From May 18 to May 22, 2026, a group of Czech students embarked on a life-changing educational journey to Bari, Italy, under the framework of the Erasmus+ project CREATE.
The cornerstone of the mobility experience was the exceptional hospitality of the Italian host families. From the moment the Czech students arrived in Bari, they were welcomed into local homes not just as guests, but as new family members. This immersive living arrangement allowed the students to practice their language skills, understand daily Italian routines, and experience the genuine warmth for which the Apulia region is famous.
Intellectual engagement was also a vital part of the program, as the students held an intense debate addressing critical global challenges. They shared perspectives on pressing topics such as war, poverty, and environmental degradation, working together to brainstorm sustainable solutions and develop their critical thinking skills.
Beyond the classroom, the Erasmus project featured an extensive cultural itinerary that took students through some of the most iconic landscapes of southern Italy. In Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, they marveled at the unique, white-washed stone huts known as trulli. A trip to the neighboring Basilicata region brought them to Matera, an ancient city that captivated the students with its complex system of cave dwellings, the Sassi, carved directly into the canyon rock. They also explored Monopoli, a vibrant coastal town offering a perfect blend of history, medieval fortifications, and a picturesque old fishing port.
A core objective of the WP 5 was promoting a healthy lifestyle, closely tied to the world-renowned Mediterranean diet. The students actively participated in this by preparing their own nutritious meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The group gained a deeper appreciation for this culinary philosophy during a guided visit to a multi-generational family company specializing in premium olive oil production. Here, they learned about traditional harvesting methods, sustainable agriculture, and tasted the liquid gold that defines Italian cuisine.
The educational trip was perfectly balanced with well-deserved relaxation. In between workshops and cultural excursions, the students spent afternoons unwinding on the sun-drenched beaches of the Adriatic Sea, embracing the slower, balanced pace of Italian life. Ultimately, the Erasmus+ CREATE project in Bari succeeded in teaching the students that a healthy lifestyle is not just about nutrition, but also about community, heritage, and a deep connection to the environment.
