Iva, one of our cultural exchange participants in Spain, writes to us from beautiful Galicia, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the northwestern shores of the country. Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
The host family welcomed me so warmly. From the very first moment, the girls were hugging me, and we’ve been getting along wonderfully ever since. We work everything out through open communication, which I think is important.
I love the city I’m living in—A Coruña. It sits right on the ocean, so the beaches and city center are both very close.
In my free time, I usually walk around the city or along the scenic coastal promenade, which stretches for quite a while and offers stunning views of the open sea and surrounding nature. I also meet new people, ride the bike the family provided for me, go shopping, and just enjoy the local vibe.
What’s impressed me the most is how warmly I’ve been welcomed. Every young person connected to the family—whether a friend, relative, or neighbor—wanted to meet me, show me around the city, or go out together. The people here have a mentality very similar to ours, so I blended into the social scene quickly. My relationship with the family is also something I truly value, and I believe that’s one of the most important parts of this program. The city itself, the culture, and all the local specialties continue to amaze me every single day!
Ihre Botschaft an zukünftige Teilnehmer:
This has truly been an unforgettable life experience, and I only have positive things to say! It’s not just about improving your skills with kids or connecting with people who become a big part of your everyday life—it’s also about living like a local. And that’s something you rarely get to do when you’re just traveling as a tourist.
So, if you’ve even slightly considered applying—do it, without hesitation! I’m incredibly grateful I did. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity! Also, the organization is highly professional—they’re always available to help with the application process and ongoing support during the program. Truly praiseworthy!