Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
29 Aug 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
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Details
Description
We live in the mountains of Monchique (Algarve) with my now twelve-year-old son (the photos are not current), two ponies and a dog. My partner, Paul, lives next door and is here mainly at weekends. My son and I also spend some time during the week in Monchique (not here) as he is at school there. I’m a writer and I teach creative writing online for universities in the UK. I have just published some children's fiction about a Magic Campervan which is very exciting.
We live in a very small international hamlet with only a handful of people (all lovely). It is remote. Perfect for those who love nature, hiking, reading, writing... but as you would spend quite a lot of time on your own, you need to be okay with that.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Animal Care
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
House sitting
Interests
Movies & TV
Culture
Self development
Vegetarian or vegan
Technology
Pets
Performing arts
Drawing & painting
Music
Writing
Cooking & food
Languages
Books
Animals
Cycling
Winter sports
Yoga / Wellness
Nature
Camping
Mountain
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We are a bilingual family - English and Portuguese. Paul, my partner, is German. We can maybe help with either English or Portuguese. I also studied Russian at university and lived in Japan for many years. Unfortunately, both those languages are very rusty. We live in a beautiful part of the world - way off the beaten track and it would be an opportunity to see a hidden side of Portugal. The area is great for hiking and biking - and all aspects of nature. I am a writer and may be able to help out. You would be welcome to attend my workshops. As I mentioned if you are a good rider, then you can ride Winnie.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
The space and work would suit an independent woman/couple to spend some time with us. I would love to have some help with the garden, ponies and maybe cooking/cleaning. We have an opinionated Shetland and a beautiful but headstrong garrana. If you are an experienced rider and not more than 60 kilos, you may ride her. I'm very open to various proposals/arrangements re. work/food balance. Everyone is different.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Japanese: Beginner
Russian: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
I can offer a self-contained studio (with heating - heat exchange/air-con). The studio would accommodate one adult/an adult and child, or possibly two adults but it is too be small for three. There is a double bed, a sofa, a small bathroom and kitchenette. There is another fully-equipped kitchen I would be happy for you to use occasionally. It is remote, there are no other children - apart from mine and he is now into gaming! It is not for someone looking for nightlife.
What else ...
Our house is remote. There are no bars/cafes within walking distance (except up to Foia - 2 hours) and the nearest village (Marmelete) is 10km. There is no public transport but I can give you lifts occasionally/lend an electric bike which could get you to Marmelete where there is The Bank - an international bar/cafe/music and other events venue. It is possible to walk up to Foia - the highest point in the Algarve where there is a cafe. Monchique is also about 15km. Monchique has a swimming pool, library, yoga, many restaurants.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
I teach online for universities in the UK. The internet is okay in the main house but I haven't got internet access in the studio anymore. Most people have internet on their phones so I didn't feel we need it now. However, we can easily get a SIM card and there is a 4G router.
Space for parking camper vans
I have a La Strada camper (an old one!). The roads are windy but good. A light car can go down the drive to the studio, but not a camper (unless it's 4x4) so it would be okay to park a camper near the road but not to live in as well.
Can possibly accept pets
Small friendly pets. We have a small dog, Hayley, who is not always friendly with other females.
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
My animals / pets
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Photos
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Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
I felt so at home and well looked after, my little studio was an incredible surprise too!
It was a blessing every morning to have such wonderful views and a warm welcome from her cheeky dog Hayley. I especially enjoyed the day where Lisa and Paul took me out in the truck… read more
Her little son is a wonderful cheerful boy who loves gardening and cooking. He has his own little garden with his own planted veggies and even though he is a kid he is an extraordinary chef 😉 I even received a birthday cake for my birthday! That day was one of the most… read more
