Nicolas

Belgium
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Travel information
I am currently
Travelling
Description
*I'm not available at the moment*

Hey, thanks for visiting my profile !

I’m Nick, 30 years old. I come from Belgium. I speak French, English. I know some Dutch, Swedish and Japanese.

I love meeting new people and having interesting discussions. But I'm also an introvert who likes spending time alone sometimes. I don't mind being surrounded by nature with little around it :)

I like reading, listening to music, meditation...

I worked in logistics and car mechanics in the past. I know a fair bit about renovation, I have helped renovating two houses. I also know about woodworking and carpentry. I have used a chainsaw, sawmill and driven a tractor in the forest before. My hosts usually ask me to repair stuff around the property.

I recently started freelancing online in Sound Design. Nowadays, most of my time off is spent doing that.

I'm not a smoker and I do not often drink alcohol. I'm vegetarian.

I have already done a few workaways and WWOOFing (15+) in countries such as New Zealand, Japan, Germany, Sweden, Norway and Belgium. From previous experiences, I learnt that, it is very important for me to share with my host. I want to chat, laugh and eat together. I’m not cheap labour. Please let me know if you feel the same !

I'm looking forward meeting you!
Nick
Interests
Yoga / Wellness
Cycling
Sailing / Boating
Vegetarian or vegan
Events & social
Adventure sports
Winter sports
Videography
Technology
Self development
Sustainability
Pets
Outdoor activities
Nature
Music
Mountain
Languages
Hiking
Gardening
Farming

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Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Dutch: Intermediate
Japanese: Beginner
Swedish: Beginner
Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Eco Projects
Charity Work
Some knowledge of:
Gardening
Life at a Farmstay
Animal Care
Hospitality/Tourism
Languages
Art Projects
Able to teach about:
DIY and building projects
General Maintenance
Helping around the house
Helping with Computers/ Internet
More details about your skills
I'm happy to help you with renovating, building, carpentry, painting, mowing the lawn, gardening, weeding, cutting down trees, taking care of animals... And a lot of other things !
Age
30
Some more information
- Smoker
- Driver's licence
- Allergies
  No
- Special dietary requirements
  Vegetarian

Feedback

15 Jun 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Off-grid experience, come and ...)

I stayed at Eric and Eva’s place mid May. I was supposed to stay 6 weeks but I left after 10 days. The hosts contacted me first to invite me to their place. Eva is in Stockholm most of the working weeks.

I was supposed to sleep in a caravan but when I arrived, the caravan was not ready. I slept in a room inside the house. It was a bit loud in the… read more evening when I needed to rest. But the bed was comfortable. I moved to the caravan after a few days then had to move again to a cabin.

The work is not hard and there is a fika break at 11am. I mainly used to sawmill and I built a vegetable box for the garden. Carpentry is not the only work that needs to be done. Most of the activity while I was there was taking care of the garden and splitting wood with at log splitter.

Tools and wood are provided if you want to work on your own projects during your free time. You can also ask Eric for his expertise, he will always be more than happy to teach you.

Food is good but as mentioned in a previous review, if you usually eat more than one plate, you will either have to eat less or hear some complains from the host. Especially if you are vegetarian. I am and even though, the host is claiming to be vegetarian friendly. I was told that I was eating a lot of vegetables and vegetables are expensive.

Playing cards is not mandatory but more than highly recommended. I didn’t join the team building sessions during my first week and I have been reminded several times that I was more than welcome to join. So, if you don’t like playing cards… Well you better like playing cards.

The name of the place mentions being ‘Off the grid’. The house is indeed not using water from the grid, as it is the case for 99% of Swedish country side. It is however fully connected to electricity, internet and most of the food comes from the grocery store.

I will not get into too much detail about the events that lead me to leave early as I don’t see it as relevant for this review. Feel free to ask me in private if you want to hear a more detailed version however. Basically, I felt blamed for a lot of things and I thought that if there were so many wrong things with me, I should take my leave.

Most of the time Eric is nice to talk to and friendly. #redacted text# I couldn’t cope with being treated like a fantastic person one day and a lesser human being the other day.

When I said I was going to leave early. Eric blamed me for all sorts of things. I have been told that I didn’t know what I wanted. That I have been offered everything but I was not taking the opportunity. That when Eric enters the room, we all fell silent. He felt unwelcome in his own house. I have also been told that since I arrived, the team spirit is completely gone. I am asocial and making zero effort. (Just for the record, I had joined the non mandatory but more than recommended team building sessions a couple of times). At some point the other volunteers stepped in because they thought that Eric was being unfair. He left.

A couple of hours later, we were hanging out in the garden between volunteers. Eric came yelling at one volunteer because they had “yelled at Eric in his own house”. It was painful to witness.

The following day, the volunteer has been told to pack their things without notice.

I think this place has a lot of potential and much to offer but there big shortcomings and a lot of changes have to be done for everybody to feel welcome. Communication has to be improved a great deal as well.

In conclusion, even though this place could be amazing, I would not recommend it as a first experience, or a second experience either. But if you like challenges and feel up for the task, there are many interesting projects going on. Eric is willing to explain a lot of stuff and there is definitely a lot to learn, not only in carpentry.

(Neutral )

20 May 2023

Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)

We had a great time hosting Nicolas! He is such a nice and helpful guy. He stayed with us 2 weeks and helped with our building project in a new house, installing skirting boards and other building tasks. He also helped outdoors and wouldn't hesitate to lend a hand if he sees the possibility to. Thank you and good luck on your continued travels! 🙌

(Excellent )

17 Mar 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Help at our vegetarian ...)

I stayed at Anna and Patric's for two weeks, two other workawayers were there at the same time.
This is a fantastic place and I had a great time there. Anna and Patric are very kind and I wish them the best with their projects !

(Excellent )

3 May 2023

Left by host (Organic and sustainable small ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nick stayed with us for 6 weeks in March/April 2023. It was a pleasure to host him! Nick helped with different carpentry projects,work in the garden, and anything else that was asked of him. He is kind, social, responsible, and a good worker and we highly recommend him!

(Excellent )

30 Apr 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Organic and sustainable small ...)

I stayed 5 weeks at Nina & Tim's. I had a great time. I felt welcome and I met many nice people ! Work was good and very flexible. I did some carpentry, painting, a bit of forestry work and gardening. I had my own cabin but it was unusual. Accommodation is usually shared with other workawayers. The kitchen and bathroom are located in the main… read more

(Excellent )

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15 Jun 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Off-grid experience, come and ...)

(Neutral )

20 May 2023

Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)

(Excellent )

17 Mar 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Help at our vegetarian ...)

(Excellent )

3 May 2023

Left by host (Organic and sustainable small ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

(Excellent )

30 Apr 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Organic and sustainable small ...)

(Excellent )

26 Mar 2023

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Enjoy farm life in remote ...)

We stayed with Stian and Lucius for two weeks. We felt at home as soon as we arrived. The work was good and not too difficult, we mostly did forestry work and a bit of cleaning. We went downhill skiing in Sweden once and cross-country skiing on the lake several times. The food was excellent, we even had the pleasure of tasting Alfonso's pizza a… read more

(Excellent )

24 Mar 2023

Left by host (Enjoy farm life in remote ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas and Vera stayed with us for 2 weeks! It was a good time, and we got a lot done! They are very helpful and friendly. Helped out a lot in the house with cocking and cleaning too. Much appreciated. Absolutely recommend these two for other hosts.

(Excellent )

24 Nov 2022

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Meditation, cats, chickens, ...)

I stayed at Adina's for two weeks. The tasks were varied and I met many friendly people! Also, there's a lot to explore in the area. I recommend

(Excellent )

5 Nov 2022

Left by host (Join our happy family by the ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas was an easygoing and flexible guest who adapted to our lively family life quickly. He helped with paving a nature stone way and played with the kids every once in a while. He‘s a real language lover and is highly interested in other cultures and always open to try out something new. Wonderful!

We can recommand him to any other host, since… read more

(Excellent )

5 Nov 2022

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Join our happy family by the ...)

I had a great time at Milan and Julia's. I stayed there for about 3 weeks. I felt at home and part of the family as soon as I arrived. I helped build a stone path around the house and garage.
Kummerow is a small village located right next to a beautiful lake. There is a lot to explore in the area. Ask Julia for tips, she knows the place inside out… read more

(Excellent )

16 Oct 2022

Left by host (Help with an organic ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas stayed with us for four weeks and did loads of work! He watered, weeded, helped to chop down trees, moved compost and even split some nasty big logs! He was always happy to help out with anything, working either with one of us or on his own. We also had some interesting dinner conversations and he cooked some yummy vegan food. (The… read more

(Excellent )

10 Oct 2022

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Help with an organic ...)

I first thought I would stay two weeks at Gabi and Grum's but after a few days I realised I wanted to extend my stay. So I ended up staying 4 weeks. I had an amazing time and we had many interesting discussions. The dogs are lovely and I really enjoyed petting and walking them.
The work was not too difficult, I weeded the garden, harvested… read more

(Excellent )

6 Aug 2020

Left by host (Come and help us on our ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas, thank you for your feedback. It was nice to have you here.
Nicolas stayed with us for 3 weeks and luckily we had good weather to work outside. He has helped us very well with the construction of the new aviary.
He also sawed wood and cut grass with the brushcutter.
Nicolas is a very hard worker, he is very punctual, friendly and… read more

(Excellent )

6 Aug 2020

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Come and help us on our ...)

I stayed 3 weeks at Ruth and Marja's farm. It was nice. I learnt so much stuff. Work was unrelated to horses but interesting and diverse nonetheless. I followed Ruth and helped him with different projects.
I stayed in an apartment next to the house. I shared dinner with the hosts and cooked for myself breakfast and lunch.
The farm is located on… read more

(Excellent )

11 Jun 2020

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Come help us with house ...)

I stayed at Marie & Edward’s place for 10 days. They live in a beautiful house in the middle of the Ardennes. If you like nature, there are tons of places to explore. Marie & Ed go for a walk with the dogs twice a day, it was a great opportunity to discover the surroundings.

The pets are part of the family. Ves and Obi are 2 lovely dogs in their… read more

(Excellent )

10 Jun 2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas is an amazing workawayer and he was a perfect fit for our little family.
He was a pleasure to have around: discreet, respectful, always in a good mood, and our pets really liked him.
We shared lots of interesting stories and experiences, which was really enriching. It was just like having a long time friend over!
He approached every… read more

(Excellent )

29 May 2020

Left by host (Live in nature and learn ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Nicolas is a nature and animal lover. He's an excellent and resourceful person.
He did a great job and helped us a lot with carpenter work, cooking and gardening.
We wish you all the best for the future

(Excellent )

29 May 2020

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Live in nature and learn ...)

J’ai passé une merveilleuse semaine en compagnie d’Antoine, Nancy et tous leurs petits copains à 2 ou 4 pattes. Les conversations sont enrichissantes. Le travail est très intéressant, il y a beaucoup de choses à apprendre. L’endroit est magnifique. Il y a de quoi faire plein de balades en forêt. La nourriture est bio et provient des environs. Les… read more

(Excellent )

21 Feb 2020

Left by host (Bergen, Norway - Renovating ...) for Workawayer (Nicolas)

Hi Nicolas! Hope you arrived well back home in Belgium :)

Nicolas was a great help and a super guest. I enjoyed his visit a lot, and he finished some quite diverse tasks around the house. He is smart and works well independently. We also had plenty of interesting conversations. He is also a master of turning fresh snow into delicious… read more

(Excellent )

20 Feb 2020

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (Bergen, Norway - Renovating ...)

I stayed a bit less than 3 weeks at Bård's place. I had a great time. 10 min walking from the city center, it is a great opportunity to explore Bergen and the surroundings. There are a few mountains if you want to go hiking. Don't be afraid of rain if you go during winter though !
Bård explained to me how to get there, it was really easy. I… read more

(Excellent )

11 Feb 2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)

I spent a long time with him and what I want to tell him most is that I love his smile.
He is always there when I review the pictures.
I want to see him again.
Everyone loved him.
The Japanese staff was healed by his smile and his smile allowed all my mistakes.
Thank you Nicolas.
He was the leader of a staying workaway, a mood maker, a hard… read more

(Excellent )

29 Jan 2020

Left by Workawayer (Nicolas) for host (A place to experience ...)

I stayed at Shiba’s farm for 10 weeks. It was my first long-term workaway experience and I don’t regret it ! I had an amazing time there. Shiba is nice and friendly, always trying to help and always around. I think I’ve seen him every single day of my stay. Shiba knows all the English to give instructions for the work but for a deeper exchange,… read more Google Translate is your friend.

The work is nice and quite diverse. Shiba tries to make us do different things. If it’s raining he is doing his best to give indoor tasks. When I was there, the work started at 8 am until 1 pm. With 30 minutes tea break at 10 :30. Work starts earlier during summer because of the heat. Usually someone stays home after tea break to cook for everyone and clean the house.

For the food, Shiba goes grocery shopping once a week. You write on the list what you want to eat and he buys it. (As long as it’s reasonable) During my stay there were a few vegetarians or gluten – free people. I think overall it worked great for them as well.

The number of people change over time, some weeks we were 11-12 other weeks we were 6-7. The house is big, and there are plenty of bed sheets and futon. There are 6+ bedrooms. There is a chance that you have your own room depending on the number of people staying at the same time as you. There are bikes, a washing machine, towels, boots, working clothes, AC in every rooms...

When I stayed, I had plenty of free time to grab a bike and explore the surroundings. There are a few temples, mountains, stores, onsen, karaoke, great Izakayas (Go to Banchou !) ... Unfortunately not too many hikes ! You can also easily hitchhike your way to Iya Valley, Tokushima or even Osaka for the week-end if you’re cheap and don’t want to pay for trains and buses.

But if you don’t like moving around too much, just staying home after work was fun as well. I had a great time just hanging out with the others in the living room and the kitchen. The house is a small bubble of comfort and you will feel home in no time.

If you are looking for a place to stay for a few weeks, I can only recommend it. Don’t think twice, send a message, book a flight to Japan and come to this farm. Shiba will welcome and you will stay with other workawayers in a traditional Japanese house. I can guarantee you will have a wonderful experience and meet amazing people.

(Excellent )

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