Profile information
Host rating
65 %
Feedback
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Email verified
Details
Description
Hey there! I'm Lara and my family and I live in a lovely compound by the beach in Batokunku, The Gambia. My mother and I have been living in our beloved home for the last 16 years, along with my lively two year old daughter. Living on the west coast of Africa has many highlights, from gorgeous sunsets over the Atlantic to a steady seasonal availability of fresh and tasty local food, fruits and vegetables. However, one must admit that over the years, the Gambian climate with its steady interplay of humid, moist rainy seasons and dry and dusty Harmattans have taken their toll on our home. This is why we need your help in maintaining our house and garden. A little experience in carpentry, gardening and other refurbishment is highly appreciated.
My family and I are also rather laid back and would appreciate a child friendly, respectful individual to join us.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The Gambia is described as the Smiling Coast of Africa due to the friendly, open nature of Gambians. The Gambian mentality is laid back and easy going. It is one of the poorest countries in Africa, yet the people are some of the most generous and selfless I have ever met. Seeing how people live in an entirely different culture rooted in communal living and simplicity rather than the fast-paced nature of the West and Americas can be rather eye opening for a first time visitor. The geographical position of the Gambia also allows us to boast our beautiful sandy beaches and intriguing river Gambia and its seemingly endless winding paths through luscious green mangroves.
Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Carpentry and handiman skills for various help such as fixing and up-cycling furniture, painting walls etc as well as landscaping in the garden (planting new plants, trimming existing plants etc).
Languages
Languages spoken
German: Fluent
English: Fluent
Wolof: IntermediateThis host offers a language exchange
I would love for my daughter and I to learn French.
Accommodation
Our compound consists of our main house where the family lives as well as a separate apartment and a round-hut/bungalow which are waiting to accommodate a happy helper. The kitchen in the main house will be shared, and food can be prepared together. We also have a lovely pool that is sure to refresh the mind and body after all the hard work.
We can offer ingredients for food, a well as at least one cooked meal per day.
What else ...
Time off can be spent at the beach, which is only a 3 minute walk from the compound. The main highway is a 10-15 minute walk, where public transport via taxis or vans (also called gelli-gellis) is available from early morning till evening. From there, Senegambia, the Gambias tourism centre (which is where most clubs, restaurants and hotels are located) is about a 30min drive away. Gambia is a very small country, so pretty much everything is easily and quickly accessible. Boat tours on the river are also an option for everyone interested in a lazy day under the sun. A kayaking service on the river is located in Tanji, the next town about 5km away, for everyone that's interested in a fun activity on the water. The neighbouring country of Senegal is also a popular tourist destination, and the vibrant bustling capital Dakar can be reached with a cheap nightbus for a quick weekend trip (depending on the duration of your stay).
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Our wifi connection is decent.
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 5 hours a day, 5 days a week
