Profile information
Travel information
I am currently
Travelling
My next destination:
South Africa - from Oct 2026 until Dec 2026 View all
Description
Hi, I'm Petra – a 57-year-old nomad
After many years of working regular jobs just to pay the bills, I’ve finally chosen a different path: one of freedom, nature, and meaningful connections. I’m no longer looking for money – I’m looking for real experiences, good people, and work that makes me happy, even if it’s unpaid.
For the past year I have been living in my motorhome. Dividing my time between traveling Europe, where I did some Workaways and pet- and housesitting in the Netherlands.
Now I am ready for a new stage in my life where I will do 3 months of pet/housesitting in the Netherlands followed by 3 months abroad and so on.
For years I've been visiting South Africa once or twice a year and I always thought I would move there one day. But now it shifted into feeling I'm not done yet. I need to see more of the world and find out if there are other places I might want to settle. Somewhere in Afric, Asia or South AMerica preferably.
I love being outdoors, surrounded by animals and nature. I'm practical, positive, and enjoy simple things: caring for animals, helping out on small projects, or just lending a hand where needed. I am very responsible and indepent.
Since I would love to learn about new countries and their habits I prefer longer stays from 1 up to 3 months at a time.
If you’re looking for someone reliable, mature, down-to-earth, and happy to help, feel free to reach out. I speak Dutch, English, a fair amount of German and some French, and I'm always open to learning. Would love to learn Spanish.
I am very experienced in animal care and can provide more references if needed. I have had a5 huskies, pigs ,ducks,chicken,cats of my own and if you look at the picture section you will see some of the animals I took care of while their owners were away.
Looking forward to meeting kind souls along the way!
Warm greetings,
Petra
Interests
Pets
Van life
Self development
Farming
Charity work
Plant care
History
Books
Photography
Languages
Gardening
Cooking & food
Blogging
Animals
Cycling
Hiking
Camping
Nature
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
German: Intermediate
French: BeginnerMore details about my language interests
interested in learning Spanish, Portugese and French Can teach Dutch and basic English
Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Being an elderly companion
Charity Work
Some knowledge of:
Light gardening
Creative DIY projects
Light maintenance
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Life at a Farmstay
Helping around the house
Hospitality/Tourism
House & pet sitting
Able to teach about:
Animal Care
Languages
Helping with Computers/ Internet
More details about your skills
Extensive animal care experience – I’ve had my own pack of 5 huskies and have cared for ducks, chickens, pigs, and cats. I love all animals (except horses – not really my thing).
🛠️ Handy around the house – I’ve lived alone for years and can paint, wallpaper, do small DIY jobs, help with general maintenance, and gardening.
📷 Creative & digital – I’m a hobby photographer and highly skilled with Photoshop. I’m also experienced in using social media.
I added some pictures on my profile from dogs I photographed on an earlier Workaway.
🍲 Cooking & baking – I’m a decent home cook and enjoy preparing meals or baked goods.
🧹 Housekeeping – I’m tidy, independent, and happy to help keep things clean and organized.
🏥 Curious about care work – I have no experience in hospitality, but I would love to learn and am very open to training.
🧠 Eager to learn – I believe “can’t” is just a challenge. I’m always open to new experiences and believe you’re never too old to try something new.
Languages:
Fluent in Dutch and English
Conversational German
Basic French
I’m open to all kinds of opportunities where I can contribute with a good heart, a helping hand, and a curious mind.
Looking forward to connecting!
Age
57
What else ...
I like remote secluded places
I'm comfortable working indepently but also enjoy being part of a team
I don't need fancy housing, if the basics are there that;s fine by me.
I live a quiet, simple life and respect the space and routines of others
Some more information
Smoker
Driver's licence
Allergies
Special dietary requirements
Feedback
She stayed with me for her first Workaway, and she got the hang of it very fast. She's an animal lover and ornithologist. She handeled and managed my dogs very well, and she taught me what kinds of birds we have in the garden and around here. She's a kind and wise soul, and easygoing. She 'sees work' as the germans… read more
Photos
Friends
Feedback
She stayed with me for her first Workaway, and she got the hang of it very fast. She's an animal lover and ornithologist. She handeled and managed my dogs very well, and she taught me what kinds of birds we have in the garden and around here. She's a kind and wise soul, and easygoing. She 'sees work' as the germans… read more
