Avaliações, comentários e classificações Workaway - page 319

If you want to make connections with local people and feel as part of a community, this is the place to go. Honestly, the work is not hard, and it is so divers that it does not feel like work at all but more like you participating in a lot of experiences. Sometimes the "work" consists of you just joining a fun community event and talk with people there. You only have to bring open-mindedness, motivation and enthusiasm to try everything, talk with everyone and learn. Maybe you can even think of some nice things/events to do together with the people of the Ibasho :) The staff is amazing!! There are a lot of staff members that you will get to know over time and all of them genuinely want you to have a good time, which makes this environment so lovely. I feel like I did not give back enough in return to what I received. I received a lot of inspiration also for my personal future and I feel like I gained another home in Oda, to which I would love to return again as often as possible. This NPO has had approximately 100 volunteers from various countries over the last years and many of them keep coming back, so you might not only get to know locals but also former volunteers :) If you speak intermediate Japanese (N3 or more) it will be easier for you to connect with everyone. If you almost can not have conversations in Japanese, staying at the Ibasho might feel a bit tiring and excluding for you, because all conversations are held in Japanese. So I recommend to come with a good basis and then, your Japanese will improve even more! :) If your motivation to come to Oda is primarily the environmental conservation work, I would recommend not coming in summer though! The shoulder seasons will be your best bet to go outdoors a lot. In summer (July-September) the weather was very hot and humid, so most of the time I had to wait until the evening to be able to go to the sea or outside in general. Also, there are probably not as many school events in summer. However, I still had an amazing time and learned to live with the heat! And we still did some outdoor work once in a while in the early mornings :) In the end, once you got used to life in here, time passes by too quickly, so I recommend to stay as long as you can! I am very thankful to everyone I met here who made my time in Oda this great. Thank you so much Yocchan to have selected me as a volunteer and introducing me to a lot of people, I hope to be back soooooon!!!!

Well, where do I even start… I just left this morning, and I already regret my decision. My plan was to stay for 10 days, but I ended up staying for 7 weeks instead — that probably says enough. Kurnia is such a warm and loving person. Everything she does comes from the heart. Her goal is to improve education and give children a real chance to grow. It’s amazing how much effort she puts into this while being a full-time mom of three, teaching, and building her own company. I still don’t know how she manages it all while always being so kind and positive — I’d be exhausted if I had to do half of that! And her three girls… Each of them is special in her own way. The oldest, 14, is fluent in English, super smart, and has a beautiful singing voice. She even gives private English lessons to other children. The middle one, 10, isn’t fluent yet, but she’s so funny and talented. She plays piano beautifully and always makes me laugh, especially when she tries to explain something in English using Indonesian words. She loves playing games — and winning even more! The youngest, 4, knows exactly how cute she is. She’s a bit shy at first, but once she feels comfortable, she’s the sweetest. She loves games, coloring, and collecting little treasures outside. You can go places with the family or explore on your own — they’re very open-minded and always willing to help. I was also looking for information about my Indonesian grandmother, and without their help, I never would’ve come this far. Their motto is “Come as a volunteer, leave as family.” They truly kept that promise — this is my family now, and I can’t wait to come back. The only negative thing I can say is that they made saying goodbye way too hard. I loved every single second of it ❤️

It has been a pleasure hosting Jess and Dorian, we are very grateful for all their help and care around the property. They have completed all tasks perfectly and left all spaces lovely and clean and tidy. I would always be happy to welcome them back and recommend them for any job they apply for.

I had a great time with Tom and his wonderful collection of animals, that he clearly cares deeply for. I felt very welcome from the moment I arrived and we shared many laughs and chats with our shared love of cups of tea. I enjoyed the work which was not hard. I helped with cleaning the lodges and planting in the hot house and the driveway entrance. I had the pleasure of coming along on a farm tour, meeting his guests and enjoying brushing the gorgeous highland cattle and feeding the pygmy goats who frolicked and performed for treats alongside the dogs. Tom is very generous with his home and his time. The amount of work (and himself) that he put into the serenity dome was truly inspiring. Don't hesitate to go visit Tom and his piece of paradise. I know I plan to return!

I stayed with Nischal and his family for 14 days, even though I was supposed to stay for a month, and the experience was absolutely incredible. The family was extremely kind, always ready to help, and the food was delicious, I truly felt at home from the very first day. Everything was so relaxed — no stress, no strict rules, just mutual understanding and open communication, which I really appreciated. I arrived during a festival, so I was immediately welcomed into their culture and even took part in various rituals and celebrations, including the Newari New Year. These were unforgettable experiences that made me feel genuinely included. One of the highlights were the loop tours with Nischal and his company Yak and Yeti. First, we went on a two-day loop tour by motorbike around the Kathmandu Valley — visiting waterfalls, meeting local people, and exploring beautiful places. But the most unforgettable part was the four-day trip to the Himalayas, where we stayed in a small village with a breathtaking viewpoint of Mount Everest. We lived with local family, shared their traditional food, and got a glimpse into their humble and hardworking way of life. I will never forget their kindness and authenticity. Overall, my experience was 10 out of 10 — I would absolutely love to come back someday. Thank you for everything!

My experience at this place was truly amazing! The atmosphere is so warm and family-like, always full of good vibes and connection. I loved taking part in the activities, bringing the guests together, and especially the dance classes, which were an absolute highlight for me. 💃 I completely fell in love with Cali thanks to this adventure, thank you to the whole team for such a beautiful life experience! ❤️

Pak Dadang was my first host in Java, and I stayed with him for a total of 10 days. During my stay, I met many of his friends and had the chance to help at different places. You can always choose where you want to stay and what kind of activities you want to do, which makes the experience really flexible. If you want to visit places, they’re always happy to help you get there. I really wanted to go to Borobudur, and Pak Dadang and Mr. Agus went with me — it was such a fun and memorable day! We visited several schools to teach, and I also did private teaching sessions with Mr. Agus. I absolutely loved it! My original plan was to stay for just one week, but I decided to extend because I was enjoying it so much. I laughed a lot with everyone, and Pak Dadang’s family is so warm and loving. I’m sure I’ll be back one day. I also started learning Bahasa, and both Mr. Dadang’s wife and Mr. Agus helped me a lot with that. This was a great experience, and I’m very thankful that they welcomed me into their home.

Alex and Armand were amazing hosts. They hosted me and a friend for about two weeks, and as far as first workaways go I don't think it could have gone any better. They were always communicating with us even if sometimes they weren't around and Alex always made sure we had everything we needed. The house where we stayed was absolutely beautiful, and the moment you enter you know that this is not only a house but also a home with A LOT of personality. It was great to work with the drama school team and they were all incredibly welcoming. We hope we can come back soon because it really felt like it could be a long term job for us. It was high energy because of the children but at the same time it didn't really felt like work. Thank you for everything Alex! Hopefully we see you guys soon 🌞

Nikos was with us just for 2 days on his way to somewhere else. He joined some of the teachers and the learners for the nature walk which is part of our curriculum,took videos ,pictures and interacted with both learners and teachers

This was my first workaway experience and I loved it. Julie is really the nicest person and her dogs are super cute. You don’t have a regular working schedule like at other workaways. My only “job” was walking her dog Roux. I took her on several hikes in the area so I could explore the surroundings of Lake Atitlan at the same time. I really recommend that because the lake and the mountains are beautiful. Of course there are other daily things to be done like cleaning, washing the dishes, cooking and buying groceries. But that’s just part of living together. Most of the time Julie even cooked for us both and her food was delicious. She showed me many southern American dishes and I learnt a lot from her. Of course we also took care of the dogs. During my time there Julie had 3-4 dogs in her house but only Roux is permanently there. They were all super cute and always want to cuddle. In the afternoons/evenings we watched cooking shows or movies together. Or sometimes we just had good conversations. In general I had a great time! Julie is a lovely person and I grew very fond of her and her dogs. I was very sad to leave!

We had Marcos to volunteer for 2-3 weeks and are very happy with him.

I’ve stayed with Jack ana Alba for almost two months. That was a great time, great experience and definitely great people who were next to me at that moment of my big journey!!! It happened so that I came to them when the figs harvesting started and we went to Alba’s parents cortijo in Alpujarras mountains to pick them. To say that was incredible- to say nothing!!! We worked hard on the mountain slopes at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, ate a lot of traditional Andalusian food 🥘 warmly cooked for us by Alba’s mom and enjoyed silence and fresh mountain ⛰️ air. During the rest of the time and rest time while we were in the mountains, we went down to Maro to Jack’s house - totally different place - tropical paradise with dozens of fruits and wild beach just in 5 minutes to walk. Thank you my friends for your hospitality and your warmth!!!

Nuestra experiencia en Rihanon fue súper linda. Está situada cerca de Quito pero en una zona de campo, con unas vistas espectaculares de los volcanes que rodean la capital. Los espacios comunitarios están muy bien. Tienen una biblioteca con libros muy interesantes, sala de meditación, una cocina súper grande con estufa de leña... La joya de la corona es una maloka hecha con bioconstruccion que es espectacular. Además, las cabañas para los voluntarios son muy curiosas y artísticas. Las comidas eran abundantes y muy ricas. En la cocina se sigue una dieta vegana y se organizan turnos para que todos preparen las distintas comidas a lo largo de la semana. En cuanto al clima, durante la noche hace frío así que mejor llevar ropa de abrigo. También conviene protegerse bien del sol durante el día ya que la finca está ubicada prácticamente en la mitad del mundo, y por tanto el sol es fuerte. Nuestro trabajo fue variado ya que hay muchas tareas distintas por hacer. En general consiste en trabajar la huerta, hacer el compost, mantenimiento y limpieza de los espacios, construcción, dar de comer a los animales... En términos de sostenibilidad, han logrado desarrollar prácticas muy interesantes. Tienen un sistema de recolección de agua muy bueno, los vàters son compostables, funcionan 100% con energía solar tanto térmica como fotovoltaica y parte de lo que comen proviene de su propia huerta. Durante nuestra estancia nos sentimos muy bien acogidos, y conectamos muy bien con lxs otrxs voluntarixs y lxs miembrxs de la comunidad, son un amor todxs. Les queremos y por aquí volveremos, gracias por todo <3

I stayed for over a month at cafe on Tioman Island, and it was an amazing experience. The place is right by the beach, and the work was fun and relaxed. I helped Mirul at the cafe with waffles, milkshakes, and juices, but it never really felt like work because of the good atmosphere and the people around. I met great friends and had a lot of good memories here. I’m really thankful to Memo and Mirul for the time I spent there.

This was the absolute highlight of my time in Indonesia. Mr. Majri was an incredible host who I had many wonderful conversations with. I got to stay at a playground near his main school, where my friend Iji showed me around the island every day and made sure I was provided everything I needed. I spent some time each day at a different school, having short conversations with many classes of students. Every day after school, many boys would come to the playground to hang out for the rest of the day. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and supportive, bringing me to their houses and introducing me to their families. On our time off Iji and I went with the other boys to nearby waterfalls, villages, and parks. The facilities were quite basic, but that suited me just fine. I had my own room above the kitchen with a fan inside. There is very little English spoken in this area, but we were able to use Google Translate to have some really lovely conversations when our other language knowledge failed us. I learned so much about Lombok and Muslim culture, and I hope I was able to provide some impact to the schools I visited. Women are required to cover their knees and shoulders, but the community is also very accepting - I am rather alternative-presenting, but everyone loved that I had a shaved head and piercings, etc. So as long as you come in with respect and a true intention to do some work for this community, they will reciprocate your care and appreciation. Highly highly recommend, and I hope to visit again someday!

I stayed for about five weeks at the ashram with Swami Madhuram, and I can easily describe it as one of the highlights of my year in New Zealand :) My work was mainly gardening, weeding, working on compost, tending to seedlings, cleaning around the ashram, and making some snacks for Swami (which was a fun experimental side-task for me). I also helped out a bit with reception, demoing for yoga classes, and selling some items on Facebook marketplace. I lived in the cabin that he built, which is in the back garden. There is an outdoor (enclosed) shower and bathroom in the back garden, as well as a sink. This made for a beautiful and somewhat private living space. I also got to attend really lovely yoga classes and learn more about the lineage. There are satsangs and meditations which I did not attend, but if I could do it again I would! There is a nice French bakery nearby, and although I didn't explore the area too much I had fun doing the Escarpment walk which is a train ride away, and going on walks in the estuary and beach :) Overall: highly recommend working for Swami during your time on the North Island. He is great to work for -- he encourages mindfulness on your work, slow life, and does not make you feel rushed or overworked. It also feels great to work for someone who lives out their values and is active in the community! You can eat fresh veg from the garden to supplement your own food and play with the lovely Sabai (a neighbor's border collie who comes to visit twice a week). PS: don't be nervous if you aren't very spiritual or don't know too much about yoga lineage (I was very much a beginner in these areas). As long as you are respectful of the fact that the ashram is a spiritual environment (so there are some modesty and noise/conduct guidelines as with many sacred spaces), it is still welcoming and relaxed, you will have a lot of fun and enjoy yourself here. PPS. Also recommend even as a solo female traveler, don't be nervous, this is a safe and lovely space 🙏

En pocos días ya dejo de vivir con Diana. En total han sido unos 8 meses aprox. y se me han pasado volando. Arya de 5 años y su hijo Álex de 10 son muy creativos y me he inspirado mucho con comentarios y preguntas que me han ido haciendo :) Inlcuso cogía ideas para hacer reels jaja La casa es muy linda. De dos plantas y en menos de 3min caminando estás en el mar. Si te gusta la naturaleza y la tranquilidad Almenara es muy buena opción. Hay lagos cercanos donde puedes ver flamencos, varias rutas para bici, paseo marítimo bonito y cuidado...y hay un pequeño supermercado a menos de 15min caminando... Las tareas han sido siempre en relación a sus hijos, animales (1 perra y 2 gatos) y cuidado de la casa (que tiene un pequeño jardín). Con Diana se puede conversar bien. Maneja varios temas y comunica muy bien. Y siempre se ha mostrado amable y comprensiva :) Muy encantada de haber tenido esta experiencia. Por agora es mi máximo de tiempo en una experiencia Workaway. Muy agradecida me siento ♡

Hiroshi stayed with us for 6 days and he achieved so much in that time. He is an efficient, diligent worker with a lovely friendly disposition to match. We enjoyed hearing about his travel experiences. Would welcome him back anytime and highly recommend to future hosts.

Nic has been the most wonderful workawayer, we are so grateful for his professional help! We can warmly recommend him to every host! And would love to host him again !

ジョーの場所での２週間のボランティア活動は最高に楽しくゆったりな時間を送れました！ とてもゆったりとした田舎町で地域の人と触れ合いながら、家に帰れば林に囲まれた静かな部屋で蛍を見ながら過ごしてました。近くには綺麗なビーチや滝、毎週数回マーケットも開催されます。飽きることなく２週間があっという間に過ぎていきました！ リラックス、デトックスしたい方にはとてもおすすめです！！