Europe String

Alternate Accommodations II

by Jacy Meyer on September 8th, 2008

Yesterday we talked about home exchanges and such as a way of cutting down on your hotel costs. Today, let’s explore some semi-working holidays that offer room, board, or both in exchange for some work on your part.

Do you like to talk? A language company that offers intensive courses may be for you. More Than English will pay for your accommodation and food in a rural Spanish village. In exchange you speak English to the attendees. With most of these language companies, you won’t get to speak the “native” languages, so this isn’t a good option for people looking to learn or practice a second language. If French is your thing, look into France Homestays. They’ll place you with a French family who will be all too happy to help you bring your French up to speed. This is more cultural though as there is a cost, and it’s sometimes steep.

A little hard work never hurt anybody, and if spending a holiday working on a farm, ranch or at a B&B in exchange for free room and board allows you to travel, do it! Duties vary depending on the site and the host; but most require you to work 4 hours a day; you’ll stay with the family and are expected to help with daily chores as well (so wash your own dishes!) Help Exchange is one company that offers to hook up potential workers with needy business owners.

Have you tried any of these accommodation options or do have other suggestions of ways to find reduced priced accommodation? Please share!

Photo Credit: tcd123usa@Flickr

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POSTED IN: Cheap Accommodations in Europe