As we are retired we live a relaxing life so therefore dont feel the need to have a "chill out" holiday. However it is nice to be able to explore different regions and discover what they have to offer.
The problem is that the greatest cost is the accomodation.Something which we would prefer not to have to fork out for.
We found a great oportunity to have a "holiday" at minimal cost. We registered with a company called Mind my House. It is a site which matches home owners to home/animal sitters at (usually) no cost to either party. In this way it is mutually beneficial to both parties.
If you get a chance to have a look at the site there are some amazing stories of sitters who go from assignment to assignment....and all over the world.....in that it is a lifestyle in itself!!
We have just returned from our first assignment in the beautiful region of Puy de Dome looking after a rural property and its resident two dogs and two cats.
We tired out the doggies with lots of walks, visited the historic sites of Clermond Ferrand, walked up the extint volcano Puy de Dome then spent the evenings in front of the log burner with the cats curled up on our knees.
Add to that that we came away with several glass storage jars that the homeowner was getting rid of, were able to pick more rose hips as they were still growing well in this region and a huge bag of apples from the tree in the garden... I would say we did pretty well.
Of course its not all roses......you have to be aware that you are responsible for the house and pets you are looking after and you may not have all your home comforts(or any comforts) but all in all it can be very rewarding. Our homeowner was a lovely interesting lady and the animals were hard work but adorable. I think we will always stay in touch with each other.
I am already looking for the next venture but perhaps further afield.......just have to convince the hubby that Norway at Christmas would be really good!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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