Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
3 Jul 2025
Reply rate
90.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
72
Email verified
Host offers payment
Badges (3)
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Details
Description
Hello 😁, we are Ugo and MaryAnn, who moved to Portugal after 10 years living in Hong Kong.
We are the guardians of 74 acres of magical land in Serpa, Alentejo, where, following our dream of creating an eco-chic land and people regeneration retreat center, a natural refuge where nature, animals and people can work together in harmony.
We have 2 horses, 3 donkeys, 27 chickens, 2 dogs, 2 cats, so if you are animal lover, you will be happy here :-)
We are now looking for 1 full time paid position for a housekeeper.
As housekeeper you play a vital role in the smooth daily operations of our boutique hotel and retreat center in the middle of nature, 10 km from a small town in Alentejo.
Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, including keeping clean all areas, supporting in the kitchen, and veggie garden maintenance.
We value individuals with experience, but we are also open to training and development for those who are eager to learn and contribute to our team.
We will pay minimum Portuguese salary PLUS full room and board.
Thanks a lot
Ugo and MaryAnn
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Interests
Gardening
Animals
Hiking
Yoga / Wellness
Nature
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Ugo is Italian and MaryAnn is half Italian, half American, but grown up in Spain. We have lived for the last 10 years in Hong Kong, so we have quite an international background.
Ugo has attended a PDC (permaculture design course) and a natural building course so he can build the different structures needed for the farm part of the retreat center. He is very excited to share his knowledge and experience.
We are happy people and we like happy, interested in our project and proactive people who care and are happy to respect the house agreements :-).
We are very keen to arrive to almost a 0 trash impact with our project.
We love animals, and somehow they love us and the many volunteers back.Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage
This host offers accommodation and payment.
Help
Key Responsibilities:
1. Rooms:
o Prepare and set up the room, including cleaning, set up the beds, towels and all the
amenities needed.
2. Living Area:
o Prepare and set up the dining room for meal service, including arranging tables and
tableware.
o Ensure a welcoming and neat dining environment for guests.
3. Housekeeping Support:
o Coordinate with housekeeping staff to ensure room readiness and cleanliness.
o Assist in delivering additional amenities and services to guest rooms.
4. Kitchen support:
o Washing dishes
o Ensuring a clean kitchen
5. Security and Safety:
o Adhere to established security and safety procedures.
o Report any safety concerns or incidents to superiors.
Qualifications:
• Experience in housekeeping, is preferred but not mandatory; willingness to learn is essential.
• Fluent English speaking, portuguese a plus, but not necessary.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Easy to work with
• Detailed oriented
• Flexible and self-motivated
• Up-to-date Portuguese residence documents
Benefits:
• Minimum Portuguese salary plus room and board.
• Training and development opportunities in kitchen and housekeeping skills.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Opportunities for cross-training and skill development.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
Portuguese: Intermediate
Accommodation
We offer a comfortable room with 1 single bed and shared bathroom.
We have a chef that provides fantastic meals. We provide bedding and towels.
Food wise we provide 3 vegetarian meals a day (we cannot cater to vegan diets as our chickens want us to eat their eggs, our bees love giving us honey, and our organic sheep farmers love that we love their cheese, so we use all of these ingredients in our cooking :-)
Please provide for any specialty foods you want and your snacks.
What else ...
During your free time you can enjoy long walks around the property or to the close by little city, Serpa (10 km away by taxi or hitch a ride with us when we go into town), where there are restaurants, bars and all the commodities that a small town can provide. Nearby there is also a river (2 km away) and a water fall and natural park (5 km).
Regarding transportation, we will pick you up in the bus station in Serpa (direct buses from Lisbon). You can also go via Beja (bus or train from Lisbon) and from there catch a bus to SERPA, which is 10km far from the property.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
One
My animals / pets
My lovely girls, Iris, Camelia and Rosa
Mother, Daughter and Aunt
Luigi (15 years)
Domino
Clara (4 years)
Columbi (6 years)
Caravaggio (5 years)
Pino (5 years)
Host ref number: 921349294163
Feedback (33)
6 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Rebecca & Matthew)
What can be said if not WONDERFUL!!! These guys are amazing, super hard workers and skilled. They help us so much in the two weeks they have spent with us that it is difficult to find words to describe them.
They are super respectful of any kind of rules, hard working (doing even more hours than requested with the sole scope of finishing what… read more
They are super respectful of any kind of rules, hard working (doing even more hours than requested with the sole scope of finishing what… read more
(Excellent
)
6 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Rebecca & Matthew) for host
Well... Where do we start. We had such an incredible 2 week journey here.
First of all what a stunning plot of land nestled within a national park. With endless trails around and caverns to discover.
The Quinta itself is very well organised and works efficiently. If you want to learn how to grow your own organic vegetables, care for chickens,… read more
First of all what a stunning plot of land nestled within a national park. With endless trails around and caverns to discover.
The Quinta itself is very well organised and works efficiently. If you want to learn how to grow your own organic vegetables, care for chickens,… read more
1 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Goran) for host
The best way to start a story is with the scenery 😊
The quinta is a hidden gem.
It is a beautiful combination of modern world meeting sustainable lifestyle and a possible template to a new direction and a new way of living.
It is a picturesque location that looks as if it was painted by the most talented artists of our time, and it is very easy… read more
The quinta is a hidden gem.
It is a beautiful combination of modern world meeting sustainable lifestyle and a possible template to a new direction and a new way of living.
It is a picturesque location that looks as if it was painted by the most talented artists of our time, and it is very easy… read more
30 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Goran)
Goran was a blessing to our place - during the 4 weeks he was here he gifted us with his lovely tranquil and calm attitude - his desire to learn and also share what he knows, his appreciation of what it takes to adapt to a new environment, open communication, care for a project, bringing curiosity and desire to learn and respecting us and our… read more
(Excellent
)
30 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Dorottya)
Having Dorçi with us for 4 weeks was wonderful....She is helpful, she asks questions in a very open way, she understands what it means living in somebody's else space and respecting the house/retreat rules and that was such a gift as we have received people who don't really care, and Dorçi cares so much. She is very hard working, open to learning,… read more
(Excellent
)
28 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Dorottya) for host
I spent 4 weeks here and I had really nice experience with MaryAnn and Ugo ( and ofc with all the animals as well, because they are also family members on this farm). They were very welcoming and involved me in everything. We had great pizza nights, they taught me how to do cale pesto and also took me to the neighbours. I learnt a lot from them… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(4.9)
Communication:
(5.0)
6 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Rebecca & Matthew)
What can be said if not WONDERFUL!!! These guys are amazing, super hard workers and skilled. They help us so much in the two weeks they have spent with us that it is difficult to find words to describe them.
They are super respectful of any kind of rules, hard working (doing even more hours than requested with the sole scope of finishing what… read more
They are super respectful of any kind of rules, hard working (doing even more hours than requested with the sole scope of finishing what… read more
(Excellent)
6 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Rebecca & Matthew) for host
Well... Where do we start. We had such an incredible 2 week journey here.
First of all what a stunning plot of land nestled within a national park. With endless trails around and caverns to discover.
The Quinta itself is very well organised and works efficiently. If you want to learn how to grow your own organic vegetables, care for chickens,… read more
First of all what a stunning plot of land nestled within a national park. With endless trails around and caverns to discover.
The Quinta itself is very well organised and works efficiently. If you want to learn how to grow your own organic vegetables, care for chickens,… read more
1 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Goran) for host
The best way to start a story is with the scenery 😊
The quinta is a hidden gem.
It is a beautiful combination of modern world meeting sustainable lifestyle and a possible template to a new direction and a new way of living.
It is a picturesque location that looks as if it was painted by the most talented artists of our time, and it is very easy… read more
The quinta is a hidden gem.
It is a beautiful combination of modern world meeting sustainable lifestyle and a possible template to a new direction and a new way of living.
It is a picturesque location that looks as if it was painted by the most talented artists of our time, and it is very easy… read more
30 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Goran)
Goran was a blessing to our place - during the 4 weeks he was here he gifted us with his lovely tranquil and calm attitude - his desire to learn and also share what he knows, his appreciation of what it takes to adapt to a new environment, open communication, care for a project, bringing curiosity and desire to learn and respecting us and our… read more
(Excellent)
30 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Dorottya)
Having Dorçi with us for 4 weeks was wonderful....She is helpful, she asks questions in a very open way, she understands what it means living in somebody's else space and respecting the house/retreat rules and that was such a gift as we have received people who don't really care, and Dorçi cares so much. She is very hard working, open to learning,… read more
(Excellent)
28 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Dorottya) for host
I spent 4 weeks here and I had really nice experience with MaryAnn and Ugo ( and ofc with all the animals as well, because they are also family members on this farm). They were very welcoming and involved me in everything. We had great pizza nights, they taught me how to do cale pesto and also took me to the neighbours. I learnt a lot from them… read more
31 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Rotem)
Loved loved having Rotem here for 4 weeks - respectful of house rules, respectful of the common spaces - went over and beyond what was asked in the tasks and the common living chores. Super helpful, fun, curious, interesting, funny, took care of the new volunteers when they arrived, loves animals - so we felt very comfortable having him take care… read more
(Excellent)
28 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Rotem) for host
This was my first workaway and I’m so thankful it was.
The accommodation are super convenient, the kitchen equipped with everything you need to go wild and tryout recipes or share you home cuisine. The pantry is equipped and you can always get some fresh vegetables from the garden which is awesome.
Maryann and Ugo are super nice and say thank you… read more
The accommodation are super convenient, the kitchen equipped with everything you need to go wild and tryout recipes or share you home cuisine. The pantry is equipped and you can always get some fresh vegetables from the garden which is awesome.
Maryann and Ugo are super nice and say thank you… read more
22 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (AdelinePLV) for host
The Quinta is a Magical Place, full of serenity and with amazing caring people.
I found everithing i was looking for : a simply sustainable life where you can enjoy all the little things that nature gives to us and learn how take time for you. Work with my Hands to " Bring a stone to the building " (french expression ahahah) is a veritable… read more
I found everithing i was looking for : a simply sustainable life where you can enjoy all the little things that nature gives to us and learn how take time for you. Work with my Hands to " Bring a stone to the building " (french expression ahahah) is a veritable… read more
7 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (AdelinePLV)
One word summarises Adeline's stay with us "exceptional"!
Adeline is a gift to have around from all points of view - personal, work attitude, cooking, fun (playing board games, darts ;-), respect of space, creativity, going above and beyond what was needed, always ready to give a hand. All of us really miss her. If you are lucky enough for her to… read more
Adeline is a gift to have around from all points of view - personal, work attitude, cooking, fun (playing board games, darts ;-), respect of space, creativity, going above and beyond what was needed, always ready to give a hand. All of us really miss her. If you are lucky enough for her to… read more
(Excellent)
5 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Adam)
Having Adam here was a gift at many levels - his good cheer, interesting and intellectually stimulating conversations, his willingness to be challenged and work beyond his comfort zone was a real inspiration - it is rare to find volunteers who go out of their way to challenge themselves to meet the needs of their hosts, we have had volunteers who… read more
(Excellent)
4 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Adam) for host
I had a wonderful time working at Ugo and Maryann's retreat. Most of the work that you will be doing is physical and manual labour in the garden and with the animals. Whilst this was not something I had previously done, Ugo was very attentive and showed me exactly how to work as effectively as possible. I learnt so much in the four weeks I… read more
12 Apr 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Sara)
It was an absolute pleasure to have Sara here for 4 weeks. She is proactive, hard working, autonomous, caring and willing to learn and share her knowledge, asks very good questions and is fun to be around with. She is a great cook as well and participated in all our local activities with neighbours, so a great willingness to be part of the… read more
(Excellent)
5 Apr 2022
Left by Workawayer (Sara) for host
I spent the month of March in this place, I really enjoyed my time there and can highly recommend the experience.
During my time at the Quinta, that main daily tasks were: cleaning up and feeding the horses and donkeys twice a day, watering the seedlings in the green house, weeding, collecting eggs. There were occasional tasks such as fixing the… read more
During my time at the Quinta, that main daily tasks were: cleaning up and feeding the horses and donkeys twice a day, watering the seedlings in the green house, weeding, collecting eggs. There were occasional tasks such as fixing the… read more
7 Jan 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Signy)
Having Signy with us was a gift. We missed her the minute she left. She is so willing to help, to make you feel good. As hosts we were enchanted with her humour, her conversation and interest, her wanting to stretch herself beyond her comfort zone, her amazing neatness and cleanliness which was super important for us in the newly renovated part of… read more
(Excellent)
7 Jan 2022
Left by Workawayer (Signy) for host
I am very glad that i can add this experience to my life...it was very exciting to get out of my comfort zone but it was worth it! So much learned about myself, trust your (higher) self, what you do and everything gonna be allright:)
I was there for 3,5 weeks and it was the push that i needed in the right direction.
Mary and Ugo are very driven… read more
I was there for 3,5 weeks and it was the push that i needed in the right direction.
Mary and Ugo are very driven… read more
6 Dec 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Maximilian)
Having Max for 3 weeks with us was wonderful. He is super curious, wants to learn about everything and is very hardworking, so really added a lot to our project. We are also very grateful for his contribution in the common living with his laughter, his making the bread (he was our bread master for 2 weeks :-)), and his openness as well as respect… read more
(Excellent)
5 Dec 2021
Left by Workawayer (Maximilian) for host
I am very thankful, glad and proud to took the step to MaryAnn and Ugo spending an amazing time with them, with all the animals, and all the other volunteers.
I can't express in words how much I appreciate their passion for this project and how much I learnt during these 3 weeks. It was a great experience which I would do again and again and I can… read more
I can't express in words how much I appreciate their passion for this project and how much I learnt during these 3 weeks. It was a great experience which I would do again and again and I can… read more
6 Nov 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Alaina & Kitty)
Alaina and Kitty were a gift to our project. Their positive energy, desire to learn and grow was amazing. While they were here for about a month, you could feel joy and hear constant laughter as well as a will to support and help in our project in as much as they could. They helped us by preparing the raised beds and overall maintenance of the… read more
(Excellent)
5 Nov 2021
Left by Workawayer (Alaina & Kitty) for host
Mad love for these people!!!
We stayed with Mary Ann & Ugo for about a month in September 2021. We have a wonderful connection with them and built a special community with them and the other work-away volunteers. This was our first work-away experience and so we came in with zero expectations.
We were pushed out of our comfort zone but Mary Ann… read more
We stayed with Mary Ann & Ugo for about a month in September 2021. We have a wonderful connection with them and built a special community with them and the other work-away volunteers. This was our first work-away experience and so we came in with zero expectations.
We were pushed out of our comfort zone but Mary Ann… read more
9 Aug 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliette)
Juliette was a gift to all of us living beings here :-) the animals loved her, we loved her.
After one week it felt she had been here forever in the way she integrated into the work life, the farm life, doing her share of work and adding extra time to do the farm life of feeding the animals, cleaning the stables and watering the plants not on… read more
After one week it felt she had been here forever in the way she integrated into the work life, the farm life, doing her share of work and adding extra time to do the farm life of feeding the animals, cleaning the stables and watering the plants not on… read more
(Excellent)
6 Jun 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Guilherme)
It was wonderful having Guilherme be with us - helpful, present, hard worker and in his calm and caring way left a warm impression on us - he helped plant a lot of our summer garden and as we were in the middle of a move, he was super helpful in supporting us in the move from one building to another - before we even asked him, he was already there… read more
(Excellent)
10 May 2021
Left by Workawayer (Joana ) for host
I was super blessed to have stayed with Ugo, Maryanne and the other workawayer for two plus weeks . This experienced touch me in a way I would never thought . Being in nature , connecting with all the animals, the earth, learning about planting , weeding and all about nature was super special for me . Definitely I came out of this experience… read more
26 Apr 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Joana )
We were very lucky to have the opportunity to host Joana for two plus weeks. She is respectful of everybody, of house rules as well as caring and a hard worker.
She blended in really well also with the other workaway creating a beautiful atmoshere in our home.
She loves animals and animals loved her - it was wonderful to see her experience for the… read more
She blended in really well also with the other workaway creating a beautiful atmoshere in our home.
She loves animals and animals loved her - it was wonderful to see her experience for the… read more
(Excellent)
11 Jan 2021
Left by Workawayer (Aurora) for host
I spent a month in this peaceful place and the time run really fast! You'll involved in the daily works like feed the animals you choose to take care, cooking and cleaning with the others workawayers, walking around the beautiful hills with dogs and so on. Ugo, fun and passionate, and Maryann, caring and sensitive, are so full of energy and they… read more
7 Jan 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Aurora)
Aurora is a lovely and engaged person. We loved having her here, she was willing to try new things, including building trenches for swales :-) She is a great cook and does her best to become part of the family she has joined. She did many things while she was here always with willingness and a smile, and we are super grateful for all her wonderful… read more
(Excellent)
7 Jan 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Filippo)
We loved having Filippo for 3 weeks. He is a positive, happy, helpful, talented, hard working, fun and caring person. He can build, take care of animals, work in the garden, cooks heavenly, and anything else that is needed - he is very present and treats the place with the same respect and care as if it were his own...... We highly highly… read more
(Excellent)
15 Nov 2020
Left by Workawayer (Jorge) for host
Such a great experience. Every animal, plus Ugo and MaryAnn... Made from my stay such a great experience. Ugo is such an energetic, funny and passionate, and MaryAnn, so loving, caring and easy going person. Wow
The place awesome, the animals so beautiful, and the work, hard and extremely rewarding. I learnt a lot, there is so much going on and… read more
The place awesome, the animals so beautiful, and the work, hard and extremely rewarding. I learnt a lot, there is so much going on and… read more
15 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Jorge)
Jorge stayed with us for more than one month and we were lucky he stayed this long - he was a gift to all of us (two legged and 4 legged animals ;-) - he took care of feeding the horses in the morning and he would go the extra mile to offer to do it in the evenings, to lend a helping hand any time it was needed, even outside of the normal working… read more
(Excellent)
16 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Daniel)
It was wonderful to have Dan be with us during these weeks. He is super hard working and is available to give a hand where and when needed, going beyond expectations - he brings a curious mind and an entrepreneurial spirit to trying new things he has never done before, critical thinking and pro-active, as well as lively conversations during meal… read more
(Excellent)
15 Oct 2020
Left by Workawayer (João) for host
It was my first workaway experience and it was everything I could expect and more!
it is a place full of energy, love and knowledge, as soon as I arrived I was welcomed to the family and i felt straight away that i belonged.
I was only there for 3 weeks but I brought a lifetime of experiences that made me grow a lot in such a short period of… read more
it is a place full of energy, love and knowledge, as soon as I arrived I was welcomed to the family and i felt straight away that i belonged.
I was only there for 3 weeks but I brought a lifetime of experiences that made me grow a lot in such a short period of… read more
8 Oct 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (João)
Joao's key phrase is "how can I help" :) so it was a pleasure to have him with us for 3 weeks. He is an enthusiastic learner, animal lover, and really cares about people so the other volunteers really appreciated his presence as well.
We wish him all the best and hope he comes back again to visit :-)
We wish him all the best and hope he comes back again to visit :-)
(Excellent)
18 Sep 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Magnus)
Magnus was a gift to our project in the Quinta. On the second day he took it upon himself to "renovate" our small bathroom which we used as storage into an actual bathroom with shower that now everybody can use :-)
In the 4 weeks we had the pleasure of hosting him for, he participated with proactivity, great enthusiasm and hard work ethic to… read more
In the 4 weeks we had the pleasure of hosting him for, he participated with proactivity, great enthusiasm and hard work ethic to… read more
(Excellent)
18 Sep 2020
Left by Workawayer (Magnus) for host
MaryAnn and Ugo are building a magical place! Go and see it for yourself...
And they are inspiring, too. We had great great talks about just any topic around the dinner table. Be it consciousness, our economy, culture...just pick something and you will have a conversation. And there is also a lot of hands-on knowledge to learn: Waste-free living,… read more
And they are inspiring, too. We had great great talks about just any topic around the dinner table. Be it consciousness, our economy, culture...just pick something and you will have a conversation. And there is also a lot of hands-on knowledge to learn: Waste-free living,… read more
19 Aug 2020
Left by Workawayer (Sachin) for host
Ugo and MaryAnn is like a father and mother to me ,they are nice, caring also a responsible person to work . My time with them was wonderful, I feel like I am with my family whole time, everyone was super nice also get to know different people different cultures, i made really wonderful memories over there and I am started to miss that wonderful… read more
29 Jul 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Sachin)
Sachin is a joy to have around. Very hard worker, beyond expectations, always willing to give a hand where needed.
Very careful and respectful of house rules and everybody.
I could see him being amazing working in a hostel or in customer service as he has that perfect mix of respect and engagement with people and shows up fully when needed, and… read more
Very careful and respectful of house rules and everybody.
I could see him being amazing working in a hostel or in customer service as he has that perfect mix of respect and engagement with people and shows up fully when needed, and… read more
(Excellent)
29 Jul 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Guido & Valeria)
Guido and Valeria are super special volunteers. They are hard working, super engaged in the project, friendly, warm and always ready to give a hand when needed, including house sitting.
They have fit in perfectly with our routine, beyond their tasks (which included building fences, creating veggie gardens and more), in feeding and taking care of… read more
They have fit in perfectly with our routine, beyond their tasks (which included building fences, creating veggie gardens and more), in feeding and taking care of… read more
(Excellent)
6 Jul 2020
Left by Workawayer (Guido & Valeria) for host
Finding MaryAnn and Ugo in wonderful Alentejo is exceptional. The experience is SUPER recommendable and above all the project is beautiful, we will always want to return to Quinta Marujo. AUGURI !!!
Encontrar MaryAnn e Ugo no maravilhoso Alentejo é excepcional. A experiência é SUPER recomendável e acima de tudo, o projeto é lindo, sempre queremos… read more
Encontrar MaryAnn e Ugo no maravilhoso Alentejo é excepcional. A experiência é SUPER recomendável e acima de tudo, o projeto é lindo, sempre queremos… read more
4 Jun 2020
Left by Workawayer (Saki) for host
I had spent amazing time in Quinta for 3 months! I was sooo lucky to be able to stay there in that difficult covid-19 situation and really appreciate to Ugo and Maryann a looot.
Usually I had worked with Ugo in the vege garden and the new forest garden and learned many things about gardening stuff and permaculture method, like how to make hot… read more
Usually I had worked with Ugo in the vege garden and the new forest garden and learned many things about gardening stuff and permaculture method, like how to make hot… read more
31 May 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Saki)
It was an absolute pleasure to have Saki with us, she came for 3 weeks and then with the Covid situation she stayed with us for 3 months, and we couldn't have asked for a better person to pass these 3 lockdown months with.
She is super hard working out in the gardens and outside work, great in the kitchen, lovely recipes and always willing to give… read more
She is super hard working out in the gardens and outside work, great in the kitchen, lovely recipes and always willing to give… read more
(Excellent)
7 Mar 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Melanie)
Hmm, where to start without making it too long for all the wonderful things to say about Melanie. In case you don't read further, if she sends you a message to participate in your project, say YES :)
During her 5 weeks with us, she gave ALL of us in here so much - (humans and animals).
She is extremely committed to adding value to whoever and… read more
During her 5 weeks with us, she gave ALL of us in here so much - (humans and animals).
She is extremely committed to adding value to whoever and… read more
(Excellent)
5 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (Melanie) for host
I came to MaryAnn and Ugo’s amazing project after traveling already for a few months and I felt in need of a sense of home as well as some new energy; and I found both on their beautiful Quinta. The land surrounding their house and the area is wide and peaceful, but somehow also really powerful. A great place to connect to nature and to oneself,… read more
3 Mar 2020
Left by Workawayer (SANDRA MARIA) for host
My time in MaryAnn and Ugo's place was just wonderful. They are amazing people and they really make you feel at home. I was there only 3 weeks but what I learnt there will come with me forever. I take with me MaryAnn's advice, her calm and her way to understand life, Ugo's experience and knowledge and his positive attitude. It was great sharing… read more
23 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (SANDRA MARIA)
Having Sandra with us for almost 3 weeks was wonderful.
She is a super special person, very kind, knowledgeable about nature and birds, fun, super hard working and helpful, great cook, good with weeding, pruning, feeding the animals and with any task needed - and it was great to have a bird connoisseur to censor the birds we have in the property,… read more
She is a super special person, very kind, knowledgeable about nature and birds, fun, super hard working and helpful, great cook, good with weeding, pruning, feeding the animals and with any task needed - and it was great to have a bird connoisseur to censor the birds we have in the property,… read more
(Excellent)
23 Feb 2020
Left by Workawayer (Gabriel) for host
In general, my feedback would be similar to the other feedbacks: great place, great food, lovely animals, meeting Maryann and Ugo, engaging with locals, the work and so on.
But for me personally, the almost 6 weeks spend here were one of the best. Specially, coincidence or not, because here I managed to have great insights that lead me towards… read more
But for me personally, the almost 6 weeks spend here were one of the best. Specially, coincidence or not, because here I managed to have great insights that lead me towards… read more
23 Feb 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Gabriel)
Having Gabriel for 6 weeks (he came for 4 but we really connected) was a pleasure, a gift and a lot of fun, as well as super exciting to have a weekly video of his experience in here, from his and the other volunteers' experience. He is really gifted in making videos, working with all types of tools, super responsible, super hard working, creative… read more
(Excellent)
12 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (William) for host
I stayed here for three weeks and I had the best time!
Not only were the hosts, Ugo and Mary Ann amazing people that I had interesting conversations with, which I learned a lot from, but we also had a lot of fun.
I really felt at home while staying here.
The land they have is extremely beautiful and the work I did while being here was very… read more
Not only were the hosts, Ugo and Mary Ann amazing people that I had interesting conversations with, which I learned a lot from, but we also had a lot of fun.
I really felt at home while staying here.
The land they have is extremely beautiful and the work I did while being here was very… read more
12 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (William)
William was a gift to our project. He is organised, neat, proactive, hard working and will go the extra mile to get things done. With a big group of people he is a natural leader and creates a fun and healthy environment. He is curious and is wonderful with animals (they all miss him ;-)
We were very lucky to have him join us and we super… read more
We were very lucky to have him join us and we super… read more
(Excellent)
12 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Joana) for host
I stayed with MaryAnn and Ugo for 3 weeks and I am glad they took me in and that I decided to message them. They are super fun to be around and they are an amazing couple, like I've never seen before. 3 weeks felt like a really long time but in a super good way! Work was super rewarding in the end and watching how MaryAnn and Ugo talk about their… read more
12 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Joana)
Joana is a wonderful young woman. We had the pleasure of hosting her for 3 weeks.
She is proactive - "can I help you" is one of the sentences we heard most from her - she is not afraid of extra work and she fit right in with all the tasks needed, with the family environment, with the other volunteers and with the animals.
If she writes to you to… read more
She is proactive - "can I help you" is one of the sentences we heard most from her - she is not afraid of extra work and she fit right in with all the tasks needed, with the family environment, with the other volunteers and with the animals.
If she writes to you to… read more
(Excellent)
18 Nov 2019
Left by Workawayer (Paolo) for host
What did I find here?I found the jokes of Ugo,his good humor,his optimism.. but also his determination and his big will to do.I learned a lot from him.
From MaryAnn,instead,I would like to learn her calm,her compassion and her curiosity.
I admired the energy, the positive vibrations of both and the ability to have the "big picture".
For a month I… read more
From MaryAnn,instead,I would like to learn her calm,her compassion and her curiosity.
I admired the energy, the positive vibrations of both and the ability to have the "big picture".
For a month I… read more
15 Nov 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Paolo)
Paolo was one of the most amazing volunteers we have had the pleasure of hosting here.
Respectful of house rules, wonderful, curious and creative cook, (still dreaming his kale pesto and baba ganoush with basil), super hard working also in the gardens, natural building, loved our animals and they loved him back.
We were very sorry to see him go… read more
Respectful of house rules, wonderful, curious and creative cook, (still dreaming his kale pesto and baba ganoush with basil), super hard working also in the gardens, natural building, loved our animals and they loved him back.
We were very sorry to see him go… read more
(Excellent)
15 Nov 2019
Left by Workawayer (Maximilian & Chanti ) for host
The experience at this place, being a volunteer, for MaryAnn and Ugo was really rewarding. I enjoyed the beautiful land near Serpa and the different tasks at hand. The meals were exquisit and the co-inhabitants (human and nonhuman) most pleasant company :). Couldn‘t ask for a better project.
15 Nov 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Maximilian & Chanti )
Max was a dream workaway. Engaged in the project, the land and the animals, curious, super hard working, proactive and really helped us out with natural building, planting, taking care of animals, cooking, washing dishes, cleaning, as well as super interesting conversations about everything during meal times - you couldn't ask for a better… read more
(Excellent)
15 Nov 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicolas)
Nicolas was wonderful doing the jobs that he loved - he is strong and willing and he will be a great asset to a host who wants a lot of hard physical work such as cutting trees, digging and building, or doing filming and editing of wonderful pictures and videos.
He also has a great mind and very interesting to chat with.
He also has a great mind and very interesting to chat with.
(Very good)
2 Sep 2019
Left by Workawayer (Tim) for host
Ugo and MaryAnn are very special people, with a very special vision, and I felt honoured to play a part in it!
I had an exciting time with them and the other volunteers, in this beautiful region....the work was heavy at times, but I really enjoyed the opportunity to exercise! And due to the nature of the project, there was, and will be a variety… read more
I had an exciting time with them and the other volunteers, in this beautiful region....the work was heavy at times, but I really enjoyed the opportunity to exercise! And due to the nature of the project, there was, and will be a variety… read more
28 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Tim)
We are very lucky Tim stayed with us a whole month as he was a perfect partner in the building of our project. He is so so responsible, and we had 100% trust in him, he house sat for us and we knew it was all in good hands. When we would ask him for something, he had already done it - all different tasks done with a wonderful attitude - from… read more
(Excellent)
28 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (David)
It was an absolute pleasure to have David with us. He is curious, open, responsible, accountable, very hard working, loves and is loved by animals :-) and appreciated the purpose behind this project.
We are hoping he will come back and continue his wonderful contribution to the lake garden, and soon to the building of our natural house :-)
We… read more
We are hoping he will come back and continue his wonderful contribution to the lake garden, and soon to the building of our natural house :-)
We… read more
(Excellent)
28 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (David) for host
Ugo and MaryAnn are excelent people and they starting a beautiful project in the heart of Alentejo. I lived like in a familly with them while having my time to explore the region. It s quite a relaxing place where i was in harmony with the nature, having fun with dogs, chickens and their cats. The food was super good and fresh always picking up… read more
20 Aug 2019
Left by Workawayer (Bente) for host
My stay with Ugo and MaryAnn and all the lovely animals was perfect! This was my first workaway experience and I couldn't wish for a better one! From the first second it felt like a home away from home! Ugo and MaryAnn are both incredible people. Extremely sweet and caring. MaryAnn teached me to be more mindfull and especially to have some more… read more
12 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Bente)
Bente was an absolute joy to have around. She is curious, interested, responsible, and did more than expected with a smile and a willingness to learn. She can sew, cook and was great with the pigs :-) who loved working with her :-)
We would love to have her again and wish her all the best.
We highly recommend her to anybody who wants a warm,… read more
We would love to have her again and wish her all the best.
We highly recommend her to anybody who wants a warm,… read more
(Excellent)
18 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Luisa) for host
The experience with Ugo and MaryAnn has been extremely positive. I really enjoyed their company, it has been a pleasure to help them with their project. The farm is very beautiful, filled with good energy and amazing amazing animals, that I will thoroughly miss. I recommend this exchange to any Workawayer.
15 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Luisa)
It was an all around pleasure to host Luisa. She is responsible, dedicated and very enjoyable to be with.
She absolutely loved animals so part of this feedback is given by our dogs, cats, chickens, ducks and pigs :-)
She took care of them as if they were her own, tended to the garden with care. She was open to do any work no matter what it was and… read more
She absolutely loved animals so part of this feedback is given by our dogs, cats, chickens, ducks and pigs :-)
She took care of them as if they were her own, tended to the garden with care. She was open to do any work no matter what it was and… read more
(Excellent)
15 Jul 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Arnaud)
The experience with Arnaud has been very positive even if it has been a short one.
Arnaud is a very pleasent person, enjoyble during working hours and also during meal chats. He has shown a very responsible attitude towards work that needs to be done and finished. He has very good skills in using tools and in planning his job.
He will be missed… read more
Arnaud is a very pleasent person, enjoyble during working hours and also during meal chats. He has shown a very responsible attitude towards work that needs to be done and finished. He has very good skills in using tools and in planning his job.
He will be missed… read more
(Excellent)
10 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Hélène) for host
Ugo is very hospitable, communicative and makes a lot of jokes. We soon felt like at home! His wife was absent during our stay.
We mainly helped with the vegetable garden. We planted the greenhouse seedlings in the garden, built structures for tomatoes and new garden squares. Ugo trusted us and left us autonomous on the different tasks. We… read more
We mainly helped with the vegetable garden. We planted the greenhouse seedlings in the garden, built structures for tomatoes and new garden squares. Ugo trusted us and left us autonomous on the different tasks. We… read more
14 May 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Hélène)
Helene and Clemont have been a real cool presence in our farm. Their attitude and calm have made the week they have spent in the Quinta a special moment. They have a great knowledge in gardening and medicinal herbs, they love to share their knowledge and help out at their best. They have been both great workers and always ready for any challege… read more
(Excellent)
4 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Tjaša)
Tjaša has been a pure joy!
Always happy and positive and ready to do any task she was asked for. She has been helping in the kitchen, in the house cleaning, veggie garden and even in hard works...always with a smile.
It has been nice exchange life stories and experiences and she has always been playful.
We truly miss having her around and we hope… read more
Always happy and positive and ready to do any task she was asked for. She has been helping in the kitchen, in the house cleaning, veggie garden and even in hard works...always with a smile.
It has been nice exchange life stories and experiences and she has always been playful.
We truly miss having her around and we hope… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Tjaša) for host
First I arrived thinking I will stay there for two weeks. It turned out to be one month or even a bit more. Ugo and MaryAnn immediately greeted me with their amazing active energy. I fell in love with the project they are starting right now, so many interesting things were happening that I really wanted to stay and be part of it. Their dream is… read more
2 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Luca)
It was a joy and pleasure to have Luca and Tjasa for 1 month.
They first came for two weeks and it was great when they decided to stay a whole month so they could participante in the beginning and end of some real projects.
Luca was really respectful and helpful all of the time. He participated in all the garden and outdoor tasks with energy and… read more
They first came for two weeks and it was great when they decided to stay a whole month so they could participante in the beginning and end of some real projects.
Luca was really respectful and helpful all of the time. He participated in all the garden and outdoor tasks with energy and… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jun 2019
Left by Workawayer (Luca) for host
From all my workaway experiences in five months, this one was the best!
Ugo and MaryAnn have an amazing vision and it was great to see their project and listen to their ideas.
They are both really open minded and energetic persons who love to share their interesting stories.
When it comes to the work, they were always fair with the hours and the… read more
Ugo and MaryAnn have an amazing vision and it was great to see their project and listen to their ideas.
They are both really open minded and energetic persons who love to share their interesting stories.
When it comes to the work, they were always fair with the hours and the… read more
16 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Delfor) for host
Im a guy who usually doesnt get along with people because of how quiet I am and i was looking to travel to somewere peacefull to do all work possible, i find Ugo's and MaryAnn's farm and they accept me as worker.
I spend 2 weeks living with only Ugo, because unfortunately MaryAnn was traveling, and he make me felt like home. He never ask for more… read more
I spend 2 weeks living with only Ugo, because unfortunately MaryAnn was traveling, and he make me felt like home. He never ask for more… read more
16 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Delfor)
Delfor has been an excellent help in all the jobs that we have been carrying out during the 2 weeks of his staying here. He is a very kind person, extremely educated and always ready to help in any circustances and works to be carried out.
He is a good cook and also very clean.
We highly reccomend him to any other hosts.
Once more thank you Delfor… read more
He is a good cook and also very clean.
We highly reccomend him to any other hosts.
Once more thank you Delfor… read more
(Excellent)
