Garda – Italy’s Hidden Gem

Today, we’re looking back on Jelena’s short summer stay in Italy. She spent just under a month in the region of Lombardy, in the charming little town of Garda. Read more about her experience below.

I’ll admit, my first impression of the program was that it seemed a bit scary and challenging—but then I realized how much it would help me grow in so many areas of life. The host family was nice overall; they made an effort. We did have a few bumps in the beginning with the kids, who weren’t quite prepared for my arrival. But in general, Italians are incredibly kind and open people. I was pleasantly surprised—I didn’t have a single negative or uncomfortable experience the whole time I was there.

Garda, the lakeside town where I stayed, was truly magical. At first, I have to admit, I was a little disappointed that I wasn’t placed in a big city like Milan or Rome. But Garda completely won me over—it showed me that beyond the famous landmarks, Italy has so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The public transportation, both local and regional, was great—well-organized, easy to navigate, and it made getting around really simple.

I spent most of my free time exploring Garda and nearby towns along the shores of the lake. I tried all kinds of pizza, pasta, and ravioli—honestly, they were incredible! And even though my stay was short, I managed to take a day trip to Verona, which was only about an hour away by bus.

What I loved most about this program was finally getting to visit Italy—my dream destination—and realizing how independent I am. I learned that I’m capable of handling so many different challenges, no matter where I am. My message to future participants is this: believe in yourself and go for it. In the end, you’ll come out of it with a truly enriching and unforgettable experience.