A small dream island in the middle of the Aegean Sea has everything that holidaymakers in Greece dream of: sparkling white houses, crystal clear water, and plenty of sun reports Bild.

Syros can be reached in just an hour by car or scooter. This is a peaceful corner of paradise where one can live for free—but on one condition: you must not be allergic to cats. Or rather, you will need to take care of numerous cats for five hours a day. The animal protection organization Syroscats is looking for such volunteers. In return, it offers free accommodation in one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

Tens of thousands of candidates are interested in this opportunity every year. Applications for the period from January to June 2027 are now open. They are looking for single people or couples over 25 who can work independently and are willing to stay on the island for at least a month.

They offer accommodation, breakfast, and payment of utility bills in exchange for about five hours of work per day, five days a week. Candidates with a degree or work experience as a veterinary assistant or experience in handling feral cats are particularly welcome, the aforesaid organization says.

But any other cat lover is also welcome, as long as they are punctual. Those who can imagine themselves as cat caretakers in Greece are invited to fill out an application on the Syroscats website by September 30.

Indeed, there is no payment, but after the work is done, you will be rewarded with a vacation feeling. Syros is what many Greek islands once were: authentic, unspoiled, and without large hotel complexes and crowds of tourists. Its fine-grained sandy beaches have small, partially hidden coves for swimming. There are many cafes and restaurants in the center of Ermoupoli, the island's capital. Fresh fish and unique Greek dishes can still be tasted there at affordable prices.