Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
16 Feb 2024
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
6
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
I live in the mountains of Monchique (Algarve) with my nine-year-old son, two ponies, a dog and two cats. My partner, Paul, lives next door and is here mainly at weekends. I’m a writer and I teach creative writing online for universities in the UK. I have just published some children's fiction about a Magic Campervan which is very exciting.
We live in a very small international hamlet with only a handful of people (all lovely). It is remote. Perfect for those who love nature and hiking.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Animal Care
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are a bilingual family - English and Portuguese. Paul, my partner, is German. We can help with either English or Portuguese. I also studied Russian at university and lived in Japan for many years. Unfortunately, both those languages are very rusty. We live in a beautiful part of the world - way off the beaten track and it would be an opportunity to see a hidden side of Portugal. If you love horses my beautiful mare is a constant challenge. The area is great for hiking and biking - and all aspects of nature. I am a writer and may be able to help out.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
We are looking for an independent woman/couple to spend some time with us. I would love to have some help with the garden. Some help with cooking and cleaning would also be good. I am vegetarian but my son eats meat and adores sushi. I'm very open to various proposals/arrangements. Everyone is different.
I also have a couple of ponies which are a constant source of work! They go away on livery sometimes but they are here at the moment. We have an opinionated Shetland and a beautiful but headstrong garrana.
We are sometimes away at the weekend so house-sitting would be appreciated. If you are a single person you need to be okay on your own.
I have also recently published some children's fiction, so would always appreciate help promoting it if that's your thing.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Japanese: Beginner
Russian: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
I can offer a self-contained studio (with heating - heat exchange/air-con). The studio would accommodate one adult/an adult and child, or possibly two adults but it would be small for three. There is a double bed, a sofa bed, a small bathroom and kitchenette. There is another fully-equipped kitchen I would be happy for you to use. As we live remotely there are not so many children around so I would be very happy for someone to stay with a child, more or less my son’s age. It is not for someone looking for nightlife.
What else ...
Our house is remote. There are no bars/cafes within walking distance (except up to Foia) and the nearest village is 14km. There is no public transport but I can give you lifts/bike when possible. It is possible to walk up to Foia - the highest point in the Algarve where there is a cafe. Monchique is also about 15km. In Monchique there is a swimming pool, library, yoga, many restaurants.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
I teach online for universities in the UK. The internet is okay but if you are using a lot of video then it can be a bit hit and miss. I have a dongle connection (mobile connection) in the studio which is actually better than in the house. So, yes!
Space for parking camper vans
Medium size camper/motorhome. I have a La Strada (an old one!). The roads are windy but good.
Can possibly accept pets
Small friendly pets.
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
Hours expected
2-4 hours a day (about 15 hours a week)
Feedback (3)
I felt so at home and well looked after, my little studio was an incredible surprise too!
It was a blessing every morning to have such wonderful views and a warm welcome from her cheeky dog Hayley. I especially enjoyed the day where Lisa and Paul took me out in the truck… read more
Her little son is a wonderful cheerful boy who loves gardening and cooking. He has his own little garden with his own planted veggies and even though he is a kid he is an extraordinary chef 😉 I even received a birthday cake for my birthday! That day was one of the most… read more
Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
I felt so at home and well looked after, my little studio was an incredible surprise too!
It was a blessing every morning to have such wonderful views and a warm welcome from her cheeky dog Hayley. I especially enjoyed the day where Lisa and Paul took me out in the truck… read more
Her little son is a wonderful cheerful boy who loves gardening and cooking. He has his own little garden with his own planted veggies and even though he is a kid he is an extraordinary chef 😉 I even received a birthday cake for my birthday! That day was one of the most… read more
