WWOOF: the network of farms offering hospitality in exchange for work, even in Italy.

Traveling the world, engaging in something useful and productive, and spending next to nothing: it's possible thanks to wwoofing. It's a low-cost way to travel, invented almost forty years ago, by working in the fields in exchange for food and lodging. What exactly is it? WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is a global movement that connects volunteers and natural rural projects by promoting educational and cultural experiences based on a non-profit exchange of trust to help build a sustainable global community.

The video is taken from the YouTube page of WWOOF Portugal

WWOOFing has officially existed in Italy for about five years, since its statute was registered. Previously, WWOOF Italy was an informal organization for about four years; with the approval of the law on WWOOF organizations, voluntary It was possible to begin the formalization process that led to it becoming a legally recognized organization. Today, over 2.000 Italians and 3.200 foreigners are members in Italy, with 800 host farms. Membership costs 35 euros per year, and also includes an insurance policy that protects members during their stays on the farms.

The Italian WWOOFing organization provides travelers (WWOOFers) and companies (Hosts) with a membership card in order to make it possible to carry out voluntary work in the farms and offers travelers accident and liability insurance coverage. The Italian WWOOF list includes small and medium-sized organic and biodynamic farms: some members live off their crops and sell their products, while others just want to be self-sufficient, or simply grow their own organic vegetablesHost members don't expect WWOOFers to have knowledge of agricultural work upon arrival at the farm. What they expect is a desire to learn, to collaborate on activities, and the ability and curiosity to adapt to their environment. lifestyleAn original idea, absolutely green, fun, and innovative. Why not try it?

WWoofing, after all, has been around for a while. It was born in 1971 from an initiative by Sue Coppard, a London secretary who decided to create an association to promote a hippie-style return to the land. Today, it has become a global movement that, in exchange for at least four hours of work a day in the fields, allows you to practically visit the entire world. From Scotland to New Zealand, there are hosts on every continent where you can enjoy a holiday—not exactly relaxing, but still a wonderful one. holiday, at almost zero cost (an example? 150 euros for ten days). All in the name of nature and eating the delicacies prepared with what the earth offers.

Read also:

• Pesariis: from waterfalls to an educational farm where you can learn about organic farming.
• Educational farms: what they do and where they are located
• How a remote farm works