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Host is looking for help immediately
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
11 Dec 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 4 days
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Details
Description
Hello I'm Sonya, I live in a beautiful rural area of Lombardy in the north of Italy. It's an undiscovered part of the country in the hills in the province of Pavia, between Milan and Genova. The area is characterised by vineyards, small hilltop villages and castles, giving way to the magnificent Appenine mountain range towards Genova and the coast. There are many places to walk here, whether on country roads or on longer hikes in the mountains. Just half an hour from Pavia, a lovely medieval city, and one hour from Milan and from Genova. The nearest station is about 15 minutes away.
I am originally from Scotland but have lived in Italy for 30 years with my family who are now living in other countries. I am a shiatsu practitioner and teacher, and I also teach English. I am vegetarian and enjoy a simple meditative life, walking in beautiful places, Tai Chi , new and old friends, animals, music, art and film....
I have two pets, Bruno is an adorable old Beagle who sleeps most of the day, and Molly is his best friend, a sweet black cat.
They need warmth and affection in their big old country house.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Animal Care
Interests
Sustainability
Self development
Vegetarian or vegan
History
Music
Books
Art & design
Cooking & food
Animals
Nature
Yoga / Wellness
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
There are many restaurants offering traditional regional dishes and of course abundant local wines! The nearest town is 5km away with many cafes and popular markets on Wednesdays and Sundays. Visiting small hilltop villages and exploring the beautiful Appenine mountains are the best activities in this magical area.
Help
I need someone to look after my dog and cat, feed them and keep them company, and keep the house warm over Christmas . I will be away from the 23rd December until the 29th, and you could stay a few days longer if you want.Experience with looking after animals is important!
Bruno is an old beagle, affectionate and sweet he sleeps most of the day. He gets anxious sometimes when he is left alone although this doesn't mean that he can't be left on his own. It's just a matter of getting to know each other. Molly the cat is Bruno's best friend and she is pretty independent so no issues there. I would also ask you to water the plants in the house and keep the house clean and in order. You would have your own bedroom. If you could arrive on the 22nd of December I can show you how things work. This could be a workaway for one person or a couple, preferably over 25 years old. It would be best if you had your own transport as the house is 5 km from the nearest town and there is no public transport. The house is an old italian country house and in winter I heat it mainly with wood burning stoves so it is important that you have experience of stoves and keeping them alight.
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Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
French: Intermediate
Accommodation
There is a bedroom available and there are 2 bathrooms in the house. I will provide some vegetarian food staples such as pasta, rice , beans and vegetables. The main heating system is wood burning stoves so experience of that would be useful.
What else ...
There is almost no public transport so it would be best if you have your own transport . Neighbours can give help and advice while I am away. It's a very quiet village in Valle Schizzola, surrounded by hills and vineyards.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
There is a fairly reliable internet connection
Space for parking camper vans
There is a courtyard outside the house and garden for parking
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Bruno (13 years)
sweet old beagle
Molly (13 years)
wise old black cat
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The responsibility… read more
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The responsibility… read more
The wine producing area of Terazza de Costa is an endless succession of beautiful vineyards offering breathtaking views of the alps. (Thanks to Sonyas tips on where to go and what to do, which were absolutely priceless)
Conveniently located a short drive to big supermarkets, wineries,… read more
