Daily life and cultural exchange in Koh Samui, Thailand

Detalles

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  Descripción

  Help us care for our home, animals & growing rescue mission 🏡🐾❤️
  
  We live in peaceful Maenam on Koh Samui with our 2 dogs and 3 cats, and we’re also building a new animal rescue organization here on the island.
  
  Things have become a little more involved as our rescue work has grown. Our home is still relaxed and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the island, but more duties may arise as things change, so we need people who are flexible, open to helping, and able to take things as they come.
  
  We’re looking for people who genuinely love animals and want to become part of our household and community, rather than treating Workaway as a vacation first and volunteering second. You’ll absolutely have time to explore Koh Samui, but we also need people who are responsible, mature, and willing to pitch in when needed.
  
  And a little reality check: animal rescue isn’t always glamorous. Recently, for example, we rescued four adorable kittens who also happened to have very un-adorable worms. That meant lots of kitten poop, gloves, disinfectant and cleaning — mixed in with the equally important moments of kittens purring, playing and sleeping in ridiculously cute little piles. 😂
  
  If you’re afraid of dogs, uncomfortable touching stray or unfamiliar animals, or have a problem with the possibility of caring for young, sick, or injured animals, this may not be the right placement for you. These things won’t necessarily be part of your everyday experience, but they can happen, and we need people who understand that loving animals means being there for the messy and difficult parts too.
  
  Animal rescue is full of wonderful things and very hard things. Such is life — as I once wrote in my book of poetry and illustrations:
  
  “I can see the world for what it really is.
  Terrible tragedies mixed in with heartfelt, soul-built, melting melodies.
  Stars and fairy dust, death and mosquito bites…”
  
  That’s animal rescue, too. The heartbreak and the hope. The beautiful and the messy. Fleas and worms alongside tiny meows, warm little bodies curled up in your lap, and purrs that somehow fill your heart and soul to the brim. ❤️
  
  I’m also doing my best to keep up with messages and update availability as things change, while still, you know, living my life haha 😂 So as the Thai say: sabai sabai — take it easy and be patient with me! Please note that applicants with animal/vet experience, social media or other useful skills, and those looking for longer stays (1–2 months) will generally receive priority. We look forward to your application and/or wish you the best of luck in your travels!
  
  🌴 Our move to Thailand
  
  We moved from Germany to Thailand in April 2026, so we are no longer accepting Workaway applications for our home in Germany. Most of our current reviews are from our time hosting there, but we are now continuing our Workaway experience from our new home in Koh Samui.
  
  Workawayers have a private bedroom, access to a shared bathroom, and use of our saltwater pool, garden, and roof-top space. We are around a 30-minute walk to the main road with 7/11 / restaurants / massage or beauty shops / the beach. Please note that we currently do not have a car, so you’ll need to make your own arrangements for getting around.
  
  We can offer general advice about living in Thailand, but we cannot assist with obtaining a visa. Please make sure you research the entry and visa requirements that apply to your nationality before traveling. We strongly recommend getting an international driving permit if you plan to drive and having appropriate travel health insurance.
  
  Finally, please be respectful of Thailand, its environment, and its animals while you are here. ❤️ We do not support unethical animal sanctuaries or zoos, so please do not participate in activities such as elephant riding, tiger photo opportunities, or similar attractions while staying with us. This is very important to us!
  
  Now a little about us:
  
  I, Juniper (she/her), am a 34-year-old bi-lingual German and American who has five pets. Since 2022 we have been hosting Workawayers and it has been a really positive experience for us. We mostly need help with daily housekeeping, cooking / meal prep, animal care (dog walks, feeding, brushing), small errands, and sometimes gardening or small DIY / creative projects. The workload is usually well under 20 hours per week, but we appreciate people who are reliable, careful, and pay attention to detail (especially where cleaning is concerned). Food is included.
  
  Next, let me introduce you to your would-be housemates / my mini "zoo":
  🐶 Milo Thatch Mars (Milo) is my 5-year-old Australian Shepherd. He was meant to be my service dog, but these days he’s more of a “trained when he feels like it” kind of guy haha but that is ok - he still helps a lot but we don't take him out with us everywhere anymore. It is a longer story but all in all, he’s a playful, very vocal, and incredibly sweet boy but I certainly would not describe him as a super calm or timid dog. He weighs 30 kg and you should be comfortable with big dogs. He’s had some recent reactivity on walks (barking/pulling at random things), likely protective behavior from being a pandemic puppy, but it’s inconsistent and improving. Despite that, he’s a total sweetheart and a huge part of our family 💙
  
  🐶 Mojito B. Franz (Mojito / Hito) is our 4-year-old black pug, adopted in 2023. He’s shy at first but super loving once he warms up (and very food obsessed 😄). He can bark at noises in the house, dogs on the TV, geckos on the wall, or at anything on walks, but he’s gentle, cuddly, and gets along well with Milo—equal parts best friend and annoying little brother. He's also actually the best boy when we go out in public - totally quite and the opposite of how it is at the house haha
  
  🐱 The “spice cats” — Cinnamon, Pumpkin, and Nutmeg — are three rescued Persian cats from a hoarding situation. They’re still shy, especially the girls, but very sweet once they trust you. They stay indoors (with a future catio planned), and I may occasionally need help with grooming.
  
  🏡 About the home & help needed
  
  I’m disabled and have limited daily energy, being in Samui helps a lot but still, I’m mainly looking for help with household tasks, the yard, and animal care—nothing medical or personal. My mom will visit and later move in full-time (in ~6 months). Think house hold chores.
  
  🌈 Values & environment
  This is a safe, inclusive home. LGBTQ+ friendly, pro human rights, and respectful of all backgrounds. The only thing not tolerated is intolerance. Open, kind, and direct communication is important here 💛
  
  📋 House basics
  
  Be kind to people & animals (no negative reinforcement)
  No parties (small gatherings okay if discussed in advance)
  No drugs, and moderate alcohol only
  Smoking only outside & responsibly (clean up after yourself and don't do this around the animals).
  Clean, respectful, chill home vibe
  
  🌿 Lifestyle
  We keep things relaxed— there are AM chores and PM chores due to certain logistics but there isn't a super strict schedule - more like shared family life. Evenings often mean movies or shows 🍿
  
  I enjoy reading, writing, games, fantasy, swimming, and nature. I’ve lived in multiple countries and love sharing stories. I can't wait to hear yours! Open to Thai language exchange and can help you with English or practicing German.
  
  My mom is kind, welcoming, and a lot of fun to be around when she is here.
  
  🌱 Bonus
  We’d love to learn more about gardening, foraging, and cooking (especially veggie/anti-inflammatory). We’re still exploring Koh Samui, but there’s so much here—markets, beaches, temples, and amazing food.
  
  We eat mostly vegetarian + poultry/fish (no pork or beef).
  
  🚶‍♀️ Safety note
  The neighborhood is generally safe, but like many areas in Thailand there can occasionally be stray dogs or wildlife. We recommend being mindful on walks and going in pairs at night when you can - just to be safe.

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  Tipos de ayuda y oportunidades de aprendizaje

  Trabajo de caridad

  Proyectos artísticos

  Práctica de idiomas

  Jardinería básica

  Proyectos creativos DIY «hazlo tú mismo»

  Cuidado de animales

  Cocinar para toda la familia

  Ayuda doméstica

  Mantenimiento básico

  Ayuda informática

  Cuidado de casas y mascotas
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  Intereses

  

  Montaña

  

  Navegar / barcos

  

  Senderismo

  

  Historia

  

  Agricultura

  

  Sostenibilidad

  

  Vida en autocaravana

  

  Deportes acuáticos

  

  Mascotas

  

  Películas y televisión

  

  LGBT+

  

  Cultura

  

  Trabajo de caridad

  

  Música

  

  Artes escénicas

  

  Fotografía

  

  Escritura

  

  Dibujo y pintura

  

  Bricolaje y manualidades

  

  Cocina y alimentación

  

  Libros

  

  Astronomía

  

  Arte y diseño

  

  Animales

  

  Naturaleza

  

  Acampada

  

  Playa
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  Objetivos de sostenibilidad de las NU que intenta conseguir este anfitrión

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  ¿Que es esto?
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  Intercambio cultural y oportunidades de aprendizaje

  As mentioned above, I speak English and German and have dabbled in a few other languages. I’m a TEFL teacher, author, and archaeology researcher, and I love cultural exchange, travel stories, and learning about different ways of life.
  
  I’ve lived in the United States, Scotland, and Germany, and have traveled through much of Europe and beyond. I’m now based in Koh Samui, Thailand, which is my first time living in Asia—so it’s still a big adventure, and I’m really enjoying getting to know the island and its culture.
  
  I’m always happy to explore the area together—whether that’s beaches, markets, cafés, or nature spots—cook meals, share travel experiences, or just have a relaxed evening talking about life, books, and future plans. I’d love to keep learning more about Thai culture and make the most of island life 🌴
  
  For me, Workaway is not just about help around the house—it’s about creating a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. I like my house to feel like a sanctuary: peaceful, cozy, and open. Late-night chats, swims, little adventures, and movie nights are all part of that vibe ✨

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  Ayuda

  Its mainly house keeping/animal care... though slowly I am looking for help with social media management and future rescue tasks on the island - there are also two days a week I have language school and I need someone to stay home with the dogs - Mon & Wed (12:30 - 15:30) - other than that the schedule is very flexible. Here are some examples of the chores:
  
  Daily:
  Walking / playing the dogs / picking up after them
  Dishes (load /unload the dishwasher)
  Tidy the kitchen / living room
  Clean kitchen surfaces
  Preparing dinner most days
  Rinse out / Refresh pet water bowls
  Clean cat litter boxes
  Check cat food bowls are full / clean
  Wash pet food bowls
  Take out trash
  Laundry
  Misc. Errands
  Pet Sitting for a few hours at a time if I have errands/school
  
  On occasion:
  Replace / Wash blankets on the couch (every two ish weeks or as needed)
  Check plants / Water as needed during dry season
  Mop floors weekly or as needed
  Dusting / Spot cleaning
  Bathrooms - cleaning weekly (3 times / and once a month they get deep cleaned professionally)
  Spot cleaning the windows / glass / oven / microwave etc.
  Wash / Refresh bedding - as needed / monthly
  Dusting / Spot cleaning windows
  Deep clean oven / Microwave - as needed -
  
  Also;
  
  - Getting to know the cats and giving them treats.
  
  - Help here and there feeding the pets (though I can usually manage this on my own)
  
  - Enjoying your time on Koh Samui!

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  Idiomas

  Idiomas hablados
  Alemán: Fluido
  Inglés: Fluido
  Thai: Principiante

  Este anfitrión ofrece intercambio de idiomas
  I speak English and German - I have a TEFL certification and have experience teaching English and tutoring spoken German (not German grammar). I am interested in learning Thai.
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  Alojamiento

  Our Workaway room is a comfortable, private room with a queen bed. It includes a built-in desk, chair, and closet. The room is located next to a shared toilet. The toilet may be shared with my mother when she is here, or with other guests staying in the second room (private guests or other workawayers). It is lockable from both sides for privacy.
  
  If my calendar is red - I have no availability - if it is yellow, I may be able to host 1 single person, and if it is green, I may have either one or two rooms available. The house has three rooms in total - the first is mine, the second room is technically my mother's but she is not here at the moment, and the third is for work-away and guests. When my mom is in Germany, her room will be used for family and friends who want to visit, so they get priority access to it, however, if no one is visiting, then I may open it up to work-away folks.
  
  A work-away stay is not confirmed until I have expressly said so - there is naturally a talking phase where we get to know each other a bit before hand :) Please feel free to message me and tell me about your self.
  
  I do apologize if we can't host you for any reason and wish you well on your travels!

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  Algo más...

  Things to do:
  
  beaches nearby (about 10–15 minutes by car depending on which one you go to)
  
  swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving
  
  island trips to places like Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Ang Thong Marine Park
  
  Thai cooking classes
  
  dance classes and dance nights
  
  Muay Thai gyms and fitness classes
  
  yoga, wellness, and massage places all over the island
  
  night markets, street food, cafes, and restaurants
  
  waterfalls and jungle walks
  
  boat tours and sunset cruises
  
  temples and cultural sites
  
  shopping areas and malls (Central Samui, Fisherman’s Village, etc.)
  
  ethical elephant sanctuaries - please do not visit any that allow RIDING (BIG NO), or swimming with elephants.
  
  scooter rides around the island (if you are comfortable driving)
  
  pool at the house for relaxing days
  
  just chilling, reading, swimming, and enjoying island life 🌴
  
  Samui is a great mix of nature, beach life, and town life — you can have very quiet days here, but there is always something to do if you want to explore.

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  Un poco más de información

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    Acceso a Internet

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    Acceso a Internet limitado

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    Tenemos animales

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    Somos fumadores

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    Puede alojar familias

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  Puede acoger a nómadas digitales

  Your room has a built in desk - we have very fast wireless internet: 240.7 Mbps download and 392.4 Mbps upload (I tested this with multiple tabs open, multiple devices connected and Netflix running). You can get an e-sim or a cheap sim for your phone to get 5G on the island too.

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  Espacio para aparcar autocaravanas

  We've got a covered garage available - but no electrical hook ups or water hook ups.

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  ¿Cuántos voluntarios puedes hospedar?

  Dos

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  Mis animales / mascotas

  

  The "Spice" Cats - Cinnamon, Pumpkin, and Nutmeg.

  The spice cats come from a hoarding situation - I adopted them in 2020 when they were approximately 3 (Nutmeg), 5 (Cinnamon) and 6 (Pumpkin) years old - they have come a long way but the girls can still be quite shy. Cinnamon is definitely the most adventurous of the bunch and you can certainly win him over with treats!

  

  Mojito B. Franz (4 años)

  Mojito B. Franz is an old school pug (with a longer snout) who we unexpectedly (in late September 2023), ended up seeing and then adopting from a pug rescue here in Germany (Mops In Not).He is a healthy, rambunctious little guy (and a bit of a momma's boy), he's got his own little quirks (he barks too much at random noises >.<) but it has been wonderful having him around - him and Milo play a lot! He is totally "verfressen" - he loves food, I mean really loves it, and also acts like he is starving even if he just ate - which is a very normal thing for a pug haha (he also tries to steal food so we have to be vigilant).

  

  Milo Thatch Mars (6 años)

  Milo Thatch Mars (aka Milo) is an Australian Shepherd and was meant to be my service dog, though he really just acts like a normal dog most of the time (one who has been trained to help me when needed - although lately hes been really stubborn - we are working on it lol). He's an energetic, sometimes crazy, smart, sweet, occasionally stubborn, loving doggo ❤️

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