Running away to live in a beautiful Italian village may seem like an impossible pipe dream, but Airbnb makes it a little more achievable for one lucky person.
The home-sharing platform is looking for someone to live in a restored three-storey townhouse in Sicily for free for an entire year.
The Italian heritage property is located in the rural town of Sambuca: 6,000 inhabitants.
Making headlines in recent years for being part of Italy’s famous €1 house scheme, the hilltop commune is in the western part of the Italian island.
However, Airbnb is not looking for someone who just wants to hole up in a rural idyll – the successful candidate will need to be actively involved in the community.
“With new flexibility to live and work remotely, someone will have the option to relocate to Sicily with their family, partner or friend and move into this uniquely restored home,” the brand says.
“Ideal candidates must be committed to hosting and contributing to the life of the village.
“Their residency at Sambuca will take place over a one-year period beginning June 30, with the successful candidate retaining all revenue from the accommodation on Airbnb.”
Being an Airbnb initiative, the successful candidate will be required to host guests in a spare room for most of their stay, although they may keep the money from the bookings.
“The host will host Airbnb guests from around the world for at least nine months of their year in the $1 home,” the website says.
They will also have the opportunity to improve their skills while residing in Sambuca, with Italian language and cooking classes offered.
Unlike other homes in the official €1 Homes program, which are usually in need of a major renovation, the Airbnb property has already undergone a complete makeover, courtesy of architectural firm Studio Didea.
“The spacious building spans three floors, with plenty of room for remote working and hosting on Airbnb,” according to the website.
“The ground floor has a small living room, a master bedroom with a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom.
“The first floor has a living room, kitchen, work space, bathroom and a loft bedroom with a king-size bed.
“The upper floor includes additional living space with a queen-size sleeper sofa.”
Although applicants may bring family or friends to live with them, residence is limited to a maximum of two adults and two children.
Applicants must be over 18 and able to speak conversational English, with Italian being an added advantage.
Applicants can apply at airbnb.com/1eurohouse.
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