Our home is a large, open plan house with two decks overlooking the mighty Saint John river. There are steps down to our own private beach which allows us excellent swimming in the summer. The house is about thirty years old but has been recently renovated throughout with new kitchen, bath, hardwood floors and windows. There is a small front garden with swing set, although the local elementary school with full playground is only 100 metres walk away.

Although we are only 15 minutes drive out of the city of Saint John, our neighbourhood is quiet and the house is surrounded by trees. The river is also great for kayaking, sailing, canoeing or simply exploring. Sandy ocean beaches are only 20 minutes drive away as are spectacular hiking trails. Local attractions include whale watching trips, ocean kayaking with porpoises, biking trails and birdwatching (we see osprey, bald eagles, hummingbirds and woodpeckers from our decks!). Saint John City offers plenty of restaurants, cinemas, theatre and live music. Day trips to the Grand Manan Islands (http://grandmanannb.com ),Fundy National Park (http:www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nb/fundy/index.aspx )and the provincial capital Fredericton are well worthwhile. The famous Reversing Falls, created by the world's highest tides are only 10 minutes drive away. Although summers can be very hot where we live, a short drive the ocean provides a cool breeze or a dip in the river is very refreshing!

We - Karen and Jon are both teachers in our late forties with two well behaved 7 year olds (Ellie and Gerry). Jon is originally from the south of England and would like to use an exchange as a base to visit friends and family.