Preparing for your arrival

Getting Here:

The countdown to adventure is on! By now, you may have already organized your flight to London. If not, here's a quick guide:

London has multiple major airports you can fly into, including Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), and Stansted (STN).

Heathrow is the primary international airport, conveniently located just a short distance from the center of the city. Gatwick and Stansted are additional options, though they are a bit further from the city center. 

Arrival Process

If you would prefer private transportation, we are happy to provide you with a personal quote from our local providers!

Otherwise, taxis and rideshares like Uber are available at every airport. We would highly recommend taking the airport express trains - they are more affordable and super easy to navigate. 

Heathrow (Elizabeth Line / Heathrow Express)

Gatwick (Thameslink / Gatwick Express)

Stansted (Stansted Express)

If you opt for public transport, make sure to reach out to your Community Manager, they'll guide you through the process.

CITY MAPPER will be your public transport best friend during this trip. If you haven't already, make sure you have it downloaded and ready to go for your arrival

Orientation

Now, once you've checked in at your apartment, this is where the fun really begins. Our welcome/kick-off ceremony will provide you with all the necessary information about your stay and give you the chance to meet your unique Noma community. 

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Things you should know before you pack: 

Weather:

The weather in London can vary, so it is best to keep checking BBC Weather in the lead-up to your trip to give you an idea of what to expect.

The temperature in May averages around 18 °C – 19 °C (mid-60 °F), but there can also be much warmer days of around 24 °C (75 °F). The days are long, with the sunrise at around 5 am and sunset at around 9 pm, giving you around 16 hours of daylight to explore this wonderful city. 

Whilst we'd love to promise zero rain for your trip, the good old British weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you're prepared in case of the occasional rain shower. 

Fashion:

London is renowned for its diverse, eccentric, and eclectic fashion style. It's the birthplace of punk and mod fashion but also embraces those timeless classics. Whether you prefer to keep it casual or if every day is a runway, London is the perfect place to showcase your unique and personal style. Don't forget to pack a light jacket and comfortable shoes - You can be fashionable and sensible all at once. 

Tip: Wear the same clothes you would wear in your own city. 

General City & Festival Packing List: 

• Comfortable clothing for dancing and chilling
• Small purse/handbag for city adventures
• Sunglasses and hat for sunny days
• Sunscreen for outdoor events
• Light jacket or hoodie for cooler evenings
• Sneakers or comfy shoes for walking
• Portable phone charger for staying connected
• Refillable water bottle for hydration
• Earplugs for loud music
• Small backpack or crossbody bag for essentials
• Snacks for energy boosts
• Disposable rain poncho for unexpected showers
• Hand sanitizer 
• Personal toiletries and meds
• Cash or card for purchases
• Festival-ready clothing! 

Please note that there are some prohibited items you won't be able to bring to the festival which you can find a list of HERE.

Communication

Important PSA: All guest communication is on Slack. 

Please click on the below image to join our Noma Slack channel
Slack App is available on Web, Android and iOS. Please join Noma Collective by clicking on the Slack logo above.

When you join Noma Collective, you will see a list of channels on the left-hand side of the display. Please follow these links to join the channels: 

News And Events - For anything related to on-site events and activity sign-ups. @teamnoma uses this channel to let you know about the onsite event programme and daily announcements.

Onsite Chat - Think of this as your community conversation space, where you can share memes, have casual chats, see what people are up to and more!

#alumni - Once your trip is over you’ll get a VIP backstage pass to the entire Noma Collective Community. You’ll have access to exclusive perks, recommendations, advice, and alumni-only Editions.

You can also DM anyone by selecting their name in the bottom left which will enable you to discuss anything in private. 

Add a profile picture, pronouns and a short bio of current/previous job roles and any personal information of interest that you’d like to share in the ‘what I do’ section. This will help your fellow community members get to know you better!

If you have any questions for us, or any issues with anything on-site, please DM @TeamNoma. Also, if you’d like to flag anything in a general chat for our attention, simply add @TeamNoma to your post and we’ll pick it up. 

Your Community Manager, Tilly, will monitor Slack between 8 am and 8 pm daily and will respond within the hour (usually faster than this). You'll have their WhatsApp number, so if there's an emergency, you can reach out to them via WhatsApp.   

Otherwise, Mason & Fifth have an onsite manager who is available in case of emergency until around 11pm each night.

Location

The Neighborhood - Bermondsey

You'll be staying in the stunning Mason & Fifth, Bermondsey, in the vibrant Southwark borough. This is the perfect accommodation to unwind and recharge in a co-living house with fellow remote workers. Bermondsey has a dynamic blend of historic charm and trendy vibes, with its contemporary architecture, riverside views, and thriving culinary scene. This up-and-coming neighborhood is popular with creatives and professionals alike, offering an eclectic mix of experiences.

Welcome to Southeast (SE) London... It's a well-known fact that you can't spell "sexy" without SE and we've got the insider knowledge to prove it!

Historic Charm:

The London borough of Southwark has quite the history. It was built and abandoned by the Romans and then abandoned once again by William The Conqueror. By the Middle Ages, Southwark was a bustling market town known as 'The Borough'. As for Bermondsey, it's an industrial area known for its leather and tanning industries in the 19th century. Bermondsey is now well-known for its lively arts scene, one-of-a-kind architecture, and iconic landmarks. 

Scenic Views:

Situated near the south bank of the Thames, you can enjoy views of the London skyline. Stroll along the riverside and take in the iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, The Shard, and the Tower of London. Bermondsey offers some of the best urban landscapes in the city.

Cultural Hotspots:

Immerse yourself in Southwark's vibrant culture by checking out the local art galleries and theaters. We highly recommend the White Cube Gallery and Fashion and Textile Museum for some cool exhibitions. Further south is the South London Gallery, which is one of the best in London. 

Head to the Southbank to visit the Tate Modern for some incredible contemporary art, catch a show at the National Theatre, enjoy live music and visual arts at the Southbank Centre, or watch some great classic and independent films at the BFI.

You can also visit a historical reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, where many of his plays were first produced! 

Culinary Delights:

Foodie’s favourite Borough Market, one of the oldest food markets in London is no more than 15 minutes from Mason & Fifth, Bermondsey. Get your fill on street food from around the world, seasonal British produce and stock up on goodies to take home. You'll also be a 7-minute walk from Maltby Street Market, which is open every weekend, featuring global street food traders and a touch of historic London charm under the iconic arches.

Quench Your Thirst:

The WatchHouse Café is a favourite amongst residents in Bermondsey - the perfect pitstop for your morning pick-me-up. If you’re up for sipping some of London’s finest locally brewed pints, take a stroll down the Bermondsey Beer Mile (which is technically closer to 2 miles). This lively stretch of brewery bars and bottle shops is just the perfect spot for a cheeky pub crawl - because why settle for just one pint?

Green Spaces:

Appreciate the peaceful moments in life by taking a stroll through Bermondsey's green spaces, including Southwark Park. Enjoy the park's beautiful gardens, lake, and outdoor sports facilities, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.

Transportation:

Bermondsey is a great base for exploring London. You'll be within walking distance from Bermondsey tube station on the Jubilee Line, providing quick access to central London and beyond. The area is also well-connected with numerous bus routes and nearby London Bridge Station.

Safety and Serenity:

Bermondsey is known for its friendly atmosphere and is considered a safe and welcoming neighborhood for residents and visitors alike. Enjoy peace of mind as you explore its vibrant streets and picturesque surroundings.

Surrounding Neighborhoods:

Surrounding Bermondsey, also in the Southwark Borough, you'll find an eclectic mix of neighbourhoods each with their own distinct character:

London Bridge/South Bank

Mason & Fifth is located just a short walk from London Bridge, where you can explore the bustling Borough Market, renowned for its gourmet food stalls and artisanal products. You’ll also be just a short tube ride away from the South Bank, a vibrant area along the River Thames brimming with cultural gems like the Tate Modern and the National Theatre.

Camberwell/Dulwich

Camberwell is known for its artistic vibe, eclectic cafes, cozy pubs, and deliciously diverse culinary scene, with hidden gems around every corner just waiting to be discovered! Just a stone’s throw away, Dulwich offers leafy streets, picturesque parks, and a laid-back atmosphere that combines village-like tranquility with easy access to the city's vibrant energy.

Nunhead/Peckham 

For a truly local experience, head over to the Peckham and Nunhead area. Both neighborhoods are known for their fantastic local pubs, green spaces, strong community spirit, and delicious restaurants. Peckham, in particular, buzzes with energy, offering a vibrant mix trendy rooftop bars with stunning city views, and a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural tapestry.

Food & Beverage 

Get lost in London's multicultural food landscape, and try some traditional British dishes (beyond beans on toast…). London's food scene is a vibrant tapestry of diverse culinary experiences, reflecting the city's multicultural population and rich history. Dig in!

Festival Food Trucks

During our festival extravaganza, you can expect an array of over 50 street food trucks every day, serving everything from pizza to vegan sushi to Jamaican jerk to dim sum. 

Traditional British Dishes

Fish and Chips: This iconic dish is a must-try for visitors to London, head down to a local chippy or a pub and get a plate of crispy battered fish and chips (and some mushy peas if you’re feeling brave). Try Brockley's Rock, 2 x winner of a Good Food Award for Fish and Chips.

Full English Breakfast: France is known for its cafés, and London is known for its “caffs”. Norman's Cafe, Regency Café or E Pellicci are all great places to try a traditional full English Breakfast and a proper cuppa.

Sunday Roast: No trip to London would be complete without experiencing a Sunday Roast. Try Camberwell Arms, The George, Canton Arms, The Farrier or Blacklock for a delicious roast.

International Cuisine

Caribbean Food Scene: London has a rich Caribbean culture throughout, and there are some incredible restaurants including Fish, Wings and Tings in Brixton and Plantain Kitchen in Peckham.

South Asian Cuisine: London is also known for its delicious South Asian cuisine and famous Indian delights along Brick Lane. Try out Babuji in Kentish Town and Rasa in Stoke Newington for bold flavors and tasty dishes.

Street Food Markets

Explore vibrant street food markets like Borough Market, Camden Market, Maltby Street Market and Broadway Market, where you can sample a diverse range of gourmet street eats. 

Fine Dining

Treat yourself to world-class fine dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants scattered across the city. From innovative tasting menus to exquisite afternoon teas, London's fine dining scene offers something for every palate. Our top picks would be Brat, St. John, Cornerstone, The Ledbury, Sketch and Pollen Street Social.

When Going Offsite 

We're thrilled to provide you with a tailored Google Map showcasing our handpicked local hot spots. This map will be your ultimate guide for discovering hidden gems, must-see attractions, and our personal favorites. Get ready for effortless access to insider recommendations that will elevate your London adventure! 🗺️🌟

Check out some of Team Noma's favorite restaurants, bars and cafe's in the local area:

Flour & Grape

Toad Bakery

WatchHouse

Forza Wine

José

Dinner For One Hundred 

Skehans

Mercato Metropolitano

Nandine

Silk Road

Frank's Cafe

Lumberjack Cafe 

Chapter 72

 Transportation 

Getting around London is made easy by its extensive and efficient public transportation network. The Oyster Card offers access to buses, trams, the Underground (Tube), Overground, and DLR (Docklands Light Railway), allowing seamless travel across the city. You can also opt for contactless payment methods, tapping in and out using Apple Pay or credit and debit cards for hassle-free journeys on public transport.

For those who prefer exploring on foot, London's pedestrian-friendly streets make it a lovely city to wander. Many of the city's iconic landmarks and attractions are within walking distance of each other, allowing for a leisurely exploration of its vibrant neighborhoods.

Bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore London's streets. With docking stations throughout the city, travelers can easily rent bikes for scenic rides.

Safety Briefing

1. Stay Vigilant:

London is generally safe, but like any big city, it's important to stay vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.

2. Beware of Pickpockets:

Unfortunately, pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Keep your belongings close and avoid leaving bags unattended. Consider using a crossbody bag or money belt for added security.

3. Use Public Transportation Safely:

London's public transportation is efficient and popular for getting around. When using the tube or buses, keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded spaces.

4. Stay Safe at Night:

London has a vibrant nightlife, but ensure you're in well-lit and populated areas if out late and try to stay in groups. 

5. Verify Transportation Apps:

If using rideshare apps like Uber, confirm the driver's details and vehicle before getting in. Always sit in the back seat and share your destination and expected arrival time with someone.

6. Emergency Assistance:

In emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Keep essential contact numbers and identification with you at all times.

7. Respect Local Laws:

Observe local laws and customs, and avoid behaviors like public drunkenness or urination. London embraces diversity, but it's essential to respect local norms.

8. Trust Your Instincts:

If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation if needed. Don't hesitate to seek help or support from your Community Manager or the Noma Collective team.

Your Noma Home 

Mason & Fifth, Bermondsey 

In a stunningly restored heritage home with private studios, a large guest living space, a private garden and a yoga pavilion, lies Mason and Fifth. 

As digital nomads, we understand the importance of a flexible work environment, and in London, we've got you covered. There are dedicated workspaces within all of our apartments, providing you with cozy spots to work or collaborate with fellow nomads.

Rest assured, we offer reliable Wi-Fi throughout these areas. In the rare event of a site-wide drop in connectivity, please reach out to an onsite member of staff. 

London offers a variety of co-working spaces within walking distance if you want a change of scenery. Try LABS, UNCOMMON, Mindspace or Second Home.

Community

Our community, events and code of conduct

Events Schedule & The Festivals 

The climax of your trip starts on May Bank Holiday weekend at the gorgeous Brockwell Park. Prepare for a musical extravaganza between 24th May and 2nd June 2024 spanning Jazz, Funk, Soul, Reggae, Dancehall, Electronica, Pop, Alternative Rock and MORE - all against the backdrop of one of London’s most beautiful parks. Rain or shine, London brings the vibes, embodying the true spirit of British summer culture. 

Project 6 - Friday 24th May

Start the long weekend with a bang with Project 6, a deep dive into the UK underground scene, an all-encompassing showcase of bass-led cutting-edge music and guaranteed vibes with Shy FX, Katy B and more in this juicy lineup. 

Wide Awake - Saturday 25th May

Wide Awake is a cultural force, a platform for grassroots music and celebration of counterculture. This is THE festival for music lovers looking to discover something different. Catch fan favs King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Young Fathers.

Cross The Tracks - Sunday 26th May

Cross The Tracks is the ULTIMATE destination for everything jazz, funk, soul and hip-hop; with a diverse lineup of heritage legends, current icons, and rising stars you’ll love like Erykah Badu, Eve and BADBADNOTGOOD.

City Splash - Monday 27th May

Closing out weekend one is the home of culture, City Splash, the world’s BIGGEST one-day celebration of Reggae, Afrobeats, Dancehall and more! Celebrating the impact of Caribbean and African culture. See Beenie Man, Shenseea, Capleton and more.

Mighty Hoopla - Sunday 2nd June

Sashaying into weekend two is a pop-fest (awarded Time Out’s Best London festival) centered around freedom of expression and supporting and platforming the LGBTQIA+ community. This iconic event is headlined by pop queens Jessie Ware and Rita Ora. 

You'll receive a shared Google schedule two weeks before arrival, so you know what to expect when you arrive.  

Sign up: We announce the weekly events schedule on Slack every Sunday Afternoon, which includes either 1 or 2 events. Here, you will have access to sign-up links and instructions. 

Wellbeing: 2x weekly yoga classes are included as part of our package. Ad hoc meditation runs/walks around the city have been included in the schedule. For those who like to keep fit, there are free Saturday morning parkrun events where people gather to run 5k in some of London's beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. If anyone would like to host such events, let us know. We like to have a healthy balance of wellness and partying on every Edition. 

Adventure: For the adventurous travelers, we embark on weekly journeys to uncover the city's hidden gems. We work with two local Community managers, your guides to London's hidden gems and secret spots. They're ready to make your experience unforgettable. Explore London like a local with their unique insights.

Community: Our sense of community is a core part of the London experience. We organize various events to unite everyone, including our  family dinners and brunches, adaptable to your work schedule.

Professional Growth: Noma's community members host workshops based on their professional background or personal skills that they find interesting or useful for other guests. 

Code of Conduct 

We are a diverse and inclusive community, committed to supporting one another in our shared journey. Please extend your support to those organizing events and don't hesitate to ask questions; there are no such things as 'stupid questions' or 'boring events.'

At Noma, the safety and comfort of every member are paramount. We have solo travelers and staggered arrivals, so let's make every newcomer feel genuinely welcome and supported in their experience.

Respect and Consideration:

Noma attracts individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and ideologies. It's essential to be mindful of this diversity. Avoid making comments or jokes related to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, divisive political figures, or national stereotypes. Let's practice empathy and understanding at all times.

Ensuring Safety:

1. Consent Matters: Never touch someone without their clear and enthusiastic consent.

2. Respect Personal Space: Everyone deserves their privacy and personal space; please respect their boundaries.

3. Reporting Concerns: If you witness any unsavory, criminal, or unwelcome behavior, please report it to a member of staff immediately. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation and are unsure how to handle it, Team Noma is always available to assist.

Contributing to Local Communities: 

At Noma, we aim to support and uplift the communities we visit. By engaging with and contributing to locally owned businesses and services, we can make a positive impact on the places we explore. We encourage everyone to be conscious of the local economy and environment, promoting sustainability and ethical practices while embracing the rich culture and traditions of our destinations.

Maintaining Confidentiality:

We value discretion and will handle issues with utmost sensitivity, unless you specify otherwise. Reach out to us at @TeamNoma if you have concerns or need assistance.

Thank you for making Noma a safe, respectful, and supportive community for everyone.

We believe in creating a respectful and harmonious environment where everyone can thrive and enjoy their Noma experience to the fullest.

Leaving Process

Transfers to the Airport 

We are happy to help arrange transfers to the airport when you leave, but please note this will be at your own expense (we are happy to get a quote for you from our local provider!). If you prefer to make your own way, you can call an Uber, take a train or ask the Community Managers for other options. Please do just let us know what you choose so that we can make necessary arrangements. 

Finally, sit back, relax and start counting down the days until you arrive in London! We can't wait to see you and show you around one of our favorite cities - it's going to be an incredible adventure.