Profile information
Host rating
85 %
Last replied
10 Jun 2023
Feedback
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Email verified
Details
Description
Owner of a picturesque land in south Latvia. I'm intending of building there an permaculture homestead, some cob houses and be independent energy wise (both wind and solar powered).
The area is picturesque as the nature has overgrown in areas where people no longer live. The region has been experiencing depopulation for the last 20+ years so nature has largely overtaken areas which earlier were grazing or arable land. There are many natural lakes and woods and in general it's been an area untouched by any big industrial enterprises.
For the time being there isn't any power grid connection, as I'm planning to install solar panels in the near future. Electric appliances can be charged in town (at a public institution with sockets available in public spaces). There is a quite good mobile internet coverage, but there is no wi-fi. There is available transport within 2 km of my place with a local bus (2 times a day).
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The stay at the homestead would benefit those coming from knowledge in natural building, composting and basic permaculture principles. Also it is a good way in getting acquainted with a tri-lingual region in Latvia, where almost everybody is speaking at least 3 languages (Latvian, Russian, Latgalian - a dialect of Latvian) and even English. In general Latvians are known for their cherish of local folklore, so there are events all through the year when Latvians/Latgalians/Russians dress in traditional costumes and participate in singing and dancing events, with plenty of local/locally cooked food. There are also historical re-enactment events, where the old Latgalian presence is also celebrated.
Help
The area, situated in a marshland, needs clearing of brushes and long grass. The forest needs clearing of dry and dead branches which make access quite difficult. There are some old wooden barns and a sauna house that need restoration and a bit of cleaning. And the house needs gradual dismantling, as it's no longer safe for living. There's a small pond next to the sauna house which also needs to be cleaned.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Latvian (Lettish): Fluent
Russian: Fluent
Danish: 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
Tent or barn (with plenty of hay). In terms of food, the sources are rather scarce as the land hasn't been worked for many years and there are no crops as yet. So you will have to buy the food while here. Starting with August and going to October the orchard is full of apples. People with cattle are happy selling milk and diary products. Also there is the option of buying vegetables from the few locals for a fraction of the cost in the town (located approx. 10 km away). The town, however has a few supermarkets, specialized stores, banking and other services.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 3 hours a day, 5 days a week
