House sitting in Greece is a fascinating, terrifying, and enchanting way to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Athens. After a personal experience house sitting in Athens for five weeks, I would like to share valuable tips on how to find and secure your dream house sitting jobs throughout Greece and beyond. Additionally, I’ll delve into my own house sitting journey in Athens, highlighting the highs, lows, and everything in between to provide an authentic insight into what it’s like to house sit in this remarkable city.
1. House Sitting in Greece and Athens
Finding Long-term, Flexible House Sitting Opportunities
My first long-term house sit in Athens came from using a reputable house sitting platform. Not only does this platform connect homeowners in Greece with sitters from around the globe, but it offers numerous benefits for all parties involved:
- Homeowners enjoy peace of mind during their holiday, as they have free pet and home care.
- House sitters live rent-free in Greece, accompanied by furry companions.
- Pets avoid the stress of kenneling, remaining in their own environment.
While there are other avenues for finding house sitting gigs, I found the mentioned platform to be the most effective. The annual membership fee is a small price to pay for the opportunity to stay rent-free in Greece, not to mention the numerous other locations across the globe.
Aside from accommodation, staying at a private residence offers a more authentic experience compared to typical hostels or hotels. You’ll often have access to amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities, enhancing your overall experience.
Applying for House Sitting Jobs
If you’re interested in house sitting, follow these steps to secure opportunities in Greece:
- Complete your profile honestly.
- Upload engaging photos of yourself with pets.
- Gain experience by house sitting for friends or family to build references.
- Obtain a police check to establish trustworthiness.
- Apply for house sits in Greece, approaching each application with authenticity.
2. My Personal Experience House Sitting in Athens
My experience house sitting in Athens was exceptional. I spent five weeks caring for a young cat that had transitioned from being a stray to a beloved pet. The homeowners offered an environment where the cat could roam freely while having shelter and food consistently available—truly the best of both worlds for her.
During my time, I also took care of an American Cocker Spaniel, whose slow yet engaging walks allowed me to explore the neighborhood and appreciate its architectural beauty and diverse atmosphere. The area was a mix of upscale residences and remnants of unkept properties, offering a unique perspective of Athens.
Handling Uncomfortable Requests from Homeowners
There were moments when homeowners made requests that I found uncomfortable, such as forcing a cat to accept touch in sensitive areas. In such cases, I believe it is essential to prioritize the comfort of all parties involved—pets and sitters alike. Thus, I approached these situations with common sense and a willingness to communicate boundaries.
3. Tips for Successful House Sitting in Greece
To minimize frustrating situations, I recommend:
- Communicate openly with homeowners before finalizing any arrangements.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off during the pre-sit communication, consider declining the opportunity.
Newer platforms also review both sitters and homeowners, significantly improving transparency. Seek homeowners with positive reviews to enhance the likelihood of a pleasant experience.
Dealing with Unsatisfactory Situations
If you find that the house sit is not meeting your expectations or if personal compatibility with the homeowner is lacking, weigh the pros and cons. Sometimes, enduring a challenging day or two is worthwhile, especially if it leads to a more comfortable stay once the homeowner leaves.
In cases where discomfort persists, it’s vital to explore options for addressing the situation directly with the homeowner or contemplating whether to leave early.
4. Final Thoughts on House Sitting in Greece
Ultimately, my time house sitting in Athens presented me with a unique blend of challenges and rewards. The connections I formed with local culture, through interactions with pet owners and the community, enriched this experience immensely. If you ever consider house sitting in Greece, I wholeheartedly recommend it—it’s an ideal way for new sitters to acclimate to the lifestyle while exploring stunning locales.
With the country’s welcoming nature towards travelers and the ease of navigation, house sitting in Greece can open up remarkable experiences. Seek your opportunities, and embrace the adventure of house sitting in this beautiful region!
