ERASMUS+, Key action 1: youth exchange
Venue: Vesuvius national park, Casilli (near Naples), Italy
Dates: 29 July—7 August 2024
Czech team: 5 participants + 1 group leader
Please read the info-pack. Please also read more info about this project here: https://www.promozionegiovani.it/elementor-1341/
Hosting organisation: Agenzia Promozione Giovani
Project report:
The BEES project took place from July 29th to August 7th in the picturesque area near Naples, Italy, specifically in the enchanting environment of the Vesuvio National Park, right beneath the majestic and active volcano, Vesuvius. The project was also unique in that we slept in tents, giving us the opportunity to connect more deeply with nature and disconnect from the digital world.
The project gathered 43 participants from several European countries, such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, Georgia, Ukraine, Hungary, Czech Republic and focused on self-awareness, providing a respite from daily stress, and helping participants find inner peace—exactly what I was looking for!
The welcome at the camp was truly Italian—everyone greeted us loudly and warmly, with pizza and wine on the table. The first days were spent bonding and getting to know each other, a typical start for such projects. The organizers hosted a workshop on the BEES theme, where a beekeeping expert gave an interactive presentation on the world of bees. We also had a lively culture night, sharing traditional foods and drinks from our countries.
We also had the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, with one day dedicated to visiting Naples. We started by exploring the historic center with one of the facilitators Denno who brought the city´s vibrant history to life with engaging stories. After enjoying a group lunch, we were given the freedom to roam the city on our own. Some ended their city stroll in the nearest clothing store, seeking relief from the intense heat outside, while others cooled off with a gelato or by exploring the shaded interiors of the castle. Everyone found their own way to beat the heat and enjoy the day. The final highlight was immersing ourselves in the local nightlife.
Our next adventure took us on an early morning hike to the summit of Vesuvius. We set out at four in the morning to beat the heat and make sure we finished the hike before the day’s activities began. The Czech group was the first to reach the summit, giving us extra time to explore the massive 800-meter-wide crater. The hike was challenging, but the breathtaking views and the overall experience made it all worthwhile.
If I were to sum up the project, it gave us everything one could wish for from Italy—heat, the sea, pizza, Aperol, historical landmarks, chaos, and a bit of drama. What more could you ask for?
Anna H.
