We sometimes get the question “Could you recommend a host for me?” And of course we can, but that would be our own preferences.
A better way to approach finding the perfect host is by asking yourself a few questions:
– What am I interested in learning?
– What would I like to help accomplish with my own hands?
– Do I like to work with animals?
– Do I want to grow veggies?
– Do I want to learn about perennials or nut trees? Commercial food production or community living? About becoming self-sufficient?
– Am I interested in the social aspect of WWOOFing?
– Do I want to live near a lake or near the sea?
– Do I want to WWOOF during winter when there is snow in Sweden?
The more specific you are in what you look for, the more likely you’ll find a host that truly suits you.
- How to find a suitable host?
Visit the host overview and do some browsing!
Make sure there aren’t any dealbreakers for you in the host’s presentation. Ex. you’re vegetarian and the presentation says the hosts slaughter their own animals on the farm.
Use the filter to find hosts that fit your specific wishes. Ex. if you travel with your kids, tick that box to only see hosts who are happy to welcome WWOOFers with children to their farm.
Check if the host still has availability during the time that you are interested in before sending a message.
- How to write a good application? Adjust your request to the host you’re contacting. Show them that you have read their description. Nobody wants to receive a copy/pasted message.
That said, keep your first message it short and concise. The host can read more about you in your profile if they want. Once you receive a positive reply you can ask more questions. - What questions should I ask my host?
a. Where will I be sleeping and what will we be eating during my stay?
Living in someone else’s home, these are two of the most important questions to ask. Some WWOOFers will be happy with a tent and a sleeping mat – others will not. Some WWOOFers will be happy to eat mostly anything the host puts in front of them – others have strict dietary restrictions. Know what you need in terms of meals and accommodations and make sure that the host can provide it.
b. What does communication look like between you and your WWOOFers?
Communication isn’t the be-all and end-all of happy living – but it is very important. There is a lot of adjusting that happens when you arrive on a WWOOF farm – free-flowing communication makes those adjustments so much easier. That could look like gentle host feedback, regular check-ins, or weekly meetings.
c. What is the social life like on the farm?
WWOOF hosts vary widely when it comes to the type of social environment present on their farm. Some farms are bustling centers, with people coming and going, and lots of fun activities once the chores are done. Others are much more quiet and tranquil. Make sure the farm you choose fits your personality.
d. How flexible is the work schedule?
There is so much variety among WWOOF hosts in Sweden, and that goes for their work schedules too. Some farms like to keep it free and easy, while others will start and end at more or less the same time every day. Know what works for you and make sure that matches with your farm.
e. What will I be learning during my stay? (And is the host interested in learning from me?)
One of the best feelings is leaving a WWOOF exchange with your head bursting with new and inspiring knowledge. But an even better feeling is when you know you’ve made a lasting impact on the farm by sharing some of your own expertise with your host.
Good luck with your search!
