In a unique and tempting offer, Great Blasket Island is seeking a responsible duo to take on the role of caretakers for its coffee shop and holiday accommodations. Nestled off the coast of Ireland, this private island boasts breathtaking scenery, a seal colony, and prehistoric sites. However, the dream job comes with a twist – caretakers won't just be enjoying the picturesque views; they'll be actively running the island's cafe and managing guest accommodations.
The island authorities, in their announcement on the website, express the need for a hardworking and responsible duo with great people skills and initiative. While the stunning surroundings make it a one-of-a-kind opportunity, the role involves significant effort, including meeting and greeting overnight guests, serving tea and coffee, and ensuring the daily needs of the establishments are met. Despite the absence of specific salary details, the emphasis is clearly on addressing the operational requirements of the island.
The caretaker's day kicks off with setting up the coffee shop and cleaning bathrooms before the arrival of guests. The job demands continuous activity, from handling checkouts to serving day trippers and managing new guest check-ins. The island gets busy, requiring caretakers to be on their feet for most of the day, offering an intense yet rewarding experience with limited resources.
Living conditions on the island add to the unique nature of the caretaker role. The staff will reside above the coffee shop, sharing the main bedroom, making it an ideal opportunity for a couple. The coffee shop kitchen and toilets become their personal space. Basic amenities like a stove for evening use, mainland laundry services, and daily food deliveries are provided.
The job opportunity spans from April to October 2024 for the initial couple, with the potential addition of a third and fourth volunteer during the busier months of June, July, and August. The island authorities stress that this is not a holiday job but rather an intense position that requires acknowledgment of being on an island with limited resources. The caretakers are also expected to speak English and be eligible to work in the European Union.
Great Blasket Island's offer is not the only one; a region in Italy, Calabria, has been attracting people under 40 with a program called "active residence income," offering a unique opportunity to join and contribute to their community. So, if the island life isn't for you, there are other places offering enticing opportunities beyond the summer.
