“This is the Life I Want”: Au pairs’ perceptions of life in the global city

London is an important destination for au pairs, who, like many other young migrants, are attracted by the social, cultural and economic opportunities the city offers. London also has strong demand for au pair labour, shaped by childcare regimes and working practices that have made in-home, privatised childcare popular with many families and a migration regime, including the deregulation of au pairing, which has funnelled migrants into low-paid domestic and caring work. This article examines the effects of au pairs’ perceptions of London. We argue that in the context of deregulation, au pairs aim to use the opportunities that London affords in order to develop networks and skills that they will use for future migration and careers, trading good conditions for the chance to be in the capital. Thus, positive perceptions of London work in host families’ favour as au pairs will accept poor pay and conditions in order to be located in London.