When I first arrived at La Giraudiere, I wasn’t sure what to think, as this was my first volunteering role. I had always stayed in hotels and this was nothing like that. La Giraudiere is like-minded people living together and working towards a common goal. With each passing day, I have enjoyed it more.

The atmosphere is very relaxed, and one can dress down easily as no one stands on ceremony.

Getting to know varying types of people from all walks of life is interesting and educational; we all become one big family, which makes for wonderful camaraderie. Also, saying bonjour to new volunteers and sadly au-revoir to others adds to the family atmosphere.

Having come along to La Giraudiere with a friend, I would like to add that I would very happily come alone and volunteer as everyone feels at home and welcomed straight away.

It becomes a pleasure to contribute to the project and help each other. My main role at La Giraudiere is working in the office and dealing with applications. Juggling the bookings can be quite challenging at times, but having retired as an Office Manager a few years ago, I loved coming into the office to work again, without the daily commute on the Tube, of course. I didn’t realize that I had missed it quite so much.

Jan at her application desk

I have only visited the South of France and Paris; the French countryside seems very different and I find the people to be friendlier than I have previously experienced.

The area is littered with divine little French towns and further afield, the Dordogne area is very picturesque.

Whilst here I have already visited St. Emillion, nr Bordeaux, La Roque-Gageac, along the Drone River, the Lasceux Caves, and no doubt there will be a few more excursions before we return to London.

I’m really looking forward to our planned excursion to La Rochelle on the Charente coast line.

I hope you have enjoyed this blog about my time volunteering at La Giraudiere.

Merci beaucoup