Canada
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Winter 2021-22 update.
primarily interested in inquiries from solo's or couples travelling in their own kitchen/bath equipped rig and wishing to stay for 6 weeks or longer.
Old lady, old farm, old ways.
Mostly the "hip" farms are amongst younger people who almost always are using the land as a source of income. So you can learn how to grow things to sell. This, however, is an informal exposure to a "homesteading" type approach, with a diversity of products intended to be preserved and used throughout the year, not monetized. If you need a broad buffet of the "awesome" things people "go traveling" to get (or to avoid) - you'll likely be disappointed here.
If, on the other hand, you want quiet and you want to grow things, this could be a good fit. Two particular types of helpers could find this the place to be. (1) If you are traveling but need to be online daily to earn income remotely "back home." (2) if you realize your ESL skills are holding you back from deeper and more genuine connection to people and places, this could be an excellent fit, see next paragraph.
I'm a retired teacher and have tutored helpers over the years. If you are ESL, prefer that you stay at least two months and agree to a daily ESL tutorial. I like to focus on helping you hear spoken english as it is usually the weakest skill. Will consider helping prep for IELTS.
USA UPDATE:
If you are a "refugee" from the heat and fire, or just anxious to get away for a while:
I am interested in hosting people over age 30 with trades skills:
diesel (kubota tractor) mechanic, particularly electrical system
deere mechanic
accomplished carpenter - if you built your own house, that's accomplished. If you helped your uncle in his construction business 11 years ago, that's not
plumbing or electrical -
I ask far fewer hours than most hosts, giving you lots of time to hike, surf, swim, or just have some down time.
COVID UPDATE:
Covid did not "end" on this farm. The delta variant is taken very, very seriously here. We have not relaxed any of the established guidelines.
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Homesteading. ESL tutoring. Learn to preserve food for winter consumption. During covid many traditional weekly events such as burger and beer night can't be held. We keep a list of day hiking trips accessible with a $5 day bus pass and pack a picnic for your day off if you wish.
Until Covid restrictions end, two tracks are available: (1) Modest solo housing in exchange for ONE hour per day, you take full responsibility for buying and preparing food in your own non-shared kitchen. (2) Modest solo housing plus food allowance in exchange for THREE hours per day - you buy and prepare all food in your own non-shared kitchen.
If you have handyman skills, fence and outbuilding repairs are a priority. If you are a small engine wizard, mowers and tillers often need attention.
Mostly, though, you'll be doing unskilled farm work that is seasonal. Planting in spring, weeding and watering in summer, harvesting in fall.
There is no animal care.
English: Fluent
During covid restrictions, the farm house is closed. You will live in a camper that has kit, bath, heat, etc. A tiniest type of "tiny house. EXCELLENT WIFI access.
It is a half km walk to a large-chain supermarket and to a bus stop served by several good bus routes.
There are bicycles to lend.
Almost every south Vancouver Island attraction and hiking trail can be reached by bus or bike.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
All the privacy, quiet, and wifi you should need.
Your motorhome is welcome here! Can provide water for your tank, electricity, and wifi. It is a 5km drive to a campground that charges a modest $7 dump fee.
With a great deal of reference checking in advance, your pooch is welcome here ! Sorry, no cats.
More than two
see above, 6 day work week, option either 1 or 3 hr/day
