Mexico
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***PLEASE NOTE!!! Any feedback before 2021 was from our previous location in Santiago, Chile. We relocated this year, 2021, to the city of Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico. Different location but same owner, same vibe and friendly dog.”
I am a California surfer that opened and ran a popular boutique hostel in Santiago, Chile from 2012 - 2019. With a focus on the outdoors and adventure travel, we regularly received young backpackers and students that wanted to surf, ski, trek and tour Chile.
We recently relocated to MEXICO. The friendly people, the amazing food, the incredible history, the endless landscapes and cultural traditions. In July 2021 I found my new location - a large modern house in the lush magical hills surrounding the city of Oaxaca de Juarez. This time, instead of a hostel, it will be more of a relaxing retreat, an alternative to staying in the busy city center, with a focus on mindfulness and relaxation. A beach-themed alternative for backpackers.
I currently seek several volunteers to help prepare the new house and open by Day of the Dead. Depending on sanitary restrictions the capacity will be from 10-16 people - social atmosphere.
A wide range of duties that include a bit of daily cleanup, receiving deliveries, help with taking care of the large gardens, composting, taking care of my friendly dog, moving large furniture, installing beds and assisting with trips to the artesanal markets. There will be trips to the Sierra Sur and the coastal yogi town of Mazunte or “Mexican Pipeline” Puerto Escondido to do a bit of marketing.
When we open we will need help with basic reception work and cleaning. We usually do 5 hour shifts, 25 hours a week maximum.
There will certainly be many days where you will have nothing to do but go off and explore on your own. The schedule will be ever changing and very flexible so you have the freedom to explore and take day and overnight trips to the surrounding areas. I’ve traveled Southern Mexico extensively and can help direct you in your journey.
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
Hospitality/Tourism
General Maintenance
You’ll get to participate in a guesthouse/retreat being prepared from the ground up. You’d be learning along with me regarding composting. I’m fluent in Spanish and can introduce you to the locals and show you around the nearby markets. Possible trips to the small surrounding towns, areas in the Sierra Sur and the coast that tourists usually don’t get to experience. I’ve driven from California to Oaxaca and can provide any knowledge you need.
Please include a short description of yourself, arrival date, and around how long you would like to help us. Spanish is not required but let me know if you can speak it and level.
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
This is a large house with four bathrooms, 7 rooms, and a full kitchen. You will have your own room and bathroom or share with no more than one other volunteer. Strong wifi.
There are two gardens to relax, 3 spacious balconies and a large common room overlooking the mountains.
***please note*** The house is 15 minutes by taxi from the city center. It’s a safe, walkable neighborhood with nearby restaurants, a vegetable market and laundromat. A 30 minute walk to a mountain overlook gives a great view of the entire city.
Oaxaca is in a state of slowly reopening from the pandemic. You won’t have to wear a mask in the house, but I ask you to respect the locals by wearing a mask when in shops or crowded areas, especially if you go into the zocalo in the center where it is required. The neighborhood is safe and walkable. There is a sports field across the street. I can easily arrange taxis, “mototaxiis” or give you a ride in my Jeep when I’m available.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
We have solid wifi.
More than two
25 hours a week Maximum.
