ourmadworld

ourmadworld

33p

41 comments posted · 5 followers · following 0

12 years ago @ Our Mad World - A Mad Guide to Kiwi WW... · 0 replies · +1 points

I definitely understand your apprehension. What I realized after many months of globetrotting is that on average people are very good, warm and welcoming. My policy was definitely trust but verify. Signing up to volunteer teach with a small program in Nepal was a similar thing. How can I trust these people? I did like you said, emailed enough people, asked for references, etc until I felt comfortable. While it can sometimes be tough with farmers, you can possibly reach them on the phone to get a sanity check on their voice and personality. I would use this for only the most serious places, though, because I do know the hosts said they get a lot of such calls.

What I can say is that all of my experiences WWOOF'ing in NZ were safe, enriching, and worth it. I have also talked to many people who have WWOOF'd in other countries and they all had the same. There will be a host who is bizarre here and there, but word travels fast through the WWOOF network of travelers and so those types don't last very long. Read their profiles, follow up with past guests, and trust your instincts and I am sure you will fine.

12 years ago @ Our Mad World - Luang Prabang & th... · 0 replies · +1 points

Thanks, Marine!

13 years ago @ Our Mad World - Dairy Farming in Gore,... · 0 replies · +1 points

I would sign up to WWOOF. You can learn everything on their website.

13 years ago @ Our Mad World - Dairy Farming in Gore,... · 0 replies · +1 points

Hi Tamara, I am so excited for you! As for the visa question. Yes, we did get the Working Holiday Visa. For US citizens you have to be between 18-30 years of age and you can get a 12 month visa to work temporary jobs in NZ. You can find more information here: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/wor.... To be honest, though, we were never once asked for the visa and did not hear of anybody else getting asked. I for sure recommend you get whatever visa is needed these days, but while we were there NZ was super laid back about everything. Good luck and send a note when you are WWOOFing!

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - Nepali Naming Ceremony · 0 replies · +1 points

Thanks for visiting Brock! Yeah, for sure. I love my new name. Also, once you start going by different names, it helps to break down the strong sense of I or me, which is helpful in this part of the world. You can get all philosophical and start questioning what it does or does not mean to be a Jake, or Jacob, or Jagat. Does it matter? ;-)

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - Trip Motivations · 0 replies · +1 points

You got it Shawn. The journey continues. Thanks for reading and your thoughtful comment.

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - Luang Prabang & th... · 0 replies · +1 points

Definitely, it is even better than the pictures do it justice. You'll love Luang Prabang!

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - Sarangkot and the Hima... · 0 replies · +1 points

Thanks Julie!

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - About Us · 0 replies · +1 points

Hi Chris! Sent you an email. Definitely not too old to WWOOF!

14 years ago @ Our Mad World - Trip Motivations · 0 replies · +1 points

For sure Dietrich. You are in for an amazing time!! Can you send me an email at admin@cogpower.com so I can message you.