The idea of our Lithuanian team driving all the way together to Slovenia turned out really
well. We had time to get to know each other and make a friendly bond. I have realized that
this project could not only be about getting to know participants from other countries, but
also familiarize with people of your own nation from different parts of the country.
On the journey we used the opportunity to have a sleepover at a historic town of Mikulov in
Czech Republic as well as paying a visit to spectacular Vienna, the capital city of Austria.
After a somewhat long and tiring journey it was a pleasure to move in the light and spacious
house and get comfy in your bunk bed. The property is situated in the Markovci village,
surrounded by the idyllic North East Slovenian scenery of hilly pastures and pointy church
towers. We met all the other participants, had dinner and went for an early night’s rest.
Beginning
At the first morning activity we got to properly meet our project coordinators Sara and Maja,
who introduced us to the goals and meaning of our stay here which is about the democratic
participation and activity in the civic lives of our countries as well as the EU’s.
We had an amazing evening with each country presenting our national cuisines giving a
taste of the best bits of our national foods and drinks.
The countries taking part were Slovenia, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Italy and Portugal.
Active participation
Everyday we had a schedule of energizers, activities, workshops, mealtimes and free time.
Although it was paced quite slowly we were faced with some challenges. They included
engaging in activities that required opening up to others, discussions and problem solving
about the topic of youth in democracy within the EU and the participating countries. Besides
that, in order for all the members to feel comfortable in our living environment we set a
number of rules to follow such as the quiet hours, no smoking inside, being aware of
personal space of others, being considerate and attentive during the activities and so on.
Therefore, during this project we have gained knowledge and experience not only through
the set workshops about the main topics, but also the general living and sharing space with
people from other cultural backgrounds.
It was very helpful and rewarding to learn about the social and political issues young people
face in different European countries. Sharing our own experiences and view on problems
have given us a broader perspective, new ideas and motivation to move on, do a little more
for your community because we are stronger when working together.
Some of the activities were fun and easier such as physical energizer games or sharing facts
you know about other countries. Others were more challenging like debates about
democratic and dictatorial governments or sharing and discussing solutions to civic problems
we face in our countries.
Time for Fun
It was not all about educational activities. During our free time we played sports, went for
walks and spent general nice time with lovely people. Every evening we had social
gatherings with dancing and chatting away. If you were up for some romance you could
leave a cheeky note for your crush in the gossip box.
The last days of the project were more relaxed, we had a refreshing day in a public pool in
the nearby city of Murska Sobota, as well as a sports day with the local community.
End of the Project
By the end of our stay we had already made friends with people from various countries,
exchanged contacts with invitations for a visit. Almost everyone was planning their next
Erasmus+ exchange because there is no better opportunity to visit other countries almost for
free, meet loads of interesting people and make beautiful memories for a lifetime.
Our Lithuanian team had a long drive back home, during which we visited Slovakian capital
city of Bratislava and the famous Polish city of Krakow. We have already had a team reunion
party and are planning our next travels.
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