Workaway reviews, feedback and ratings - page 6

We stayed for a week after getting in touch with Vishal and Aditi via Whatsapp. After seeing so many wonderful reviews, we were looking forward to meeting them, despite the last review being from 2023. They gave us all the information necessary on how to arrive (contact info for a driver familiar with the farm; 1000 rupee rickshaw ride from Chikkamagaluru). When we arrived, it turned out that Vishal and Aditi were not at the farm, but in Calcutta for a family emergency, so unfortunately we weren't able to meet them, which was a big bummer for us. I was particularly interested in talking with them about the organic/regenerative aspect of the farm as well as some of their conservation initiatives. We completely understand that these things can't be planned for, so we wish them well and hope to return some day to meet them in person :). The rest of this review will focus on the farmstay itself. We were greeted by two of the local staff, Ganesh and Sheshi, two young guys that do general cleaning and some of the coffee processing. They were joined by Stefan, the new property manager. It sounds like none of the staff that appears in the previous reviews are there anymore, and these guys are recent hires. The staff were very accommodating and easy to get along with, despite not speaking much English. We actually enjoyed very much learning some Kannada and trying to communicate with them. Stefan, who does speak more English, was very accommodating during our stay, gave us some tasks, and helped out with the cooking, as there was no cook for half of the stay. We also helped with cooking and cleaning the kitchen before a new cook, Pavatri, and her family arrived. Pavatri quickly became the heart and soul of the place, with her wonderful cooking, her big smile, and her adorable son Bargo. She immediately cleaned up the kitchen, which was quite dirty and disorganized when we arrived. Stefan was kind enough to invite us to participate in a pooja (ceremony) he and his family held with the farm cows one afternoon, as well as walking to one of the local waterfalls together. Definitely one of the highlights of the stay. Stefan also introduced us to Maesh, the supervisor of the coffee harvesting. We had a few great afternoons talking with him while picking coffee cherries (this was January, so full coffee harvesting season). The previous reviews are accurate in saying that the location is truly spectacular. The grounds are really beautiful, with flowers, ponds, and abundant birds + wildlife everywhere you look (note: look out for ticks; we were bit by a couple, which we later found out is quite common in these mountains. Wear long pants/shirts in the forests and do tick checks, these things can carry some nasty diseases). The various rooms and buildings are well-thought out, if rustic. But the views from some of the rooms are just amazing (Sunbird room!). You can tell that some of these buildings could use a little bit more attention in terms of cleanliness and organization (there is evidence of mold under mattresses, for example, and sheets should be washed more often). I'm sure that with a bit more time, this new crew can get this place up to its full potential. Most of our time was dedicated to general cleaning, picking up trash, participating in coffee processing activities (though not a huge amount to do beyond picking), and washing the many windows, which had accumulated a lot of algae/moss over the months of monsoon. Guests should be able to enjoy the beautiful views much more easily now! I think if the work were a little bit more well-defined and organized, volunteers' time could be used more efficiently. We consistently asked how we could help and ultimately just did the things that seems obvious to us (washing windows, cleaning, cooking). Overall, it was a pleasant stay in a stunning location with very friendly and kind locals. With a little bit of guidance on cleanliness and organization/communication around tasks, this would easily be a 5-star review. Once again, we wish Aditi and Vishal the best and would love to meet them one day. They sound like super interesting people. Best wishes, K+M

I cannot express enough how grateful I am to Ramon and Paula for hosting me. The five days I spent here have become unforgettable memories. They always thought about how to make my stay better and sincerely listened to me, even though my English is not very good. They truly valued the time we spent together. We talked a lot during meals and tea time, and I really enjoyed watching Japanese anime and movies together with them. My main tasks were helping to lay the stone pavement in the garden and helping Paula's vintage clothes shop, and both were truly enjoyable and valuable experiences for me. They always prepared delicious Southern Italian meals, which became something I really looked forward to every day. Thank you so, so much from the bottom of my heart. 本当に素敵な滞在でした。 ラモンとパウラはとても日本に関心があり、日本の文化などについてたくさん話をしました。彼らはいつも私の滞在がより良い経験になるようにと、街に連れて行ってくれたり、一緒にマーケットへ行ったり、カフェで名物のスイーツを食べさしてくれたり、家で南イタリアの美味しいお肉や野菜、魚、手作りのパンを食べさせてくれたりしました。そのどれもが新しい経験で忘れられない思い出です。仕事というよりまとも、共に過ごす時間を大切にしており、友人のお家にお邪魔しているような、そんな気持ちになります。Rossanoのポツンと一軒家ではありますが、大自然の中で田舎暮らしを楽しく体験することができます。

Aw Jesssi!!! sorry about the late feedback which is only due to not having had internet for some time, being on the road and sick etc... Jessi's been great on all levels, really enjoyed having her company and help here with the harvest. She's a fab and fast learner and really got the job done which is so essential for us. We had such good laughs ( oh if chickens had all their eggs...) and hope she'll have the best of times on her further travels! All the best for now Jessi and thank you!!!! Antje and Pavlos

We stayed with Ahri and Ellen for three nights. They were super welcoming, sharing their food and knowledge with us. We spent most of our working hours out in the garden where we were building the chicken coup with Ahri, helping dig out the base, cut the wire and tie it to the fence. On our last day we even had the chance to go mango picking alongside Ahri which we had a blast doing!! Overall we had a great experience and both feel we've learnt so much. Thank you both again. 🙏🏼

This workaway with Nicky and Richard was such a great time ! Work ? I only remember beautiful vegetables that we were so glad to grow and to eat (amazingly prepared by Nicky), new things to learn every day, great moments and laughs shared, a meaningful project and a wonderful place to rest before going back to travel. Don't hesitate to contact them, they will welcome you as part of their family, and you'll have an insight into the real kiwi countryside life.

Since the beginning of my journey here in New Zealand, I’ve been trying to master the whole “going with the flow” thing. That’s what first caught my eye in Jan’s profile description, among other interesting facts about her life. I’m glad I listened to my heart and got in touch with her — I have so many fond memories of the time spent in the Bay of Islands. I really enjoyed our chilled evenings, having dinner together and watching TV shows. Jan is an amazing cook, and every meal she prepared for us was delicious! The work mainly involved gardening and sometimes some household chores. This Workaway experience showed me how much time and dedication is needed to maintain such a well-kept garden. Since I left, I can’t stop imagining what my own garden will look like in the future — I’ve certainly taken up a new hobby. Jan has a great group of friends, and it was so much fun hanging out with them. I can’t wait to come back to the Bay of Islands and listen to some live music together again! Thank you, Jan! I'm sending lots of hugs from the South Island. I hope you enjoy the summer to the fullest - I can't wait to see you again!

Our time could have really not been better ! From the beginning the communication and organisation with James was really easy and reassuring. We came as a couple and did the yoga classes as well as the social hosting together. The Hostel is amazing, really chill vibe and the people are great. All the staff was always helpful and welcoming. We can only recommend this place for anyone wanting to volunteer. It would be a place that I would feel comfortable and safe to go to as a solo female traveller. Thanks to James, Iranga, Lawrence and the whole team for this great exchange. We will be back ❤️

I was volunteering here during a week , helping them with marketing and interacting with guests . And I really love ❤️ this place . Everything was perfect - the hotel is clean and comfortable , the staff is very friendly and most of them speak English well , they serve nice breakfast for guests for free , and make very delicious tea and coffee ☕️. The WiFi works well everywhere and there are many chargers, including common area (which is suitable to work with laptop 💻) . I stayed first night in private room and then in the dorm (which I even liked more - it's so cozy , with privacy curtains , chargers, and there is a balcony where I did my exercises every morning 💪. The hotel is located close to the main bus station , but on a quite street , and it's not noisy here at night (I slept next to the window and felt myself well) . What I really like is their approach to guests - they explain everything about the tours in details (telling what is included and what is not very clearly, the guests always know what they pay for ) , they give recommendations about places to visit and can give a personal plan , if you want to ride a motorbike yourself . But most of guests choose a tour with local drivers , because it's safer and more relaxing . All the guests I talked with after the tour were satisfied. They have different tour options from 1 to 4 days . Their website is informative, and Instagram , YouTube and TikTok are full of amazing content (each guests has a chance to become superstar ✨️ ). Also, they help to organise transfer to/from Hanoi, and the buses come under the hotel , while waiting the bus , guests can relax in the common area , drink tea/coffee and take shower . Me , as a volunteer , I really appreciated their shared lunches and dinners and flexibility of my work hours and tasks . Many Thanks 🙏 to Tom , Lee , Mai (I really appreciate the Lucky Cat 🐈 you presented me ) , Thanh , Hong , Hoang , Hoa , and all of others which names I don't remember , sorry 😅 (I hope I wrote your names correctly and didn't mixed up with you surnames😹) . I wish you good luck 👍 ✨️.

I enjoyed my time at the hostel. It is a calm and relaxed place and it was great to use the yoga space. Damian is a very kind and interesting person, interested to spend time with the volunteers and to eat together in the evening - we had a lot of good talks all together. The other stuff is very nice, too. I am very happy to have met you Pia, Ivan and Elias. I was helping in the kitchen, at the bar and serving the guests, as well as filling some mural painting, another volunteer had drawn. You have to take a taxi for 1,50-2 dollars from Olon to get to the hostel. If you want to have some party you can take a taxi to Montañita.

I had a truly wonderful inaugural experience staying with David. He is an exceptional person and a memorable host who genuinely enjoys sharing his land, expertise, and way of life. During my time at the Farm, I unplugged in the best way possible. David was generous with his knowledge of agriculture and off-grid living, taking time to explain the reasoning behind why things are done a certain way—from how girdling can eventually take down a tree, to how strategic pruning can encourage healthier growth and increased fruit production. Working both together and independently, I helped with things like feeding ducks, tending to the chickens, gathering firewood, harvesting turmeric, picking & processing muscadines, as well as sourcing food waste from the local co-op to use as compost for the farm. All this & more demonstrated firsthand the closed-loop approach to gardening and land care that I believe we are all capable of. Many aspects of my visit felt deeply inspiring and genuinely hope-inducing. Moreover, the property itself is absolutely beautiful! Quiet and peaceful, with a variety of trees, lots of birds, a creek, mountain views & stunning stargazing after dark. Also to my delight, much of what we ate came straight from his food garden—fresh, abundant, and delicious. Cooking on the wood stove was a huge highlight; the meals were simple, nourishing, and especially memorable. As for accommodations: I slept on a real mattress inside a tent on the covered back deck/porch, which was surprisingly comfortable & had enough room to share with my dog—who had an amazing time as well, making friends and clearly feeling at home on the grounds. David also took the time to show us around downtown, which I really appreciated & felt added a nice balance to the experience. Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better very first Workaway experience. I’m deeply grateful for the time spent here and would highly recommend staying with David to anyone who wants to learn, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a unique place with an equally one-of-a-kind owner. I sincerely hope to return as soon as time & fate allows. Thank you, David!

Reka is a person with a strong sense of responsibility and lenguage ability . She is competent, efficient and helpful and should be recommended to any future Workaway Host. Thank you Reka for your outstanding contributions.

We’re so grateful to Luisa and Patty for how welcoming they were - we couldn’t have asked for a better first stay on our trip! Experiencing the whole olive harvest process was a huge highlight for us, and we definitely recommend it to anyone considering it. We got to explore the sweet town of Perdifumo and the nearby town of Agropoli. While we were there we got to swim at the beach and eat amazing pizza. There were even Roman ruins we explored in Paestum! We felt so spoiled between Patty’s lunches from around the world, nighttime sauna sessions, and cuddles with their two cats. Luisa and Patty genuinely inspire us with the way they live their everyday life and they have given us a very cool blueprint for being able to prioritize travel and community at the same time. We’re already scheming up ways to come back to visit! We highly recommend this Workaway to anyone who wants to experience the olive harvest, slow down their life a little, and enjoy life in the beautiful town of Perdifumo.

Hitesh is a fantastic volunteer! He did a variety of tasks for us including cleaning and some outdoor maintenance. He also cooked us some delicious dishes. Best of all he helped us with some valuable tech projects and some event planning and marketing. Even after he left he's still helping us to build a website and with other online work. Hitesh is a really fun and easy going guy and we enjoyed his company and fun sense of humor.

Para todos nosotros fue una inmensa alegría compartir con Pierre y Fanny durante cuatro semanas, siempre dispuestos a ayudarnos en todo lo que necesitábamos con muy buena disposición y con buena actitud. Siempre muy responsables y amables. Le enseñamos español y ellos nos enseñaron francés, pasamos momentos muy gratos compartiendo con ellos, son una pareja muy linda y feliz, esperamos en el futuro poder volver a vernos en algún lugar del mundo. Pierre y Fanny ayudaron en la reparación de maquinarias y enseñaron cultura francesa a toda nuestra familia, fueron un gran aporte para.

We really enjoyed our time at the Casa and can highly recommend working there as a volunteer. The manager, Javier, is very kind and always does his best to support the volunteers. This meant that we could take the same days off, giving us enough free time to explore the area around Xela. The work is exactly as described and very relaxed. Your responsibilities will include checking guests in and out, booking tours and shuttles, and answering any questions they might have. The hostel is in the centre of the city, so everything you need is nearby. The hostel itself is a peaceful place where you can feel at home. We felt very comfortable during our three-week stay.

I stayed with Lorna for a week while still looking for a car to start my adventures in New Zealand. I will be forever grateful for all the support and warm words I received from her and all the conversations we shared over the tea and dinner. I very quickly felt at home and also loved the company of her cat, Pippi. I'm very happy that I had a chance to go with Lorna to the school fair as well as to a local event in her neighbourhood before Christmas Holidays. Meeting her wonderful family along the way was another highlight of this workaway experience. I enjoyed all the tasks that Lorna gave me during my stay. The work involved mainly some household chores. I highly recommend spending at least a few days with Lorna as she is so loving and caring. Thank you again Lorna for all the help, I hope you're enjoying 2026 so far! :)

We really enjoyed hosting Celina.She stayed about a week and she was a pleasure to host. She willingly set to help with the variety of tasks asked of her and did all of them to a high standard. She was also great in the kitchen and self motivated to cook yummy things. We would host her again without hesitation. Thank you. Highly recommended to any host

We really enjoyed hosting Romy and Lionel. They could only stay a week but they were a real pleasure to host and willingly set to help with the variety of tasks asked of them. We would host them again without hesitation. Thank you. Highly recommended to any host

We really enjoyed having Guillemette and Thomas stay with us! They arrived just in time for New Year and were with us for almost 2 weeks, recommended to spend some time with us by a cousin Coline who volunteered here previously. They were both great, easy company, did a great job of weeding and watering lots of our native plants (using the fire hose, Guillemette had been a firefighter at home!) They helped Richard to pluck and dress a number of ducks, thank you so much for this. They also cooked some delicious meals and baking (tarts a speciality!), and harvested fruit and vegetables from the garden (yes, more courgettes!). They stayed in our cottage with various other helpers, and were sociable and fun company with everyone. They didn't claim to have any special skills but they turned their hand to anything we asked. In their free time, they were happy to do stuff with us and we went fishing at the river mouth (including some catching) and also went on a 4 Wheel Drive day over a number of nearby farm properties, seeing some magnificent coastal scenery on a VERY hot day. I can highly recommend Guillemette and Thomas to other hosts, you will have lots of fun together whatever the task may be!

We had an amazing experience with our hosts. We were able to do many different and interesting tasks, which allowed us to learn a lot and never get bored. From the very first day, they were incredibly welcoming and made us feel like part of their family, truly like their own children. They took the time to show us so much of the surrounding area, especially related to our interests, agriculture, and local life. We learned a great deal thanks to them. On top of that, the food was absolutely delicious, and dinners were always a real moment of sharing. The farm is an absolute paradise, an oasis at the middle of the outback. We had also the unique opportunity to pet a magpie! We are very grateful for this experience and would highly recommend staying with them to anyone looking for a meaningful and warm woofing experience.