coffee, and men calling themselves “digital nomads.” On the surface, it looks like the perfect environment to meet like-minded people. But for many men, the relationships built in coworking spaces rarely go beyond surface-level small talk.

If your goal is to create a strong network that elevates your career, expands your worldview, and adds depth to your social life, you need to look beyond coworking spaces.

Here’s how men abroad can start building real, lasting networks.

1. Understand the Limitations of Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces often give the illusion of connection. Everyone is polite, but most are there to work, not to form deep friendships. The conversations tend to stay transactional;“What do you do?” “What tools are you using?” “Are you hiring?”

If you want to form genuine bonds, you need to move into spaces where people are less guarded and more human.

2. Invest in Shared Interests, Not Just Shared Wi-Fi

The strongest networks are built around common passions. Instead of trying to force friendships in coworking spots, lean into hobbies and skills:

  • Fitness communities – Martial arts gyms, CrossFit boxes, and running clubs are places where men naturally bond through discipline and struggle.
  • Language exchanges – Learning the local tongue puts you in direct contact with motivated locals and expats who are equally committed.
  • Cultural groups – Book clubs, cooking classes, or photography walks open doors to diverse conversations and friendships.

When you meet people through a shared pursuit, the connection is already more authentic.

3. Seek Out Local Connectors

Every city has a handful of “connectors”,the guys who seem to know everyone. They aren’t always wealthy, but they have influence because they’re trusted and respected in their circles.

Find these people by:

  • Attending curated networking events (not generic expat mixers).
  • Asking acquaintances, “Who else should I meet here?”
  • Contributing value firstwhether that’s introducing someone, sharing expertise, or helping solve a problem.

Relationships deepen when you approach them with generosity instead of extraction.

4. Build Brotherhood Through Challenges

Shared struggle forges bonds faster than casual conversation. Look for ways to experience challenge with other men abroad:

  • Hiking difficult trails.
  • Training for a competition.
  • Volunteering on a demanding project.

These environments test character, build respect, and create memories that carry relationships far beyond the surface level.

5. Host, Don’t Just Attend

Many men wait passively for connections. Instead, be the man who creates the space:

  • Host a monthly dinner.
  • Organize a mastermind for business-minded expats.
  • Invite people to a workout or weekend trip.

The man who organizes naturally becomes a hub. That leadership role earns you respect and attracts higher-quality connections.

6. Focus on Depth, Not Breadth

Networking is often mistaken for collecting contacts. Real networking is about going deeper with fewer people. One strong friendship with a principled, resourceful man is worth more than 20 casual acquaintances.

Invest in:

  • Following up consistently.
  • Checking in when there’s no agenda.
  • Supporting others’ goals without expecting immediate return.
  • This depth is what transforms “contacts” into lifelong allies.

Final Thought

Coworking spaces can be a good starting point, but they’re not where lasting brotherhood is built. If you want to form a real network abroad, step into environments that demand more of you,physically, socially, and intellectually.

When men push themselves into shared challenges, invest in meaningful pursuits, and take leadership in building communities, they stop being isolated nomads and start building a tribe of trusted allies.