Turkey 

Our trip to Turkey under the Erasmus+ programme between 24-30th October has proven to be one of the best experiences in our lives.

Friendly and hospitable Turkish hosts  took care of us as if we belonged to their families. We believe we will be friends forever.

Day 1

The tour around the school and the presentations of our countries and schools was the most important part of the morning activities. There was also a little treat - Turkish delicacies. Yummy!!

Later on, after lunch, we were hosted by the Mayor of Tarsus. He gave us a warm welcome and ensured  that the project Eat well, move more, live better plays a big role in supporting all the activities that aim to help  young people enjoy good health. 

Volleyball matches  between the teams were a great opportunity to realize our main project objective: MORE MORE!

The day ended with a tour around the town and admiring unique sites of this historic place.

Day 2

In the morning we had a great opportunity to participate in an archery workshop. You may ask what archery has to do with the main theme of our project. In fact, a lot. For being a good archer, you need many skills. Accuracy, composure, precision, balance to mention just a few. And how are they related to our health?

Doing a task properly, being accurate and precise require training your focus and attention. When you draw your attention to performing a given task as best as you can, your mind distresses  since it is not occupied by unproductive thoughts undermining your confidence or self-esteem.

Because archery requires FOCUS it is beneficial for mental health. Archery provides active meditation, which can improve your mood, and ease anxiety and depression.

Day 3                                     

Kapadokya  ( Cappadocia)

The world’s heritage, beautiful – breathtaking views, amazing rock formations, out of this world experience while exploring the Rock Town of Nevsehir.  Marvels in front of our eyes.

And as if it was not enough a visit to the carpet company and then the ceramics company. Famous all over the world Turkish traditions of handcraft are a wonderful example of human masterwork. While admiring handmade rugs and carpets, one of the Turkish students confronted the carpet industry representative about men's and women's roles in this business.

Our guide  claimed that “The process of weaving is the women's job since men don’t have enough patience and persistence and sitting in front of a spindle or a weaving machine is not in their nature”.

These words  made many of us wonder if this opinion would change if the job was paid with a great quantity of money.

We ended this day with a BANG! A cultural evening in an atmospheric place. We were served delicious food. The main attractions included traditional Turkish performances such as playing musical instruments and various dance stunts.

Turkish people are very emotional and are not afraid of expressing their feelings. The atmosphere accompanying the show was great. Not only could we admire the skills of the artists, but we were able to let off steam in a mutual energetic dance on the dance floor.

Day 4

A laid-back time in a Turkish Spa. A bath in a thermal pool could be  beneficial for our health.

Among many good things it does to our body are:

-enhances circulation which means that your body can burn through calories at a faster rate,

-improves your metabolism.

Working up a sweat also flushes impurities from your body, rejuvenating and clearing your skin. Thermal treatments also relieve tension and fight the effect that stress has on your skin.

For passionates of more vigorous activities a swim in a swimming pool occasionally interrupted by a ride on a waterslide And for the ones who appreciate sensual approach a Hammam ritual massage in a Turkish bathhouse. What a treat!!

Day 5

A relaxing time on the beach but also a wonderful sightseeing boat trip to the Kizkalesi Castle. The blue crystal water in the sea and warm, sunny weather made our adventure complete.

Then a vigorous swim in the sea – part of our ‘move more’ adventure and project directive. What else could we have wished for? Taking care of your health is really our number one top priority!

The trip to Turkey opened our project mobilities. The efforts put in the organization of our stay as well as wonderful hospitality of the Turks have risen the bar. It will be really hard to measure up to such a superbly organized project meeting.   

Prof. Fátima Garrido Pozo

Coordinadora de Inglés