Our ERASMUS+ project in Romania was an unforgettable experience, filled with a rich blend of cultural exploration, educational activities, and unforgettable moments with new friends. From the first day to the last, there was something exciting around every corner. Here’s a recap of our incredible journey through Romania.
Day 1: A Grand Welcome and Exploring Satu Mare
The first day of the ERASMUS+ project kicked off with an opening ceremony at Megmaradás Háza, where all the partner schools gathered for a warm and festive welcome. The ceremony featured lively performances and presentations from each participating school, where we introduced our cities and schools. A highlight of the day was the dance and song performances by students from Liceul Teologic Romano-Catolic ‘Hám János’, which were a beautiful showcase of Romanian culture.
After the ceremony, we took a guided tour of the school, which was large and full of modern classrooms. Students then split into groups for workshops. One group worked on creating digital anti-bullying posters, which were later displayed on the school staircase, while another group participated in a SmartLab activity, designing personalized keychains.
Following these activities, we had a delicious lunch in the school canteen. But the day didn’t end there! After lunch, we explored the city of Satu Mare, starting with a visit to a tower that offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Next, we embarked on a city treasure hunt, with students racing to solve clues around the town, while teachers enjoyed a guided tour to learn about the history and landmarks of Satu Mare.
The day concluded with some free time for the students to explore the city at their leisure. Meanwhile, the teachers gathered for a traditional Romanian dinner, a perfect end to a busy first day.
Day 2: A Day of Nature, History, and Unique Experiences
The second day began with an exciting road trip to the city of Baia Mare, about an hour away. Our first stop was the Mineralogy Museum, which housed a fascinating collection of minerals from all over the world. The students were amazed by the stunning diversity of rocks and minerals on display.
Next, we visited the Village Museum, a living history museum where we explored a collection of traditional Romanian houses. Each house showcased a different period of rural life, giving us insight into the past. The atmosphere was peaceful, and it was a nice way to unwind and reflect on everything we had learned so far.
Afterward, we had a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, before heading to the Tomșa Ostrich Farm in Călinești, Maramureș. It was an exciting experience to get up close to the ostriches and learn more about these fascinating creatures. Students had a blast taking photos and observing the animals in their natural environment.
Later in the afternoon, we returned to school, and while the students headed home, the teachers enjoyed another wonderful dinner at Class Restaurant, marking the end of a very full and exciting second day.
Day 3: A Day of Sports, Art, and Friendship
Wednesday was packed with energy and creativity! We kicked off the day with a fun and lively exercise session, featuring traditional dances from each participating country. By the end of the session, everyone was dancing together, laughing and enjoying the shared experience.
After a break, students participated in various sports activities in the school gym, competing in friendly matches. For those who preferred a more relaxed pace, a painting session was held, where students used their creativity to explore themes of climate change, war, and immigration—topics that were central to our project.
One of the most touching moments came when teachers from each country took part in a tree planting ceremony in the school yard. The planted tree symbolized friendship and unity among the countries involved in the ERASMUS+ project.
In the afternoon, we visited the Prefecture of Satu Mare, where local officials shared insights into their work and how they serve the community. It was both informative and inspiring to learn more about the impact of local governance.
The evening brought the much-anticipated International Dinner, where each country presented its traditional dishes. After hours of cooking and preparation, we gathered to enjoy a delicious array of food, from Lithuanian specialties to Romanian favorites. The evening was filled with laughter, good food, and a sense of camaraderie.
Day 4: A Scenic Adventure in the Mountains
Thursday greeted us with clear skies, perfect for a day of outdoor adventure. We headed to the mountains for a scenic day in nature. After a fun cable car ride to the top, we began our hike, which offered spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The autumn colors of the trees were breathtaking, and the peaceful atmosphere allowed us to recharge and take in the beauty of the Romanian wilderness.
After the hike, we returned to the school for a short break before attending the 9th Grade School Inauguration Ceremony, which was full of excitement and performances. It was a great way to celebrate the school spirit and wrap up our active day.
Day 5: Reflection and Farewells
The final day of the ERASMUS+ project began with a debate simulation, where we had the chance to discuss and debate four important themes. It was a great way to practice our communication skills while also deepening our understanding of global issues.
After the debate, we visited the Roman Catholic Cathedral, where we participated in a prayer session and sang several religious songs. It was a moment of reflection and a peaceful way to connect with one another.
The afternoon took us to the Maltese Aid Service, where we had the chance to meet and play with children at a local care center. It was heartwarming to see the joy and laughter shared between the students and the children, and we were happy to give them gifts from Lithuania.
The final event of the day was the Goodbye Party, a lively celebration filled with music, dancing, and fun. To our surprise, there was a special Erasmus Cake, beautifully decorated to mark the end of our incredible journey. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to all the friends we had made and to reflect on the amazing experiences of the past few days.
A Truly Unforgettable Experience
As the week came to a close, we left Romania with full hearts and lasting memories. From exploring the rich history and culture to forming friendships that crossed borders, this ERASMUS+ trip was a journey we will never forget. We return home not only with new knowledge but with the spirit of international cooperation, understanding, and friendship.
Until next time, Romania! Thank you for the warm hospitality and unforgettable experiences!
Lithuanian team 🙂
