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Portugal
My time in Ranki was exceptionally beneficial for my introspection. Relocating from urban responsibilities to a pastoral setting posed a distinct challenge, which I successfully navigated (about 75%). I award Ilona a perfect ten-star review for her meaningful rapport, her permaculture acumen, and her sophisticated cultural literacy in the arts. Furthermore, I must highly praise her culinary virtuosity, the diverse gastronomy I sampled, and the sublime experience of a traditional Latvian sauna.
27 days ago
Brazil
It was a really interesting experience, in the beginning it is not easy, because you live really off grid, I think some people might not adapt , but if you are willing to new experiences, embrace the opportunity.The project is really beautiful and Ilona lives according permaculture Principles, there is lot of nature, the work hours are respected and you can choose what you prefer to do, you will know a lot about the latvian culture, food and so on. I also learned about permaculture which was Nice. It was nice helping a project that really cares about nature, sustentability...Thanks Ilona
about 2 months ago
United States
The lifestyle took a few days to adapt to, but once I did it really was so fascinating how much work Ilona has put into this permaculture home. I learned so much about different uses of plants and enjoyed amazing home cooked meals everyday. I really learned so much about permaculture- coming from a sustainability background it gave so much more context and rounded knowledge for the interconnected environment. Ilona also loved sharing about Latvia history, culture, and music/songs. I really felt so at home in her home and highly recommend to anyone looking to learn living off the land.
2 months ago
India
Had a great experience learning about Latvian culture and art alongside permaculture. Ilona made everything incredibly comfortable and welcoming!
about 2 months ago
Germany
Absolutely beautiful place. Very welcoming host and the work is good. Ilona asked what kind of work I preferred to do and tried to accommodate that. For me it was mostly carpenting, some repairs and helping in the garden. Also initiative was valued, there is all kinds of things to do at the project.
Just be aware that it's a very basic lifestyle without running or hot water, no shower except the pond and a bucket and an outdoor toilet. And many mosquitoes (this was in July).
Ilona has many stories to tell and also shared her traditions and knowledge of permaculture and other things. Thank you!
4 months ago
United Kingdom
I had a wonderful time at Ilona's. The work was meaningful and explained to me beforehand, with the agreed hours being stuck to. Ilona's cooking and way of life on the farm including her sauna were a great way of learning about traditional Latvian culture, and the oppurtunities to visit local towns were really good fun! I found Ilona's motivation behind her project very touching and I feel honoured to have played my part in developing it. Paldies!
about 1 year ago
United Kingdom
My time with Ilona was wonderful. I stayed at the project for 2 weeks, living in the middle of beautiful Latvian countryside and experiencing a life deeply connected to nature. Ilona is a fantastic and knowledgable host, willing to educate her volunteers on permaculture, horticulture and herbology, as well as her own experiences with art, music, dance and Latvian culture. The work is interesting, flexible and always varies .. as Ilona likes to say, planning too far ahead is pointless because things always change! I had the opportunity to explore local cities too.
about 1 year ago
Belarus
My first volunteering experience was inspiring and full of discoveries. I immersed myself in Latvian culture — sauna, songs, jokes — and learned a lot about permaculture and a bit about building (even how to paint a house with lime). Nature is amazing: a pond for daily swims, fields, a forest, and two lovely cats. Ilona is flexible with tasks; gardening felt heavy with my IT work, but painting and cleaning were easier. Food can be unusual and the project, so it's good to bring some extras. A great way to taste authentic village life :)
about 1 year ago
Germany
Staying at Ilonas farm I learned much about plants, using resources, renovating and the latvian culture. She taught me how to recognize weeds, how to care for plants, which plants are edible and how to cook delicious desserts. I really enjoyed swimming in the pond, working different tasks and living slow. Even though I thought I would be the only one for 2 weeks, there were many other volunteers, coming and going, so it never got boring. Ilona is a very good story teller, warm-hearted, caring and enthusiastic. In my free time I visited the city's around or spend time in the beautiful nature.
about 1 year ago
United Kingdom
Ilonas is a delightful host, I learned so much about permaculture and the natural world, her ambition for art is also wonderful, we had great conversations about so many topics, like poetry, mythology and books. she is brimming with stories about her childhood, she is the kind of person I thought existed only in books, a true polymath, like Goethe. A true cultural exchange infused with sauna and baking lessons. will hopefully come back in the future. The place itself is quite rustic, if you stay long enough you will realise the discrepancy between what you want and what you need
over 1 year ago
