British Architect housesitting in France

About this sitter

Born in the USA, arrived in London in 1987 to study at the Architectural Association. Afterwards worked as an architect and lecturer in London and abroad until 2018. That's when my husband and I moved to France and began housesitting, at first for short stays, and afterwards for stays between 1 month and several years. A stay of a month or more allows a close look at an area, and that's what I really enjoy.

Why they want to house sit

As someone relatively new to France but planning to remain, I am particularly interested in seeing the various parts of my new home country. I also just like travel itself, so living in a variety of places over time really suits me. Walking and cycling through unfamiliar cities and countryside I am very content to just experience the land, the roads, the houses, the various villages. I'm not a person who is easily bored, and even in a quiet country house at night, I don't feel isolated. Instead I feel entirely content to put on a fire and then relax.

Their experience

I have been housesitting continuously since 2018, caring for varied house types: townhouse, cottage, farmhouse, and chateau. I have also cared for numerous animals: cats, dogs, chickens, geese, sheep, and a smart little pot-bellied pig. Of these, the pets at my very first housesit were the most fun and also the most challenging. They were 4 fully grown Australian Shepherds, so athletic that they demanded 3 extra-long off-lead walks per day.

What can they bring to the assignment

Some more facts you might like to know:
_ Based on Article 50 of the Brexit agreement, I currently hold a French Titre de Séjour, which renews in summer 2026.
_ I prefer to cycle or walk rather than drive a car. For example, over 2 summers, my holiday consisted of cycling the Loire bike path, the 1st year from Orleans to Tour, and the 2nd year from Tour to Nantes.
_ If you have a fireplace and plenty of wood, I'm very happy to use that. In France, I've become an everyday firebuilder.
_ As frequently as you require, I am happy to share your pet news, and to update you regarding the state of your house and garden.