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Host rating
100 %
Last replied
10 Apr 2025
Reply rate
83.3 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
7
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Details
Description
Over the last 30 years I have been working in all parts of the world on different kinds of construction projects.
I have built an artistically designed eco lodge on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala and a private home built with repurposed truck wood and antiques in Antigua, Guatemala.
Recently I moved with my wife, who is from NYC and our kids, age 16, 12 and 10 to Portugal.
We decided for a small town with a long history near the university city of Coimbra.
We bought two properties, one is a mansion from 1690 which we want to renovate to its old glory and the other is a cute house with a big garden, where the volunteers will stay.
The small house has 3 bedrooms, a shared bathroom and a kitchen. It is right in the center of town and only 300 meters away from the place we will be working on.
Right around the corner is a pool which is filled by a spring.
The house could also be used by a family with kids.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Computers/ Internet
Interests
Sustainability
Pets
Farming
Plant care
Gardening
Carpentry
Art & design
Architecture
Outdoor activities
Nature
Hiking
Cycling
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
I have been working with volunteers from all over the world in all kinds of projects. I’m able to show volunteers a different approach to gardening and construction. We will be working mostly with recycled materials and explore ways to turn those into an aesthetically pleasing and one of a kind
environment.
In the meantime you will experience a traditional Portuguese town, where people still make their own wine, olives, bread and vegetables.
You will not replace local tradesmen and the work is not related to any kind of business
Help
We are looking for volunteers who have experience in organic gardening, eco construction and who can think outside the box. They should be able to work in a team.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Beginner
Accommodation
Private room with shared bathroom
What else ...
Ança is a charming and typical Portugese town, with a few cafes and restaurants, a grocery store, a few smaller shops and everything what you need for everyday life. In the center of town is a natural spring which feeds a pool, where lots of people enjoy the sunny days.
Coimbra, with one of the oldest university’s in Europe, is just 20 minutes away by car. There is a good public transportation system to Coimbra and the nearby beaches.
The beaches around Figueira da Foz are only half an hour away. There is great surfing and we like to go there over the weekend .
Around Ançá there are plenty of hiking and biking trails. We offer bikes to explore the area.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can possibly accept pets
Small and medium size dogs, who are well behaved
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Feedback (5)
Neil is extremely warm hearted, kind and generous.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the volunteer house & working in the beautiful gardens.
The local area is an incredible cultural experience with beautiful walks along the river out of… read more
Photos
Feedback
Neil is extremely warm hearted, kind and generous.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the volunteer house & working in the beautiful gardens.
The local area is an incredible cultural experience with beautiful walks along the river out of… read more
I helped with the web and also creating a map. I won't forget the superbreakfast and going everyday to swim in the Lake Atitlan.
Thanks for everything Lily, Nehemias, Byron and… read more
