Julia spent two years as an au pair in the U.S. and even took a photography course on Oʻahu, Hawaii. As part of the au pair program, participants earn credit points by taking classes—either at a local college or in special courses designed for au pairs. Host families support this with up to $500. Julia used this opportunity to book a weekend course in Hawaii, where she discovered a new hobby, explored the island, and made lasting memories with friends.

Discovering a New Passion

One of my favorite travel destinations—one I still think about often, even two years later—is Hawaii. Before my time as an au pair, I never imagined I’d ever visit a place like that. But suddenly, there I was with four plane tickets and a photography course booked on Oʻahu. 🌺🛫

I flew to Hawaii in May 2023 with my three best friends from Washington State. Like always, we planned everything in advance—what we wanted to see, what we wanted to do—and boarded the plane with high hopes. One of the great things about being an au pair is that no matter where you go, whether you’re alone or with others, you always end up meeting new people.

We picked the course because au pairs need to earn six credits during the year. For us, it was the perfect way to meet other au pairs from around the world and learn more about the U.S. and Hawaiian culture. During the course—and especially afterwards—we explored the island and collected so many unforgettable memories: swimming with turtles, hiking through muddy trails, and even trying surfing for the first time. 🏄

More Than Just a Job

These two years as an au pair in the U.S. taught me a lot about myself. One big lesson: always try new things and step outside your comfort zone. Before I left Germany, I never would have believed I’d be standing on a surfboard in Waikiki—or that I’d be traveling to one of the most beautiful places in the world with three people I had only met a few months earlier.

Honestly, for the travel alone, the people you meet, and the experiences you gain, I think everyone should become an au pair at least once in their life.

Sunrise, Hiking, and More

If I had to pick a favorite day in Hawaii, it would be this one: We started our second-to-last day with a sunrise photo shoot, wearing matching flower necklaces. After that, we hopped in an Uber and headed off to a hidden hiking trail. Hiking—just like photography—quickly became one of our favorite activities, which is why we now have plenty of stories about nearly sprained ankles, last-minute camping trips, and hikes in the dark.

After slipping and sliding through mud and taking in the views, we visited the Polynesian Cultural Center. We learned a lot about Hawaiian traditions and finally got to try the famous “shave ice”! Later, after dealing with our sunburns (because let’s be honest, something always goes a little wrong on a trip 🫠), we met up with other au pairs at the beach to watch the weekly fireworks on Oʻahu. 🎆

Friendships for Life – My Takeaway After Two Years as an Au Pair

Before leaving, I wasn’t sure if I’d make any close, long-term friends. So what’s the result after nearly two years? I still talk regularly with most of my au pair friends, and I’m even going to university with some of them now. Our trip to Hawaii really brought us closer together and definitely inspired us to plan more trips together.

Besides all the cool sights, food, hula shows, and souvenir shopping (our families back home had to get a piece of the trip too), we also discovered photography. It’s become a real hobby since then—and let’s be honest, where better to work on your skills and boost your Instagram feed than in Hawaii? 📸

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