Each morning we head out for a walk around the farm and Jack bounces ahead of me absorbing the many smells wafting up the mountain from the village below. As we make our way down to the beach Jack disappears into various driveways and returns with some of his four legged friends who have made it a routine to join him for his daily constitutional.
Although I’m not being paid for my services I can’t think of a better exchange. I am able to live like a local in this little piece of paradise, care for a wonderful dog, meet the neighbours and immerse myself in community life without paying a cent in accommodation costs.
Since I first registered to be a house sitter I’ve looked after 12 homes in 6 different countries. Each assignment has offered me an insight into the inner workings of the locations I’ve visited, and taught me a huge amount about the world in which I live.
In Australia I learned the basics of macadamia farming, New Zealand taught me how to herd a troop of alpacas and bathe a dog terrified of water. I have learned to speak Spanish, make an exceptional Nicaraguan gallo pinto and have experienced life in the frigid temperatures of a Canadian winter.
So how did I manage to secure so many desirable house sitting assignments? I’ll tell you.
Step 1: Sign Up With a House Sitting Service.
Over the course of the last few years I’ve been a member of a number of services that offer a platform on which home owners and house sitters can connect. My experience was varied and at times frustrating so my advice to you is to research which services offer assignments in the locations you wish to visit.
I have had the most success with Trustedhousesitters.com, they appear to have the most comprehensive portfolio of assignments in locations all over the world and as someone who wants to house sit abroad to me that is very appealing.