Help with outdoor projects at my off-grid property on Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

  • Favourited 293 times
  • Last activity: 4 Apr 2024

Availability

  2024 

 Min stay requested: No minimum

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    This property is a little sanctuary away from it all. The home is a five minute boat ride to Santiago Atitlán and for the right people it would be a great place to pass the time and enjoy nature while the world bustles by. I am usually looking for a couple who'd like to stay from one week up to 1 month, but am also open to individuals who are looking for calm and solitude.

    The property is situated on the side of Volcán San Pedro and just across the bay is Santiago with its two volcanoes as the view. I have no neighbors, just gardeners who tend their fields nearby 2 or 3 times a week.

    My property is off the grid and boat access only so there are some special systems you'd keep an eye on.

    You need to be an experienced troubleshooter around a property who can tackle and handle a small problem should it arise. Those with solid experience working with water pumps and mechanics are especially welcome.

    I am looking for someone who doesn't mind jumping into the fray and helping out wherever it's needed. You may help water, replant the gardens, or just help where needed as there's always plenty to do in this large property. During the dry season, the most common task will be helping water the gardens with water from the lake. There is also a full-time paid helper (Spanish-speaking) and ideally you could help him where needed.

    You would have your own small house with kitchen and would cook your own meals. A big bag of vegetables costs only a few dollars at the market. You are welcome to anything in season on the property, including herbs in the garden.

    Please let me know what kind of experience you have taking care of houses or building, renovating, gardening, hospitality, housekeeping or other related skills. You would also help out with other seasonal projects we'll be doing on the property.

    Transportation to and from the property costs approximately $6 one way to town for the 2 of you. It's only a 5 minute boat ride and we call a water taxi service to go back and forth. I also have a personal boat and am often able and willing to lend it for rides, and just ask for a minor contribution for the cost of gas.

    WiFi is on the property, and while it is generally reliable, you should be prepared to have your own internet package for your phone or computer. Hotspotting through a Guatemalan Tigo plan is very common and simple; I can help you set this up.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Help with Eco Projects
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    Help around the house
    General Maintenance
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    You can explore the vivid Mayan culture of Santiago and its beautiful hand made textiles. Each town on the lake is unique with its colorful traditions combined with the flavor of the present time.

  • Help

    Help

    You'll be taught how to use and maintain the off the grid systems, like water and solar.

    You'll be working to maintain flower and veggie gardens throughout the property. I am new to vegetables and fruits and would welcome any help and advice!

    There are always larger projects that come up during the year and while you are here you could be asked to help on things like rebuilding the dock (learning how it's done in the Mayan world), doing cement or stone work, working with compost and many things that need attention on such a large property.

    If you are talented in certain areas, you could be asked to contribute with redecorating, painting, varnishing, or woodworking.

    For photographers, artists or writers, this is a place where the sheer beauty of nature will astound you every day.

  • Languages

    Languages spoken
    English: Fluent
    Spanish: Intermediate

    This 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

    Accommodation

    Accommodation is in a fully equipped cottage set beside and behind the main house. You will have everything you need, including a full kitchen, a hot shower, DVD player and tons of DVDs, a great fireplace with firewood and living room. The home is a bit older and basic but clean and with excellent views.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    This position suits people who are happy to be on their own in a quiet natural environment. Santiago is only a 5 minute boat ride away and from there you can take a boat to any of the other towns. Each town is different and has its' own specialties and flavor. Climb one of the volcanoes for great photographic opportunities.

    This is more of a 'quiet time out in Nature' than a social venue as it will be you and the owner working together on the property. However, you are free to explore when you are finished working and on your days off.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Can host digital nomads

    Can host digital nomads

    Yes, digital nomads are welcome. Like most all of the lake, WiFi speeds top out at around 30 mbps but in rare instances fall to 10 mbps or even less. I personally worked remotely from the property, including HD streaming via Zoom, and had no real issues but of course internet connections are never guaranteed.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    Two

  • ...

    Hours expected

    Varying according to need - (max 25 hours)

Host ref number: 737194941215

Feedback (5)



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Accuracy of profile: (4.8)

Cultural exchange: (4.4)

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