Kati and Helen in Romania

Romania – The land of Dracula

Or .. the land of donkeys and mountains! Well actually we have not seen that much donkeys but we sure have seen incredible mountains!

When we arrived to Cluj – Napoca we had very warm welcome from local AIESECers. Everything was done for us and we always had someone to turn to. During the first month we met a lot of new people from Brazil, Mexico, Greece, India to Hong Kong and so one. Environment in here was truly international.

Our project was called „Sunny Days.“ As volunteers we worked 7-14 year old children. Our main task was teaching English and working with them through different activities. Half of them understood English and the others did not. The challenge was communicating, understanding and collaborating despite the language barrier. It might sound difficult but actually is not, because children are incredibly fast learners.

In addition to great classes with children we tried to explore the land of Dracula as much as we could. First weeks we spent exploring Cluj and we have to admit that each time we found new places where we could enjoy the magical view or some great restaurant/bar to hang out.

One of our trips was to salt mine and closer towns like Turda and Alba Iulia. Alba Iulia surprised us with middle aged fortress that we visited over an hour.

We lived together with three Greek boys and one Moldovan girl in a cozy apartment full of sincere tears of joy and innovative moments. It is surprising to feel how fast people from different countries can find common language and true friendship. We learned to become more independent without losing our happiness and childishness, that volunteering in Romani gave.

Regards,

Kati and Helen