Day 9—Hacking Life in Dracula’s Backyard

Testing, Testing – Otter.ai takes the wheel*…….hey there, fellow travelers and aspiring world-changers! Welcome to another installment of the Cobana Chronicles, where we explore the fine art of procrastinating productively in the middle of Transylvania. In this experimental post, I’m shaking things up with a whole new blog format and nifty transcription tool. Can it keep up with my caffeine-fueled musings? Let’s find out!

Where Dutch Directness Meets Romanian Tranquility

As I stumbled into Cobana on August 26th, fresh off the trains from Bucharest & Brașov (a story from a previous post), I was warmly greeted by David, the Dutch founder with a heart of gold and the directness of… well, a Dutchman! His no-nonsense attitude is perfectly balanced by his kind and generous spirit, making him a one-of-a-kind leader and host.

Imagine a permaculture-loving, wisecracking, wingman extraordinaire – that’s David in a nutshell! With a chilled and optimistic demeanor that’s infectious, he’s created this incredible oasis in an Eastern European haven, where everyone’s welcome and supported – I’m deeply grateful to be part of it!

Let me paint you a picture of Cobana’s surroundings: a scenic landscape of cottages nestled amidst rolling hills, with mountains playing backdrop like they’re posing for Instagram. No brown bear sightings yet, but I swear the friendly local stray dogs are forming a welcoming committee every time I step out for groceries.

From Canada to Cobana: A Journey of Flags and Freedom

I’ve spent years researching ‘Flag Theory’, optimizing my global presence for maximum freedom and minimum taxes – it’s like playing geopolitical Monopoly! Romania’s 1% corporate tax rate caught my attention, like landing on Free Parking and finding a stack of cash. But it was more than just numbers that drew me in. I was searching for a community that shared my values, and that’s when I stumbled upon Cobana.

My Super-Secret, Not-So-Secret Project

Now, I know you’re all dying to hear about my new business venture. It’s slowly taking shape, like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis – if that butterfly was fueled by pre-workout and existential crises. Between bouts of imposter syndrome and bursts of genius, I’m navigating the murky waters of solopreneurship. And by “navigating,” I mean at times frantically asking ChatGPT “how to start a startup” at 1 AM. Don’t judge; we’ve all been there, right? And thanks to the Malaysia Tech Entrepreneur Program (MTEP), I’m taking this show on the road back to Southeast Asia.

Why I’m Betting on Malaysia

Malaysia isn’t just a random pin on the map. It’s a strategic move in my grand game of Flag Theory chess and startup success. Kuala Lumpur offers an unbeatable combo of affordability, opportunity, and vibrant cultural diversity. Plus, its proximity to key Asian and Middle Eastern markets makes it an attractive base and launchpad for regional operations. But don’t worry, Romania. You’ll always have a piece of my heart (and my tax strategy).

From Sunrise to Startup

Mornings here are a biohacker’s dream. I start my day basking in the sunrise like a solar-powered productivity machine. Then it’s a cocktail of nootropics that would make a neuroscientist blush. Don’t worry, it’s all legal – just pushing the boundaries of cognitive enhancement, one sketchy powder at a time.

The Cobana Impact Residency: Not Your Average Workcation

Now, let’s talk about this Impact Residency program. It’s not for the faint of heart or those allergic to purpose. David’s vision goes beyond just providing a cool place to work. He’s cultivating a community of trailblazers, sustainability/eco-enthusiasts, and creative rebels.

If you’re an aspiring world-changer with a penchant for late-night brainstorming sessions and early morning hikes, the Cobana Impact Residency might be your jam. But it ain’t your average co-living space – it’s a crucible for innovation, sustainability, and the occasional cat 🐾encounter.

Think of it as a retreat for motivated individuals who are equal parts idealist and pragmatist. You’ll find yourself surrounded by creatives and dreamers all working to make the world a little better (or a lot better, no pressure). Who knows? You might be my next startup therapy buddy.

A Call to Adventure (and Cobana)

So, here’s my question to you, dear reader: Are you just another poor soul trying to figure out life while building something meaningful? Drop a comment below. Bonus points if you can explain why the most brilliant startup ideas seem to strike at 2 AM when you’re halfway through a pint of keto ice cream.

Whether you’re a seasoned digital nomad, a cubicle escapee, or just someone who needs a change of scenery (trust me, Transylvania’s got scenery in spades), consider giving Cobana Coliving a shot; it might just be the catalyst you need.

Come for the Wi-Fi, stay for the community, and leave with a head full of ideas and a heart full of intention.

Just don’t blame me when you start talking to the mountains. They have great advice, I swear.

Stay tuned for the next installment. Post #4 dropping soon.

P.S. If you see any bears 🐻, send them my way. This Canadian is feeling a bit homesick for some wildlife that isn’t of the vampire 🧛 variety. Oh, and if you’re not quite ready for the full Impact Residency experience, Cobana of course welcomes regular guests too! Just be warned: once you experience the Carpathian magic, you might never want to leave.

P.P.S. Seriously, though, has anyone seen any bears around here? Asking for a friend (who may or may not be me). ʕ ◕ᴥ◕ ʔ /callout