Cycle for Our Planet: My Unforgettable Erasmus+ Experience in Turkey
Introduction: Stepping out of my comfort zone, I embarked on an exciting adventure as part of the Erasmus program in Turkey. Little did I know that this journey, named “Cycle for our Planet,” would not only change my perspective on environmental sustainability but also leave me with cherished memories and lifelong friends. In the city of Sakarya, we came together with a shared mission — to promote cycling as a means to protect our planet. As I reflect on this unforgettable experience, I am filled with gratitude for the unique activities, cultural exchanges, and personal growth it offered.
Embracing Eco-Friendly Adventures: Our Erasmus program revolved around a wonderful theme: using bicycles in our daily lives to protect the environment. Throughout the program, we participated in various exciting activities, with cycling at the core of each adventure. We explored the picturesque city of Sakarya on bicycle trips, witnessing its beauty and charm while reducing our carbon footprint.
A Journey of Exploration: One of the highlights of our Erasmus experience was a thrilling long trip to witness the UCI BMX RACING WORLD CUP. As we pedaled through the streets, our enthusiasm for cycling and sustainable living only grew stronger. The experience of being part of a global sporting event further ignited our passion for environmental conservation.
Embracing Nature’s Beauty: One unforgettable excursion took us to a serene lake, where we hopped on canoes to explore the crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes. Paddling in unison, we forged a deeper connection with nature and appreciated the vital importance of preserving such breathtaking environments.
Cultural Immersion and Friendship: Turkey’s rich culture and warm hospitality created a welcoming atmosphere that allowed us to bond with participants from diverse backgrounds. Each day brought exciting opportunities to interact, communicate, and learn from one another, celebrating our unique cultural heritage. Through interactive activities and group games, we broke down barriers and established lasting friendships transcending borders.
Tackling Challenges Together: As with any adventure, we encountered some challenging moments during the program. Long days of cycling and exploring could be tiring, but the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie we felt made it all worthwhile. We discovered the strength of working as a team and the importance of resilience in achieving our collective goals.
The Culinary Journey: Food is an integral part of any cultural experience, and Turkey did not disappoint. The local cuisine tantalized our taste with its vibrant flavors and traditional dishes. Sharing meals together fostered a sense of community, where we exchanged stories, laughter, and memories.
Lessons that Transcend Borders: Beyond the program’s core focus on environmental consciousness, we learned invaluable lessons about the world and ourselves. Our Erasmus+ journey taught us the significance of global cooperation and the power of grassroots initiatives in effecting positive change. We returned home with a newfound appreciation for the world’s diversity and a shared responsibility to protect it.
Conclusion: My Erasmus+ experience in Turkey, under the program “Cycle for our Planet,” was a transformative journey that left an indelible mark on my life. From cycling through the city streets to exploring nature’s wonders on canoes, each activity reminded us of the profound impact we can make when we unite for a common cause. But more than that, it was the connections forged and the friendships made that truly made this experience extraordinary. As I carry the lessons learned and memories cherished, I am inspired to continue my commitment to protect our planet, one pedal at a time.
