Enjoy Vancouver Island and wildlife in BC, Canada

Details

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  Description

  Hello, I am Anneke, originally from the Netherlands but I have made Canada my home, 30 plus years ago. We live on 5 acres of forest in Errington BC it is very quiet, yet close to beautiful Parksville on Vancouver Island. Please note that there is no public transfer so having A CAR IS ESSENTIAL so we reply when you indicate you have a car.
  Our home is like a rustic elegant nest, where people can retreat and refuel. some people say it is like coming home. Indeed as you are part of my family if you like. I own a traditional B&B in the season and meet many lovely people. Lately, my life has even become more interesting as I now experience the company of smart young people. I love the company and interaction of having work- awayer's. I keep an open mind and learn from all of you.
  
  Twelve free-range chickens are my pets. Their night coop needs to be cleaned a few times a week with fresh cedar shavings. During the day, they do have access to food, we feed them pellets in the morning, but we take those leftovers away at night. I think I am a good host and easy going. Just ask Jb or Claire. Or Lea and David or Alain. Your company is also a joy for us.
  We had already three amazing experiences with WA workers and some house sitters.. We just love having young people around and hear their stories and we gladly share our lovely place. For now we need some general work done; like small up keeping tasks, outdoors and indoors, and also would love to have help with some computer and administrative tasks.
  
  We are now preparing for Summer and May will be the month where we need work in the garden, and forest. Mostly outdoor work. as mentioned, you can't get here by public transportation so a car is needed. Our wood stove will keep you warm and the kitchen is very well equipped. Our home is a great place for digital nomads. Ideal to write, meditate or practise yoga. There is internet and electricity, dishwasher and washing machine, and all bathrooms floor are heated. Our outdoor shower in the forest is a bonus. It is lovely and private. (spring till winter). Hammocks are also available to unwind.
  There are waterfalls are close by, beautiful beaches, Ski within 1 1/4 hour and beaches within 15 min. drive. Check it out and experience living on our beautiful Vancouver Island.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Charity Work

  Art Projects

  Language practice

  Help with Eco Projects

  Elderly Companionship

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Animal Care

  Farmstay help

  Creating/ Cooking family meals

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance

  Help with Computers/ Internet
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  You experience other cultures, our lovely neighbours, meet B&B guests, and experience living in the forest. I love to learn about foreign cultures and am always happy to share my own experiences. Acceptance and respect towards our community are important to me and I'd love to show workawayers local markets and events, beaches and parks, and places to eat local food.
  When you arrive in Errington, you're in for a mix of nature and local life. Just being here you might see wildlife, a wondering bear and lots of deer and even elk. This area is ideal for hiking, fishing, swimming, golfing, whale watching, and so on. Nearby, Parksville and Nanoose Bay have their own peaceful shores, and Coombs is a quirky village known for a market with goats on the roof. Plus, you're not far from Nanaimo, a lively city with its own vibe. Check out the local arts scene with markets and galleries. Last but not least, the Errington farmers market on Saturdays, with artists and local musicians, is a true highlight for many.

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  Help

  At this moment I like help with various work. Just list me your specialty. It is important that you do work that you like doing.
  
  Spring projects for 2024,
  Outdoors;
  Our chickens roam freely but their enclosure needs to be better secured.
  Extending our watering/drip system in the garden.
  Helping with our simple vegetable garden (the raised beds are already in).
  A big part of the forest needs gathering branches and just clean up.
  Our chicken area fencing, can use some checking up.
  Artistic forest decoration with rocks or woods, always appreciated.
  Painting Porch ( covered)
  Painting outdoor buildings
  Stagging wood and making kindling,
  Bringing wood to the house.
  
  Indoors;
  Painting and touching up
  Daily upkeep, dishes, vacuum, etc.
  Secretarial and even basic bookkeeping
  Small repairs,
  Computer issues. (Mac)

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  German: Fluent
  English: Fluent
  Dutch: Fluent
  Spanish: Intermediate
  French: Intermediate

  This 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.
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  Accommodation

  If possible you can either be in a lovely guests suite with ensuite bathroom in the main house, with in floor heat, fridge etc.
  Or when the BB is fully occupied, there is a
  tiny cottage, 12 x 10 with bed, heating, tv hook up and with RV toilet. You can use the shower indoors or in the summer, use our hot and cold fancy outdoor shower.
  
  We eat least a few home made meals a together. You prepare bf and lunch on your own, we provide basics. But one warm healthy meal a day is included.

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  What else ...

  Please note.
  
  Worker please note. YOU NEED YOUR OWN CAR as truly, there is no nearby public transportation.
  Due to the many applications from now on, I will only reply to those who indicate that have a car.
  You need to have a valid work a way or Canadian work permit.
  We expect that all workers are tidy.
  
  There is absolutely no smoking, nor vaping allowed as our forest becomes a big fire hazard.
  We are NOT 4/20 friendly.
  
  We live quietly and in nature. You will be part of our family and will introduce you to a variety of events if you like. We will respect also your choice of being private. You pick.
  
  We are easy going, offer a good bed, healthy food and a peace full environment. Most stores and amenities see below, are available 10-12 minutes only by car.
  
  Great supermarket, emergency clinic, tennis courts free,and beaches all within 15 minutes . Lots of animals (including bears and even on the close by beaches orcas and whales to watch. Bike available.
  Ski options in season, approx. 1.5 hour away mount Washington. Day trips to famous west coast 2 hours. Victoria 2 hours drive.
  Also Ideal for writers or those who like to meditate, practice Yoga or Tai Chi.
  It is a unique opportunity to learn rural living and explore Vancouver Island.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Can host digital nomads

  WIFI is very fast and there is plenty of seating inside and outside for digital nomads.

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  Space for parking camper vans

  We do have 5 acres of forest that you can use to park the campervan. Our newly built hot and cold outdoor shower is a pleasant addition. Seasonal only.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  More than two

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  Hours expected

  Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week

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