Tag Archives: travel

2020 Challenge: Collect Moments, Not Things

Common problem: “It’s the end of my au pair year and I have sooooo much stuff! It’s going to cost me a fortune in extra baggage fees.”

This post is about one way to prevent that problem.

I know it can be tempting. There are so many beautiful things and great sales out there. But in 2020, I challenge you to take a moment before each purchase and ask yourself:

  • Do I really need this?
  • Do I want it enough to pay extra baggage fees to get it home later?
  • What experience could I have with this money instead? For example, you might ask yourself, “Would I rather have these designer shoes or a ticket to a concert?”

Being an au pair can be an amazing time in your life where you have the opportunity to try new things and see new places. The more money you save for travel, the more of those unforgettable moments you will have to carry home with you.

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

Photo: Canva.com

Trek America Adventures geared towards Au Pair Travel

DSC_0754Thanks so much to Brian Egger of Trek America (www.trekamerica.com/aupairinamerica) for braving the winter storm today to meet with us and let us know about the wonderful travel opportunities for our au pairs.  Tours range from as little as 3 to 4 days to 4 weeks long depending on how much time and money you have to spend!  The beauty of joining such a Trek is the opportunity to meet people who may come from all different parts of the world.  As you explore American cites and natural parks you find yourself making friends with people who span the globe!  The tour guides introduce you to the locals by offering jeep rides on an Indian preservation to horseback riding in the Grand Canyon.   For more information visit the Trek America site.

Travelling outside the U.S.?

If you are planning to travel outside the U.S. during your first year,your DS-2019 will need a travel signature. You will also need to check if you need a visa to enter the country you intend to visit. Obtaining a tourist visa is solely the responsibility of the au pair.

~ Three weeks before you plan to travel, mail your original DS-2019 Form and a self-addressed stamped envelope (so your signed DS-2019 may be returned to you)to:

Au Pair in America

River Plaza

9 West Broad Street

Stamford, CT 06902

Attn: Evelyn Blum

Have a great trip!

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Travel & Vacation reminders

With Memorial Day just passed and Fourth of July coming up next month, I wanted to remind everyone about program rules on holidays and vacations.

Holidays

  • Host families are NOT REQUIRED to give au pairs any specific holidays.
  • Each host family will make different arrangements on holidays, some au pairs will be off and others will be required to work.
  • Au pairs should NOT make plans for holidays without checking with your host family FIRST.

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  • Au pair earns 2 weeks of paid vacation during the course of her year.
  • The host family can pick a week and the au pair can pick a week, if an agreement is not reached.
  • All vacation should be preplanned (at least 4 weeks in advance.)
  • All au pair’s friends and/or family visits/vacations should be pre-approved prior to purchasing a ticket.
  • If an au pair travels with their host family, it should be discussed UP FRONT whether this is the au pair’s vacation or if she is working.
  • If an au pair travels with the host family to work, the host family is required to pay for her transportation, lodging and meals.