Ever Wondered What it Would be Like to Work as a Volunteer on an Estancia Like La Margarita?

Geraldine helping one of our young guests  feed an  orphaned lamb

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to work as a volunteer on Estancia La Margarita have a read of our latest volunteer 28 year old   Geraldine’s experience on our estancia. She has been working on La Margarita for the past three months and leaves quite soon to return to her homeland of France to see her parents. I asked her to write about her experience to give those of you thinking of doing this type of work a good idea of what you life would be like here. I haven’t changed a word of her blog and I hope that it is informative and that you enjoy it…….

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My feelings as a volunteer working in an estancia in Argentina:

Involved in the daily activities of the estancia, I will try to communicate at best my impressions as regards La Margarita, added with few thoughts concerning the amazing country of Argentina. I hope you will have a pleasant time to read this brief description; discover or know better this country and the kind heart people who make this place warmth and where it is good to live simply.

As told you previously, I decided to learn Spanish and having a concrete experience was essential for me. A long time ago, younger, I said: one day, I will work as a volunteer in a farm for riding horses either in the USA in ranches or in Argentina with the gauchos!

Coming from a French region where farms are the main part of the sceneries, far away from big cities, subways or communication means, I was aware of the situation and what I could encounter. By considering France, it could appear that certain regions still do not possess an Internet connection, it is obvious that in Argentina, some issues could happen.

Consequently, going to the Margarita was not a problem. The only difference is Spanish, which is finally a detail now compare to what I receive in exchange! If you want to, allow Argentina coming to you and she will take you by the hand, open the doors of her world and demonstrate her best side. 

You can’t imagine the things I can do here beside the missions and activities attributed. The curiosity joining with an opened mind is a useful asset helping you to across the language or culture barrier. Come on! Jump the barrier and you will be received with opened arms!

I learn how to use the Argentinian saddle with all of those long pieces of leather,

using the horse to regroup cows or horses during cold and foggy mornings, galloping against the wind, watch birds species or admire the new born calf, like a real gaucho! And, my God! What such thick Spanish accent here!

I meet people coming from all around the world, they animate the table during the dinnertime with their own and unique story and it’s so good! The traditional food reminds you how it’s pleasant to enjoy you life and take the time for important things, often forgotten in this fast world.

The people who make this estancia alive make you realize that simplicity and authenticity are the basements of happiness. I love them!

This actual experience is a present. For all of that, thank you Argentina!

Geraldine

This is David Cummings alias The English Gaucho hope you enjoyed Geraldine’s  blog about her stay on La Margarita as our volunteer

Hasta pronto