Nestled in the scenic Perth Hills of Western Australia lies Mount Olive Studio, a lush 40-acre sanctuary bursting with flowers, chirping birds, and a warm sense of community. It’s the home of Junko and Frank, two exceptional hosts who have been welcoming travelers from across the globe for over five years. For Nikki and me, this was not just a destination but an unforgettable experience that beautifully embodies the spirit of help-exchange.

The Concept of Help Exchange: A Win-Win for Travelers and Hosts

Help-exchange is a simple yet transformative concept where travelers trade a few hours of their time and skills for free accommodation. Tasks can range from gardening to light manual labor, often tailored to the skills and preferences of the volunteers. For budget-conscious explorers like us, it’s not just a way to save money but also a gateway to authentic cultural immersion.

During our 10-day stay at Mount Olive Garden, Nikki and I worked 14 hours a week in exchange for cozy accommodation. What’s unique about Junko and Frank’s arrangement is its flexibility—helpers can choose to compress their hours into just two days or spread them out as we did, working two hours each morning. This allowed us to fully enjoy the property’s therapeutic gardens and still have plenty of time to explore Perth.

A Day in the Life at Mount Olive Garden

Junko, a vibrant Japanese woman in her late 40s, and Frank, a seasoned anesthetist and emergency doctor in his late 70s, have cultivated more than a garden—they’ve created a haven. Their Italian-style home, with its fairytale-like charm, features a lagoon-style pool, a tennis court, and even a basketball court.

Our mornings were filled with activities like weeding, trimming, and tending to the plants. The fresh scent of flowers and the soothing hum of insects made each task feel more like a mindfulness exercise than work. The sight of blooming flowers was a reward in itself, grounding us in the beauty of nature.

By noon, we were free to chart our own course. Some days, we met friends in Perth for dinner; on others, we worked remotely on Abroadly, a platform Nikki and I founded to connect travelers with budget-friendly opportunities like this one.

Building Connections: The Heart of Help Exchange

The evenings at Mount Olive Garden were just as enriching. Alongside us were two German girls and two French boys, all on working holidays in Australia. Conversations flowed as we shared meals in the cozy living room or played mini-billiards and chess. The living room’s crackling fireplace set the perfect backdrop for storytelling—past travel escapades, future travel plans, and even life lessons.

Junko and Frank also joined us occasionally, sharing their perspectives and making us feel like family. Frank recounted tales of building the garden during his free time, while Junko’s experience hosting hundreds of travelers enriched the conversation.

The Tangible and Intangible Benefits

For Nikki and me, this help-exchange wasn’t just a financial win—we saved over $1,400 on accommodation costs—but also a profound personal experience. It strengthened our belief in sustainable travel, fostered new friendships, and gave us a deeper appreciation for local culture and hospitality.

Help-exchange is not just for travelers. It’s equally rewarding for hosts like Junko and Frank, who gain helping hands while sharing their space and stories. For hosts on platforms like Abroadly, help-exchange is an opportunity to build lasting connections, share local culture, and get support with day-to-day tasks.

Why Choose Help Exchange?

1. Cost-Effective Travel: Save significantly on accommodation costs, often a traveler’s largest expense.

2. Cultural Immersion: Live with locals and experience their way of life firsthand.

3. Flexibility and Freedom: Work schedules are often negotiable, leaving plenty of time for exploration.

4. Skill Exchange: Share your skills and learn new ones, from gardening to DIY projects.

5. Global Community: Meet like-minded travelers and hosts from around the world.

Our Final Reflection

Our time at Mount Olive Garden reminded us why we built Abroadly—to bridge the gap between travelers and local communities, offering affordable, meaningful, and sustainable travel opportunities. Whether you’re a backpacker exploring on a shoestring budget or a host looking to open your doors to the world, help-exchange is a unique and rewarding way to connect.

For travelers seeking a life-changing experience, I wholeheartedly recommend help-exchange. It’s more than a transaction—it’s a journey of growth, gratitude, and global citizenship. And if you’re ever in the Perth Hills, Mount Olive Garden awaits with open arms, lush landscapes, and the warm hospitality of Junko and Frank.

Join the movement. Travel smart. Travel Abroadly.