After completing my language studies in Munich, I took a leap into the unknown and decided to move to Tahiti as an au pair. The decision was driven by my desire to step out of my comfort zone, to grow and immerse in a new culture far away from the familiar life back in Munich, Germany , where I grew up. This year didn’t only transform me personally, but it also introduced me to the polynesian culture, help me discover new passions, and foster deep friendships.

Arriving in Tahiti, I was immediately captivated by the island’s beauty: beautiful beaches, the mountains, and lush jungles. It felt like stepping into a dream and it started to feel more and more like a second home. But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, I had duties to fulfill. As an au pair, I took care of a family and quickly found myself adapting to a new pace of life. The rhythm of the islands was slower, more relaxed, and that helped me find a sense of calm and independence that I hadn't experienced before.

Living away from home taught me invaluable lessons in self-sufficiency. I was in a completely foreign environment, far from family and friends, and I had to rely on myself.

I learned how to navigate daily tasks—shopping at local markets, understanding the local customs, and adjusting to life in a place where French was spoken, but the Tahitian culture was very much alive.

One of the most exciting parts of my adventure was discovering Ori Tahiti, the traditional Tahitian dance. The graceful yet powerful movements of the dance seemed to mirror the spirit of the island itself—fluid, energetic, and deeply connected to nature.

I enrolled in a dance school and soon became deeply immersed in learning the movements and the storytelling of the dances. I was soon performing in shows with my group , sharing the beauty of Tahitian culture. Each performance made me feel more confident and strengthened my connection to the island.

I met people from all over the world— other travelers, locals, emigrants. I connected with so many different perspectives, and I quickly found that traveling alone doesn't mean being alone. I was lucky to meet my soulsister at the other side of the globe.

She came from the north of Germany, and I, from the south. I believe that fate brought us both to this small island in the middle of the Pacific. Despite the geographical distances and sometimes (surprisingly) cultural differences in our own country, we found each other in Tahiti and instantly clicked. It was as if the universe had planned it—two Germans, from opposite corners of the country, meeting on a distant island in middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Our friendship was built on shared experiences of adapting to life abroad, and soon, she became my soul sister. We spent countless hours exploring the island together, talking about everything under the sun, and even performing together at dance shows (Heiva des écoles).

Looking back on my year in Tahiti, I realize how much it shaped me. I became more independent, more open-minded, and more connected to both my own culture and the cultures I encountered. I learned the value of community and friendship, and I discovered a new passion in dance that I carry with me today. The lessons I learned from adapting to life on a small island have remained with me in ways I never anticipated. Tahiti taught me to embrace uncertainty, trust the process, and, above all, appreciate the beauty of human connection.

Life has a way of surprising us, and my year in Tahiti was nothing short of magical—a time that will always hold a special place in my heart. A place that I now call my second home and where I found friends that felt like family.