Richard

Travel information

I am currently

Activities i am interested in:

Exercise and time outside (especially in nature) is an important part of my life. I enjoy cycling, hiking, water activities, exploring, writing, learning new things and meaningful conversations.

Description

I have been a Workaway host for 13 years - in both the USA and Baja, Mexico, having created many wonderful friendships through that venue. I've also been a Couchsurfer several times, including a 7 month journey through 35 European countries. In this particular phase of my life I finally have time to participate as a Workaway traveler.
I enjoy meeting new friends, and what better way to get acquainted than to share time together working, living and laughing! I may have a little more mileage on me than many other volunteers on this site, but be assured I'm still energetic, strong, and have very good work ethics - plus a great deal of knowledge and experience!

Interests

Pets

Cycling

Videography

Water sports

Plant care

Art & design

Beach

DIY & crafts

Writing

Vegetarian or vegan

Technology

Sustainability

Self development

Sailing / Boating

Politics / Social justice

Photography

Outdoor activities

Nature

Movies & TV

Music

Mountain

History

Hiking

Gardening

Fitness

Cooking & food

Carpentry

Camping

Books

Architecture

Languages

Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Intermediate

More details about my language interests
I would like to be more fluent in Spanish and begin to learn French and Italian. I can help you with your English.

Find a language partner

Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

Some knowledge of:  

Languages

Art Projects

Being an elderly companion

Teaching

Life at a Farmstay

Animal Care

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Able to teach about:  

Eco Projects

Light gardening

Creative DIY projects

Creating/ Cooking family meals

Helping around the house

Light maintenance

Helping with Computers/ Internet

More details about your skills

In 7 decades of living on this amazing planet, I've accomplished a lot, including; having completely designed three houses, building these and several more ; grown numerous gardens for 40+ years; designed, built and/or repaired hundreds of mechanical and electrical devices; owned and operated my own construction business for 7 years; worked a variety of miscellaneous jobs in the design, construction, computer and services industries. Hence I've acquired a vast array of skills. These include (to varying degrees of proficiency) :
- many types of woodworking (framework, finish work, cabinetry, and others)
- arc (steel) and plastic welding
- fabrication and repair of mechanical devices (including a few automobiles; biodiesel processing equipment; solar panel electrical systems)
- residential electrical, heating and plumbing systems (fabrication and repair)
- repair and construction of some electronic devices and most general appliances
- concrete forming and finishing
- laying brick and block
- stucco and plastering
- drywall finishing and texturing
- all types of painting (brush, roller, spray and detail)
- carpet, composite, vinyl and ceramic tile flooring
- metal, shake, and asphalt shingle roofing
- ceramic tile baths and countertops
- many types of landscaping, yard & tree maintenance, flower and vegetable gardening - - - backhoe operation
- miscellaneous types of "physical " labor.

More intellectual skills include (again to varying degrees):
- computer programming (older languages)
- drafting, architectural design and computer graphics
- various systems design
- spreadsheets and basic computer applications
- creative writing; musical and theatrical performance
- public speaking
- general problem solving
- health and nutrition knowledge
- general teaching
- miscellaneous others.

Age

75

What else ...

I am organized, responsible, considerate and easy going.

Do keep in mind that although I am healthy, strong and energetic, I am "past my prime" and cannot exert myself to the level that I was capable a few decades ago (such as extended periods of physical exercise or carrying heavy loads longer distances). I used to participate in many sports such as snow & water skiing, tennis and racquetball, windsurfing, volleyball, etc. but have "matured" to exercise that is less impactful to my body, such as bicycling, hiking and swimming .

I'm a voracious audio-book consumer, enjoy learning new things, and sharing the knowledge that I have acquired - especially about science and living in the physical world. A good conversation or table game is always enjoyed in my free time. Being a "grandpa" to 6 children and 19 grandchildren, I am comfortable around families of all sizes. I value the outdoors, nature, and environmentalism. I prefer optimism and believe in the possibility of a better future.

If you need other references I can direct you to my Workaway host, or Couchsurfing entries.

CHEERS!

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
  I prefer to eat vegetarian or pescatarian, but I will consume small quantities of meat occasionally