Thanks America, It’s Been Great.
When I look back on my time in the United States, I feel so incredibly lucky to have lived abroad. I think living in a different country makes you grow as a person, especially when you’re in your early twenties, and only just discovering who you are. I’ve learned so much about the world and [...]
Leaving America: 10 things I’ll miss the most
There are so many things I love about the United States, and since I’ll only be here for another few weeks, I thought I’d make a list of the 10 things I’ll miss most after living in America for the last two years. T.V T.V in America has sucked me right in. I find [...]
A Kiwi in the United States- Lessons I learned in America
While living as a kiwi in the United States, I’ve learned a lot about myself that I didn’t expect. Here are just a few of the things I’ve learned: I can stand up for myself Living in American has made me way more assertive. Kiwis are pretty laid back, and we don’t usually make a fuss if [...]
My thoughts on the Homeless in America
Six months ago I went out to eat with a friend in the Gaslamp District in San Diego. I’d been here for a year so we were celebrating with some wine and a nice dinner. We were sitting at a table outside people watching as we waited for our food. A few minutes later, a homeless black [...]
The Curse of the American Soccer Mom
Au Pairs have to deal with a lot of crap. Soccer moms fall into this category. We don’t really have these in New Zealand, at least nowhere near as bad as I’ve seen here, but we’re also starting to see these moms who are raising wimpy, bratty kids, who will eventually be wimpy, bratty adults. Because [...]
Getting fat in America
When I was here the first time (in 2007) I was eighteen and I gained over ten pounds (around 6 kg) in four months. I worked at a summer camp for two months and the food there was even worse than most American food, with lots of sloppy joe’s and sugar. When I got home my mum was shocked, both at [...]
Driving in the United States
It’s hard to get used to driving in a different country, so here is some information about driving in the United States. One thing I love about driving in America is the “turn right on red” rule. Basically if you’re waiting at a red light and no cars are coming you can turn right as long as you [...]
Tipping in the United States
One thing is guaranteed to get me flustered… tipping in the United States. It’s hard to know when and how much, but I think I’ve finally got the hang of it, even if I still find it extremely awkward. Anyone who’s performing a service is expecitng a tip over here, and it’s definitely not optional [...]
Americans: Are the Stereotypes true?
We all have preconceptions about other countries, and let’s face it: America doesn’t have the greatest reputation overseas. When I first told people I was moving to the States, the most common response was: “Why would you want to go there for?” and “America’s great…except for the Americans.” This was frustrating because most of the people [...]
“Little by little, one travels far.”-J.R.R Tolkein
After living in the United States for the last fifteen months, and with only six months left, I thought it would be a good idea to blog about my experiences. I’ve tried journals and diaries before and never stuck to them so fingers crossed this one works out. When I think back to 2007-the last [...]
Australia You’re Turning me into a Wimp.
I’ve got a bone to pick with you Australia. I always thought I was pretty tough. I never really pictured myself as one of those girly girls who froze in fear at the mere mention of a spider or a snake. Here’s the thing though Australia; you’re turning me into a wimp. When I look back, the reason [...]