Transitioning from the lively party scene in London to the tranquil Scottish countryside was a stark contrast. It took about a week to adjust, but now I find myself embracing the peacefulness of Scotland.

I’m staying at a beautiful four-star Bed & Breakfast in a secluded part of the Scottish countryside, working in exchange for room and board. My daily routine starts early, waking up at 7am, getting dressed, and heading down to the kitchen. I assist Maria, the owner, with serving breakfast and clean up afterward, including the kitchen and the common areas. Then I move on to the guest rooms, finishing up my tasks by early afternoon which gives me time to enjoy lunch and have some free time. Sometimes, Maria hosts dinners for the guests, and I help with serving and cleaning up afterward.

I’m proud to say that my mother’s thorough home training prepared me well for maintaining the standards expected at a four-star B&B—I already knew how to properly fold towels, fit sheets, and make beds with tight hospital corners.

During my downtime, if it’s raining, I stay indoors, curling up with Conan the cat and a good book or catching up on some favorite TV shows, like “True Blood” on my computer. When the weather is nicer, I take walks outdoors or sometimes join Roger, Maria’s husband, for trips into town.

Initially, I thought I might go stir crazy in this remote setting. I’ve always been a city person, thriving on the energy and chaos of urban life. Yet, the work here keeps me busy, allowing me to zone out and drift into my thoughts while I work. This balance seems to work well for me.

The Scottish countryside is stunning, reminiscent of Ireland but with its own unique charm. While Ireland may be greener, Scotland has its own breathtaking landscapes. The locals are incredibly friendly, adding to the experience. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here; the work is rewarding, keeps me busy, and helps me value my free time even more. This change of pace has been a welcome shift from my usual routine.