With costs increasing and wages, for many, stagnating, taking a holiday is increasingly feeling like an out-of-reach luxury. Some people are planning staycations, where they holiday within the country in which they live. But there are ways of exploring further afield, without burning through several paycheques in a week. One way to do this is to try a working holiday.
Working holidays are trips abroad in which some of the essential costs of a holiday—accommodation and food—are met or paid for by a host. In return, the guest will provide the host with some labor. The nature of the work can vary but often involves activities such as gardening, light DIY, painting or maintaining a property, or caring for animals or children. Clearly, some roles will only be suited to those with certain skills or experiences, but there are many available to anyone who is willing to give it a try.
Often, people find opportunities through searching online. As with any online interaction, carefully reading a host’s reviews and their expectations of what you will be doing during your time with them is essential. Most hosts agree to an online meeting before you commit to staying with them, and it’s important to remember that neither host nor guest is entering a legal agreement. If you wish to leave the host’s accommodation early—or if they request that you leave—this shouldn’t be an issue.
A working holiday may be less relaxing than lying by the beach for a week. However, it does offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture (and language) in a way that most of us don’t manage on a traditional vacation. If this is something that interests you, then a working holiday might be the perfect trip.
