Help on my small retreat space in Barbate, Spain

Details

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  Description

  This is a small homestead and retreat space on the edge of a protected pine forest, and very near the beautiful beaches of Caños de Meca and Barbate. I am Jake and live on the property, and am in the beginning stages of creating what I hope will become an idyllic Andalucian oasis (it's taking shape already but still a load more to be done). I left London to explore a different way of living, and to learn about sustainable and regenerative practices, and build a space that can serve as an example of how we can live! I worked for international NGOs for ten years but decided to focus more locally and tap more into my creative side and love of nature, instead of sitting behind a screen most of the day! So far so good and I'm loving the lifestyle and the people i meet along the way, creating a loose community with all those who pass through and inspire, and are inspired by, the project!

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  Language practice

  Help with Eco Projects

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Creating/ Cooking family meals

  Help around the house

  General Maintenance
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  This is a unique space that hopes to lead by example in the way of life that it allows and encourages, deeply connected to nature, and conscious of our human needs and condition, but still connected to society and local community. It is a work in progress and a place of constant learning (for me as much as for visitors), incorporating a lot of learning in different disciplines that i have picked up from my life and travels so far.
  
  The area is unique and interesting, being off the beaten track with its own Andalucian micro-culture (and accent..which can be a struggle even for me at times!). There is plenty to see, explore and learn about in the area, but just being here in San Ambrosio's small community gives a real insight into real semi-rural Spanish life, warts and all!
  
  I speak fluent Spanish having done my degree in it and lived in Spanish speaking countries for years, and am happy to help with language learning and conversation if required!
  
  I have built and installed most of the things on the land myself (with help of course) and with not much prior experience in practical/manual work! I have learned by doing and encourage workawayers to do the same. You will leave here with skills you didn't have when you arrived!

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  Help

  The help needed is wide and various. We have a vegetable garden that works well but needs more attention and input! There are construction projects (yoga decks, wood cabins, composting toilets, outdoor showers etc.). There is also room for creativity with decorative art projects to make the site stand out even more, and also a chance to learn about infrastructure systems like grey water filtration and recycling etc. The list goes on, and what work needs to be done will depend on the dates of stay, as there are priority projects. But it will certainly never be boring! Workawayers should be prepared for some physical work where necessary, and some experience of working with tools/wood is a bonus.

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  English: Fluent
  Spanish: Fluent
  French: Intermediate

  This host offers a language exchange
  My native tongue is English and I am fluent in Spanish. I'm keen on practising my French, so French workawayers would be a bonus.
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  Accommodation

  Accommodation is a static caravan. It is well equipped with double bed, electricity, wifi and a gas heater and stove. The interior is in decent condition but can use some renovation and decoration, so ideas, creative work, and a bit of love are welcome! The bathroom is currently an outdoor shower (with hot water) and the toilet is a separate composting toilet. Another project is to make the caravan self-sufficient in this regard, either repurposing the existing bathroom, or building composting toilet and shower outside. Meals will be shared and cooking can be alternating or a collaborative activity.

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  What else ...

  As the place is located a few kilometres from the nearest town and beaches, it is ideal for workawayers to have a vehicle (car or at least a bike). Otherwise, they will be dependent on me to get down there and I don't go every day. Just something to bear in mind!

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Can host digital nomads

  This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.

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  Space for parking camper vans

  This host can provide space for campervans.

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  Two

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  Hours expected

  Maximum 5 hours a day, 5 days a week

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