Volunteering at our Farm and/or Teaching English and botanical garden at Runtun, Baños Ecuador.

Ecuador

Favourited 544 times

Host rating
Feedback
98
Last activity
31/03/2020
Nº of Facebook friends
995
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Availability

2020

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Description
Hello!
We are Mónica (27 years), Holger (27 years), Emily (5 years), Wilo (49 years), Alba (44 years), We are living on a beautiful small farm in a village called Runtún, very close (15 minutes bus) to Baños. A beautiful place in the middle of nature, but very close to all the activities that Baños is offering! From our house you can even see the volcano Tungurahua. Our family is working in agriculture and we have some cows. It’s a perfect place to practice your Spanish as most of us only speak Spanish! However, Monica is a Spanish teacher that is fluent in English and thus always able to help you out on the farm.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Farmstay help
Help around the house
Language practice
Art Projects
Teaching
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
You will get to know much better how an ecuadorian family lives and how we grow our food. You will try typical dishes and of course, you will practice and learn our language in a natural environment.
You will have the best experience ever!!
Help
1.- FARM VOLUNTEERING
You could help us out in the greenhouses where we grow Babaco fruit, and Tomatoes, or help in the small organic garden that we use to grow our own vegetables. (You have to bring gloves for work. And rain boots optional.)
We would love to cook together to share recipes and typical dishes from your country!

2.- TEACHING ENGLISH
If you are an English teacher or have experience teaching, we can arrange some English classes for my daughter Emily. ( She is a fast learner and has a good pronunciation of English).

3. DESIGN A GARDEN
Since my parents are building a botanical garden, we are looking for a professional gardener or someone who can design a garden ( if you are the right person for it and can stay longer, we can arrange it with any Fee payment).

Contact us for more information!
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
Accommodation
We offer a room for our volunteers which will be shared when there are more volunteers with a private bathroom, hot water. There will be 3 meals a day which will be eaten together with the family. We would love to cook together and get to know your culture a bit better. Nevertheless, since we are a farmer family with relatively a low income we ask for a small contribution for food which is $5 dollars a day per person. Thanks for your understanding!
What else ...
Since Monica is a Spanish teacher we can have private Spanish classes. You would get the unique opportunity to practice every day since the family speaks Spanish only. Ask us by email for more information! We are looking forward to hear from you!
Ther are many beautiful viewpoints near hear. And we are very close to the famous "La Casa del Arbol" with the swings.
There is also public transportation available every day from our village, Runtun, to the city, Baños.
You can have internet connection here as well.
*️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️We are looking forward to hear from you!*️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️️
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
This host charges a fee
read more
Why does workaway.info allow listings of hosts who charge money?
In developing countries (Where most hosts are involved in charity work or community development) some of our hosts may ask for a small donation to help the host family or charity (often less then 5 dollars per day) Workaway will allow this listing when the donation goes directly to the family or charity and is just to cover the cost of the volunteer‘s stay. (This will be clearly marked on the host listing).
We will strictly not allow listings posted by agents, “middle men” or projects who we feel are looking to profit from a volunteers stay.

US$5 per day to help with food costs

Photos

The landscape seen from the house. Tungurahua volcano at the back.

Tomatoes

Picking up "Tomates de árbol" in our greenhouses.

With the volunteers at home

Show all photos

Rabbita

Our cows

Babaco

Feedback left by and about host (98)

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)

18/09/2020

Left by Workawayer (Zhaleh) for host

I'm writing this feedback with 6 months delay :) It's been strange times: 2 weeks after I left this amazing workaway, pandemic started and the borders were closed. I sat to write a review many times, but each time something happened. I hope writing a review after 6 months is a testament to my very good experience at Mónica and Holger's that I want… read more

(Excellent )

22/07/2019

Left by Workawayer (Siv & Sara) for host

I spent a month in Runtún with Monica and Holger and my friend spent two weeks. We honestly enjoyed the stay so much because the entire family made us feel so welcome! They are all so open-minded and friendly, and we loved working, cooking and talking with them. The work in the greenhouses can be hard at times but you learn so much about… read more

(Very good )

19/05/2019

Left by Workawayer (Fenna) for host

Even though I only stayed for one week, I sincerely enjoyed this workaway. The family is really nice and welcoming and take good care of you. I enjoyed the work with the babacos and the tomatoes a lot, since I have never done something like this before. It is nice if you can speak some Spanish since you work most of the time with Holger who does… read more

(Excellent )

28/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Graeme)

Graeme is an excellent person. He did a great job at our plantation. He help harvesting babaco which was quite hard but nothing was extremely difficult that he couldn't do. That is why he and another of our volunteers decided to help the whole harvesting day because we needed to get it done that day. Also he help in several tasks at the tomatoes… read more

(Excellent )

28/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Graeme) for host

This was a great experience. I stayed for 2 weeks and had a great time with the faily. The work is hard, but it is a fantastic place to practice Spanish, eat delicious food and hang out with a great family. Thanks Monica Holger Emily + the rest of the family!

(Excellent )

27/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Elias & Miro)

I just have seen really positive things of Fernando. Really nice guy, very helpful, friendly and hard working person. Thank you for your excellent help at the farm as well as in the kitchen and playing with Emily. We have nice memories of that. I hope the best for you in your life and in this trip in South America. For everyone, don't hesitate to… read more

(Excellent )

26/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Elias & Miro) for host

Unique experience at the Farmstay. Monica's family in gorgeous and the food they prepare just awesome. The work in their fields is hard, although you learn a lot about agriculture in Ecuador. I was able to do some nice activities on the weekends. Gracias Monica, Holger and Emily. Un abracio fuerte, Fernando

(Excellent )

11/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel & Rebecca)

First of all, you should have left this feedback right after you left the farm. I now the work you did was hard for you because you are not used to it. But it doesn't mean it is always like that. That is why you read the amazing feedbacks in our profile. And I have to say that about 95 per cent of people who stayed here demostrated the real spirit… read more

(Good )

10/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Daniel & Rebecca) for host

We planned to stay and help Monica's family for 3 weeks after reading all of the amazing reviews, but ended up only staying 3 days. The family is very warm and welcoming, but we could not justify the extremely hard work we were doing and still pay $5/day. The other volunteers we met agreed and also left earlier than they planned. We weren't going… read more

(Neutral )

26/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Yasna)

Yasna es una buena chica muy amable, tranquila y respetuosa que nos ayudo muy bien en el trabajo. Y se lo recomiendo a todos.
Cuando ella estuvo aquí estuvimos construyendo un nuevo invernadero por lo que obviamente el trabajo fue un poco duro. Y ahora la construcción esta terminanda. Aparte de eso, ella tuvo que hacer un trabajo extra ya que… read more

(Very good )

24/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Yasna) for host

Estuve 2 semanas en la casa de Mónica y Holger trabajando en los invernaderos donde cultivan babacos y tomate, también ayudamos a la construcción de nuevos invernaderos. Son una familia sencilla y acogedora junto a Emily (hija), Alba y Wilo (padres), compartimos las 3 comidas todos juntos como una familia. Hubo días que Mónica estaba resfriada o… read more

(Very good )

26/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Ella)

We have no words to express how grateful we are with Ella. This was an amazing experience. I highly recommend hosting her. She has the real spirit of volunteering. We will never forget her help when we mostly needed it. She decided working the whole day planting the tomatoes plants until the evening when we finally finished it. Furthermore,… read more

(Excellent )

12/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (Ella) for host

My stay with Monica and her family was absolutely amazing. If you are looking for a true Ecuadorian experience living with a family and helping them on their land, this is it!
The entire family is really nice and they take so good care of you. Monica is a really good cook as well so you woun’t be hungry :)
While I was there we build a new… read more

(Excellent )

11/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Sonja & Simon)

I want to highly recommend Sonja and Simon since they are a great couple. They are really good at working in agriculture. They say they were not used to it but they did a great job. Furthermore, they are good at helping cleaning or cooking. They will be always welcome back. Thanks

(Excellent )

15/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Sonja & Simon) for host

We had a good time at Monica's, Runtun is a really nice, quiet place above Banos where you're surrounded by nature. The family is really warmly and the kids make you laugh. The work in the green houses is hard, but you get used to it. You'll be fed with three healthy, vegetarian, very good meals. Beside the really kind family we got to know many… read more

(Very good )

09/12/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Tara)

I really appreciate you and what you have done while you were here. You were a nice girl and you are always welcome back. I tell you this from the bottom of my heart!!:hugging::heart: Thank you so much. I wish you the best!! Keep in touch!!

(Excellent )

18/10/2018

Left by Workawayer (Tara) for host

Mónica and her family were kind and generous. I really enjoyed my time with them. We worked hard, but it was reasonable. I really enjoyed cooking and eating together with the family. Great for vegans! Communication with Monica was very clear. I enjoyed playing with her daughter Emily, and helping her mother, Alba was great for my Spanish!
While I… read more

(Excellent )

01/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Fenna) for host

Im only writing this message now, although it has been a while since I was there. It just means Im still thinking about this awesome workaway experience. I was suposed to stay two weeks, but I just couldn't leave this amazing family. Monica is a great host and anything is possible here. She is a fantastic cook, a great Spanish teacher and a good… read more

(Excellent )

20/10/2018

Left by Workawayer (Megan) for host

Mónica and her family were extremely welcoming and I immediately felt comfortable in their home. The work was hard at first but you get used to it quickly and you have the whole afternoon off to explore the surroundings which is great because it's such a beautiful place and you're very close to all the swings.
You get a great feed everyday with… read more

(Excellent )

03/10/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Céline)

Celine is just excellent in everything she does. I appreciate a lot that she stay longer and we could become more friends. Apart from the farm work she did, she helped me with some cleaning and cooking which was great! The best of all, she like spending time which my daughter, playing and making origami! The Spanish classes, just amazing to see… read more

(Excellent )

16/09/2018

Left by Workawayer (Céline) for host

I was supposed to stay only 1 week and ended up staying 3 weeks in Runtún! The work in the farm is hard but the meals are delicious and the whole family are adorable. I enjoyed taking Spanish classes with Monica, playing with Emily and helping to cook. When you stay at Monica's place, you belong to the family. I miss them a lot and I hope I'll… read more

(Excellent )

05/09/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (David)

I appreciate a lot that David came to help at our farm. He is a hard working person who does his work very well. It doesn't matter what kind of work we needed to do at the farm, like harvesting, weeding, pruning the tomatoes plants or Barbados, he does pretty well.
He is very respectful and always looking to help us in any think, even with… read more

(Excellent )

18/08/2018

Left by Workawayer (David) for host

Thanks Monica, Holger and Emily for this experience. I stayed about 2 weeks there in the beginning of July. We had to find a last minute host and she welcome us in the family as we were 4 in the beginning. The work schedule is perfect, working in the morning and free time in the afternoon. They are an incredible family with a lot of project to… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2018

Left by Workawayer (Annie) for host

I stayed with Monica and her wonderful family for two weeks and if didn´t have to travel to Colombia I would have stayed a lot longer. Monica just started a new program for the local people of the village. I worked there as a teacher for children, teenagers and adults with little or no experience in English. The students were all very motivated… read more

(Excellent )

24/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Odile)

I have to say that Odile was a really nice girl. She is open-minded and I have having conversations which was always interesting. She was here for almost a week. Working in the farm was a little bit difficult for her because of a problem on her hands. However she did a great job with photography. She is very professional. She took great pictures… read more

(Excellent )

03/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Odile) for host

I spent around a week in the Farmstay and had an amazing experience! Monica, Holger and Emily are such a beautiful, kind and generous family! They are welcoming and do their best for everybody to feel at home and comfortable. I mostly helped with photography work for their website and social media, but the farm work is very cool as well! Monica… read more

(Excellent )

23/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Davy) for host

It was my first experience of volunteering and it was really nice. The work is hard in the morning but we have all the afternoon to rest or to explore all places around. All the family is really kind and it is a pleasure to cook with them and to share the meals. Mónica took care of us and cooked us many tasty food like fresh juices, jam, pizza...… read more

(Excellent )

15/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Fawaz B.) for host

I really don't know where to start, I spent over a month and a half here and had one of the most valuable experiences of my life. This was my first workaway and what a perfect choice!

First of all, I came in as a volunteer and quickly became part of the family, working together in the greenhouses, sharing meals on the table and learning great… read more

(Excellent )

12/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Michelle)

Michelle is a great person, very friendly, and very hardworking. Sometimes the work at the farm was hard but she never gave up. We also like having conversations with her and cooking together. We appreciate a lot that she liked playing with my daughter which is important for us that you can dedicate her a little of your time. Thank you "la chica… read more

(Excellent )

21/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (Michelle) for host

Gracias Mónica, Emily, y Holger para todo! Me quedé aquí para tres semanas y era una experiencia muy hermosa. La familia es muy bienvenidos (me siento como nos estábamos siempre riendo), la comida es muuuuy rico, las lecciones de español con Mónica me ayudaba muchísimo, el trabajo es muy organizado y yo aprendía mucho sobre babacos y tomates, y… read more

(Excellent )

28/06/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Paul & Angela)

Estamos muy muy agradecidos con mi Ángela y Paul. Son una pareja muy simpática y llena de buena onda. En el trabajo nos ayudaron muy bien en todas las tareas desempeñadas en la granja con los tamates y babacos. Ademas que Angela me ha dado muchos consejos y tips para mejorar la publicidad de mi proyecto y las clases de español. Gracias por jugar… read more

(Excellent )

17/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (Paul & Angela) for host

Staying with Monica and her family was great: we learned a lot, everything is well organised, they are flexible and considerate and the food is really good. You will definitely feel home in Runtun if you decide to spend some time with them. The attractions there are also great and it is possible to combine work, learning and some hiking or… read more

(Excellent )

01/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (Alberto) for host

This has been my first work away experience and has been great. Monica, Holger and Emily are an amazing family. I really enjoyed the time there, living in real and authentic atmosphere. I improved my Spanish and Mu knowledge of agriculture. But the most important thing is the time I spent with these fantastic persons.

(Excellent )

28/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Jeanne) for host

Me quede más de 2 semanas en la finca de Mónica y Holger. Fue mi secunda experiencia en workaway pero que buena experiencia que fue esa!! El trabajo es solamente en la mañana y tienes mucho tiempo para visitar Baños y alrededor, descansar, tener clases de español con Mónica... Te cobra 5 dolares la hora pero sus clases son muy buenas!! Pensaba… read more

(Excellent )

05/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Sauvage) for host

Hola,
Being a volunteer here was a great pleasure. Thank you to all the family for their welcome, their patience and their desire to share what they are doing. Discover the heights of Banos, admire the volcano Tungurahua working in the tomato and babacos cultures ... The Spanish lessons with Monica are super fun, fun and have helped me in my… read more

(Excellent )

18/03/2018

Left by Workawayer (Zoe) for host

I stayed with Monica and her family for 1,5 weeks and I am so grateful for that time. Monica gave me great Spanish lessons, mi español mejoró bastante, the food is delicious (me extraña el aji), and the family is so nice and very welcoming. Staying at the farm is a great opportunity to improve your Spanish and really learn how it is to live as an… read more

(Excellent )

11/03/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Katherine)

Katherine was a really nice girl. She was a great person great worker fast learner, she did a great job in all the farmwork we have done in the tomatoes plantation and in the Barbacos fruit. Also she was always willing to help in the house with cleaning, cooking, playing with my four years old daughter. Lots of fun, lots of laughing. She also cook… read more

(Excellent )

19/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Katherine) for host

I stayed here for one week and had a great time! It's a well set up project, and you have plenty of time to relax after the farmwork in the mornings. It's interesting to learn about the different work and a great way to practice Spanish too. I also had Spanish lessons with Monica and she is a really great teacher. All the family are really… read more

(Excellent )

13/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (Lydia & Maryse) for host

Super expérience chez Monica et sa famille. Nous travaillons seulement quelques heures le matin et nous avons l'après midi pour profiter des alentours magnifiques. Très près de Banos , on peut même y descendre à pied ! Nous y mangeons très bien , Monica et Emiliy sont de très bonnes cuisinières ! Nous recommandons fortement ce workaway où tout… read more

(Excellent )

28/11/2017

Left by Workawayer (Elias & Sylvia) for host

Me and my boyfriend stayed for almost a week with Monica and her lovely family, our first workaway experience! We got to help out with the tomato plants in the greenhouses while enjoying the amazing view and scenery. We also had lots of time to explore the surroundings and improve our Spanish - Monica is a great patient teacher and her daugther is… read more

(Excellent )

20/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Becky) for host

Me quedé con Monica y su familia durante dos semanas y fue increíble. Era mi hogar lejos de casa, y nunca lo olvidaré. Trabajamos de 4 a 5 horas por la mañana en los invernaderos. el trabajo fue muy duro algunas veces, pero fue muy gratificante y aprendí mucho. hay muy bonitas vistas de la casa y la granja y una magnífica comida: desayuno,… read more

(Excellent )

12/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Maria Eduarda) for host

Estuve en Runtun con Mónica, Holger, Alba, Wilow y Emily por una semana (6 días). Fue una experiencia muy linda y que nunca voy olvidar. Trabajamos en promedio 4 horas y media por día. Las tareas consistieron en ayudar a Holger y su hermano Byron con los babacos en un invernadero y también con los tomates en otro. El trabajo fue duro, pero muy… read more

(Excellent )

16/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Agustín & Sofia) for host

Estuvimos en casa de Mónica, Holger y Emily una semana. Fue una hermosa experiencia. Trabajamos en promedio 4 horas y media por día, 5 días a la semana. Las tareas consistieron en ayudar a Holger con los invernaderos, reparar uno, construir otro, limpiar otro. Aprendimos mucho de un mundo totalmente nuevo para nosotros :)
La convivencia fue muy… read more

(Very good )

05/09/2017

Left by Workawayer (Bryony & Adam) for host

Great food, interesting work, fab location and a lovely welcoming family. You will learn lots of Spanish from Emily, Mónica's daughter, who is a ball of fun energy. I would recommend this work-away to anyone who likes countryside and tranquility. I wish we could have stayed longer.
Thanks Mónica

(Excellent )

31/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Karen) for host

I had a great week in Baños thanks to Monica and her family! I am very thankful that I had such an amazing first workaway experience.
Monica, Holger and the lovely Emily are really nice and make you feel like part of the family. The work is not very hard and if you are lucky you will have to work in the greenhouse right in front of the volcano, I… read more

(Excellent )

22/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Laura & Sébastien) for host

Estuvimos con Mónica, Holger y su linda familia una semana. Nos sentimos muy bien acogidos y alimentados! El trabajo consistió en ayudar con los invernaderos y los tomates. Tienen unas vistas increíbles al volcán y tienen muy buen acceso al pueblo, Baños, a pie o con bus o camioneta. Muchas gracias por aceptar a Mango en la familia y hacernos… read more

(Excellent )

07/05/2017

Left by Workawayer (Stephanie & Christoph) for host

We stayed two weeks with Monica, Holger, little Emily, Alba and Wilo. They are such warm, lovely, welcoming and openminded people who were always very interested in you and your life. It was so interesting to stay with this traditional ecuatorian family and to get to know a lot about farmer's life here and fruits we hadn't known before. We worked… read more

(Excellent )

26/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host

I had a great stay with Monica, Holgar and the rest of the family. They are supernice and warm people.

(Excellent )

23/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Shirley & Sam) for host

Monica and her family are such beautiful, humble, warm and welcoming people. Me and my partner stayed with them for two weeks. We would have liked to have stayed longer but unfortunately had to move on due to time. We were very well looked after, Monica is a great cook and we ate very healthily during our stay here (although at times it was hard… read more

(Excellent )

14/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Suzane) for host

Thank a lot Monica and your family! I had an amazing first workaway experience at this beautifull place.

Everything was perfect, the work schedule, the location, the views, the food, Monica herself, the food and the other volunteers.

We worked every weekday from 0800 untill 1300, and it was very clear what we had to do. In the afternoon and… read more

(Excellent )

30/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Casey) for host

First, I want to say thank you to Monica, Holger, Emily and all the extended family in Rutun for making this my favorite workaway I've done and for making me feel such a part of the family! The home is set up in the hills above Baños with gorgeous views every single day. It is very easy to get down into Banos after work as well and on the… read more

(Excellent )

11/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Molly) for host

I spent 2 weeks with Monica and her wonderful family. The work is Monday - Friday typically from 8-12, after breakfast and before lunch. Work includes picking tomatoes and babacos, weeding, and helping out with various things around the farm and house. The afternoons you're free to relax, hike, or go down to Banos (there's a bus that runs… read more

(Excellent )

11/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Audrey) for host

I spent about 10 days with this amazing family. We worked in the mornings in the greenhouses and we had the afternoons to explore the beautiful area. It's way quieter than Banos and the scenery is beautiful. Monica also gave really good private Spanish lessons for only $5 per hour! Thank you so much to this wonderful family and I really hope to… read more

(Excellent )

05/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Emmanuel) for host

I spent a great 10 days with Monica and Holger. Living with the family and working has been a really interesting experience. I surely recommend this place for a stay.
Thank you Monica

(Excellent )

03/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kathryn) for host

Staying with Mónica and her family was an amazing first workaway experience! When you arrive here it instantly feels like a home away from home. The work is rewarding and you rarely do the same thing two days in a row which is nice. The surrounding area is beautiful and it is always a treat to get a glimpse of the volcano right above you! It's… read more

(Excellent )

01/03/2017

Left by Workawayer (Gemma) for host

I absolutely loved my 10 days volunteering here!! The farm is nestled in the beautiful, peaceful mountains of Banos, waking up to fresh air and views of the volcano each morning is a treat in itself. I can't say enough great things about Monica, she is such a happy, warm, hard working person and it was a pleasure not only working with together… read more

(Excellent )

28/02/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Franziska)

It was really nice to have this lovely girl helping at our farm. Franziska was really kind and friendly as she become a member of the family. She was the first person staying at the new house we built we the volunteers. She is very comprehensive. Even though there were some finishings missing, she didn't complain about anything (now we are ending… read more

(Excellent )

16/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Franziska) for host

Ohhh, Monica, Holger, Emily and of course the rest if the family are lovely and fun people! I felt welcome from the first second on.
The location is beautifully nestled between the mountains around Baños, it is such a tranquil and soothing place.
The food they serve is absolutely delicious vegetarian cuisine and also made with ingredients from… read more

(Excellent )

19/02/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Jay)

Actually, I have no words to describe the amazing time we had with this amazing guys in our farm, Jay and his brother Bennet. 'Los Hermanos Locos' it was always fun, lots of laughings, interesting conversations.They were very generous, open-minded, cheerful, you will always see and smile in their faces.... and of course they work really hard.… read more

(Excellent )

12/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Jay) for host

¡Dios mio! My brother and I were lucky enough to stay here for 10 beautiful days. Monica, Holger and their family are amazing, we truly felt like part of the Runtun familia. The community is so open and contributing to the work is so rewarding. The food is great, the location is perfect (near the awesome city of Banos, but out of the hustle… read more

(Excellent )

01/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Antonio) for host

Muchas gracias a la familia de Monica para recibirme! Tenia un muy bueno tiempo aqui y me gustabo mucho. El trabajo es a veces duro, pero el tiempo esta bien, cambia cada dia y tu vas a conocer muchas nuevas cosas. Es interesante como funciona el trabajo en los invernaderos. Fue mi primera vez que he visto las plantas de babaco o tomates de carne.… read more

(Excellent )

15/11/2016

Left by Workawayer (sophia) for host

I had an awesome time at this place. It was my first workaway experience and i loved it. I only stayed for one week (i would have loved to stay longer..).
First of all the family is super welcoming and warm-hearted. Second the place is magic. In the mountains in runtun between banos and casa del arbol. You can walk to banos in one hour its so… read more

(Excellent )

02/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Oisin & Aoife)

Oisin and Aoife were a really nice couple. We really like to have then here. They worked hard in the greenhouse with the babacos plants, also with the building of the new house. It was a pleasure to be Aoife's spanish teacher. She learns fast. I hope she has the oportunity to practice more every day with new hosts. Furthermore, some time after… read more

(Excellent )

23/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Oisin & Aoife) for host

Myself and my girlfriend stayed with Monica and her family in Runtún for 1 week. It was our first workaway experience and I have to say that we enjoyed it immensely. The room we stayed in was spacious and comfortable and the house has an incredible view of the Tungurahua Volcano (when the clouds aren't around!).
We helped for 2 days weeding Babaco… read more

(Excellent )

13/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Annette) for host

I stayed for one week with Monica, Holger and the rest of the family. They live on a beautiful place in the mountains of Baños. I helped one day in the greenhouse and the rest of the 'working‘ days helping with the house they are building for them selves and the future volunteers. You can take some Spanish lessons if you need (I definitely needed… read more

(Very good )

15/09/2016

Left by Workawayer (Jade) for host

Que lindas mis memorias del tiempo que pase en la finca de Monica, Holger, Wilo y Alba (y Emily : ) Solo me quede una semana pero fue una semana llena de comida rica, trabajo duro y gente amable. Gracias a Alba por enseñándonos hornear pan, y a Monica por siempre preparando desayuno y jugo de tomate del árbol (mi favorito). Holger siempre tuvo una… read more

(Excellent )

08/09/2016

Left by Workawayer (Rachael) for host

Fue muy lindo quedar con la familia de Mónica, Holger, Emily y Alba y Wilo. Son muy amables y su hogar fue el lugar perfecto para realizar mi primer experiencia de Work Away. Comimos juntos tres veces cada día y la comida siempre fue vegetariana y delicioso, hecho con amor. Hay mucho tiempo para descansar y visitar Baños. Fue muy interesante ver… read more

(Excellent )

07/09/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Joanna)

Fue muy corto el tiempo que Joanna se quedo con nosotros. Pero fue muy agradable su compania. Nos gusto mucho platicar con ella, es una persona muy amable, siempre buscando en que puede ayudar y sobre todo muy directa y sincera. Me gusta mucho su actitud. Tambien fue muy lindo compartir nuestras recetas de cocina contigo, el pan hecho en casa, el… read more

(Excellent )

01/09/2016

Left by Workawayer (Joanna) for host

Yo pasé 1 semana con la familia de Monica y me senti muy afortunada de haber encontrado gente tan agradable. Me senti como en mi casa, y porque Alba es una buena cocinera he descubierto mucho sobre tipica comida ecuatoriana (y me gusto mucho – riquissimo, especialmente el dulce de babaco !!!). Fuimos hasta 6 voluntarios, y el trabajo no hizo… read more

(Excellent )

24/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Ludivine & François) for host

We spent two weeks with Mónica, Holger, Emily, Wilo and Alba and had a very good time. We loved working with Holger, helping building the "casa", we learned a lot about bricks, mortar and walls, and he is a very nice and funny guy. We also had a good time helping Alba in the kitchen while having interesting conversations. The work is easy (4-5h in… read more

(Very good )

23/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Karen & Dorian) for host

Our first workaway experience was a great success. We stayed with this lovely and friendly family for 1 week, but if we would have had more time, we would have stayed longer!
We didn't speak Spanish, so Monica taught us some basics. The lessons she gave were very helpful.
The rest of family doesn't speak English, but is very patient when trying… read more

(Excellent )

20/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Logan) for host

This homestay was a fantastic experience. Monica and her family are all fun, friendly, and caring hosts. The family speaks Spanish, while Monica speaks and teaches Spanish & English. Between the immersion of speaking Spanish with the family and occasional lessons with Monica, I learned a lot in only two weeks. I fully intend to return to their… read more

(Excellent )

17/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Aaron & Rebecca)

Aaron y Rebecca, I'll never forget the time they stayed with us. They really help us a lot working at the greenhouses with Tomates de árbol. Also, Aaron gave me a hand fixing up and putting the finishing touches to my web page. At that time, my aunt got a surgery, so as Rebecca is a nurse, she told us how we should take care of her. We are really… read more

(Excellent )

24/06/2016

Left by Workawayer (Aaron & Rebecca) for host

My girlfriend and I stayed with Monica and her family in Runtun for a week. We worked in their farm on the weekdays and explored Baños on the weekends. Monica is a fantastic Spanish Teacher and gave us lessons for a very fair price. I would definitely visit again.

(Excellent )

16/08/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Maggie & Edward)

Maggie and Edward are really wonderful people. We were so happy with their help. They are very hardworking and helped us at any task needed. Furthermore, we enjoy the delicious "mex-tex tortillas" that they prepared for us. We like talking about our ways of life in our different countries during dinner time. I'll miss them and I hope one day they… read more

(Excellent )

10/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Maggie & Edward) for host

We spent 9 days with Mónica and her family and really enjoyed our stay. The work varied from working in the greenhouses with the tomate de arbol, to helping with construction on their new home, to helping around the house. The family is very kind and welcoming and it was a great chance to practice Spanish and see Ecuadorian life. We took two… read more

(Excellent )

10/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Marie-Eve & Gabrielle) for host

Gaby and I spent a wonderful very short week here with Monica and her beautiful big hearted family. I did not take long for us to feel at home in this liltle town in Banos. We had a great experience helping out in the babaco plantations (picking out the weeds) , on the building of their new house ( which i hope the completion went well!!) , and… read more

(Very good )

17/07/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah & Sam)

Hannah is a super friendly girl. She could only stay for few days but she helped us a lot and she was always willing to help at any task. I'll always remember the great conversations we had al dinner.
Thank you so much Hannah for everything :) Take care...

(Excellent )

19/06/2016

Left by Workawayer (Hannah & Sam) for host

Monica and her family were wonderful, warm, and totally welcoming to me and the other volunteers. It was a great mix of working and home staying. We did a lot of work in the tomato de arbol greenhouses and helped around the house wherever we could. Monica is also a great Spanish teacher and having a private class really helped me ( and it was fun… read more

(Excellent )

12/07/2016

Left by Workawayer (Jaya) for host

Perdon para contestar tan tarde. Me quede 2 semananas con Monica y su familia. Fue una experiencia super linda! Voy a retener el tiempo en mi memoria. El trabajo en el campo, practicar castellano y cocinar juntos en la cocina y lo mas divertido: Vamos a futbol??? :)
Muchas Gracias!!!
Jaya

(Very good )

26/05/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Carlos & Jessica )

I'm really grateful with Carlos and Jess. They are really nice people. They are hard working people. They helped us in everything needed, picking up tomatoes, milking the cows, building our house.
They prepared a delicious lasagna for the family. They are a lovely couple full of energy and good humor. They are always willing to help. I hope to… read more

(Excellent )

23/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Claudio) for host

I have been staying with Monica and her family a few weeks ago for 3 weeks in total. It has been the best time I had in Ecuador and it was hard to leave this place and the people. Everyone is extremely friendly and curious about the people who are staying with them. The location is amazing. It's super quite but not too far from
Baños where one… read more

(Excellent )

15/04/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Manish & Shruti)

I am very grateful to Manish and Shruti. They are a great couple who inspire love. Very helpers. They work hard at any job. Apart from that, I really liked to learn about their culture that is a little different from ours. Furthermore, thank you very much for helping me to create my page to take me to start my new job and make my dreams come true.… read more

(Excellent )

01/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Manish & Shruti) for host

My wife and I stayed with Monica and her family for 10 days in Runtun. The work was hard but satisfying while the family was very kind and caring. Her mother makes really good vegetarian food and her father is always keen to get to know people. Holger is a tough worker and it was amazing watching him put his heart and soul into the farm. Finally,… read more

(Excellent )

04/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Klaudyna) for host

Monica and her family are living in a beautiful rural area , besides Tungurahua volcano. It was amazing to wake up and be able to experience the nature around their home. We went to use a swing after work, which was awesome. We stayed one week and mostly worked picking up fruits and cleaning greenhouse with tomatoes :). We enjoyed working with… read more

(Very good )

03/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Carolin) for host

I'm sorry it took me so long to write this feedback, but times have been busy and the Internet bad.
I spent the most amazing week helping out at the farm and watching the volcano Tungurahua explode. I helped Monica and her family out with work around the house, in the greenhouses or Wilo took us up to the cows. Sometimes work in the greenhouse… read more

(Excellent )

30/03/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Johsselyn)

Mi querida amiga Jopi. Fue tan maravilloso haberte tenido en casa. Estoy muy agradecida por todo lo que hiciste por nosotros. Aprendí muchas muchas cosas contigo. Esas recetas veganas deliciosas. Dios nos esta bendiciendo mucho en nuestro proyecto, ademas ha puesto gente encantadora, muy amable y trabajado en nuestro camino. Nunca cambies toda esa… read more

(Excellent )

30/03/2016

Left by Workawayer (Johsselyn) for host

Compartir con mónica y su familia fue increíble, son gente muy amable y trabajadora. Siempre tienen una sonrisa en el rostro y algo porque agradecer.
Trabajé en la granja con los babacos y cosechando moras, también ayudé a mónica en social media para el proyecto. En mid tiempos libres podía ir a baños y cocinamos deliciosas preparaciones… read more

(Excellent )

18/03/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah)

Hannah, I'll never forget all your help. You are such a wonderful girl. I enjoy a lot talking to you and the time we spend working together. Also, you are an excellent student , you learn very fast. Have fun while travelling!! We'll miss you! espeacially Emily :-)

(Excellent )

13/03/2016

Left by Workawayer (Hannah) for host

I visited Monica only for a very short time, but she and her family are amazing! They have a beautiful farm close to Banos where you can do loads of activities. There is large room for the volunteers to stay. Monica is a great Spanish teacher, so if you need some Spanish classes this is definately a good place to go! Monica has a supercute little… read more

(Excellent )

18/03/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Bethany)

Bethany and her boyfriend Gio send me a last minute request. Fortunately, we had availability for them. I never imagined it was going to be a great experience. They were hard-working people with good energy and sense of humor. Gio made my daughter laugh all the time playing with her. It wa nice to now about their culture. Thank you very much! :)… read more

(Excellent )

06/03/2016

Left by Workawayer (Bethany) for host

We stayed with Mónica and her family for a week, working with their tree tomato and babaco crops. They are all super friendly and made us feel really comfortable. The food was vegetarian and delicious, three meals a day, and we volunteers slept all together on comfy bunk beds in a big room with a shower with hot water...the whole place was a nice… read more

(Excellent )

18/03/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Maggie)

Maggie is a friendly person with always a smile on her face. She likes working on any task needed. We enjoy talking about our children and how they are. Also about experiences during travelling and our cultures. She took some spanish lessons, she is very intelligent and learn fast.
Thanks for everything Maggie. Enjoy travelling! :-)

(Excellent )

27/02/2016

Left by Workawayer (Maggie) for host

I spent a week at the farm and I had a wonderful experience. Monica and her family are lovely, warm people and so kind and thoughtful. They welcomed me into their family and to their beautiful farm (it really is incredible) and I'm glad I was able to help them a little bit with their babaco and tomate de arbol trees! Also their food is so… read more

(Very good )

18/03/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Morgan)

We are very thankful with Morgan. She was a great person, hard-working and very friendly. We enjoy spending time with her. And of course we were really happy with the work she has done during her stay at our farm.

(Excellent )

02/03/2016

Left by Workawayer (Morgan) for host

Monica and her family are kind, funny, hard-working people. Working with them was a great experience although somewhat short. They have a beautiful farm that they obviously put much care into over many years. Thanks again for the comfortable bed and delicious food! Salud!

Muchas gracias Monica, Wilow, Alba, Orge, y Emily! Tuve un gran… read more

(Excellent )

08/02/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Blake & Leida Natalia)

Blake and Natalia are really good people. We enjoy working together, watering the babacos' plants. Thanks for taking care of Emily. We love the delicious food prepared by Natalia. It was a short time but full of new and good experiences. I'm sure that wherever you go people will like you because of you are the kind of people we enjoy being with...

(Very good )

25/01/2016

Left by Workawayer (Blake & Leida Natalia) for host

Somos una pareja que nos quedamos aqui por un mes, en este mes de febrero. Es una bella familia sencilla y amable, nos hemos sentido como en casa, el lugar es tranquilo y bonito queda cerca del la carretera donde pasa el bus para baños y casa de arbol y vale 50 centavos. Tienen gallinas, vacas,conejo, loro,pajaros y perro. La mayoría de los… read more

(Very good )

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Host ref number: 869369728365

Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in Ecuador Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in South America Family Ecuador Farmstay Ecuador Last minute Homestays, Volunteering & Working Holidays in Ecuador

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