Werde Teil unserer netten Familie auf einer schottischen Insel in den Highlands, Großbritannien
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: 27 März 2025
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Feedback (41)
Luke and Jordan, stayed with us for a few weeks, but in that time they did so much, put up a cabin change overs, part of the family, exceptional workaways I would recommend them to anyone, not only were they exceptionally hard working but they were kind good fun and well intesting! I would recommend them to anyone ,you won't be disappointed by
… read more these wonderful people, lots of love and thanks to you both for a wonderful workawy experience, thanks from the whole clan x
Thanks so much Ian, Jess & family. I had an excellent couple of weeks staying with you. I highly recommend this unique experience to anyone considering! The food, work, accommodation was all great. Hope to cross paths again soon! Cheers
Vom Host für Workawayer (Olivia)
No show booked in months ago, when I arranged pick up time Olivia has not contacted me, she has however read them, no problem cancelling but could have given more more notice, I could have arranged another workaways also not getting on touch is not acceptable in my view
(Workawayer hat in letzter Minute abgesagt/ist nicht erschienen)
Vom Workawayer (Claire) für Host
Ian and Jess instantly made me feel like part of the family! I now have best friends and younger siblings in each of the kids. Ian and Jess are both so easy to work with and make an effort to make sure you enjoy your stay. If you're there over the summer, make sure to tag along to the ceilidhs! Everyone will teach you the dances and they're heaps
… read more of fun.
This is such a special place that will not disappoint. The views are incredible, especially enjoyed from the hot tub, and the seals swimming around are so cool.
The work varies but is pretty chill if you get in and get it done. Going out on the boat with Ian is a pretty cool experience and you'll learn lots!
Basically, just don't miss this opportunity!!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet
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Dies sind zusätzliche optionale Bewertungen, wenn Mitglieder Feedback hinterlassen. Es wird die im Schnitt hinterlassene Bewertung für jede Option angezeigt.
Korrekte Angaben im Profil:
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Kultureller Austausch:
(5.0)
Luke and Jordan, stayed with us for a few weeks, but in that time they did so much, put up a cabin change overs, part of the family, exceptional workaways I would recommend them to anyone, not only were they exceptionally hard working but they were kind good fun and well intesting! I would recommend them to anyone ,you won't be disappointed by
… read more these wonderful people, lots of love and thanks to you both for a wonderful workawy experience, thanks from the whole clan x
Thanks so much Ian, Jess & family. I had an excellent couple of weeks staying with you. I highly recommend this unique experience to anyone considering! The food, work, accommodation was all great. Hope to cross paths again soon! Cheers
Vom Host für Workawayer (Olivia)
No show booked in months ago, when I arranged pick up time Olivia has not contacted me, she has however read them, no problem cancelling but could have given more more notice, I could have arranged another workaways also not getting on touch is not acceptable in my view
(Workawayer hat in letzter Minute abgesagt/ist nicht erschienen)
Vom Workawayer (Claire) für Host
Ian and Jess instantly made me feel like part of the family! I now have best friends and younger siblings in each of the kids. Ian and Jess are both so easy to work with and make an effort to make sure you enjoy your stay. If you're there over the summer, make sure to tag along to the ceilidhs! Everyone will teach you the dances and they're heaps
… read more of fun.
This is such a special place that will not disappoint. The views are incredible, especially enjoyed from the hot tub, and the seals swimming around are so cool.
The work varies but is pretty chill if you get in and get it done. Going out on the boat with Ian is a pretty cool experience and you'll learn lots!
Basically, just don't miss this opportunity!!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Gemma) für Host
What a great month I've had here!
Both the area and the family are absolutely lovely. I was part of the family from day one😀, they included me in family day trips out like Oban, Inverness and Ceilidh dances (Scottish traditional dances). They also made a big effort to show me around the places and sights along the way.
In terms of the family. Ian
… read more is a very nice person who cares about the local area and knows so much about history, which is super interesting! He tought me a lot about historical links between Spain and Scotland!
Jess is very chatty and a very fun person to be around, she always included me in her meet ups with friends and she also made sure I got the chance to see a Highland cow too!
For future workaways, I recommend you go to red point beach on the bike! It was by far my favourite thing. I also loved the boat trips with Ian they were incredibly interesting as you could see the different types of species of shellfish and fish in the local area.
Iona and Isla are lovely too, very fun to be around and chat, they are very hardworking, smart and mature girls!
Finlay is the youngest of the kids and by far the most energetic! He was very fun to be around as he always wanted to play with me, we went on lots of walks and hikes together with their family dog named Dubh, who loves cuddles and Smakos (treats)!
This has definitely the best workaway experience I've had by far in terms of the hosts. I feel like they have given me so much more than I was able to give them💕.
Thanks you for this amazing experience. It will for ever be in my heart❤️.
Many many thanks dear Ian, Jess, Iona, Isla, Finlay and Dubh for hosting me on this beautiful island. I had a very authentic stay thanks to your hospitality. The work was definitely doable and enriched me with new skills for my life. I loved wheeling Ian's big boat as well as being at the market to sell shellfish with Jess. Isla and Iona are very
… read more welcoming and lovely and Finlay is just as sweet. Unfortunately my stay was a bit short due to my work, but I hope to see you guys again one day :)
Many many thanks, hugs and kisses from Cherry!
Cherry, was just wonderful, what a special person, most workaway come for a moy or more, and we. Know them before they come, due to a last minute cancellation cheery came, she enriched all of our lives and I hope we have a friend for ever, any host would be lucky to have this special person to enrich there lives , the only bad thing i can say
… read more about cheery is that she stayed for to little a time, thank you for the clanx
Vom Host für Workawayer (Ellena)
Wonderful young lady, good fun helpful, hard working and great to have around, look forward to seeing her again in the future and following her adventures, thank you Ellie, miss you, cheers from the clanx
Vom Workawayer (Ellena) für Host
I stayed with Ian and the family for a month and a half and had an amazing time! I felt at home straight away and was always included in family plans and outings (weekly soup lunches at the community hall, badminton on Saturdays...). The work was varied and never boring, and you get plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful area.
… read more There's some really nice walks around Badachro and I saw plenty of seals, birds, and deer. The work wasn't hard (for me it was mostly doing changeovers and putting down chicken wire) and everyone always checks up on you to see if you're managing. They're also far from cruel as when the weather's really bad they tell you to stay inside and keep warm instead! The kids and Dubh the dog are lovely and always up to play or watch something together (or go for a walk for Dubh!).
One of the highlights of my time was probably going out on the fishing boat with Ian, especially as he's always got a good story or two up his sleeve! A tip: if you want to get in his good books, blast some Van Morrison (and Tide Lines for Jess).
All in all it was an amazing experience and I'd recommend the workaway to anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some of Scotland's best scenery. I know I'll definitely be coming back (if they'll have me!!). A big thank you again to all !Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Carolyn)
Fantastic young lady, great worker ,great fun, can't wait to see her again, the whole family were sad to see her go on her further adventures, we look forward to welcoming her back home here soon, anyone would be lucky to host this young lady, thank you
Vom Host für Workawayer (Lisa)
Lisa is an exceptional young lady who quickly became part of the family and will always remain so, can't praise her to highly, she stayed extra time with us and it was still to short,
The only thing about her leaving is she is going to be coming back to stay with us for longer, we wish our soul sister/daughter every success in life and look
… read more forward to seeing her soon, lots of love the clan x
Vom Workawayer (Lisa) für Host
I stayed for about 12 weeks (I originally planned just 6 weeks) and I had an absolutely great time with them! Learned lots about the area and about the highland and the life there itself. It’s quite a unique spot!
It was lovely to be part of their family and also be included in the community. I enjoyed the work, especially going out by boat with
… read more Ian or doing some maintenance work around the house :). Loved spending time with the kids and going for a walk with Dubh! Overall it was the best workaway experience that I had and I will definitely come back!
Thank you all for everything!
Lots of love Lisa xxxDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Danielle)
Dani came last minute because of a no show, serendipity! Although she only stayed for 2 weeks I hope we have friend for life, endlessly cheerfull good fun and up for everything, hard working, kind funny and helped us through a very hard time for which we are endlessly grateful for, thank you Dani from your new Scottish family! Ian, Jess, Iona
… read more Isla, finlay and of course dubh x
Vom Host für Workawayer (Andra)
Fantastic young lady, great fun Isla still wears modric shirt, she was hard working, great fun , and Extremely dependable , she is always welcome in our home, thank You, from the whole clan
Vom Workawayer (Andra) für Host
It is hard to put into words just how much I enjoyed my time on this little island. Communication was mostly done with Jess and I found it very effective and quick. When I decided to come here I didn't know what to expect, it's not easy coming into someone's home and assimilating into their every day routine. But for me it was an instant click
… read more with this family. I felt at home the whole time I was there and always felt like part of the family. I had enough freedom with the chores and never actually felt like I was 'working'. Going out on the boat with Ian, Isla and Dubh was always a lot of fun, and I feel like we became quite the team.
A big bonus to the experience were Iona's themed dinner! Best cook I've ever met:)
The location is beautiful, the work is in my opinion easy and enjoyable and the family and whole community were very welcoming. I feel really lucky to have spend a month with them and if it wasn't for work would have definitely stayed longer!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Hannah) für Host
Thank you! I stayed with Ian, Jess, Iona, Isla, Finlay and Dubh for around 3 months. From the moment I arrived I was out and about experiencing the island and everything it has to offer. I felt very welcome in their lovely home, and am allready missing the beautiful view from my window (and little Dubh sitting next to me).
Not only did I learn
… read more alot about Highland life, I was able to really get to know people in the area and experience things I never could without the support I was offered.
The work was very reasonable, and dare I say at times even fun! Learning about the fishing boats, cooking shellfish, meeting new guests were all unique experiences I will taking with me in my journies to come.
I learnt so much in my time, and had so much fun, it was an absolutely invaluable experience. I would reccomend this workaway to anyone who loves to learn new things, experience beautiful scenery, and really emmerse themselves in the area.
Thank you again, I'm sure I'll be round to tea soon!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Andrew)
Andrew was a excellent worker, adaptable, hard working and a lot of fun to have around, we would have no hesitation in recommending him to any host, good luck in the future, cheers the clan
Vom Workawayer (Andrew) für Host
I stayed with Ian and Jess back in 2013 and their two girls Isla and Iona Great people very friendly, welcomed me into their home and family. Absolutely beautiful part of Scotland’s West coast, a complete joy to live and work here and be a visitor to the Kingdom Of Islonia.
I was helping to set up a B&B house, some scrub cutting built a walkway
… read more and Helped Ian with his Fishing Boats. Will be revisiting these lovely people again when I return to Scotland this year .Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Emeline) für Host
They are an extraordinary family, I spent 5 weeks with them and I really felt at home. Kids are just awesome. Finlay is a very intelligent boy, thanks, for Hello me to learn more about rubikcube! I really appreciated to play with him. Iona and Ila are very nice, I loved the movie nights and the activities done together. Thanks girls for having me
… read more addicted to Hay day ! Ian and Jess are lovely, they made me feel at home, I laughed a lot with them. The work is nice and not too hard and their island is just amazing. Thank you again for everything, the activities and the outings. I felt like part of your family during these 5 weeks. I miss you, you will always be welcome in my home.
EmelineDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Maria)
Wonderful young lady, we wish her all the best and look forward to seeing her again in the future, thank you for all your help lots of love the clan
Vom Host für Workawayer (Holly)
Anmerkung: Der Workawayer hat den Aufenthalt gecancelt oder ist kurzfristig nicht erschienen.
(Workawayer hat in letzter Minute abgesagt/ist nicht erschienen)
Vom Workawayer (Gerline) für Host
I have had almost 10 great weeks at the place - a beautiful place with breathtaking surroundings and a nice family to live and work with. The work was fun and varied, from housework, cleaning holiday homes, pruning rhododendrons and building a new footpath to fishing. I learned a lot from it all and certainly enjoyed it.
The people here are very
… read more kind; communication can be, however, a challenge sometimes.
I would like to thank Ian, Jess, Iona, Isla, Finley and Dubh very much for their hospitality and my wonderful time on the island.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Sehr gut)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Gerline)
Lovely young lady, we wish her well in the future and she is always welcome as a friend thank you for all your help cheers the clan
Vom Workawayer (Lena) für Host
I spent amazing seven weeks with the lovely family of Jess, Ian, Iona, Isla, Finlay and of course the dog Dubh. I loved the place and the surrounding landscape! The weather was even better than I expected it in the end of Summer/Autumn. During my stay I learned a lot about fishing, the Scottish History and improved my English. I also really
… read more enjoyed the Roadtrips with the whole family. I had a lot of free time in which I often took Dubh with me and explored the Highlands (Red Point, Gairloch, Port Henderson and the lovely little tracks besides the road). One of my favourite things to do, was to spend time with the children. Oh and I loved watching your program about the Island and your family on Chanel 5. I already miss the family and the place.
I wish you all the best,
LenaDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Simon & Fanny)
Fanny came on her own eventually, she was wonderful, could not recommend highly enough, hard working, kind, considerate, funny, thorough, good cook, positive, just a around great person she will always be welcome in our home as a friend, we all wish her all the best for the future and are sure she will be a success in anything she does!, she is a
… read more great credit to her family and her country, much love the clan
Vom Host für Workawayer (Immanuel)
Immanuel was a outstanding work a way and an outstanding human being, he has a very mature head on young shoulders! He is great credit to his family and country, I could not recommend him enough we all hope to see him again in the future and wish him all the best from islonia! Cheers ian jess Iona island finlay and dubh
Vom Workawayer (Immanuel) für Host
The time on this island was amazing.
The family was always there for me, open and friendly. Going out on a boat, fishing and just enjoying the landscapes. It is stunning. Also using the bike to get around makes you very flexible. Thank you for everything.
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Kyle )
Wonderful
Vom Workawayer (Kyle ) für Host
Well, where to even begin. To say I had a heightened sense of curiosity when originally inquiring to Jess and Ian about staying with them here, which they kindly took me in on shorter notice than longer, my expectations were far surpassed anything I could have imagined upon arrival to Badachro. Even the first moment stepping on to the dingy and
… read more going from the pier to the Island, I felt I had really stumbled upon a special place.
Of course, the first obvious aspect is the spectacular natural surroundings and beauty but what really made my time on Badachro all the more special is not just the generous welcoming from Ian and Jess but the rest of the community as well. Being a part of this place, tagging along whenever I could, was a great "in" to have for being, in my estimation, the closest feeling a local member of the community even if it was for just a month. Will confidently say I have never been in an area as a total stranger and been met with such a welcoming/positive embrace. Perhaps it is all what one "puts out" which factors in but that might be for someone else to decide.
Work/tasks varied while on the Island and I found both Jess and Ian to be quite flexible and easy to communicate with. Personally, I spent much time outside doing general work such as bracken and rhododendron removal on the island which I had no problem with. Just plug in some headphones and take in the spectacular views surrounding. Changeovers from guests staying on the island are typically daily, but this is not physically demanding. Beyond that, I often tidied up in the kitchen (Ian was generous enough to do most the cooking) and be any assistance when possible (answering the phone for bookings, etc.). All I was quite happy to do. You won't ever be put in a situation of work which may feel beyond one's ability but if so, as I said, Jess and Ian are very flexible and easy to communicate with.
This was my first workaway experience where I truly felt "part of the family", which I think Ian and Jess set expectations to be so early on, and it really made for a positive experience. Both would go out of their way when possible to make time so I could really get a thorough and intimate experience of the local area and further. I still had plenty of time to myself as well. Ian is like having your own personal guide/historian with his vast knowledge to share which really added another level depth to everything. Additionally, whether it was being shown the swimming spot at the river by Iona and Isla, getting a fiddle performance/shown Gaelic skills from both, or beach exploring with Finlay and just keeping an eye on him here and there really added to the feeling of being one with the family which I valued. Even just sitting outside with Dubh taking in the surrounding views made for fond memories, to say the least.
Between the through imbracing of the family, making fantastic connections from spending time with the locals, sharing great conversations with Ian and all the while being placed on Badachro certainly made for a bit of a melancholy moment upon departure but at the same time it makes for a quite happy feeling gaining awareness of the area and knowing I can, and will, return. I feel incredibly fortunate for the experience Jess and Ian were able to provide and being able to find the area which they call home.
Ian and Jess, thank you both SO much!! Truly forever grateful.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Josephine Renée) für Host
The family are a lovely, hardworking, creative bunch. The work varied from day to day, ranging everywhere between painting, cleaning and babysitting.
Ian is a fisherman which gave me the opportunity to learn the traditional way of fishing, known to the area.
I had plenty of free time to explore and hike the Highlands, with guidance and advice
… read more from Ian, himself.
The family is welcoming and eager to share their culture, customs and make you a part of the family, while you're there.
Needless to say, with three kids around, there's never a dull moment. And if you're in for that, this is definitely the place for you.
.. The day can always be peppered with a trip to the local pub in the evening - a touch of true, Scottish culture :)
Thank you for letting me be a part of something as beautiful as this.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Josephine Renée)
Great worker,great company, great cook, look forward to meeting you again and wish you all the best in your adventures ahead of you! Lots of love jess ian Iona island Finley and dubh
Vom Host für Workawayer (Toria & Dom)
Toria,
What can we say,toria was hard working conscientious and soon became part of the family we were sorry to see her go and all of us wish her a speedy return here ,thank you so much for all your hard work and friendship cheers.
Vom Host für Workawayer (Kate)
Kate was great! Lovely young lady hard working meticulous in everything she did,she soon became part of the family we all miss her and hope to see her again in the future, we wish her all the best in her travels and adventure's. Thanks Kate, cheers the clan
Vom Workawayer (Workaway-Mitglied) für Host
The family are lovely!
I stayed with them four weeks in august and september 2018 and had a great time on the island. The rural area with the stunning nature is perfect to forget about everything. This family lives at an unique place and the cottages are very cosy and comfortable to stay as a guest. Every little space in the family-owned house is
… read more used senseful for storing clothes, toys and instruments or for drying washings ;) It's easy to keep the small rooms warm and cosy once the heat is in.
I had plenty of time to explore the area and was able to walk a lot. They recommended nice walking routes, took me there on my days off and gave me lifts to explore the area and all the wonderful west coast of the scottish highlands. I had lots of fun and enjoyed the exchange of culture, lifestyle, daily routine and language.
Most of the work was cleaning and tidying up, especially after the children left for school or nursery. But I also sold some fish at Gairloch pier, did changeover for guests, washing and ironing. Most of all I enjoyed the gardening on the island!
It never went boring in this house, the kids always looked for somebody playing lego, singstar or watching a movie together. Also Douph (= the dog) is always happy to go for a big walk.
Even the 4 days on the island by myself were very interesting and quite a challenge to welcome all the guests.
I really enjoyed my time there!
Hope I see you all again soon :) Thank you for this unforgetable, wonderful experiences!
Cheers, KatrinDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Sehr gut)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Workaway-Mitglied)
Katrun was a great guest, hard working diligent and kind, she is welcome back as a friend at anytime, we wish het all the best in her future adventures, love and best wished from the family
Vom Host für Workawayer (Antoine)
Antoine was great, soon became part of family, welcome back any time, makes a mean macaroni cheese! Cheers ian and family
Vom Workawayer (Antoine) für Host
I spent an amazing month with Jess, Ian, Iona, Isla, Finlay and Dubh ! There was always someone to talk to or have fun with. The people and the landscapes here were extraordinary. They allowed me to have wonderful adventures like kayaking around the island, swimming with the jellyfish, and riding a bike with the family in the middle of the
… read more mountains. I also went fishing for delicious langoustines with Ian, who also helped me organize a day trip on Skye.
I had a lot of fun here and I highly recommend it for anyone !
Thank you for everything, you're going to miss me ! (and well done to Ian who finally won the World Cup with France)Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Carolin)
Carolin was greater only regret is she did not stay long enough, she was a great worker ,we wish her all the best for the future and she will always be welcome here cheers the clan x
Vom Workawayer (Carolin) für Host
I had a great time living with Jess and Ian. They really made me feel welcome in their home and were very friendly. Ian even gave me a ride to a place where I could go hiking.
The island they live on is beautiful and a very relaxing place to be.
I also had a lot of fun with Iona, Isla and Finlay and I'll definitely miss them.
The work I had to
… read more do was not too hard and I really enjoyed cleaning (surprisingly!). Thanks to Jess, even ironing became a fun task to do! ;)
I hope that one day I'll have the chance to see them again.
Thanks for everything!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Viviane)
Viviane great and soon became part of the family it was a real joy to have her around, we hope to see her again in the future and she will always be welcome to this place and will always have a place in our hearts! Thank you from all the clan xxx
Vom Workawayer (Viviane) für Host
My stay here was extraordinary. It was 6 weeks with a lovely family in the magical place. Thank you so much Jess and Ian. I had a really great time with Iona and Isla, Finlay and Dubh ! I was also able to discover fabulous landscapes including a trip to the Isle of Skye. Just beautiful !!
I was happy to take part in ShellfishSafari and to enjoy
… read more with you family outings (specially the beautiful beach and kayak).
I thank everyone for their kindness, this experience will forever be engraved in my memory !!
I kiss everyone xxx :)Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Julian)
Julian was excellent, a kind funny hardworking young man who was a credit to his country and family, every job he did well and the bench he made for the kids draws many admiring praise, we wish him all the best for the future and he always has some where to lay his hat here with many thanks and much love ian Jess long Isla Finland and dubh x
Vom Workawayer (Julian) für Host
I spent lovely 2 months over Christmas and New year's with the McWhinny family! The work was great, sometimes a bit challenging, but there was always a way to get it done. I really enjoyed fishing, although we hardly caught anything...
There was always something going on in the house with Iona, Isla and Finlay around :-)
Thanks for all of
… read more that!
JulieDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
One of the first things Ian told me about Scotland was that it is a “marketer’s paradise.” He certainly wasn’t wrong. With its grand open skies, seemingly untouched swaths of land steeped in history and legend, diverse wildlife, and the spectacular variety of food, it is not difficult to imagine why. But it is none of these things that make
… read more Scotland one of my personal wonders of the world. Across all of Scotland, the warmth and hospitality of its people is unmissable. While you could spend a lifetime traveling through Scotland experiencing the love and kindness of Scottish people, I’m happy to have devoted almost all of my time living with Ian, Jess, and their children- the royal family of Scotland’s only independent island kingdom of Islonia.
Ian and Jess function as the sort-of-tongue-and-cheek king and queen of their private island, even to go so far as issuing passports and a set of local laws to all who visit. As someone lucky enough have been granted the rare Workaway visa, I had the opportunity to devote my time working with Ian on all projects related to his shellfishing business as well as upkeep of the island from managing paths and inter-island transportation. Though the one job I hadn’t expected to enjoy far more than all the others was caring for their incredible and unique children.
Ranging in age from two to twelve, with a few birthdays in between, Isla, Iona, and little Finlay taught me a great deal about the joys and complexities of working for young people. All three of Ian and Jess’s children live in an environment where learning never seems to stop, whether they are hiking mountains in inclement weather, winning 1st place at a local quiz night, fiddle busking at a local market, practicing Scottish Gaelic, or just enjoying classic films. It was particularly remarkable watching and helping them develop their interpersonal skills, as we all tried to find new ways to better share our feelings and respect the needs of each other.
Ian once very well summed up his role as a father when he said that, “Islonia and everything on it belongs to my children, I am but the caretaker of their estate.” Ian and Jess live the busy lives of being fishermen, carrying on the rich tradition of Ian’s family and their island. But they never have too little time to spend alongside their children, most notably during their incredible adventures that, during these past few months, took them up north to the Outer Hebrides for a week and very much down south for a three week trip to South America. By the first month of my stay, Ian and Jess had decided to leave me as the sole caretaker of their island while away on this three week holiday, a task that at first seemed daunting. But it was during this period that I became well acquainted with the great community they live in as I was always lent a helping hand when something needed to be fixed that was outside of my expertise.
Of course with or without Ian and Jess’s family around, I was never without their lion-hearted dog Dubh, who very quickly became my closest companion. One who knows no leash, Dubh is the kind of dog that creates and transcribes new landscapes as he led me through long fall walks along the Wester Ross countryside and great ocean cliffs of Opinan. For being such a vast expanse of land, much of which appearing to be untouched by human civilization, I was surprised by just how surrounded I felt by a loving community of people. From my perspective, Ian and Jess are not only the king and queen of their sacred island, but the best people to represent their country. Their children of course being the prince and princesses of their land, are some of the toughest and bravest kids I’ve ever met. I cannot wait until the day I am able to once again wash up on their shores and see how their kingdom has grown. They are the writers of their own Scottish legends. They are what make Scotland, for me, a “marketer’s paradise.”
Dear Ben,
Where do I start, wonderful young man a credit to hisnfamily and country ( I'll say Italy) everything he did was of the highest quality, I would highly recommend him to anyone that needs a clever proactive interesting and practical person on a more personal level we all miss and look forward to the day when he washes back on our shores (
… read more not literally!) He will always be welcome back here first and foremost as our dear friend love and best wishes from Ian Jess Iona isla and finlay and dubh take care its a big world out there!
Vom Host für Workawayer (Kobe)
Kobe was a joy to have,she was great fun hard working and adaptable, she always has a place in our hearts and our home, much love from all the family
Vom Workawayer (Kobe) für Host
What an amazing family and what an amazing experience! My time with Jess, Ian and the kids is time that will never be forgotten; amazing memories made for sure. How often do you get the chance to live on an island, act a tour guide, play fishwife or work and steer a fishing boat?!
The work was fun, the family were lovley and the scenery
… read more absolutely beautiful. What Jess and Ian have to offer is exactly what workaway is all about for me. Thank you for having me, I'm missing you all already.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Ned)
Young Ned of the hill was great fun to have around hard working good fun tastefully attired we hope to see him again one day, thank you from Ian Jess Iona isla finlay and dubh
Vom Workawayer (Ned) für Host
I had a wonderful time here, 10/10 - couldn't have loved it more! Thanks!
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Juliette & Anne-Clothilde)
Great girls hard working funny and all round good fun a credit to there country and parents we all hope to see our new friends again in the future Ian Jess Iona isla finlay and dubh
Vom Workawayer (Pétronille) für Host
Big thank you to Jess and Ian, who both made me feel like at home. This was an incredible experience and an amazing month spent there. The environment is really beautiful, and the landscapes are breathtaking.
We stay in touch,
Lots of kisses to you Jess, Ian, Iona, Isla, Finley and Dugh!
Pepette
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Pétronille)
Petronelle soon became one of the family, great fun great worker, we all miss her and wish her all the best for the future insure we will all meet again, thank you for everything, Ian Jess Iona isla finlay and dubh x
Vom Workawayer (ALEXANDRE) für Host
I spent wonderful (too short) 5 weeks with Ian, Jess, the kids and dubh.
This is a beautiful place located in the most magnificent part of Scotland.
It was so much fun to work on the boat with Ian and I really felt part of the family at home.
Thank you so much for your availability and your extreme generosity. I hope we'll keep in touch.
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (ALEXANDRE)
Alex was a wonderful young man, funny hard working and great which maker! Became one of the family, we all miss him and look forward to seeing him in august, than you from Ian Jess Iona isla finlay and dubh x
Vom Host für Workawayer (Jade)
Jade was fantastic, soon became part of family great fun good worker ,we all miss her sure we will meet again , thanks for everything Ian Jess Iona isla finlay and dubh x
Vom Workawayer (Jade) für Host
Thank you again and again Jess, Ian, Iona, Isla and Finlay! I know I said that so much already but I really felt the need to leave a thankful message on this website which allowed us to get in touch and to spend such a great time together. Not only I learned so much on different working experiences such as cleaning the properties, a little bit of
… read more fishing and some houseworks but I also got to share unforgettable moments with your family, and felt very lucky about it.
Those moments included very interesting conversations, about the Scottish culture, History, current events... (you two are very interesting people, and so are your adorable kids!), but also incredible walks that made me discover one of the most beautiful area in the world (for sure! Even though I haven't been everywhere yet but not doubts about this haha!).
I'll stop the looong text here but to anyone considering staying with this kind family living in a beautiful area AND on an island ("a once in a life time opportunity" as would say Isla!) : don't hesitate a second! You'll come back home with a ton of incredible memories made of stunning landscapes and warm laughs!
PS : did you receive the photos I sent to Jess' mail adress ?Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Grant) für Host
I cannot begin to express my gratitude towards both Ian and Jess for giving me the opportunity to experience their own haven in the Highlands. The work is very mild for anyone that has done physical labour; if you are capable of taking instructions and following through with them you will be set for most tasks. Both Ian and Jess imparted knowledge
… read more of the surrounding areas and flora/fauna so that you gained practical understanding of the environment. The children were very well-mannered and expressed interests of their own; if you are in-charge of their care, you will not be bored, as they have multiple ways they enjoy spending their time. Dubh, the family dog, is good company for a walk through the Highland hills, just keep an eye on him. (He likes to jump forward without looking ahead and below)
I was originally set to only stay for a couple weeks, but the family was kind enough to extend my stay and have me stay for the whole month.
My message to anyone looking to apply would be to be open to experiencing nature, try new things, follow through with the instructions given to you. You will leave the Island with an appreciation for the beauty of it's surroundings, and hopefully with fond memories and lifelong friends.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Grant)
grant was excellent, hard working and diligent, he would be a great asset to anyone looking for intelligent hard working young man thanks ian jess and the kids
Vom Workawayer (ArturS90) für Host
I spent three wonderful months with Ian, Jess, the children and Dubh (love this dog :)), I was treated like a member of the family :) It was an awesome experience! I loved the sea, the fresh air, the kind people and the fishing. The job was very interesting and I learned a lot about the culture of Scotland. The landscape is just stunning.
12/10
… read more Would visit again :)Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (ArturS90)
We all miss Artur great guy good sense of humour and excellent workers is welcome anytime here cheers Ian Jess island Iona Findlay and dubh
Vom Workawayer (Soo Yi) für Host
Thanks Ian and Jess family for the generous host. I had a great stay in lovely island for 7 weeks with the family and other helpers.
The help was different on every 5 working days (housework, self-catering changeover, looking after shops or at comunity market) which i enjoyed so much rather than daily routine.
Beautiful place and people,
… read more definitely will pay a visit when return to Scotland.
Take care and cheers.
Sooyi Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Cindy)
Cindy is a lovely lady she was wonderful when she stayed here we miss her and wish her all the best cheers ian Jess iona isla and dubh
Vom Host für Workawayer (Quentin)
excellent workawayer, pleasant funny and very precise, we wish quentin all the best in the future thanks ian and family
Vom Host für Workawayer (Lucile & Antoine)
lucille was like a mistral wind blowing in from the south, hard working funny a credit to her upbringing and country vive le france
Vom Workawayer (Lucile & Antoine) für Host
I spent 4 wonderful and unforgettable weeks in an amazing place with a really lovely family !!!
They are very generous, kind, extraordinary, and more ... They did lots of things for me !
The girls and the baby are very endearing !
I hope come back to see them !
Lucile.
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Kayla & David)
excellent great guys wish you all the best in your travels thank you ian and family
Vom Host für Workawayer (mary1963)
mary was great we all miss her especially dubh we hope she visits again soon she always has somewhere to stay here, anyone who has here to stay will benefit from her prescence wonderful workawayer, kind thoughtful meticulous warmhearted
Vom Workawayer (mary1963) für Host
Wonderful experience and very welcoming family and doggies. Spent five weeks on the island and fell insanely in-love with the scenery. Enjoyed my time at the nearby inn and meeting the locals. I even got my name mentioned on Britain's smallest commercial radio station! Was difficult to leave the area and the spectacular autumn colours. Thank
… read more you Ian and Jess for being great hosts. Dieser Workawayer hat sich dafür entschieden, sein Profil privat zu schalten, kann aber von anderen Workawayern bezüglich dieses Feedbacks kontaktiert werden.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Lauren & Don) für Host
Our time spent this last month on this little island has been amazing! Ian, Jess, Iona, and Isla make you feel right at home with their homecooked meals, activities, trips, and insight on the surrounding areas. We even got to use the Sgeir Glass island to camp out for a night. The island is also occupied by two loving dogs who enjoy company as
… read more well.
The work involved was childcare, boat activites, and maintenance around the island. Jess and Ian are very fair with their volunteers and easy going. They give you days off to explore what's around and let you enjoy your time in the West of Scotland. The scenery here is absolutely stunning! While working, just don't be afraid to get dirty.
We will definitely miss this wonderful family and hope to see them again in the future :)
Cheers!
Donnie and LaurenDu kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Lauren & Don)
Lauren and donnie were great, excellent to have about cheerfull and conscentious good with kids dogs and tourists great cooks
, sorry to see them go but would be great asset to any host thank you ian jess iona and isla
Vom Workawayer (Brian) für Host
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Bella) für Host
Spending the last few weeks onthis little island has been a fantastic experience. The family (including dogs) are extremely welcoming and kind and the girls are great fun. Work was mainly childcare and linen though Ian and Jess were keen to give me the opportunity of getting to see the stunning landscapes of Wester Ross taking me on brilliant
… read more trips with the family (Cove, Diabeg, Isle of Lewis via Ullapool) and letting me have use of their transport (van/bike) to explore (Inverewe, Beinn Eighe, Fairy Lochs, Redpoint, Torridon). Wonderful people in a magical place, I hope to return soon! Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Bella)
Workaway sometimes amazes me after being badly let down by our last workaway couple by some serendipity we found bella, great worker, lovely person intresting , funny and just a lovely person to be around, this is workaway at its best it gives you friends for life , thanks bella ,love ian jess,iona isla eilean and dubh
Vom Workawayer (Craig & Lauren) für Host
Ian and Jess are a very friendly and welcoming couple with two sweet girls (and wee Eilean!) they all made us feel comfortable and at home. Work was very relaxed and we could work the 25hours in 4 days and have 3 days off to explore the STUNNING area - one of our favorites in Scotland, their are plenty of marked hikes up in the hills and a
… read more beautiful coastline. Gairloch was our final workaway in the UK and our favorite too! We can highly recommend them as hosts!!Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Craig & Lauren)
craig and lauren stayed a month with us through out the the time they were friendly kind funny good company which is great, but the work they did during there stay was of the highest quality craig is a really talented guy with wood lauren talented painter any host would be lucky to have to have such a such a lovely couple stay with them i wish
… read more them all the best for there future and hopei see them again they willalways be welcome here love ian jess iona and isla plus eilean
Vom Host für Workawayer (Marco & Erika)
marco and erika stayed for a month with us excellent workawayers , great cooks,great with the girls, they would be an asset to any home i look forward to seeing themin the future cheers ian
Vom Workawayer (Anna & Michal) für Host
Ian, Jess, Isla and Iona are great and welcoming family. We came to them in a situation in which we were losing trust in workaway system, but they restored our hope and exceeded all expectations. We felt like part of the family and also the community. Work was fun, we have learnt so much! We ended up staying three months, our best time in Scotland!
Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Anna & Michal)
anna and michal ,where do i start, hard working ,funny , kind, considerate, scotlands loss is icelands gain, anyone who has this couple to stay will have there life enriched, thank you so much for all your help cheers ian
Vom Host für Workawayer (Mike & Kenlynn)
Kenlynn and mike were great, good fun intresting, and hard working,im sure we will meet up again here or in the states maybe wish you all the best ian jess isla and iona
Vom Workawayer (Mike & Kenlynn) für Host
This is a magical place and a photographers dream! Ian and Jess are lovely hosts and great people to get to know. Thanks guys for making us feel at home and for sharing your world with us.
As for workaway, we did a variety of projects from painting Ian's boat to building platforms/decking and varnishing the new glamping cabin. We also did the
… read more turnovers for the holiday cottages (would love to come back and holiday in Creel Cabin someday!)- all fun projects. Thanks too for the trips to Badachro Inn (best pub view and boat taxi ever!), the drive out to Skye and the afternoon at the Gairloch bookstore - so appreciate your hospitality. Thanks again!
Take care guys,
Kenlynn & Mike Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Andrew)
great guy great fun and very positive pleasure to have about the place,very hard working, and fullof intreting stories wish you allthe best in your journeys cheers ian jess iona and isla
Vom Workawayer (Andrew) für Host
Thankyou Jess & Ian you are wonderfully warm people,for making me part of your family and your very busy lives . It was an absolute pleasure to be part of your beautiful dryIsland experience..
Badachro was such an awesome place to live and work !wish you and all your family the very best for your future ventures ,especially thanks for showing
… read more me other parts of that fantastic part of the world.
Andrew Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Host für Workawayer (martina_85)
martina, was a perfect workaway, kind, hardworking,she becamepart of the family straight away,i hope we willmeet up again soon,weather here or in her native switzerland, ifshe does any other workaway i can not recommend her high enough any one who has this specialladt to stay will have there lives enriched
Vom Workawayer (martina_85) für Host
I had a wonderful time on the island, which I'll never forget. Jess and Ian are both very kind and generous people. I felg like a part of the family. They also showed me around and made me falling in love with Scotland. :-) Iona and Isla are two lovely girls, I am excited to see them again! Eilean is a cute and friendy dog who loves to be
… read more stroked.
I will keep in touch with them and surely meet them again. Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Vom Workawayer (Elizabeth) für Host
while this family is lovely and it was a pleasure to get to know them, we just weren't a good fit workaway wise. when we emailed months before my visit their profile explanation for they wanted done was different then what it says now. i do thinks its still a bit misleading. i believe they want a full time babysitter / au pair, not "occasional
… read more babysitting" as their post reads. we never did qualify what exactly i would be doing when i arrive and i did not see their updated profile. my profile does say i would help with children but to me help and being an au pair are two different things so i can see why me not wanting to do round the clock care of the kids seems like i did the bare minimum as my host's review states. as i told ian on the first day, i would not have come to do full time babysitting. again, it was a miscommunication and something i know now to be more careful about in the future.
All that being said, for anyone who is interested in going to join the family and be an au pair for the girls, they are just lovely and you'll have a great time.Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(neutral)
Vom Host für Workawayer (Elizabeth)
hi liz was a great person to meet but not a great workawayer does bare minimum and write up does not live up to expectations
Vom Host für Workawayer (inbalreka)
Vom Host für Workawayer (shanekelsi)
shane and kelsi were a warm wind that blew in on a cold winter, fun intresting, hard working and a pleasure to see every day anyone that has them stay with them will have there lives made better if there was arating better than excellent they would deserve it, they make me want to emigrate to aus/nz cheers ian
Vom Host für Workawayer (RaquelDiaz)
raquel was excellent, she soon became part of the family and wider community
Vom Host für Workawayer (Marinelea)
Lea was a great help to us, we feel as though we have gained a friend and look forward to seeing her again in the future
Vom Workawayer (Marinelea) für Host
We had a wonderful and unforgotten time with Ian, Jess, Iona, and Isla.
Ian and Jess are extraordinary people, user friendly and generous. So kind, they did everything to help us with our english and to discover their country, region then Ian his work.
Iona and Isla are two lovely girls. We have enjoyed to live with them for one month and two
… read more weeks and help them.
This is a wonderful and unique place, we have loved this landscapes.
Memorable experience, thank you so much!!! :D
We hope come back ;)
Léa & Marine Du kannst nur Workawayer mit aktiver Mitgliedschaft kontaktieren.
(Ausgezeichnet)
Kulturaustausch mit einer Familie auf dem Land in England
Join our team at a historic two hundred year old hotel on the Isle of Skye, Scotland
Wir haben festgestellt, dass es in deinem Profil weniger als 3 Fotos gibt. Für das neue Gastgeberprofil-Layout empfehlen wir dir unbedingt, mehr als 3 Fotos zu haben, damit sich dein Profil optisch hervorhebt.
Bitte nimm dir einen Moment Zeit und suche ein paar schöne Aufnahmen heraus, die zeigen wie es bei dir aussieht und Lust auf einen Aufenthalt bei dir machen:
Bitte logge dich in dein Workawayer-Konto ein, um diesen Gastgeber zu kontaktieren, oder
melde dich hier an!
Informationen für die Einreise in Großbritannien
Bitte beachte, dass auf Grund des BREXIT die Reisefreiheit zwischen der EU und Großbritannien ab dem 1. Januar 2021 beendet ist. Wenn du kein britischer oder irischer Staatsbürger, Bürger eines Commonwealth-Landes mit Aufenthaltsgenehmigung in Großbritannien oder Inhaber eines BNO-Reisepasses bist bzw. kein Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (Working Holiday) Visum hast, um in Großbritannien zu arbeiten oder zu studieren, dann kann dir ab dem 1. Januar 2021 die Einreise nach Großbritannien verweigert werden, sofern du nicht im Besitz eines gültigen Visums und einer entsprechenden Genehmigung bist. Um mehr drüber zu erfahren, was für ein Visum und was für eine Arbeitserlaubnis Staatsbürger deines Landes benötigen, solltest du dich VOR DEINER ABREISE von zu Hause an die Botschaft in deinem Land wenden.