Bori in Spain

I spent ten months volunteering in Maracena, a small city near Granada, Spain – and what started as something unfamiliar slowly turned into a place I now call home. 

I chose Granada chasing my love for Spain and to gain more experience in youth work and the Erasmus field, but I left with so much more: new friendships, countless memories, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of a community.

My days were filled with many different kinds of activities. I supported the youth center in running environmental workshops in the Ecohouse, created a seed library where people can freely exchange seeds, and even organized an intergenerational event where teenagers and seniors planted together. I facilitated English workshops for local seniors, helping them gain confidence in using English for everyday conversations. I took part in organizing Erasmus+ projects, supporting with logistics, preparing materials, and facilitating team-building sessions, energizers, and reflections. I learned how to manage reimbursements, create infopacks, and coordinate events — all skills I know will be useful in the future.

Outside of the youth center, I participated in two amazing Erasmus training courses — one on creative movement and one on circus arts — where I explored theatre, dance, improvisation, and even fire juggling. We finished the circus project with a public parade and performance, which was one of the most unique experiences of the year. 

In the summer, I worked in the local summer camp (Colonias), where we organized games, creative workshops, and daily activities for children — a time full of fun, laughter, and connection.

Living in Maracena also taught me a lot about myself. Sharing a house with four other volunteers from different cultures taught me cooperation and communication on a new level. Moving abroad meant building everything from scratch — routines, friendships, confidence — but this process helped me grow, become more independent, and learn to manage challenges with creativity and patience.

And of course, there was Granada. I fell in love with the city’s beautiful historical center and the view of Sierra Nevada. I spent my free time exploring Andalucía, going for hikes, running in the sunsets, and enjoying tapas with friends. Being so close to the sea was truly special for me as a Hungarian, and the quiet moments by the water gave me time to reflect on everything I had learned.