Around the World in 80 Days – Sweden

SWEDEN Northern Europe Capital: Stockholm Languages: Swedish Predominant Religion(s): Christianity (Protestant) COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: It is common knowledge in Sweden that “time” should be respected at all times – regardless of whether you’re going for an interview or a friendly fika. Meetings will start on time with or without you. The train leaves Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – Spain

SPAIN Southwest Europe Capital: Madrid Languages: Spanish (plus recognized regional languages) Religion(s): Christianity (predominantly Roman Catholic) COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: Spanish people love to talk and are usually considered to be friendly, happy and open. Spanish people are generally willing to get involved and to try new things. Most Spanish au pair applicants decide Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – South Korea

SOUTH KOREA   Asia Capital: Seoul Languages: Korean, English The idea of being an au pair is not common in South Korea. Applicants from South Korea are motivated by the opportunity to experience American  culture and to improve their English. Applicants do not have difficulty affording the program fees. Young Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – Bobotie

Ingredients 1 lb cooked mince (ground beef – with onion in oil or butter, salt and pepper and one  tablespoon tomato paste for flavor – parsley) 1 big onion 1 tablespoon butter 1 slice bread soaked in milk 1 tablespoon curry (paste or powder – I use paste) 1/4 cup coconut (not sweet) or Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – South Africa

SOUTH AFRICA Southern Africa Capital(s): Pretoria, Cape Town, Bloemfontein Languages: English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, Southern Sotho, Tswana, Northern Sotho, Venda, Tsonga, Swati, Ndebele Predominant Religion(s): Christianity COMMON CHARACTERISTICS:  The South African people are proud people who live together in a nation of diversity. Many different ethnic groups exist in South Africa Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – Slovakia

SLOVAKIA Central Europe Capital: Bratislava Languages: Slovak Predominant Religion(s): Roman Catholic & Protestant COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: Slovak people describe themselves as friendly, open and talkative. Slovaks are very hospitable, modest and sincere. Slovaks have strong family ties. FUN FACTS: Slovakia has the world´s highest number of castles and chateaus per capita. Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – Kladdkaka

Swedish Kladdkaka (Sticky Chocolate Cake) Recipe:  Ingredients:  ½ cup all-purpose flour  ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder  1 pinch salt  2 eggs  1 ⅓ cups white sugar  1 tablespoon vanilla extract  ½ cup butter, melted  Instructions:  Preheat oven to 300˚F (150˚C). Lightly grease an 8-inch pie plate. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt; set aside. Stir Read More

Around the World in 80 Days – Serbia

SERBIA Central/Southern Europe Capital: Belgrade Languages: Serbian Predominant Religion(s): Christian Orthodox COMMON CHARACTERISTICS: Serbians, especially those who are interested in the Au Pair in America program, are usually open minded, polite and really great with children. Serbians are usually neat and well dressed and like to follow contemporary trends. They take pride Read More