Vanessa

Travel information

I am currently

Activities i am interested in:

Currently traveling the Northeast, eager to explore outside the States but no iron clad plans as of now.

Description

After several years in an administrative job that left me wanting something more meaningful, I decided to change direction and get my hands dirty—literally. I joined AmeriCorps and spent my days helping build and maintain trails, working hard outdoors, and teaching Leave No Trace principles so people can enjoy nature responsibly. I’m not afraid of long days, tough work, or a little sweat if it means helping take care of the places we all love.

I’m passionate about making the world a little better wherever I can. Long term, I hope to build a small, self-sustaining homestead with a bed & breakfast or campground, so I’m always eager to learn practical skills—from land stewardship to hospitality.

Last November I took a life-changing trip around Europe that inspired me to embrace a more adventurous, travel-focused lifestyle. These days I support my travels through pet and house sitting, and I come from a big family, so I’m very comfortable helping with pets, kids and busy households.

I have minimal experience with farming/ farm animals, but I’m hardworking, dependable, and always excited to learn something new.

Interests

Van life

Sustainability

Self development

Pets

LGBTQ

Culture

Charity work

Plant care

Photography

Performing arts

History

Music

Languages

Gardening

DIY & crafts

Cooking & food

Carpentry

Books

Astronomy

Art & design

Animals

Sailing / Boating

Outdoor activities

Nature

Mountain

Dancing

Camping

Beach

Adventure sports

Hiking

Languages

Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Sign language (American): Intermediate
Spanish: Beginner

More details about my language interests
I’m a native English speaker with some out-of-practice but still conversational American Sign Language. Lately I’ve been feeling pulled toward reconnecting with my ancestral languages—Spanish, Italian, Gaelic, and German—and seeing what grows from there. Language learning feels a bit like following threads back through family stories and history, and if I happen to pick up a few extra languages along the way, I certainly wouldn’t mind.

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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Hospitality/Tourism

Life at a Farmstay

Animal Care

Light gardening

Being an elderly companion

Languages

Art Projects

Charity Work

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Some knowledge of:  

Light maintenance

House & pet sitting

Helping around the house

Babysitting and creative play

Creative DIY projects

Eco Projects

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Able to teach about:  

Creating/ Cooking family meals

More details about your skills

Trail Building & Outdoor Work: I’ve worked on trail crews building and maintaining hiking trails with sustainability in mind. This includes constructing natural trail structures using hand tools such as rock bars, picks, and grip hoist winches, as well as splitting rock using drills, feathers, and wedges. I’m very comfortable with physical outdoor work and long days on my feet.

Handyman & Property Maintenance: I’ve spent many years helping with general home repairs and maintenance. My experience includes painting, drywall patching, small construction projects, minor electrical work (outlet and light fixture replacement), and basic plumbing maintenance. I take pride in keeping workspaces organized and leaving places clean and well cared for.

Pet & House Sitting: I regularly support my travels through house and pet sitting. I’m very comfortable caring for dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, and sizes, including feeding, exercise, basic grooming, and maintaining routines. I’m also comfortable reinforcing basic training and providing attentive, reliable care while owners are away.

Teamwork & Leadership: Through my time with AmeriCorps and as a trail crew leader, I’ve learned how to work well in teams and help guide volunteers with little or no experience. I’m comfortable collaborating with others, staying organized, and also working independently when needed.

Languages: Native English speaker. Basic Spanish (I’m Puerto Rican but grew up more of a “no sabo” kid). Conversational in ASL, though a little out of practice.

Outdoor Enthusiasm: I love being outside and helping others enjoy nature responsibly. I’m an avid hiker who occasionally rock climbs, and I’m always open to trying new outdoor activities and learning new skills.

Work Ethic & Household Skills: I’m dependable, adaptable, and not afraid of getting my hands dirty. I’m tidy in shared spaces, respectful of other people’s homes, and comfortable helping with everyday household needs. Coming from a large family, I’m used to busy households and happy to help wherever I’m needed.

Age

33

Some more information

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  Smoker

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  Driver's licence

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  Allergies

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  Special dietary requirements