WORK-TRADER
INFORMATION
PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY
COMMUNITY
Living in community is very rewarding!
Creating a healthy, happy atmosphere and a smooth-running retreat center takes work and dedication from all of us. We expect our work-traders to be honest, kind, helpful, and motivated and we encourage sharing our knowledge with each other so we can grow and thrive together.
HOW OUR WORK-TRADE WORKS
​
This is not a Job.
Trained, experienced, hard-working local workers earn $2.50/hour.
As an inexperienced traveler,
we would not (and by law could not) hire you for your help.
​
This is also not strictly Volunteering.
We are not a charity or a foundation
nor a cause for social justice.
We are a start-up of a couple of friends and dreamers
with big ideas, small budgets and a DIY attitude.
​
This is an Experience.
A work-trade is an inexpensive way for you to travel,
to live in community,
to learn first-hand about sustainable living,
to focus on personal growth,
to share skills with other travelers
and an opportunity to contribute to a project whose values you share.
​
We think we're building something pretty badass
and we want you to come get your hands dirty
and be a part of it with us!
WORK LOAD
6 hours per day / 5 days a week:
Please keep in mind:
Sometimes the work can be very physically demanding!
and
We do expect a motivated effort during your work hours.
Our motto is:
"When it's time to work, work.
When it's time to relax, relax.
Don't do both at the same time
or you accomplish neither."
Your work hours may consist of:
* Making breakfast, lunch, or dinner
* Cleaning
* And lots more cleaning!
* Checking guests in and out
* Responding to phone and email
* Managing reservations
* Helping guests with luggage
* Shopping
* Feeding and caring for animals
* Fixing paths and steps
* Working with Allen, our local Tico organic landscaper, gardener and
plant specialist.
* Working in the garden
WHAT TO BRING
Clothing
* Shoes for hiking and working in the mud
* Slip-on shoes (no shoes inside buildings)
* A light rain jacket and/or umbrella
* Bathing suit!
* Clothes that will be comfortable in heat & humidity
* Sweater or hoodie
* Dark colors, not white!
Don't bring anything you will be devastated to lose.
The jungle eats everything.
Especially in the rainy season (May - Nov), everything is
susceptible to mold and mildew.
Money
We do NOT have an ATM on sight.
The closest one is in Dominical (25 mins away by car).
We recommend bringing cash with you,
though many places take card.
Colones are recommended, but some places also take US dollars.
The fee for your stay with us is due the day of your arrival.
Other
*Headlamp or flashlight for walking at night
*Bug spray and anti-itch cream
*Big, thick plastic trash bags
(highly recommended to protect clothes and personal items from humidity and mold)
​
HOUSING
You'll live in a bad-ass campground dubbed the Magic Garden by pioneering volunteers Sarah and David. At the campground you'll have a roof over your tent and are provided a foam mattress with all necessary bedding. The campground includes outdoor heated showers, laundry facilities, an eco composting toilet, communal kitchen, lounge, and even wifi.
​
AMMENITIES
* WiFi
* Access to private waterfall and hiking trails
* Laundry facility (detergent not included)
* Mother nature's love and beauty
* Personal toiletries (soaps, etc.) NOT included
MEALS
We provide food staples, including coffee, black tea, rice, beans,
lentils, pasta, flour, salt, pepper, and sunflower oil.​
We do not provide fresh produce, eggs, meat, specialty items,
snacks, beverages, breakfast cereal, bread, etc.
You are welcome to the fresh fruits from the trees throughout the lodge
as wells as herbs and greens grown in the garden.
​
Vegetarian meals are provided at the main lodge during your work shifts.
DAYS OFF​
You will get 2 days off per week.
These days may vary from week to week.
If there are specific days you would like to ask off,
please notify us a week ahead of time so we can
accommodate you.
​
COST
​
We offer 2 free (non-paying) volunteer spots
for stays of more than 2 months.
​
Stays of MORE than 4 weeks: $12/night
Stays of LESS than 4 weeks: $15/night
​
30 hours/week
2 days off per week