I am writing this in January, about half a month after returning to Spain. Truth be told, these past few days have helped me process and better understand my experience in that country.

I was incredibly lucky to live there for almost a full year. I originally arrived with the intention of staying for six months, but I felt so comfortable and welcomed that as soon as I had the chance to stay for the whole year, I didn't think twice.

I decided to go volunteering because 2024 was a really bad year for me, so I started looking into different projects. I will never forget what my coordinator told me during our first interview: “We are going to choose you because it’s clear that this experience is exactly what you need.” Honestly, she couldn't have been more right.

This year helped me in ways I couldn't have even imagined. I know myself much better now; I broke down mental barriers I’d had for years, improved my mental health, and even opened a door to faith (something anyone who knew me a year ago would have said was impossible).

One of the things I am most grateful for is meeting wonderful people from different countries, people I never would have met if it weren't for this experience. I have built real friendships with them, and we still talk every day.

                                      

I also traveled, and I did it by bus! Something really unthinkable coming from Spain. Honestly, there is something wonderful about being able to hop on a bus and end up in another country, without needing to spend a lot of money to see another place and another culture.

Then there was the youth center. I’ve always liked kids and spending time with them, but one fear I had was not being able to do much since I didn't know the language. If one thing became clear to me, it’s that children play and fun doesn’t know the language barriers.

                                 

And the last thing I want to mention (otherwise this would be way too long) is the city. Slovenia in general is a beautiful country, with truly spectacular natural landscapes, places that look like they’ve been taken straight out of a fantasy novel. Ljubljana is no exception; it’s a beautiful city with gorgeous architecture. As a capital city, there were plenty of activities to do. However, I preferred walking around and discovering new streets; despite it not being a big city, I feel like I ran out of time to appreciate it all.

Anyway, although I’m leaving many things out, I hope you’ve been able to understand a bit of what my year was like. It truly was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. I’m taking wonderful memories with me, and even though a year is a long time and I felt like I lived a whole lifetime there, I would have stayed longer without a doubt.