Nuevos comienzos, corazones valientes - Intercambio cultural en España

Milica, one of our cultural exchange participants in Spain, spent just over a month in El Puerto de Santa María, a coastal town near Cádiz. Here’s what she shared about her experience:

I spent a little over a month in southern Spain, in a town called El Puerto de Santa María. It was my first time traveling abroad on my own—and definitely one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had. I truly believe that for any young person, living abroad is something incredibly important. It shapes you, challenges you, and helps you grow into a better version of yourself.

My schedule was clearly defined before I signed the contract: I worked from Monday to Saturday, five hours a day (from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), plus two babysitting evenings a week. Of course, other families might have different arrangements. I spent that time with three girls aged 9, 11, and 12—mostly playing with them since they weren’t in school during the summer. We spent our days at the beach, by the pool, or just playing in the yard. It wasn’t physically demanding, and I had the rest of the day completely free, which was perfect.

What meant the most to me was that even before arriving in Andalusia, I had already gotten in touch with other au pair girls living in the same town. Having someone your age to hang out with makes such a difference. Every week, I’d visit a different city and spend hours wandering through its streets—and those memories are the kind I’ll cherish forever.

Su mensaje a los futuros participantes:

My advice to future au pairs: be fully aware that this isn’t a vacation at your aunt’s house by the sea. Host families do expect your help, and you’ll almost certainly be expected to put in your hours.

The Spanish are laid-back, easygoing people who love to enjoy life—not to work themselves into the ground—and that’s especially true in the summer. It’s impossible not to meet new people here, and a good time is pretty much guaranteed.

So, to anyone still on the fence: step out of your comfort zone. Go and feel life.