Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
19 Mar 2026
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
53
Facebook verified
Email verified
Badges (4)
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Details
Description
recovering from knee replacement do not need any workaways for now. I will be having friends help.. Doreen
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
House & pet sitting
Interests
Events & social
Self development
Movies & TV
Sustainability
Pets
Fashion or beauty
Culture
Plant care
Music
DIY & crafts
Art & design
Photography
Languages
Gardening
Cooking & food
Architecture
Writing
Drawing & painting
Carpentry
Animals
Yoga / Wellness
Dancing
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
I have had work away guests for many years now. I like to listen , teach , be spontaneous and connect you to Victoria's beauty. Any one that loves, music, arts, dance or making things would love it here. I have wonderful walking adventures close by . I can teach sewing, cooking , ethnic dance, gardening etc.. Cooking is a pleasure for me and many work awayers seem to like to watch.
Help
I require assistance in watering garden, weeding , planting, technology, fixing things like blinds and tightening taps,painting... There are always little fix ups to do around here.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Beginner
Accommodation
You would have an art/sewing studio to stay in or a single bed bedroom... (birds sing outside a lot ) It is full of lovely textiles and has a cozy creative atmosphere. Music is a passion for me. I love rock, jazz and all Eastern European and Middle Eastern music... IF you are a skilled musician and want to practice here ...I would love it...!!!!
What else ...
down town and the local parks have free and amazing entertainment ... Victoria is known as the garden city. It is easy to get around.... a trip can be taken to the local gulf islands... Salt Spring had sheep on the hillsides and sweet little churches tucked away... then Hornby is. has the most amazing rock structure and beach where it is shallow for a long distance... very magical. Victoria seems to attract the artistic heart.... many talented people live here.
There are also many outdoor markets that sell organic or locally made cheeses , hand made items etc.
There are two buses that make it easy to get to town in 10-15 min. You can get a day pass for $5. that will allow bus rides all over the city and out a ways...
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Space for parking camper vans
just a regular size camper van is fine.
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
My animals / pets
Purrsia
Purrsia is a tabby cat. She is about 14 years old but in great shape. She is curious and likes people but she is not affectionate. She often wants to visit guests and get pets...
Host ref number: 319929173938
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+17
Feedback (23)
6 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Edward) for host
Thank you Doreen. You are a very gracious person and I enjoyed my time and experience getting to know you. Your lively spirit and positivity is an inspiration for me. I truly felt like I was part of your family. Your culinary excellence was top notch, my accommodations comfortable and your generosity and sharing your home with me was very much… read more
6 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Edward)
Edward was so easy to get to know and shared some of his wonderful travel stories with me. He is a lovely work away to have and I really wish he could have stayed here for longer. He worked beyond expectation. I appreciated that he was able to anticipate what needed doing.. Edward worked on my watering system for the garden and reorganized my… read more
(Excellent
)
1 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (REBE1988) for host
I’m so grateful for having had the opportunity to Workaway at Doreen's. She is a creative and joyful soul, and a great cook! I enjoyed our conversations, the spontaneous funny moments at any time, and loved having meals outside on sunny days! It was definitely a beautiful experience, and I came away with not just lovely memories, but also life… read more
28 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (REBE1988)
Having Rebeca as a workaway was a gift. She is so understanding, smart, adaptable....and fun.. She worked way beyond expectations. Rebeca is welcome here anytime..so hoping she can get back here. She did a lot of gardening, cleaning, organizing, driving.... I now have a wonderful gluten free and delicious recipe for a traditional Spanish almond… read more
(Excellent
)
27 Aug 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Jose)
Jose was very quiet and easy to have here. I think his strong point is his ability to help with technology.
I wish him all the best in getting to stay in B.C. and work as a lawyer.
I wish him all the best in getting to stay in B.C. and work as a lawyer.
(Very good
)
21 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Jose) for host
My stay with Doreen was wonderful for my first time abroad. She's such a lovely person and easygoing. The work part was fine, I learned a lot about gardening and I'm sure the experience will help me if I have my own later. The food and the place were cozy, you really feel at home and it's pretty calm and silent so you can relax and even meditate.… read more
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+17
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(4.9)
Communication:
(5.0)
6 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Edward) for host
Thank you Doreen. You are a very gracious person and I enjoyed my time and experience getting to know you. Your lively spirit and positivity is an inspiration for me. I truly felt like I was part of your family. Your culinary excellence was top notch, my accommodations comfortable and your generosity and sharing your home with me was very much… read more
6 May 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Edward)
Edward was so easy to get to know and shared some of his wonderful travel stories with me. He is a lovely work away to have and I really wish he could have stayed here for longer. He worked beyond expectation. I appreciated that he was able to anticipate what needed doing.. Edward worked on my watering system for the garden and reorganized my… read more
(Excellent)
1 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (REBE1988) for host
I’m so grateful for having had the opportunity to Workaway at Doreen's. She is a creative and joyful soul, and a great cook! I enjoyed our conversations, the spontaneous funny moments at any time, and loved having meals outside on sunny days! It was definitely a beautiful experience, and I came away with not just lovely memories, but also life… read more
28 Oct 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (REBE1988)
Having Rebeca as a workaway was a gift. She is so understanding, smart, adaptable....and fun.. She worked way beyond expectations. Rebeca is welcome here anytime..so hoping she can get back here. She did a lot of gardening, cleaning, organizing, driving.... I now have a wonderful gluten free and delicious recipe for a traditional Spanish almond… read more
(Excellent)
27 Aug 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Jose)
Jose was very quiet and easy to have here. I think his strong point is his ability to help with technology.
I wish him all the best in getting to stay in B.C. and work as a lawyer.
I wish him all the best in getting to stay in B.C. and work as a lawyer.
(Very good)
21 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Jose) for host
My stay with Doreen was wonderful for my first time abroad. She's such a lovely person and easygoing. The work part was fine, I learned a lot about gardening and I'm sure the experience will help me if I have my own later. The food and the place were cozy, you really feel at home and it's pretty calm and silent so you can relax and even meditate.… read more
20 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Erica)
Erica was a warm caring person. Her work was always tidy, exactly what I wanted and always well thought out. I had a party during the weekend and she helped me so much. She also made some tasty tiramisu for the guests. I enjoyed trying to help with language. I wish her the best in all her travels ahead. I would highly recommend her as a work away… read more
(Excellent)
25 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Victor) for host
I stayed with Doreen for 1 week although I would love to have been able to stay longer.
Doreen super interesting and lovely and not to mention an amazing chef. She is always gave me very clear instructions and knew exactly what needed to be done. I worked in the garden mowing and weeding and also did some painting inside. One thing to be aware of… read more
Doreen super interesting and lovely and not to mention an amazing chef. She is always gave me very clear instructions and knew exactly what needed to be done. I worked in the garden mowing and weeding and also did some painting inside. One thing to be aware of… read more
22 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Victor)
Victor was such a positive and energetic person. I can't believe he just turned 19... he has had many interesting experiences and is very skilled at picking up language. I gave him a rough Idea of what needed doing within the week he was here . He seemed to get most of it done in a day. Victor often asked if he could help while was cooking... very… read more
(Excellent)
16 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Michaela) for host
My stay with Doreen was wonderful! She is so creative, inspiring, fun and full of good energy! She took me to some amazingly beautiful places and spoiled me with delicious food and muffins. The work varied and was enjoyable too, and Purrsia the cat was so lovely. It was a short stay but so memorable, totally recommended.
14 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Michaela)
Michaela was a wonderful work away person to have .... she cleaned, gardened and kept up with all the dishes I used to cook. She was adaptable in many ways..with food, timing etc.... The cat will miss her... Michaela has a natural love for animals and they know it... All her work was done efficiently, and things were beautifully put back after..… read more
(Excellent)
5 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Andrii) for host
My five-week stay with Doreen was unforgettable. Her exceptional cooking and baking skills, along with the company of her charming lady cat, made my stay incredibly pleasant. Doreen's warmth and understanding created a safe and happy space, making me feel right at home. I'm grateful for the shared moments, learnings, and genuine care. Thank you,… read more
28 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Andrii)
Andrii is a hard worker and open to trying new things. He is very kind, sensitive and caring. He is still a 22 year old but he has had many experiences and has some knowledge and maturity rarely found in this age group. It is a pleasure to know him and to watch him experience life in Canada. We had many interests in common .. it was so good to… read more
(Excellent)
5 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
James was a very gentle caring person. He was a good communicator and often could anticipate what needed doing.
It really helps me when I do not have to explain things. James was always offering help and appreciated everything that was provided. I just feel that his life is headed in positive directions and I am very privileged in being able to… read more
It really helps me when I do not have to explain things. James was always offering help and appreciated everything that was provided. I just feel that his life is headed in positive directions and I am very privileged in being able to… read more
(Excellent)
19 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Nicole) for host
I had a wonderful time with Doreen.
She is a loving person and I really liked her open-minded nature. Her good mood is contagious :)
The tasks were varied and fun.
I love Doreen's porch- it is a dream and perfect to relax from traveling.
Doreen cooked fresh every day and she is a super cook. I will miss it :)
Thank you for a great time Doreen. I… read more
She is a loving person and I really liked her open-minded nature. Her good mood is contagious :)
The tasks were varied and fun.
I love Doreen's porch- it is a dream and perfect to relax from traveling.
Doreen cooked fresh every day and she is a super cook. I will miss it :)
Thank you for a great time Doreen. I… read more
14 Jun 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicole)
Nicole was a great work away. She was so efficient, reliable and respectful. Nicole did a thoughtful and thorough cleaning and organizing of my crazy artsy front porch. I appreciated that she often asked if I could use help, especially when I was cooking.. Wish she could have stayed for longer ....she got so much done and was calm sweet person to… read more
(Excellent)
31 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Valentina)
Valentina stayed for a short time. She worked well in the garden and came in and started to clean the kitchen. I had to tell her that she did not have to do that!! Valentina is very smart, sweet, reliable and brave. We got to have some really good talks. I feel so excited for the adventure she has ahead. I highly recommend her for work away ....… read more
(Excellent)
10 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Valentina) for host
I loved the time with Doreen. She is a very friendly, openminded and lovely person. I enjoyed the conversations we had. She is also an amazing cook. She didn't give me much directions and trusted me to get the work done. That made me feel motivated to do even more I was expected to do. I helped her in gardening and kitchen. Even it was a short… read more
3 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Roxanne)
Roxanne is full of energy ... gets things done... is not fussy when it comes to food and she very much appreciated my home cooked meals...She seemed to appreciate being given choices about work and times... I am very open to variations.. After having had so many male workaways it was nice to have female company. I wish her all the best in her… read more
(Excellent)
2 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Roxanne) for host
I had a great time at Doreen''s, her house is beautiful and she is very welcoming. She gave me minimal direction and trusted me to get the work done and I appreciated that. She also let's you work on your skill set, as a result I got a lot of gardening done. She is a good cook and generous too, she even made me a strawberry rhubarb pie from… read more
17 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Rainer Maria)
Having Rainer here felt like a privilege. For a young man of 22 he is so talented with using wood, he has a great sense of organization and is fun to be with. Rainer has some wonderful ideas about utilizing materials and seems to like to plan things out ..with wonderful little precise sketches. He has huge potential... I could see him designing an… read more
(Excellent)
10 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Thomas)
Thomas is constantly surprising ...he seems to be so capable of so many things. While he was here he put in two tricky range hoods, renovated my bathroom (which required plumbing , electrical, tiling, sanding a lot, woodwork etc.) fixed my car, pruned a tree ... etc. He was so much fun ...wonderfully spontaneous, considerate, reliable, open and… read more
(Excellent)
22 Dec 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (eleupy)
Eva illuminates the house with her positive energy! For a girl that just turned 23 she has a wonderful built in work ethic. I give credit to her European parents and just who she is. Eva was often ahead of me.. so good at
anticipating what needs to be done next. She is very creative and writes and draws in her book.. I did the same thing at her… read more
anticipating what needs to be done next. She is very creative and writes and draws in her book.. I did the same thing at her… read more
(Excellent)
20 Dec 2021
Left by Workawayer (eleupy) for host
I had such a lovely time in my week or so with Doreen. Doreen was kind to open her home to me while I was trying to get my life started Victoria! I helped her with little things around the house like vacuuming, gardening, and general cleaning. She is always interesting to talk to and has lots of cool stories to share. She always made sure that I… read more
24 Nov 2021
Left by Workawayer (NickyL) for host
I just pass 3 weeks with Doreen ,
as last step of my Roadtrip,
Victoria is a lovely city, unfortunetly its was raining altime, but even know, i got my sun-dose with Doreen, she is always smiling, joking and shining/sharing her positive Energy,
The job was really light,
basic and general assistance around house,:
garage, garden,… read more
as last step of my Roadtrip,
Victoria is a lovely city, unfortunetly its was raining altime, but even know, i got my sun-dose with Doreen, she is always smiling, joking and shining/sharing her positive Energy,
The job was really light,
basic and general assistance around house,:
garage, garden,… read more
23 Nov 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (NickyL)
It was a pleasure to meet Yassine. He is very ready to work . I was happy with the variety of things helped with. I especially liked computer help and the lifting and cleaning of heavy things... Yassine is very laid back and adaptable. Hi calm energy was good to be with. Wish I could speak French.. !! I wish him all the best in his travels ahead… read more
(Very good)
24 Oct 2021
Left by Workawayer (Sarahlily) for host
Doreen is one awesome lady! She introduced me and Shams to lots of new music from all over the world, and I especially loved talking with her about music, dance, and art. Her garden is so beautiful and well-designed, and it was a pleasure to do some work on it for her. Such a brilliant, brave, generous, artistic woman, and an excellent workaway… read more
15 Oct 2021
Left by Workawayer (Shams) for host
Staying with Doreen this weekend was the highlight of our time in Victoria! Sarahlily and I had such a great time filled with laughter, great conversations and music. We had such a lovely time having supper with Doreen and her friend Sagdoona and only wish we could have stayed longer! The work was very light and interesting in one of the most… read more
12 Oct 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Shams)
Shams and Sarah Lily stayed with me for three nights... They were so much fun to be with. We had such similar interests in music and art.. It gave such a boost to my spirit. It is a pleasure to see such enthusiasm for helping in the world.. These are two brave, adventurous and brilliant little ladies. They washed up the dishes without being asked… read more
(Excellent)
4 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Craig & Dina) for host
Doreen was an amazing host and we will cherish our time there forever. She was very welcoming and made us feel at home right away. She had us help with different things around the house like cleaning, gardening and fixing up things. She's an amazing cook and we enjoyed every meal. She also has some great stories and introduced us to some great… read more
4 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Craig & Dina)
Craig and Dina were wonderful work awayers. They were both intuitive and often did things before I even asked. Their traveling experience added to their ability to adapt and relax in a new living situation. They helped me so much with my computer and printer... so appreciated this. They did a lot of garden work, helped a lot with cooking and Craig… read more
(Excellent)
5 Sep 2018
Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host
I spent two and a half weeks with Doreen.
Doreen is a very niceand friendly host. She picked me at the airport the first day. She does her best to welcome you and make you feel at home. She is an excellent cook and you will have the right to an excellent meal everytime. My job was to do gardening, maintain and develop the garden. It was not too… read more
Doreen is a very niceand friendly host. She picked me at the airport the first day. She does her best to welcome you and make you feel at home. She is an excellent cook and you will have the right to an excellent meal everytime. My job was to do gardening, maintain and develop the garden. It was not too… read more
22 Aug 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)
Nicolas stayed with me for two weeks. He was an excellent helper, very quiet and did a great job pruning and planting. I wish I could have gotten to know him more. Language was a bit of a barrier but we had some dinners with friends and I think he really enjoyed being a part of this. I wish him the very best in his travels. Doreen.
(Excellent)
13 Jul 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Dan)
Dan is amazing. He works super hard, gets up early and does an excellent job on weeding, mowing, cleaning etc. He is a very supportive, positive and delightful human being. It has been a privilege and absolute pleasure getting to know him. His appreciates everything you do for him and is good at anticipating things that need doing ahead of time...… read more
(Excellent)
8 Jul 2018
Left by Workawayer (Dan) for host
I volunteered with Doreen for 2 weeks in early May of 2018 and still miss her to this day. Doreen is a wonderful, lovely soul who immediately makes you feel welcome in her home and just plain lucky to be in Victoria. Her cooking is out of this world and certainly provides motive to get your chores done around the property and primarily the… read more
29 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Natasha)
Natasha is a very warm, insightful, caring young lady. She works very hard and is always willing to help. I will really miss her. Anyone that has her for a work away is in for fun, friendship and getting lots done. She is always welcome here any time. She is one of the most supportive work aways I have ever had. Her openness and enthusiasm are… read more
(Excellent)
17 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Maxime)
I enjoyed Maxime. He was an excellent volunteer, quite the personality and very direct. I think he has many more stories I would like to hear. I admire his ability to let his old materialistic life go and experience the world. He is welcome to come here any time. You may think he is seems a little unfriendly but I see an underlying darn good… read more
(Excellent)
25 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Lilian) for host
We stayed 2 weeks with Doreen in Saanich and we help gardening and housework. She picked up us from the last place, took us to Darcy's Pub, to Craigdarroch Castle at night, to Mount Douglas and to dance with her friends. She loves to dance and to cook. She is very organized and she like to make a good deal and not waste. Thank you Dooren for all… read more
10 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Lilian)
Lilian and Daniel are very warm and caring people. I think their English speaking is really good. They both work hard and are very polite and thoughtful. I would highly recommend them as work a way guests.
Doreen, Victoria B.C.
Doreen, Victoria B.C.
(Excellent)
10 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Tibor) for host
Doreen is the best host you can have. So nice, communicative and a very good cook. I really felt myself as at home. She took me to Mt Douglas, where you have the best view to whole Victoria and the surrounding islands. I've learned many new English words/phrases during my short stay.
Thank you Doreen for your kindness and hospitality :)
Tibor
Thank you Doreen for your kindness and hospitality :)
Tibor
30 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Tibor)
Tibor is a wonderful guest to have... he is polite , respectful, open , works in a very precise and efficient way... It has be a pleasure to know him and to learn something about life in Slovakia. Tibor is very thoughtful and aware on many levels. Hosting him has been so enjoyable, fun and I will miss him. I highly recommend him as a work a way...… read more
(Excellent)
11 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
Info notice: Workawayer cancelled stay or there was a no show at the last minute
(Workawayer cancelled last minute / no-show)
10 Sep 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Solange)
Solange is a wonderful work a way guest to have. She works very hard, listens well, is very respectful and has a special sweetness to her. She is only with me for about 5 days and I will miss her. Solange has a mature understanding about people. She is very open and connects well. I highly recommend her as a guest.
Doreen, Victoria B.C.
Doreen, Victoria B.C.
(Excellent)
31 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Rachel)
Rachael had amazing energy and has so much warmth to bring into one’s life. I did not have to tell her what needed doing she just figured it out... in a very delightful way. She is very open, spontaneous and generous. I felt very comfortable with her immediately. I think she would be a wonderful teacher for children. I very much hope to stay… read more
(Excellent)
19 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Rachel) for host
Doreen is an exceptional hostess. A combination of her openness and loving generosity made it easy to integrate into her life. I feel enriched by the experience.
Song, dance and laughter were daily occurrences as was authentic conversation and exchanges.
Gardening and housework were my main tasks. These jobs provided satisfaction.
I look… read more
Song, dance and laughter were daily occurrences as was authentic conversation and exchanges.
Gardening and housework were my main tasks. These jobs provided satisfaction.
I look… read more
31 Aug 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Nelson)
Nelson was a very gentle person. He was very easy to be with and loves to laugh. I should have utilized his yoga and reiki skills more. He has a wonderful patience and his English is quite good. He kept surprising me with his insights. Nelson is a unique and brave individual who loves to learn and be around people. I think he would be wonderful… read more
(Excellent)
30 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Nelson) for host
I was one week with Doreen in it was a very nice experiencie for me, she have made me remember that we are like a garden, if you really want to feel and look pretty inside and outside you have work to do, you have to weeding the bad energy, add some "fertilizer" in your life, it will help you to grow, and remember the compost, (who is not a… read more
4 Aug 2017
Left by Workawayer (Zuzana & Tomas) for host
Doreen is amazing person, open, friendly, helpful and funny:-) In Doreens place you just feel good vibes. We enjoyed a lot of cultural activities with Doreen, met her friends, tasted line dance and nice company of all the dancers;-) Doreen cook delicious food which we really appreciate. We helped with gardening, repairing and painting the porch,… read more
20 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Zuzana & Tomas)
Zuz. and Thomas were wonderful guests. They work so well together and do an amazing job. They painted, gardened, house sat, cleaned, organized and redid my whole falling apart porch. They are very easy to have as guests and very aware of what needs to be done. Dishes were always washed and put away immediately, all tools thoughtfully placed… read more
(Excellent)
20 Jul 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Fiona)
Fiona is so spontaneous and relaxed with people. Her warmth, natural human understanding and ability to fit in and do what needs doing is wonderful. It was an absolute pleasure having her stay with me and two other work aways. She is a very thorough worker and gets right to work. I highly recommend having her as a guest ...but do have her for… read more
(Excellent)
13 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (Nicola) for host
Doreen has a great personality . With her, you can talk about everything , art, film , music , culture and cuisine . I was fine with her and her house is a beautiful home in Victoria BC . She cooked delicious dishes of various cuisines of the world. I met his family and his friends and I danced in his dance group . Finally I visited with her the… read more
12 Aug 2015
Left by host for Workawayer (Kelvin)
thank you for such an excellent rating Kelvin. Kelvin is a great worker, is polite, respectful and is good at figuring things out. While he stayed with us he did tiling and grouting, painting, cleaning, organizing, building a new gravel pathway and a wooden walkway. He also made window screens. Kelvin is very reliable. He also plays beautiful… read more
(Excellent)
12 Aug 2015
Left by Workawayer (Kelvin) for host
Doreen is a wonderful host. She has an amazing personality and loves to cook. At Doreen's house you can never go hungry. She will feed you till you drop. At her place I met another workawayer from Germany and we both had an amazing experience. Doreen is very warm and friendly and would highly recommend her as a host.
