First month in Hungary-Tanahis

Hey everyone! It’s Tanahis, and I’m thrilled to share the incredible experiences of my first month as a European Solidarity Corps volunteer here in Hungary. From savoring the unique flavors of Hungarian cuisine to exploring enchanting places and forging new friendships, it’s been a journey filled with discovery and warmth.

The Culinary Adventure:

One of the highlights of my month has been the gastronomic adventure through Hungarian cuisine. I couldn’t help but notice the Hungarian love for frying, a culinary quirk I thought only Americans embraced. Trying traditional dishes in a local restaurant opened my eyes to a world of flavors. Palinka, a drink the locals take immense pride in, turned out to be a bit too intense for my taste, but discovering Tokaji wine was a game-changer, I’ve found my new favorite wine, thanks to its delightful sweetness.

Winter in Hungary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Christmas market. Sipping on hot wine infused with cinnamon and indulging in local delights like langós and Kürtőskalács made the festive season truly magical.

Exploring Hungary:

Venturing beyond my immediate surroundings, I had the opportunity to explore some beautiful places in Hungary. Visegrad, where I attended my On Arrival training, captivated me with its charm. The views from the Visegrad Castle were nothing short of breathtaking. Budapest, with its stunning Christmas market, left me in awe. Although time constraints kept me from the inside of the Buda Castle, I can’t wait to return and delve deeper into the city’s wonders.

In Debrecen, the array of cool coffee shops, with Black Sheep topping my list, added a delightful touch to my days. The city’s Christmas market and lights were a visual feast that I won’t soon forget.

Connecting with People:

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the people I’ve met. From the people of the association who warmly welcomed me to the incredible individuals I encountered during my On Arrival training, every interaction has been inspiring. The sense of camaraderie and care within the association made me feel very comfortable. I’m eagerly looking forward to reuniting with the fantastic folks I met during the training at the upcoming Mid-Term session.

Work in the Association:

Surprisingly, I found a deep appreciation for my work in the association. Engaging with students in classes has been incredibly fulfilling, especially witnessing their interest when I prepare activities for them. The human connections and the exchange of ideas that flourish in our conversation clubs it’s undeniably the best part of my work.

Personal Reflections:

Reflecting on this month, it’s been a rollercoaster of emotions. Adapting to so many new things at once was occasionally overwhelming, especially as it’s the first time I’ve lived away from my family. The challenges of living independently were real, but they were the challenges I wanted. Amidst it all, I couldn’t help but miss home, family, friends, and the life I left behind in my home country.

As I wrap up this reflection on my first month in Hungary, I can’t help but feel grateful for the richness of experiences. The flavors, the places, the people, and the work have collectively shaped an unforgettable chapter. I’m excited about what the future holds and look forward to sharing more of this incredible journey.

Tanahis

How to celebrate Christmas and new year in Spain?

The Christmas and New year festivities kick off with Christmas Eve, known as “Nochebuena”, one of the most significant celebrations in Spain. Families gather for a lavish feast that typically includes a variety of dishes such as roast lamb, seafood, and the iconic “turron”, a nougat-like sweet. The Midnight Mass, or “La Misa del Gallo,” is attended by many, with churches adorned in beautiful decorations and candlelit ambiance. After the service, families often continue the festivities with music, dance, and the exchange of gifts. Then, depending on the region, the local “Father Christmas” comes to bring presents to the children. In the Basque Country, for example, it’s the Olentzero who comes. Traditionally, the Olentzero was a coalman who lived high up in the mountains and came down to the villages on the night of 24-25 December to announce the birth of Jesus. Today, the Olentzero also brings presents to good children, but he also punishes bad children by giving them coal. 

“El Día de Navidad”, which means Christmas Day, is a time for relaxation and family bonding in Spain. Many people attend a special Christmas Day Mass and then enjoy a leisurely meal with loved ones. It’s common for families to take a stroll in the crisp winter air, public spaces adorned with holiday lights, and visit friends and neighbors, revelling in the festive atmosphere.

As the year draws to a close, Spaniards eagerly anticipate the arrival of “Nochevieja”, or New Year’s Eve. The tradition of eating 12 grapes for each of the 12 strokes of midnight is a nationwide ritual. Each grape represents a wish for the upcoming months, and the tradition dates back to the late 19th century. Festivities continue into the early morning hours, with lively celebrations, music, and fireworks lighting up the sky.

The holiday season in Spain concludes on January 6th with “Día de Reyes”, or Three Kings’ Day. This day commemorates the arrival of the Three Wise Men who visited the baby Jesus, and it is marked by colorful parades featuring the Kings, music, and elaborate floats. Families come together for a special meal and exchange gifts, mirroring the Magi’s gift-giving tradition.

Tanahis

My first month in Hungary-Lisa

My first month in Hungary 

Unbelieveable how the time goes by. I’ve been in Hungary for over a month now and so much has happend. But let’s start from the beginning 🙂 
 
The first few weeks were really difficult for me. I was very homesick and I hadn’t really made any friends yet, which meant I often felt alone. But as I got to know more and more people and made friends, I really started to enjoy my days here. It was still nice and warm in October, which meant I explored a lot of the city and did a lot of activities outside. 
 
My teaching experience started in the second week. I had a lot of respect for it and was also unsure how the students would react to me. But fortunately all my fears were in vain. The students were all very happy about me and are (mostly) very motivated to work with me. I really enjoy working with the young people and it’s interesting for me to see the students from a different perspective, since I’ve always been a student myself 🙂 

I also have a German conversation club with adults every Thursday evening in the Méliusz Juhász Péter library. I was really very nervous before the first conversation club, as it takes more to convince adults than children or young people. But that was also better than expected. The adults have welcomed me very warmly and we discuss various topics such as travel, culture, hobbies and many more every week. 
 
Well that’s it for the description of my work. Let’s come to the highlight of my first month here in Hungary: the On-Arrival training. 
 
In the first month of the ESC stay in Hungary, all current volunteers meet in Visegrád to attend workshops and trainings together. 
 
Apart from the fact that the On-Arrival training is held in a wellness hotel from Monday to Friday, you get to know an incredible number of different people from all over the world. We had people from Spain, Italy, Tunisia, Turkey, Bangladesh and many more. On the first day everything was a bit strange because we didn’t fully understand the workshops and the people were all new. But already on the second day we grew together as a group and did great things together. I really made new friends and we kind of extended our stay and spent the week in Budapest as a group of four. If I had told my former (really shy) self that I would be spending a weekend in Budapest with almost strangers, I would never have believed myself, but the experience was truly incredible. 

In summary, I can say that I have already learned a lot in my first month in Hungary. I had a lot of hurdles that I overcame, I grew through the challenges, met a lot of great people and I also got to know myself better. I’m really looking forward to the next three months and I’m excited to see what highlights I’ll experience in the near future. 

Lisa

Meet the writers: Lisa

Hello everybody! 

I’m Lisa Böhm and I come from the westernmost part of Austria (Vorarlberg) in a small village called Koblach. I have lived in Koblach my entire life and attended primary and secondary school there. I then moved to the state capital Bregenz for my high school graduation. There I decided to attend a economic high school (Handelsakademie Bregenz). I’ve always dreamed of living abroad for a while, but I never knew where to go or what to do abroad. 
 
My mother was the one who told me about the various ESC projects. I was immediately fascinated by the many different possibilities that the ESC offers. So I immediately set about finding the right project for me. Since I have always been very interested in the teaching profession, the project at the Köz-Pont Ifjúsági Egyesület immediately caught my eye. In this project I have the opportunity to teach German to children at high schools. As well as adults in the weekly German Conversation Club. I really love working at different high schools and the time in the office is always nice and fun. 
 
When I arrived I was a bit shy at first because everything is new and I don’t speak the Hungarian language, which makes some things more difficult. But I was welcomed with open arms by everyone and that significantly helped me to feel welcome in this new country. I am very open and look forward to all the future adventures that I will experience here in Debrecen in the next four months. I also hope to expand my confidence, independence and experiences. 

Lisa

Meet the Writers: Tanahis

Hi everyone! 

My name is Tanahis Buzo, I’m 18 and I’m both French and Spanish. I was born in France, on the Côte d’Azur, where I spent the first 5 years of my life. Then I moved to the Aude region, before completely changing countries and moving to the Spanish Basque Country with my mother. I was 11 at the time. And I can tell you that it’s really strange and difficult to lose all your landmarks at once. Especially when you’re just 11 and about to start secondary school. A new culture, new people and a new language, which isn’t really that new because my family has always spoken to me in Spanish since I was a little girl. I found it hard, really hard, to adapt. And you’re probably wondering: why did I go back to a new country, even more different than France or Spain, if my experience of this kind of change is so bad? The truth is, I enjoyed it. I enjoyed all these difficulties, they made me feel stronger, more intelligent, more open… This sudden change had simply made me better. So I promised myself that it wouldn’t be the last time, and so here I am on a gap year in Hungary, in an environment completely outside my comfort zone. What I wanted was to travel, learn to adapt and become more independent, while being supervised and having a humanly and culturally enriching experience. And I really hit the nail on the head! What attracted me to this volunteering project was the idea of putting my bilingualism to good use and discovering a whole new culture that I know absolutely nothing about. And when it came to teaching pupils, I wasn’t that interested. But this year I wanted to do something that I wouldn’t normally do and that I don’t think I’d like, because maybe if I tried it I’d realise it was better than I thought. I arrived on 30 October, worried, shy and a bit lost, and I was immediately surprised by the warm welcome I received from the people at the association. I’ve been here for 12 days now and I can’t wait to find out more.

Tanahis

My Transformative Volunteering Journey in Hungary

Stepping foot into Hungary, little did I know that this country, steeped in history and rich in culture, would become an unforgettable chapter in my life’s story.  Nestled in the heart of this enchanting country, my 11-month volunteering stint in Debrecen became an odyssey of discovery, learning, and heartfelt connections that have left an indelible mark on my life’s tapestry.

Hungary, a gem sparkling with a rich tapestry of traditions and histories, unveiled its splendor before my eyes. From its mesmerizing landscapes to its vibrant cultural tapestry, every moment unfolded as a kaleidoscope of beauty. The nuances of Hungarian culture, the resonance of its history, and the tantalizing flavors of its cuisine became an integral part of my daily existence, painting a vivid portrait of a country brimming with soul-stirring experiences.

One of the greatest privileges of my volunteering escapade was the opportunity to traverse the length and breadth of Hungary. From the bustling urban allure of the cities to the quaint charm of rural villages, each destination unveiled a unique facet of Hungarian life. Yet, my journey extended beyond borders, allowing me to traverse neighboring lands like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Croatia, each contributing a distinct chapter to my wanderlust-filled saga.

Central to this transformative journey were the people I encountered – an eclectic mix of extraordinary souls hailing from diverse backgrounds. Whether Hungarian locals or fellow global citizens, each interaction was a mosaic of stories, perspectives, and shared moments, enriching my worldview and fostering friendships that transcend boundaries.

Engaging in teaching French as a foreign language was a revelation, an avenue where learning merged seamlessly with the joy of sharing. The classrooms became a melting pot of cultural exchange, where I imbibed wisdom from insightful educators while imparting the essence of my language and heritage to bright-eyed high school students. It was a humbling experience, witnessing the universal language of learning bridge gaps and forge connections beyond words.

Moreover, navigating the labyrinth of organizing, promoting, and orchestrating cultural events in multilingual settings honed not just my professional acumen but also nurtured my linguistic skills. Each event was a canvas where diverse tongues painted stories, fostering an environment of cultural celebration and mutual understanding.

As I bid adieu to this remarkable chapter, I carry with me a treasure trove of memories and lessons. These eleven months of volunteering have been nothing short of extraordinary, a tapestry woven with threads of growth, cultural immersion, and soul-enriching connections. My heart brims with the urge to implore young minds to seek such missions, to dive into experiences that transcend borders and resonate with the essence of humanity.

Though my physical presence may depart, Hungary etches itself as an integral part of my narrative. It’s not merely a destination; it’s a timeless imprint woven into the fabric of my being, forever coloring my story with its hues of beauty, warmth, and cultural richness. As I embark on new adventures, Hungary remains an ever-present, cherished chapter in the book of my life.

Emmanuelle

Celebrating European Day of Languages at Apáczai School

The European Day of Languages is a celebration that promotes linguistic diversity and encourages Europeans to embrace the beauty of multilingualism. On this special occasion, Apáczai School in Nyíregyháza extended a warm invitation to me to share the richness of French culture with their students. It was an honor to be a part of this event.

The Significance of European Day of Languages:
With over 700 million Europeans residing in 46 member states of the Council of Europe, the importance of learning multiple languages cannot be overstated. The Council of Europe emphasizes the value of linguistic diversity, advocating for language acquisition at all ages, whether in schools or in everyday life. This linguistic diversity is considered a gateway to improved intercultural understanding and is a vital aspect of Europe’s cultural mosaic. The European Day of Languages, celebrated on September 26th each year since 2001, in partnership with the European Commission, serves as a reminder of these essential values.

Meeting Fellow European Volunteers:
Upon my arrival at Apáczai School, I was delighted to reunite with two other European volunteers from the Mustárház IITI whom we had met before. A French woman and a Moroccan man joined me in this venture.

Engaging with Students:
During our visit to Apáczai School, we had the privilege of interacting with two different French classes. Mathilde, my fellow volunteer, and I worked together to introduce the students to various facets of French culture.

We began by providing an overview of our home country, discussing its symbols, geography, and global significance. This allowed the students to gain a deeper understanding of the context in which the French language thrives.

Next, we shared our personal experiences. I spoke about Toulouse, a vibrant city in the southwest of France, while Mathilde discussed Strasbourg, a charming city in the northeast. Sharing our unique perspectives allowed the students to appreciate the regional diversity within France itself.

To make the learning experience interactive and engaging, we organized a lively bingo game focused on French culture. This included categories such as luxury brands, gastronomy, major cities, and renowned artists. Through this game, the students were able to delve into the diverse cultural tapestry that France has to offer.

Building Connections:
My visit to Apáczai School was not only about sharing knowledge but also about building connections. I had the pleasure of meeting both the dedicated teachers and the enthusiastic students, fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange.

Celebrating the European Day of Languages at Apáczai School was a memorable experience. It reinforced the belief that linguistic diversity is a treasure to be cherished, and that through language, we can unlock the doors to different cultures. My hope is that the every students understand that each new language opens a window to a world of opportunities and connections.

Emmanuelle

Contacts’ partners of this event

Apáczai School : http://www.apaczainyh.hu/ ; http://www.facebook.com/ApaczaiNyh

Mustárház IITI : http://www.mustarhaz.hu/ ; http://www.facebook.com/mustarhaz ; http://www.instagram.com/mustarhaz

Meet the writers: Boroka

Hey! My name is Boroka Fodor and I’am an 19 years old girl from Romania.I come from a small village called Szentjobb.I went to scool in Oradea,which is the closest big city to the village.Within that,I led my students at the “Szent Laszlo Romai Katolikus Teologiai Liceum”.

I came to the ESC volunteer organization primatrily to learn English and to be able to work with young people who speak my native language through various programs. I would like to get to know Hungarian culture and get closer to my origin. Which I haven’t had the change to experience so far.

On my first day, I was a bit worried about what will happen here in Debrecen, but the people here are very kind and helpful. I feel that I will be able to fit into this new environment soon enough. On my second day, they showed me how to live in the city and what to eat here. There are a lot of people here, everyone is different from the others, but everyone has a similarity, everyone is so helpful and accommodating.

Boro

Meet the writers: Kamilla

Hi there!My name is Nikoletta Kamilla Pap.I’ve just turned 18,I’m from Romania,from a small but homelike town.I grew up there,with lots of love,animals and nature around me.I thought high school has to be different.I went to a lot bigger city,called Nagyvárad.You can guess,no animals and not that much nature around me.It was a really big change,but I got used to it.I studied there for four years,in the “Ady Endre Elméleti Líceum”,and I lived in the schools dorm,which made me a lot communicative than I was before.

One of my friends,Panna told me about the ESC volunteering,and the more she told me about it,the more exciting it got for me.I wanted to know more about it every other day,then I ended up here,writing my post,with a big smile on my face.I choosed well.Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people,learn about new cultures.For me,as a young adult who just stepped in “life in capital letters” ESC volunteering is the best choice,because they help me in every possible way,not just with the working part.I can practice my English knowledge as well,and I’m really happy about it.

I came to Debrecen at the middle of September.On my first walk,I heard that two older women are laughing,cause one of them cursed a bit loud.I heard it as well,so than we were laughing at each other.This was much better than I expected.For me,this kind of “intimacy” is really important.The people here are more kind,and direct than in Romania.The first day we did paperwork,the next day I was in a lot of schools,and now,the third day,they showed me every part of the office.

In my whole life,the truth is that I came to Debrecen to watch a movie in the cinema.Now I feel like I’m a part of it.A part of Debrecen.I feel like I finally belong somewhere,with happiness and love around me.I’m not here long ago,but I know,that I’m going to remember every second of life until I finish.ESC volunteering is the best that could happen to me this year.I’m thankful that I can be here.I feel like I’m lucky with you.

Kamilla

Panyola Feszt

One of the many activities we were able to take part in this summer as part of our volunteer work was the Panyola Feszt festival. We had the pleasure of joining all the young people in the association to help organize this festival.

The village

Panyola is a village in Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg county, in the Northern Great Plain region of eastern Hungary. The village isn’t very big, but it’s very cute and authentic. For some years now, the village has been known for its famous palinka. If you’ve ever been to Hungary, you’ll certainly have seen these famous labels.

Photos credit : KÖZ-Pont Ifjúsági Egyesület, Okolicsanyi Zoltan

The festival

For the seventeenth year running, the village of Panyola is inviting everyone to a colourful programme of events on 4-5-6 August 2023. In addition to the values of the county, they also showed their local heritage to the visiting guests. It was a programme of three days in a fun, authentic and family atmosphere.

Take a look at their video of this year’s edition to get an idea of the festivities : https://www.facebook.com/panyolafesztival/videos/1019790502553688

Photos credit : KÖZ-Pont Ifjúsági Egyesület

More informations on the website https://panyolafeszt.hu/ and on the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/panyolafesztival

Our role

In the first week of August the young of the association participated in a Outdoor training in Panyolai, which is held every year for youth leaders. They had a lot of adventures during the 25 hours of training, from hitchhiking, to rain dance walking, to riding at the end of the day.

After the training, the European volunteer team joined them in Panyola and we stayed on to volunteer at the Panyolai Brandy Festival and then had time for some partying. We were divided into different teams and assigned to various booths and posts. 

In the morning, in my case for example, we took part in a cultural workshop for children: coloring, musical discoveries and games were on offer. 

“Great children’s activities with the Veronaki Orchestra, the Sóstó Museum Village… All children received a gift of Rudi Cottage cheese, thanks to the factory in Matészalka for the donation!”

Photos credit : KÖZ-Pont Ifjúsági Egyesület, PanyolaFeszt

We then had a lunch and rest break. In the afternoon we ran this general knowledge test stand around the life of Hungarian poet Petőfi. 

Photos credit : Három Határ Hírei, PanyolaFeszt

After dinner, we lent a hand at various posts as needed, which were different every day.

Finally, after a hard day’s work as part of the festival organization team, we were able to share convivial moments with the entire KOZ PONT team during the final hours of the festival each evening.

My experience

These few days have been a good experience for me.

First of all, being on the other side of a festival set is very enriching and helps to change the way we look at things when we later take part in a festival. We get a better view of the work behind the scenes and the workers who make themselves more or less invisible.

Afterwards, it was an opportunity to really share and get to know the association’s team of young people. 

Emmanuelle