Ana

Portugal
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I am currently
Travelling
Description
Hey, my name is Ana and I'm from Portugal! I'm currently 32 years old and I live in Iceland.

I graduated in Journalism from university in 2013, then proceeded to work as a press officer for 5 years in Lisbon, and was mainly involved in promoting music and cultural projects. As I was developing a steady career, it dawned on me that I didn't have enough experience of the world to settle down just yet. In 2019, I decided to move to Iceland (literally to the middle of nowhere!) and start a new, slow-paced life in a totaly different environment and line of work.
It was after this move that I developed a strong need to (ex)change places, cultures, languages and habits any time possible! Even though I have been based in a small (really small) village in Iceland for some time, I've been traveling so much and meeting so many amazing people from around the world that I've decided to change my base again.

I grew up in a small town in Portugal, surrounded by nature and blessed by great weather, but that doesn't mean that it's hard for me to adapt to more adverse conditions (Iceland taught me well). I always loved being outside, either hiking, playing sports, or hanging around with friends. But really, what I always loved to do is making people laugh! Sense of humor is very important to me and I consider this one the greatest tools I carry with me everywhere I go.

As years went by, I realized that what brings me the most joy is being at service of people, may they be strangers or familiars, so that motivated me to join the Workaway community, where I can combine the pleasure of traveling, acts of service and exchanging knowledge.

For the past 4 years I had the privilege of exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world while keeping a steady job in the hospitality/tourism industry, so I hope I can do the same in a different country.
Interests
Mountain
Self development
Outdoor activities
LGBTQ
Cooking & food
Languages
Farming
Writing
Sustainability
Politics / Social justice
Photography
Pets
Nature
Music
Movies & TV
History
Hiking
Culture
Books
Animals
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Portuguese: Fluent
Spanish: Beginner
More details about my language interests
This workawayer has indicated that they would be interested in sharing their language(s) or learning a new language. You can contact them directly to discuss this.
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Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Animal Care
Charity Work
Art Projects
Eco Projects
Gardening
Babysitting and creative play
Languages
Teaching
Some knowledge of:
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Helping around the house
Helping with Computers/ Internet
Able to teach about:
Hospitality/Tourism
More details about your skills
I have a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and a Post-graduate in Communication Sciences.

I worked as a press officer for 5 years, so I have experience in communications with press, writing, editing and creating content.

During the last 4 years, since I moved to Iceland, I started working in an hotel, in housekeeping, then moving to breakfast and kitchen prep. The owners of the hotel also own a gas station situated just across the road from the hotel, where I have been working for the past couple of years as a cook. It's a canteen-style rest stop, with restaurant and small convenience store. It was here that I developed my interest in cooking and provide service to people.
With no previous kitchen/cooking experience, I managed to learn and adapt quickly. I'm always eager to know more on any subject and I know this experience will help.

My professional path has always been intertwined with strong organisational skills and efficient working manner, so I'm always hoping to contribute to the environment I'm in!
Age
33
Some more information
- Smoker
- Driver's licence
- Allergies
- Special dietary requirements

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1 Feb 2025

Left by Workawayer () for host (Non-profit animal sanctuary ...)

I spent 12 days here and didn't realize at that time how much this experience has meant to me. Initially, I was supposed to spend three weeks, but unfortunately, and due to family reasons, had to return home earlier - otherwise, I'd stay even longer.

At first, the work can be intimitading - especially if you don't have any previous experience… read more with dogs, like me. I struggled a bit in the beginning to adapt and learn all the tasks, but after three days, I managed to fully accomplish everything that was asked of me - with some extra time to play a bit with the dogs!
The routine is simple: in the mornings (starting at 8:30), we feed the dogs, clean their water buckets and refill with fresh, clean water. We clean their areas (scoop the poop!) and food bowls, if needed. This task may take around 2,5 to 3 hours. We also assist Thomas with whatever he needs when it's time for him to give medicine and treatments to the sick/injured dogs. At the volunteer's area, there are three beautiful cats that we also take care of, by cleaning their litter boxes, feeding them, give them water and cuddle with them! Easy peasy.
In the afternoons, right after lunch, we take the goats out. The volunteers go together at first, but then, when you're more comfortable with the task, you can take turns: one goes with the male goats, the other goes with the female ones. This may take from 1 to 2 hours - or whenever the goats feel ready to go back!

Even though the location is remote, you can easily get to the nearest village (10min walk) and appreciate all the surroundings and the beautiful sunsets. When I started I wasn't so lucky with the weather, but after the rain always comes the sun! I managed to go on walks to the village with the other volunteers that I worked with and embrace the calmness and quietude around us.

Overall, this was an amazing experience thatI'll be forever grateful for. Despite my slow start, I really appreciated being at service of these beautiful animals (cats, dogs and goats) and help Thomas and Diamanto on this honorable task they took upon themselves. It's not an easy one, especially when this shelter doesn't get any government support and only relies on Thomas and Diamanto's good will and some donations. I urge everyone to donate with anything you can, may it be with your time - by volunteering! - or something else that you're comfortable in contributing.

Praise, also, for Diamanto's cooking! She would prepare delicious home made traditional greek food, from soups (chicken soup!!) to stews, to the amazing dessert Halva (that now I'm addicted to).

Thank you so much, Thomas and Diamanto, for letting me be part of this wonderful mission! I hope to return again someday :)

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