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10 students, 1 destination: Turkey in the heart

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10 students, 1 destination: Turkey in the heart

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With hearts full and suitcases packed, 10 high school students from Escola Dr. Machado de Matos embarked on a unique and unforgettable experience: an Erasmus+ trip to the fascinating Turkey!

During this adventure, we experienced intense days of sharing, discovery and growth, both inside and outside the classroom. We got to know a new culture, made friends that will last a lifetime and proudly represented our school and our country.

This presentation reflects the enthusiasm, memories and lessons we brought back with us. We hope that, as you explore it, you will feel some of the magic we experienced there.

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We landed in Istanbul late at night, but the fatigue of the journey quickly gave way to the excitement of finally being in that place we had seen so many times in photos and videos.

As soon as we left the airport, the sounds, smells and even the hurried pace of the people seemed to shout: ‘Welcome to Turkey!’ That's when we experienced our first little culture shock. The voices sounded more intense, the traffic seemed chaotic, and even the smell of spices in the air made us realise that we were really far from home.

But that initial strangeness didn't last long. Instead of pushing us away, it drew us into the experience. We started laughing among ourselves at our first attempts to say ‘merhaba’ (hello), we were enchanted by the warm hospitality of the locals, and we let ourselves be carried away by the unique beauty of the city, which seems even more magical at night.

It was the perfect start to a journey full of discoveries, where every difference became a learning experience, and every challenge a happy memory.

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Our second day in Istanbul: Colours, Flavours and Emotions!

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Our second day in Istanbul: Colours, Flavours and Emotions!

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The sun had barely begun to warm the streets of Istanbul when we embarked on our second day's adventure, and what a memorable day it was! We started with a visit to the charming souvenir stalls, where every object seemed to tell a story. Among lucky Turkish eyes, colourful magnets, embroidered scarves and spices of a thousand aromas, we felt like we were in a real film set. We laughed, exchanged words in English and improvised Turkish, and we were already beginning to feel that we were experiencing something very special.

Soon after, it was time for a break at a typical café, where we had our first experience with the famous Turkish coffee. Served in small cups, strong and intense like the city itself, the flavour surprised us and delighted some of us!

We continued on to Gülhane Parkı, a true oasis of calm in the middle of the city. The gardens were in bloom and full of life, and between photos, laughter and contemplation, we created another memory that will remain etched in our hearts.

At lunchtime, one of the highlights of the day arrived: trying authentic Turkish kebab. Tasty, juicy, served with warm bread and traditional side dishes. We realised there that Turkish food is made not only with ingredients, but with soul.

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At night, we set off for Izmit, Körfez, Kocaeli, the city where true bonds were about to be forged.

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At night, we set off for Izmit, Körfez, Kocaeli, the city where true bonds were about to be forged.

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The trip was filled with a mixture of anxiety and excitement. We were about to arrive at the place that would be our “home” for the next few days, but we had no idea what awaited us. We were full of curiosity, wondering what the school would be like, what the people would be like, and what smiles would greet us.

And we had no idea of the incredible welcome that awaited us.

At that school, wonderful people were already waiting for us, ready to show us that, despite our differences, there is a universal language made up of kindness, hospitality, and friendship. Our hearts beat faster. Turkey had already won us over... and we didn't even know that the best was yet to come.

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The third day: The welcoming city of Korfez

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The third day: The welcoming city of Korfez

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The third day of our Erasmus trip will undoubtedly remain etched in all our memories. We finally arrived in Kocaeli, Körfez, full of enthusiasm and curiosity to discover what awaited us. From the very first moment, we were welcomed with warmth and hospitality that deeply surprised us. We felt truly welcome, as if we were at home, even though we were many miles away.

At the school, the welcome was even more wonderful. We had the opportunity to get to know the space, observe the classrooms, the playgrounds, and the activities that were taking place.

After the activities at the school, we headed to the center of Korfez, ready to explore a little of the city. At nightfall, we all went out for dinner together, Portuguese and Turkish, at a restaurant that left a lasting impression on us: “Nazende.” The atmosphere was welcoming, the food delicious, and the company even better. Between typical dishes, story exchanges, and lots of laughter, we really felt the spirit of Erasmus, unity through difference.

To end the day, we went to the sea at Güney, where we took lots of photos, laughed, and enjoyed the moment.

Of course, not everything was perfect. Our biggest culture shock was undoubtedly discovering the bathrooms in the dormitory. Instead of the usual toilets, we found only a hole in the floor! Between astonishment and laughter, we tried to adapt as best we could, and today it is one of the stories we tell with the most humor.

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The fourth day of our Erasmus adventure began, as usual, at school, but this one had a special sparkle. First thing in the morning, we were greeted with a fantastic school fair, full of colour, energy and creativity. The students and teachers had prepared presentations on science, history and the arts that truly amazed us.

On the same day, the French students from the Erasmus programme also arrived, and the school was filled with even more enthusiasm and excitement. It was incredible to see young people from different countries communicating, laughing and sharing experiences, even if words were sometimes lacking.

At the end of the afternoon, we went to explore the stunning landscapes of İzmit, and we were simply enchanted. Between the sea, the hills and the buildings that blend the modern with the traditional, it was impossible not to stop every few steps to take photographs. Something that surprised us immensely was the strong Turkish patriotism: Turkish flags everywhere, on houses, in the streets, in shops, on public buildings... in every corner there was a symbol of national pride. We were truly impressed by the love that the Turkish people show for their country.

In the evening, we all got together, Portuguese, Turkish and French, for dinner, and it was simply wonderful. The food was delicious, the atmosphere lively, and the conversation flowed amid laughter and cultural comparisons. It felt like we had known each other for a long time.

But the highlight of the day was yet to come. Our dear guide, Nida, one of the friendliest, most responsible and welcoming people we met on this trip, organised an unforgettable surprise. With the help of her family, she took us to Seka Park.

When we arrived at the park, we were dazzled. The landscape was incredible. At the end, Nida's family surprised us with an enthusiastic shout of ‘Ronaldo!’, in honour of Portugal! It was hilarious and touching at the same time.

We returned to the dormitories with our hearts full. We were tired, but happy and confident that we were having one of the best experiences of our lives.

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The Erasmus day in Kocaeli was full of discoveries and memorable moments. We started the day by visiting a small traditional mosque, which dazzled us with its simplicity and beauty. Then we strolled through the streets of the city, exploring various tourist attractions, such as the famous Izmit Tower and the house of an important historical figure for the country, which allowed us to learn more about the local culture. We also enjoyed the breathtaking views of the city, which will remain in our memories.

In the afternoon, we went to Ormanya Zoo, where we had the opportunity to learn about the local fauna and enjoy the nature around us.

In the evening, we had dinner at the Nazende restaurant, a place that will certainly remain in our memories for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. After the meal, we took a leisurely stroll along the coast, enjoying the fresh air and the night view. Finally, we returned to the dormitory, ending a day full of unforgettable experiences.

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The sixth day: A journey through Istanbul

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The sixth day: A journey through Istanbul

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Our sixth day began with a visit to the stunning Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic symbols. As soon as we entered, we were amazed by the grandeur of the space: the delicate blue and white tiles, the soft light filtered through the stained glass windows and the serene silence that enveloped the interior created a magical and spiritual atmosphere. It was impossible not to feel the grandeur and harmony of this place, which reflects all the artistic and cultural wealth of the Ottoman Empire.

Next, we headed to the majestic Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Among the lush gardens, decorated courtyards and rooms steeped in history, we felt as if we had travelled back in time. Every corner of the palace seemed to tell a secret from the past — from the golden thrones to the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

Then we went to the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in the world. The colours, aromas and buzz of people created a contagious energy. Among spices, carpets, jewellery and souvenirs, we let ourselves be enveloped by the authenticity and charm of Turkish traditions.

At noon, we embarked on a boat trip along the Bosphorus River, where we had lunch while contemplating the unique landscapes that stretch between two continents — Europe and Asia. During the trip, we watched traditional Turkish dances, which brought even more life and joy to the trip. The gentle breeze, the sun reflecting on the water and the music in the background made that moment truly unforgettable.

We ended the day by returning to Kocaeli, tired but with our hearts full. In the evening, we all gathered at a pizzeria for dinner and shared laughter and memories of the day — the perfect end to an unforgettable journey through magnificent Istanbul.

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The last two days: The goodbye to Turkey

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The last two days: The goodbye to Turkey

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The seventh day of our Erasmus experience was dedicated to the school that welcomed us so warmly throughout this adventure. During the morning, we carried out some group work and activities, reflecting on everything we had learned and experienced in the previous days. The atmosphere was one of sharing, cooperation and friendship.

Later, we had the certificate award ceremony, a special moment that symbolised the end of an unforgettable stage. Each of us received our diploma with pride and emotion, aware that we were taking with us much more than just a piece of paper, we were taking memories, experiences and friendships that will last forever.

At the end of the afternoon, it was time to say goodbye. Saying goodbye to the Turkish students was difficult, as strong and genuine bonds had been formed over the days. There were hugs, promises to meet again and a few tears, in a mixture of sadness and gratitude for everything we had experienced together.

We ended the day with dinner at a local shopping centre, where we took the opportunity to relax, chat and savour the last moments of this incredible experience.

On the eighth and final day, we headed to the airport, ready to return home. The flight had a stopover in Germany, which gave us another glimpse of a new country before we returned to our final destination. During the trip, memories of our days in Turkey constantly came to mind — every visit, every smile, every discovery. It was the end of an unforgettable adventure, but also the beginning of many new stories that we will carry with us forever.