Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
26 Mar 2024
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
50
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
We are currently looking for people to help us to prepare the garden for the autumn. In addition we also like some help with walking the dogs and other daily chores.
My husband is British and I am Belgian. We have 2 daughters of respectively 26 and 28 years old. The oldest is currently living at home. We have lived in Africa for more than 20 years before coming to France. We live in a big, beautiful old house in a very small village in the country side. We get by in French but we speak mainly English at home. We have 2 crazy but loving dogs, who love to socialise with visitors and 3 sweet cats. So people who come to France to learn French will not really benefit from staying with us. We both work as consultants and travel from time to time and have lots of experience with many different cultures. We enjoy cooking ( we are mainly vegetarian eating the occasional fish), walking, film and gardening. We are not far from Fontainebleau and other small towns and 1 hour from Paris with an easy train connection. We are happy for our workaway people to take full days off to go and visit Paris and other places and will facilitate getting to the station. .
We fully integrate workaway people in our daily lives, share experiences and meals ( we love it when workaway guests cook their favourite dishes) and when we have time take them on trips around our area. We are very flexible with working hours and we really want our workaway people to have a good time with us. We may also ask if workawayers can housesit for a few days during their stay as we have to go to Belgium from time to time.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are a multi cultural family , with lots of travel experience ( work and leisure) which we are happy to share.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Hi,
We need help with maintenance in the garden and some DIY work.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
Accommodation
A bedroom in the house, living with the rest of the family. When available an annex separate flat ( It is sometimes in use so not always available)
What else ...
We will assist you with getting to Paris, which has a wealth of sites and activities to discover. We also live close to the forest of Fontainebleau and the castles of Fontainebleau and Vaux le Vicomte. The area is great for walks in the forest and there are several nice small towns and villages in the vicinity. .
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
we have a fairly decent wifi system and table space to work
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
Can possibly accept pets
only small very friendly pets that can get on with our pets
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
Maximum 4 hours a day, 5 days a week, but we are flexible
Host ref number: 152389167547
Feedback (28)
23 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sean & Hamish )
Shaun and Hamish were great workawayers. We all thoroughly enjoyed their stay. They immediately fitted in and felt at home. They worked well (mainly garden jobs) and helped in the household and walked the dogs. They were always very helpful and considerate and they were great fun. We would definitely recommend them.
(Excellent
)
23 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Sean & Hamish ) for host
We were with this lovely family for two weeks, and could not speak higher of them. Caring, inviting people who are open to meeting people from all over the globe. Sharing life experiences with them was a highlight as we look to travel further. This was the best first Workaway experience, and will be sure to indulge further if the experience is the… read more
9 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Riccardo)
Ricardo was a great workawayer. His work in the garden was excellent. He really helped us to progress with our plans for the garden and gave us good advice. He worked beyond the required time and was always ready to help out in the household. He is also an amazing cook and we feasted on his Italian receipes. We had a lot of interesting discussions… read more
(Excellent
)
9 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Riccardo) for host
My experience was amazing here in Fericy.
I stayed here only two weeks and the time wasn't enough for enjoy the very nice place and of course the amazing family and the super sweet animals (Benjy most of all).
The house and the garden are really beautiful and was a pleasure for me to work there.
The work also was intreresting and never boring.… read more
I stayed here only two weeks and the time wasn't enough for enjoy the very nice place and of course the amazing family and the super sweet animals (Benjy most of all).
The house and the garden are really beautiful and was a pleasure for me to work there.
The work also was intreresting and never boring.… read more
1 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Cassandra & Alex) for host
What isn't to love about this family, who were our hosts, and now we can call them friends. We spent a week with Hilde, Pete and Hannah and we had the most amazing time, so much that we wish we were able to stay much longer.
The family integrated us into their lives, having long and wonderful lunch and dinner conversations, all working together… read more
The family integrated us into their lives, having long and wonderful lunch and dinner conversations, all working together… read more
28 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Cassandra & Alex)
Cassie and Alex were great workawayers. They worked very hard and put their hands to anything we asked them to do. They helped in the garden (digging and weeding and building a low stone wall ) and renovated a garden bench. They fitted in well with the household and voluntarily helped with cooking and other household chores. We had fun together,… read more
(Excellent
)
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
23 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sean & Hamish )
Shaun and Hamish were great workawayers. We all thoroughly enjoyed their stay. They immediately fitted in and felt at home. They worked well (mainly garden jobs) and helped in the household and walked the dogs. They were always very helpful and considerate and they were great fun. We would definitely recommend them.
(Excellent
)
23 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Sean & Hamish ) for host
We were with this lovely family for two weeks, and could not speak higher of them. Caring, inviting people who are open to meeting people from all over the globe. Sharing life experiences with them was a highlight as we look to travel further. This was the best first Workaway experience, and will be sure to indulge further if the experience is the… read more
9 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Riccardo)
Ricardo was a great workawayer. His work in the garden was excellent. He really helped us to progress with our plans for the garden and gave us good advice. He worked beyond the required time and was always ready to help out in the household. He is also an amazing cook and we feasted on his Italian receipes. We had a lot of interesting discussions… read more
(Excellent
)
9 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Riccardo) for host
My experience was amazing here in Fericy.
I stayed here only two weeks and the time wasn't enough for enjoy the very nice place and of course the amazing family and the super sweet animals (Benjy most of all).
The house and the garden are really beautiful and was a pleasure for me to work there.
The work also was intreresting and never boring.… read more
I stayed here only two weeks and the time wasn't enough for enjoy the very nice place and of course the amazing family and the super sweet animals (Benjy most of all).
The house and the garden are really beautiful and was a pleasure for me to work there.
The work also was intreresting and never boring.… read more
1 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Cassandra & Alex) for host
What isn't to love about this family, who were our hosts, and now we can call them friends. We spent a week with Hilde, Pete and Hannah and we had the most amazing time, so much that we wish we were able to stay much longer.
The family integrated us into their lives, having long and wonderful lunch and dinner conversations, all working together… read more
The family integrated us into their lives, having long and wonderful lunch and dinner conversations, all working together… read more
28 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Cassandra & Alex)
Cassie and Alex were great workawayers. They worked very hard and put their hands to anything we asked them to do. They helped in the garden (digging and weeding and building a low stone wall ) and renovated a garden bench. They fitted in well with the household and voluntarily helped with cooking and other household chores. We had fun together,… read more
(Excellent
)
26 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Hayley) for host
By far the best workaway experience I've had. I spent 2 weeks with Pete and his daughter Hannah (Hilde was traveling) and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Both Pete and Hannah are wonderful, good natured and interesting people with open hearts and lots of cool stories to share. They were both so welcoming and kind throughout my stay,… read more
20 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Hayley)
Hayley stayed with us for just under 2 weeks and helped with jobs around the house, walking our 2 dogs and specifically with a project to lay paving slabs to form a path across our veggie garden, which was the main task we wanted to get done. She was helpful, willing and efficient. She also cooked some meals, and generally helped out with whatever… read more
(Excellent
)
6 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Jeffrey) for host
The time together with the lovely family of Pete and Hilde has truly been an invaluable experience!
It always intrigues me vastly to see and learn on how other people/hosts have build up their lives to the point that i have the honor meeting them. Pete and Hilde opened my eyes in many ways but mostly by the fact that having a very flexible… read more
It always intrigues me vastly to see and learn on how other people/hosts have build up their lives to the point that i have the honor meeting them. Pete and Hilde opened my eyes in many ways but mostly by the fact that having a very flexible… read more
30 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Jeffrey)
Jeffrey was a great guest. He dug a new fishpond for us and pruned the trees and fitted in with household chores. He is a very interesting person with a good life philosophy and we had good chats. He also made us a delicious vegetarian beef stew ( traditional Belgian Recipe). Jeffrey was very easy to get on with and amazing with our dogs. They… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Jun 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
Daniel was a great work away guest. As it was his first work away experience he was a bit anxious to start with as he was not sure what to expect. Once he got into the routine he relaxed and was very pleasant to have around. He was very helpful and very respectful of the house rules. We had lots of nice discussions and fun together. As we were… read more
(Very good
)
13 May 2022
Left by Workawayer (Daniel) for host
If I could put 6 stars I would......I can only say my experience has exceeded my expectations, my stay with Pete, Hilde, Hannah, Becky, and Ale has been one of the best things I have experienced in my life as a traveller, without a doubt the quality of people this family has is phenomenal, they made me feel part of the family from the first… read more
3 Mar 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Martin)
Martin was a delightful workaway guest. He was always cheerful, funny, enthusiastic, helpful and caring. Martin helped us with jobs inside and outside the house including gardening, wood chopping,cleaning and DIY. He always set to his jobs and made sure he had good results in time. In addition to his set tasks he was always available to help with… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Martin) for host
There is nothing to add, all the last reviews are right.
But there is something impossible to write down, and is the love that this family has given to me. Since the moment I´ve met Pete in the train station to go for first time to his house, and when we arrive and he said “welcome home”, I felt part of the family.
This is not another workaway… read more
But there is something impossible to write down, and is the love that this family has given to me. Since the moment I´ve met Pete in the train station to go for first time to his house, and when we arrive and he said “welcome home”, I felt part of the family.
This is not another workaway… read more
21 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Ayham & Farah)
Ayham and Farah were very enjoyable workaway guests. They worked well on different projects, including work in the garden, restoring a garden bench, polishing furniture as well as joining in with daily chores, such as cooking delicious meals and walking our dogs. We had numerous evenings of interesting discussions, and we hope they will stay in… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Ayham & Farah) for host
Such an adorable family. Peter, Hilde and Hannah are so welcoming, interesting and lovely. We felt completely home at their house.
The work was so nice and the time was so flexible.
The house is calm and beautiful, the dogs (Benjie and Maya) are so cute and sociable, the cats are nice also.
Farah and I spent 10 days, we loved this experience, and… read more
The work was so nice and the time was so flexible.
The house is calm and beautiful, the dogs (Benjie and Maya) are so cute and sociable, the cats are nice also.
Farah and I spent 10 days, we loved this experience, and… read more
1 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Samantha & Teresa)
It was a real pleasure hosting Sam and Teresa, they are both easy-going, cheerful, helpful and interesting people. They helped us with various tasks, including general household work - doing the dishes etc., as well as painting some shutters and gardening chores, and, of course, walking the dogs! There was quite a lot of coming and going while… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Samantha & Teresa) for host
Unfortunately we did not get to meet Hilde, as she was traveling, but our stay with Pete and his daughter Hannah was absolutely amazing! They are such lovely people and we really enjoyed getting to know them through family style dinners in the evenings. Our favorite memories were where we all sat down and told stories and got to know each other… read more
15 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Alejandro & Alejandro) for host
We spend 2 weeks with Pete and Hilde helping by cleaning their workshop and doing some gardening small works. It was a great experience they are lovely people and really interesting, we had great vegetarian food. On the evening we had great talks and learned a lot about them. The place is amazing, it'sa beautiful house and they have 2 amazing dogs… read more
11 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Alejandro & Alejandro)
We have thoroughly enjoyed the company of Rico and Alex. They did a great job at cleaning up our workshop and laying a wooden floor and helped with several other tasks around the house. They walked our dogs daily and they both loved them. During our extended evening meals together we had very interesting discussions and learned a lot about life in… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Tgargiulotone) for host
We had an absolutely wonderful time with these experienced hosts. Great conversations, interesting people with lots of life experience from world travels.
They took us around to see special places. They also let us use the car to see local beautiful spots.
They are in a beautiful quaint town near Fountainbleau. The palace and forest are amazing.… read more
They took us around to see special places. They also let us use the car to see local beautiful spots.
They are in a beautiful quaint town near Fountainbleau. The palace and forest are amazing.… read more
17 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Tgargiulotone)
Tony and Amie were wonderful workaway guests. Tony helped us with putting in a door which was very challenging in an old house and Amie helped with painting and general household work. They both have a wealth of experience and skills. They are also great company, bring positive vibes in the home and are very respectful and thoughtful. They cooked… read more
(Excellent
)
2 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Melanie & Lee)
Lee and Mel were great work awayers. They immediately fitted into our household . They provided great skilled work ( fitted a cupboard etc) and many good ideas and were willing to help with all household chores. they were good fun to have around and we shared delicious meals , nice wines and good conversations on top of the good work . We would… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Melanie & Lee) for host
We had a wonderful 2 week stay with Hilde and Pete and their gorgeous dogs and cats. Their home in the French countryside is beautiful and we felt right at home throughout our stay. Hilde and Pete are absolutely lovely hosts and we enjoyed everyday as well as the fun evening dinners together and plenty of games and laughs. The Workaway tasks were… read more
23 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Joshua & Sarah ) for host
Wow, our stay with Hildé & Pete (& Benji, Miya, Ella, Izzy) was absolutely incredible. From the word go we were made to feel incredibly welcome and like old friends. It was actually hard to leave and we hope we're able to cross paths again in the future.
Hildé and Pete are such an interesting couple who have lived a very exciting life. It was… read more
Hildé and Pete are such an interesting couple who have lived a very exciting life. It was… read more
19 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Dawn) for host
This was my first workaway experience and I immediately felt more like a family friend than a stranger!
The work was easy, flexible, and enjoyable. I walked Maya and Benji in the beautiful countryside, did some spring cleaning and a little gardening.
The house is beautiful and peaceful. I had my own little area in the house with a bedroom and… read more
The work was easy, flexible, and enjoyable. I walked Maya and Benji in the beautiful countryside, did some spring cleaning and a little gardening.
The house is beautiful and peaceful. I had my own little area in the house with a bedroom and… read more
18 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Dawn)
Hi,
It has been a pleasure to host Dawn. She fitted in well with the family and contributed to several aspects of our lives. She provided several very useful household tips, quietly went about doing various jobs and she was an excellent cook. We enjoyed our discussions and our glass of wine while cooking together in the evening. We are still… read more
It has been a pleasure to host Dawn. She fitted in well with the family and contributed to several aspects of our lives. She provided several very useful household tips, quietly went about doing various jobs and she was an excellent cook. We enjoyed our discussions and our glass of wine while cooking together in the evening. We are still… read more
(Excellent
)
18 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host
I stayed with this beautiful family for almost four weeks. They were a wonderful family to be around, amply generous and kind. The work was very easy, I simply helped with meals and housework and the animals were a joy to take care of. Every one in the family is busy with their own schedule and here you are accepted simply as you are. The house is… read more
18 Mar 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Anna)
It has been a pleasure hosting Anna. She stayed with us while we were at home and also volunteered to house and pet site while we went on holiday and cared very well for our house and animals. Anna is a very interesting person and fitted in well with our family. She made us delicious meals and went about doing jobs around the house. We enjoyed our… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Zoe) for host
I had such an amazing time staying with Hilde, Peter, Hannah and Becky (the pups too!) I found exactly what I was looking for from my workaway experience here, which was a genuine connection to great, interesting people. It was so easy to feel at home there. The tasks were laid back and very much related to daily household life including making… read more
15 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Zoe)
We have enjoyed zoe'S stay with us.She is a very positive and vibrant young woman and very easy going, eager to help and be of service to the family. She immediately felt at home with us and got involved in all the household chores and jobs around the house. She was also good fun and cooked delicious dishes for us.I would recommend her as a… read more
(Excellent
)
15 Oct 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Bezalem)
We have thoroughly enjoyed Bezalem'S stay with us.He blended in perfectly with the family. Walked the dogs, cooked delicious food, played music and helped with all the jobs around the house. I enjoyed our talks and walks. He is an interesting person and brought serenity in the house. We would love to have him visit again.
(Excellent
)
15 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Bezalem) for host
Right now, as I sit in a hostel in Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, I want nothing more than to be back in the little town in which this family lives. When I arrived the first thing I noticed about their quaint little town is how peaceful it is. There is a natural aura of calm that you just feel once you arrive. The area is… read more
16 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Stephanie & Philip)
Stephanie and Philip were a delightful workaway couple and we really enjoyed having them. They were respectful, flexible, interesting and fun to have around. They worked well and were skilful and they fitted into our family life . They made us two delicious meals, helped us achieve our goal of restoring our shutters and shared many good… read more
(Excellent
)
16 Aug 2018
Left by Workawayer (Stephanie & Philip) for host
We were SERIOUSLY spoiled by this Workaway. I don't think it could possibly have gone better than our two weeks with Pete and Hilde. When I think of their family, generosity, warmth, and sincerity come to mind. Pete and Hilde made us feel cared for from the second we got off the train and they met us at the station. We were jet lagged and felt a… read more
6 Jun 2018
Left by Workawayer (Philip) for host
This family were my 54th host. I stayed for three weeks in May 2018. They are well-travelled and have varied professions: botanist, social scientist, journalist, and nutritionist. I had the opportunity to join the daily train commute to Paris and was able to visit the Botanic Gardens.
There are two boisterous untrained dogs that appreciate walks… read more
There are two boisterous untrained dogs that appreciate walks… read more
21 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Jazmin & Nasheli) for host
Esta fue nuestra primera experiencia en workaway y quedamos encantadas!! Pete, Hilde, Hannah y Becky son una excelente familia. Desde el primer instante nos recibieron y nos hicieron sentir muy cómodas, como parte de la familia. Benjito, Maya, Izzy y Ella (sus mascotas) son adorables. Disfrutamos mucho las caminatas por el bosque y todas las… read more
28 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Camilla & Rafael) for host
Hilde, Peter, Hannah and Becky are a lovely family, very hospitable, open minded, loving and made us feel like home all the time we were there. We felt so good in them company that it seemed we had met before. The tasks were simple and they were very concerned about our well being in doing them. Rafael helped Peter with the garden and Camilla… read more
19 Nov 2017
Left by Workawayer (Kate) for host
I loved spending time together with Hilde and Pete and their 2 daughters. They are all such interesting open and friendly individuals and it was a pleasure to get to know them. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with their adorable dogs. There are many excellent walks and beautiful woodlland trails to explore. I would be happy to return.
19 Nov 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Kate)
Kate was absolutely great as a work away. She immediately fitted in as part of the family. She was fun to have around and we had some good discussions. She was great with the pets and they adored her. They went on long walks. Kate is also a good cook and is very responsible in terms of household tasks etc. She also took a lot of initiative which… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Aura) for host
They are an amazing family to stay with: each member brings out a culture from different parts of the world, making them a multicultural family from which you can learn a lot. They are very welcoming, easy going and always willing to integrate you in their daily life activities. The town where they live at is charming, allowing you to get to know… read more
26 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Aura)
Aura was just amazing and an wonderful work-awayer. She was fun to have around and a great cook ( the best carrot cake and banana pancakes) always ready to help and to contribute ideas. She helped us to arrange our housewarming party and had lots of creative ideas which helped to make the party a success. Moreover she has a lovely personality and… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (Sean & Enel) for host
My wife and I spent just over a week with the family and we have to say it was one of the best Work Away experiences we've had. They took care of us so well and are some of the best people we've met. We helped them move into a beautiful home in the French countryside and we are excited for anyone who gets to stay there. If you're looking for a… read more
13 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Sean & Enel)
Sean and Enel were a great workaway couple and we thoroughly enjoyed their stay. They helped us move house and worked hard, shared our enthousiasm for our move, were fun to be with and shared precious experiences with us. They are two intelligent, capable and kind people and they engaged with all of our family members equally well. I would happily… read more
(Excellent
)
19 Oct 2015
Left by Workawayer (Gideon) for host
The best family in the world. I had a great time staying with these guys and recommend that everyone goes immediately. I hope to see them again soon!
26 Sep 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Alejandro)
Alejandro is a very good and nice person. he stayed with us several times, worked hard and contributed a lot to the household. he was respectful and also lots of fun. Would host him again any time
(Excellent
)
4 Jul 2015
Left by Workawayer (Alejandro) for host
If you choose to stay with this family you will have a relly nice workaway exprience, they were really nice and we always share good conversation while eating or walking in the forest. Thanks for all the good moments and hope we can see again :)
17 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Levente)
Hi Levente was a great 'work awayer'. He did great work in our garden and integrated in the family sharing stories and cooking etc with us. It was a pleasure to host him
(Excellent
)
16 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Levente) for host
It was my first workaway experience and I really really liked it. They were like my own family, we could speak about any topics friendly and openly. It was a good exchange of thoughts, ideas, photos and even national recipes. The gardening job also suited me well, it was nice to see that I could give a real contribution to the tasks around. We… read more
4 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Qristofer) for host
Amazing hosts. Very easy to get along with and extremely helpful. I had a great time staying with the family and would definitely recommend them to anyone trying to do workaway. I will try to keep contact with them for a long time.
