Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
5 Mar 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
34
Email verified
Badges (2)
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Details
Description
Welcome to Karinya, means 'peaceful home'.
My home is in Wentworth Falls, in the Blue Mountains on the edge of the national park with trees, birds and uninterrupted view. Only 20 minutes walk to small shopping centre and train station, 2 hours train ride from Sydney CBD. The Blue Mountains is a beautiful area with lots of walks, things to do and places to eat.
I have large garden and maintenance work that I would like to have help with.
I live here with my dog, Coco and cat, Amber.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Interests
Performing arts
Music
DIY & crafts
Books
Blogging
Architecture
Nature
Self development
Events & social
Culture
Charity work
Writing
Photography
Languages
Drawing & painting
Animals
Art & design
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Enjoy staying in a home in a lovely setting which is close to cafes, bush walks. I am very relaxed and friendly, I love to travel and meet people. At the moment I am trying to improve my Spanish language skills (but it is not essential that you speak this language). Also my pets love visitors.
Help
Stay will include pet sitting of my furry family - Coco (dog - Labrador/German short hair) and Amber (Burmese) while I am away (I teach in Sydney a few days/nights a week and prefer not to commute each day). They are great company and Coco loves to have a walk 45-minute to an hour each day, preferably in the morning as that is her routine.
Help with cleaning house, inside and out, maybe some painting plus cooking meals.
Work outside is working in the garden - removing /trimming plants, planting plants, feeding garden and adding bark chips as cover garden beds. Note some areas of garden is steep.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
Accommodation
House where there is a guest room with a double bed. Own bathroom for guests. All linen (towels, sheets) provided.
Would like help keeping house clean during your stay.
Prefer non smokers.
What else ...
There is a large number of bush walks, different lengths through beautiful national parks. Also visit the famous three sisters, scenic railway/ skyway / cable car, historical houses and hotels, small galleries and lots of cafes and restaurants.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Host ref number: 844923661978
Feedback (15)
8 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas )
Nicolas seems to be a lovely young man and was good with my pets. He is very quiet, possibly shy and/or English language skills which meant I did not get to know him as he stayed in his room alot.
(Neutral
)
12 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Laurence & Mariana)
Laurence & Mariana were a lovely couple, easy to talk to - I enjoyed getting to know them. They were great with all the tasks I set them, nothing was too much trouble from shampooing my carpets, cleaning, walking Coco and cooking. They were a pleasure to host. I know Coco and Amber are both going to miss them. Thank you and safe travels.
(Excellent
)
9 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Emilie)
Emilie was delightful and very easy to talk to and host. Nothing was too much trouble and it was great to have a helping hand, especially as I have such a busy schedule. Coco and Amber, my pets adored her which is the most important thing for me that my furry family are happy, cared for and loved.
I wish Emilie all the best for her travels.
I wish Emilie all the best for her travels.
(Excellent
)
7 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Emilie) for host
I really enjoyed my two weeks staying with Fran, Coco, and Amber.
Fran is such a sweet and kind person to be around. She shared some really interesting stories with me and conversations with her were always a pleasure. She teaches various art workshops and I was able to join and learn how to create silver earrings and paint with watercolor. It’s… read more
Fran is such a sweet and kind person to be around. She shared some really interesting stories with me and conversations with her were always a pleasure. She teaches various art workshops and I was able to join and learn how to create silver earrings and paint with watercolor. It’s… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
8 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas )
Nicolas seems to be a lovely young man and was good with my pets. He is very quiet, possibly shy and/or English language skills which meant I did not get to know him as he stayed in his room alot.
(Neutral)
12 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Laurence & Mariana)
Laurence & Mariana were a lovely couple, easy to talk to - I enjoyed getting to know them. They were great with all the tasks I set them, nothing was too much trouble from shampooing my carpets, cleaning, walking Coco and cooking. They were a pleasure to host. I know Coco and Amber are both going to miss them. Thank you and safe travels.
(Excellent)
9 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Emilie)
Emilie was delightful and very easy to talk to and host. Nothing was too much trouble and it was great to have a helping hand, especially as I have such a busy schedule. Coco and Amber, my pets adored her which is the most important thing for me that my furry family are happy, cared for and loved.
I wish Emilie all the best for her travels.
I wish Emilie all the best for her travels.
(Excellent)
7 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Emilie) for host
I really enjoyed my two weeks staying with Fran, Coco, and Amber.
Fran is such a sweet and kind person to be around. She shared some really interesting stories with me and conversations with her were always a pleasure. She teaches various art workshops and I was able to join and learn how to create silver earrings and paint with watercolor. It’s… read more
Fran is such a sweet and kind person to be around. She shared some really interesting stories with me and conversations with her were always a pleasure. She teaches various art workshops and I was able to join and learn how to create silver earrings and paint with watercolor. It’s… read more
7 Nov 2024
Left by Workawayer (Cherie) for host
I really enjoyed my workaway experience with Fran. Her home is in a good location near to 2 bus stops and a 20 minute walk to Wentworth Falls train station. There are walking trails within walking distance from her home. I felt very at ease and comfortable in Frans home and it was a pleasure to walk Coco the Labrador. The workaway tasks were… read more
7 Nov 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Cherie)
Cherie was a pleasure to host, she was great with Coco and Amber and really got stuck into all my jobs...my garden definitely is better after all her work.
Also we had lots of interesting chats.
It was a pleasure to host Cherie, she is welcome back anytime
Also we had lots of interesting chats.
It was a pleasure to host Cherie, she is welcome back anytime
(Excellent)
22 Sep 2024
Left by Workawayer (Sylvain) for host
My stay at Fran's place has been really great. She's very nice and it was a pleasure to meet here.
The work was varied and Fran was flexible with the working hours.
Amber and Coco are extremely lovely.
And the Blue Moutains are just amazing and there are so many walks to do.
Thank you very much for everything Fran and I hope to see you again… read more
The work was varied and Fran was flexible with the working hours.
Amber and Coco are extremely lovely.
And the Blue Moutains are just amazing and there are so many walks to do.
Thank you very much for everything Fran and I hope to see you again… read more
21 Sep 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Sylvain)
It was a pleasure to host and get to know Sylvain. Nothing was too much trouble, I actually hurt my foot during his stay - so Sylvain did all cooking, making me cuppas so I could rest my foot. Coco and Amber adored him. Would welcome Sylvain back anytime.
(Excellent)
8 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Rafał & Gabriela) for host
Our stay at Frans' place was exactly what we needed :) Tasks were clearly explained to us, so we can organise them in our own pace and then have a lot of free time to explore the surroundings. And there is plenty to explore, the area is truly beautiful! For sure if someone is a nature lover or a climber this is a paradise- plenty of trails, some… read more
30 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Megan) for host
Fran was such a welcoming host; she made me feel at home the moment I arrived!
Her house is beautiful in an excellent location within the Blue Mountains and she was quick to offer recommendations of places nearby to visit.
With an art studio next door, Fran also welcomed me to attend one of her watercolour classes which was a particular… read more
Her house is beautiful in an excellent location within the Blue Mountains and she was quick to offer recommendations of places nearby to visit.
With an art studio next door, Fran also welcomed me to attend one of her watercolour classes which was a particular… read more
30 Apr 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Megan)
It was a pleasure to host and get to know Megan. Highly recommended.
She is reliable, positive attitude, caring nature made her the perfect pet and house sitter while I was away on holidays.
Megan was fantastic with my pets Coco and Amber, looking after them as if they were her own furry family (They did have them wrapped around their furry paws… read more
She is reliable, positive attitude, caring nature made her the perfect pet and house sitter while I was away on holidays.
Megan was fantastic with my pets Coco and Amber, looking after them as if they were her own furry family (They did have them wrapped around their furry paws… read more
(Excellent)
14 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (William & Camille)
Thank you William and Camille. It was a pleasure to have you come and stay. You are hard working, not shying away from any task, fantastic is Coco and Amber (they miss you both terrible) and lovely to get to know. Thank you also for our lovely meals together and enjoy the rest of your travels.
(Excellent)
18 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Joshua & Paulina)
It was a pleasure to host Josh and Paulina. They were a great help with lots of house painting and cleaning, house looks so much better now after all their work. Coco and Amber, my pets, both adore them, which is a big comfort. Thank you for everything.
(Excellent)
29 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Joshua & Paulina) for host
We had an amazing 3 weeks at Frans house looking after Coco and Amber. Fran was a great host giving us clear instructions on what needed to be done but also plenty of free time to explore the beautiful local area. We're gonna miss the animals dearly and it was hard to say goodbye
would highly recommend and thanks again Fran for the opportunity
would highly recommend and thanks again Fran for the opportunity
18 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Lukasz)
I really enjoyed hosting Lucas. He was a huge help with much needed cleaning and gardening. He was also great looking after Coco and Amber when I was away for a few days. Lucas is interesting, communicative and nothing too much trouble. Thank you Lucas. Safe travels.
(Excellent)
18 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Lukasz) for host
I had great time staying with Fran. Even though I only had one week at her place, it was enough to fall in love with her pets (Coco & Amber). House is located close to many trails and transport links. Tasks were clearly communicated and easily achieved. I highly recommend this host, especially if you love nature and animals.
13 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Lisa)
Lisa was such a pleasure to host - easy and interesting to talk to, great with my pets and taking care of my home. Nothing was too much trouble and it was great to get so much help. Coco is missing 'bossing' Lisa around!! Would highly recommend Lisa to any host
(Excellent)
6 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Eva) for host
It was a pleasure taking care of Coco and Amber :) thank you Fran for your hospitality, i had a lovely time at your place
Take care
Take care
1 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Eva)
It was a pleasure to host Eva - she is easy going and very good with the pets. Welcome back anytime
(Excellent)
20 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ariadna & Pau) for host
It was a pleasure to be at Fran's house taking care of Coco and Amber. The house is located in a beautiful place and the room is super comfortable. I loved being able to help Fran with the garden and some things around the house, also walking Coco every morning to the lake. I am very grateful for Fran's hospitality and for having been able to… read more
25 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Ariadna & Pau)
It was a pleasure to host and get to know Pau and Ariadna. Not afraid of work, the outside of my house got a make over with preparing then painting my deck, railing, carport etc - it is so great as it done with care and expertise. The garden also looks great as does my tidy shed. Coco especially enjoyed all the long walks and swims in the lake.… read more
(Excellent)
17 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Tomasz & Grzegorz)
It was such a pleasure to host and get to know Tomasz & Grzegorz.
We got on so well that they ended up extending their stay with me...though I think really it was Coco and Amber they that convinced them to stay!! They are great cooks and we had so many yummy meals, I felt like a queen being looked after.
My house carpets got cleaned and my back… read more
We got on so well that they ended up extending their stay with me...though I think really it was Coco and Amber they that convinced them to stay!! They are great cooks and we had so many yummy meals, I felt like a queen being looked after.
My house carpets got cleaned and my back… read more
(Excellent)
11 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Tomasz & Grzegorz) for host
We couldn't dream about a better stay in Blue Mountains at Frans place! Working in the garden and caring for Coco and Amber (lovely dog and gorgeous cat) was fun. Our tasks were not complicated, easy, and very satisfying to do. We are grateful for all the Frans hikes and places to go recommendations. Staying in Wentworth Falls we did some… read more
19 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Elke)
Elke is such a lovely person and was an absolute pleasure to host. She was interesting to talk to and get to know, I'm missing her company now that she has gone.
As a Workaway nothing was too much trouble. She was amazing from the start - my front garden looks amazing (no weeds, trimmed, feed and bark chips to protect this summer). She was… read more
As a Workaway nothing was too much trouble. She was amazing from the start - my front garden looks amazing (no weeds, trimmed, feed and bark chips to protect this summer). She was… read more
(Excellent)
18 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Elke) for host
It was my first Work away experience and it was a great pleasure to stay with Fran,Coco and amber..what a nice place they are living. Fran is a very friendly and extraordenary creativ person..who makes it easy to stay with. The walks with Coco i enjoyed very much at the nice area. The work was easy and i have had enough time for my owen.
Cleaned… read more
Cleaned… read more
23 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Finja)
Finja was an absolute pleasure to host. She was easy and interesting to talk to, such a lovely person who is always smiling and happy. Nothing was too much trouble. She was able to talk to any of my friends she came in contact with and join in on the conversation.
Finja was a excellent help around the house - so excited to have a clean studio.… read more
Finja was a excellent help around the house - so excited to have a clean studio.… read more
(Excellent)
21 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Finja) for host
I had an amazing time at Frans house! She is such a friendly and warmhearted person and she made me feel like home. Coco (dog) and Amber (cat) were both soo cute and funny and it was so much fun spending time with them! Fran even gave me a ride to the most beautiful hikes and I was so flexible with my working hours. The tasks she gave me were easy… read more
31 May 2019
Left by Workawayer (Adèle & Gwendoline) for host
Fran is an amazing host, she makes us fell at home and always took care of us. She was knowledgeable about Blue Montains and what we can visit. We always shared the dinner and had good chats, we learned a lot about Aussie culture and we even had an Aussie day !! The work was very fair and it was always something different. Her pets, Peppa and… read more
31 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Adèle & Gwendoline)
Gwen and Adèle were prefect Workaway volunteers - they stayed for 12 nights and were a great help. I now have a newly painted letterbox, outdoor furniture, window pelmets plus a weedless front garden and very clean car and house. They worked hard and nothing was too much trouble. I even enjoyed a few days away and they looked after my furry… read more
(Excellent)
19 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Julian) for host
I stayed nearly 3 weeks with Fran and I absolutely enjoyed it. She picked me up at the train station when I arrived Wentworth Falls and instantly made me feel welcome at her home. The view from her terrace is just jaw-dropping !! We spent some very pleasant evenings there having dinner and a chat or having drinks with her friends (which are all… read more
19 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Julian)
Julian was a pleasure to host. He is easy to talk to, has a great sense of humor. On several occasions I had friends for sunset drinks and Julian interacted easily with them which was a nice bonus.
Julian was amazing worker - the transformation that my back garden has had is fantastic!! Thank you!!! It was a huge job and he worked at it until it… read more
Julian was amazing worker - the transformation that my back garden has had is fantastic!! Thank you!!! It was a huge job and he worked at it until it… read more
(Excellent)
21 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicole & Derek)
Nicole and Derek were a pleasure to host. Both are easy to talk to, we had a good laugh over a cuppa and/or dinner. Had a friends over a few times for drinks and nibbles, they mingled easily which was a nice bonus.
Nicole and Derek were a great help around the house and yard - I was preparing for my first rental booking - my front garden got… read more
Nicole and Derek were a great help around the house and yard - I was preparing for my first rental booking - my front garden got… read more
(Excellent)
21 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Nicole & Derek) for host
We stayed with Fran for 2 weeks and had a lovely stay. Her home is modern, clean and has a stunning view. Fran is so friendly, kind and always up for a chat and a laugh. She was such a great help to us as she picked us up and dropped us off from the train station and took us to the supermarket.
We took it in turns cooking dinner and she made… read more
We took it in turns cooking dinner and she made… read more
31 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Jeremy)
Jeremy was a pleasure to host. He was easy to talk to, had a great sense of humour and was very tidy. It was Christmas time so he attended several family and friend celebrations, he easily mingled and joined into the conversation.
Jeremy was a great help around the house - my windows got cleaned, lawn mowed, dog washed and walked, plus he helped… read more
Jeremy was a great help around the house - my windows got cleaned, lawn mowed, dog washed and walked, plus he helped… read more
(Excellent)
