Workaway is about more then just about making money!

By Marvin Seekoei

I was struggling to decide on a topic to write about as this is my last blog and my last season on the program. However, after speaking to my wife, she reminded me of an interesting scenario - If I never came on this program what would my life have been like and who would have been part of it?

10 years ago, I met my wife on the Workaway International program. I have also made lifelong friends and met my current business partner.  I have realised that we generally tend to focus on money as a source of happiness and ignore the most valuable commodity in life, which is the relationships we build along the way.

My time in USA has also made me appreciate South Africa as I realised that every country has their own problems and issues but it is all about working through them with patience and love. Remember, no matter who you meet or what you do, there is always a lesson to be learned.

The experience I have gained from working at the Admirals Cove Country Club is invaluable. Working at a five star country club is probably the most challenging working environment you could experience. So if you can make it through a season, then working somewhere else will be a breeze.

The wisdom I have gained over the years has come from working and meeting people from different countries and cultures – it has certainly shaped me into the person I am today. The life lessons I have learned from the country club members are so amazing.

I want to wish all of the potential Workaway International participants the best for the future and remember that this experience is not just about money, it is about valuable life lessons that will mould you for the future. I want to send a shout out to the friends I have made on this program and a very special thank you to Marjorie Landsberg Territo for telling me about the presentation date in 2005 – that was the moment my life changed forever.

Living the dream!

By Emma Seager

It is almost that time where we make our way home or when some of us head up North. I am off to Long Island to Muttontown Country Club. I cannot wait to start this new adventure and explore the Big Apple!

The past few weeks have been so busy after opening our 50 million dollar steakhouse. It is absolutely gorgeous and the epitome of fine dining!

Some of you may be reading this to gain some insight into whether or not to apply for the winter season, my answer to you would be that you have nothing to lose. This program has opened up so many doors for me and I know that you will not regret it.

I was lucky enough to get 4 days off to travel to the Bahamas. Working for 6 months to spend a few days in tropical paradise makes it all worth it.

I have made amazing friends and learnt so much about the hospitality industry but most importantly I have grown personally. I have really enjoyed this experience. While the hospitality industry is extremely demanding, it has provided me with experiences that I would not have gained otherwise. None of this would have been possible without Workaway International.

I promise, you will not look back!

Road trips for the Hunters Run Team!

By Nasiphi Sobahle

This season was filled with a lot of activity, from our daily operations, to private parties and themed events. It has been quite hectic, to say the least. I have watched every Workaway International participant at Hunters Run Country Club, work extremely hard, learn as much as they can and it is always worthwhile to see our efforts and contributions pay off. I mean, nothing beats your Managers arranging two field trips for their international employees!

It was March 15, 2017 when we were picked up at 5.30am for a trip to Key West. As expected, we were all thrilled and looked forward to the trip. Did I mention that we had just returned from another field trip to Disney World?

As usual, the weather in Florida was beautiful.  It was exciting to see that each of us had different things that we wanted to experience and explore. These field trips ultimately create the best memories when working abroad.

On behalf of myself and all the Workaway International participants at the Hunters Run Country Club – we are so grateful for this opportunity, it was truly the highlight of our trip.

Take advantage of every opportunity

By Faye Dakers

Most young adults probably think that it is far from ideal to go half way across the world at the age of 26. Let me tell you that without hesitation, I would do it all over again.

Workaway International has made it possible for me to travel, meet new people and save money. I had no expectations when I started this journey, except to enjoy this opportunity. I have made lifelong friends, built new work relationships and gained beneficial career experience.

My best friend and I applied together at Workaway International and both our applications were successful. Workaway International has made it possible for us to share an apartment and work at the same club. We were excited to explore our new home town, Boca Raton, as well as experience new cultures. What better way to discover a new country than with your ‘partner in crime’.

I was lucky enough to be placed in an absolute dream position. For the past six months, I have been working within the Activities and Events Department. I have planned and attended events, had a blast dressing up for ‘theme nights’ and met new members and their guests from around the world. How lucky am I?

Now you may be wondering what possibilities lie ahead for you at Workaway International. You do not need extensive experience to join the team; you just need to be motivated. I would encourage those that seek adventure to spread their wings and join the Workaway family. You will not regret it!

This has been the most incredible opportunity and I am extremely sad that this season is coming to an end. Workaway International, thank you for giving me the experience of a lifetime! “Wherever we travel to, the wonderful people we meet become family, engraved into our hearts”.