Setting up the best possible WWOOF stay is all about communicating expectations and asking questions. You can start doing this by messaging through your WWOOF profile and afterwards by setting up a phone or video call (which we highly advise). But what kinds of questions should you ask?
1. What will you be learning during your stay? (And is your host interested in learning from you?)
One of the best feelings is leaving a WWOOF farm with your head bursting with new and inspiring knowledge. But an even better feeling is when you make a lasting impact on the farm by sharing some of your own expertise with your host.
2. What does communication look like between your host and the WWOOFers?
Regular and clear communication between hosts and WWOOFers is very important. A lot of adjusting happens when you arrive on a WWOOF farm – free-flowing communication makes those adjustments so much easier. That could look like gentle host feedback, regular check-ins, or weekly meetings.
3. Where will you sleep and what will you eat during your stay?
Since you’ll be living with someone you don’t know, these are among the most important questions. Some WWOOFers are happy to sleep on a camping mattress in a tent; others are not. Some WWOOFers enthusiastically eat everything they’re served, while others have strict dietary restrictions. Identify your needs for meals and accommodation, then choose a host who can meet them.
4. What is the social life like on the farm?
WWOOF hosts vary widely when it comes to the type of social environment present on their farm. Some farms are bustling centres, with people coming and going and lots of group activities once the chores are done. Others are much more quiet and tranquil.
5. How flexible is the daily routine?
There is so much variety among WWOOF hosts, and that goes for their daily routine, too. Some farms like to keep their schedule free and easy, while others will start and end at more or less the same time every day. Know what works for you and make sure that matches with your farm.