Stories & Guides

From the Field

Real stories from South Africans who took the leap — plus honest guides to help you plan yours.

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From South Africa to the Middle East: How One Woman's Solo Journey Transformed Her Life

At 23, Marika made a bold decision that changed her life forever. Tired of the ordinary, she packed her dreams and embarked on her first solo trip abroad — a journey that transformed everything.

Cruise Ship 30 Nov 2023

Artful Chapters of a South African's Voyage with Royal Caribbean

In South Africa where routine often defines one's career path, Luan dared to seek more. His journey led him to the heart of the ocean working as an Art Associate on Royal Caribbean.

Au Pair 28 Nov 2023

Danielle's Au Pair Chronicles in a Family Touched by Cancer

Danielle went to the USA expecting the usual joys and challenges of au pairing. Her experience turned out to be profoundly different — and deeply human.

Au Pair 23 Nov 2023

Inside IAPA: Nurturing Global Connections through Au Pair Excellence

Established in 1994, the International Au Pair Association is the global body ensuring agency standards. We spoke with Managing Director Patricia Brunner about what that really means.

Au Pair 21 Nov 2023

Au Pair Adventures: A Journey Across Continents

Leah au paired in the USA, Netherlands, and Luxembourg — navigating rematches, a pandemic, and a host family vacation in Greece. Her story is one of resilience.

Au Pair 17 Nov 2023

Part 2: A Tale of Triumph, Four Rematches, and Finding Home in the Heart of Chicago

After surviving four rematches, Hanlie finally found her family in Chicago — the city she had dreamed of visiting since watching the TV shows. This is the story of how she got there.

Au Pair 16 Nov 2023

Part 1: A Tale of Triumph, Four Rematches, and Finding Home in the Heart of Chicago

Hanlie — an introvert who decided to change her life — applied for the au pair program and discovered that not every host family would be a match. The real journey was just beginning.

Butler 10 Nov 2023

From Butler to Visionary

André Visser went from skilled butler to entrepreneur — spotting a gap in butler training across Africa and turning his hospitality career into something much bigger.

Cruise Ship 09 Nov 2023

Carnival Cruise Ship Adventures

Lientjie Joubert was already seasoned in working abroad when she found a waiter vacancy on a Carnival cruise ship. What followed was an adventure she hadn't planned for.

Au Pair 08 Nov 2023

Birthday Celebrations: Easter in Rome

Melissa turned 21 in Italy during Easter weekend — while working as an au pair. A birthday she describes as one for the books.