Three countries, three vibrant capitals, countless new experiences – and a train journey that was about much more than getting from A to B!
As part of the C4C (Chance 4 Children) and Erasmus+ DiscoverEU initiative, a group of young adventurers set off to explore Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava. But this was no ordinary sightseeing trip. Along the way, they were challenged to develop independence, manage money, work as a team and navigate unfamiliar situations – all while discovering the world beyond their doorstep.
Three Capitals, Countless Adventures
Vienna, Austria, provided an action-packed start. With no seat reservations and an overcrowded train, the group got its first taste of travel challenges before the final teammate from Vizovice managed to join them in Břeclav. Soon, however, the struggles were forgotten as the crew headed for the legendary Prater amusement park, where the bravest took on the roller coasters with Rafal. An evening stroll along the river, beneath illuminated bridges and past the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, rounded off the day.
Budapest, Hungary, offered a spectacular evening cruise along the Danube, with the illuminated Parliament providing a picture-perfect backdrop. But there was also a practical challenge: each participant received a budget of 10,000 HUF and had to manage their spending on food and souvenirs. After exploring the bustling Great Market Hall, the group split up. Some headed for the thrills of the aquapark, while others opted for the relaxing thermal waters of the famous Széchenyi Baths. Everyone reunited for traditional Hungarian food and live cimbalom music.
Bratislava, Slovakia, brought perhaps the most unexpected surprise. The group stayed in an apartment with a fascinating past: one of its bedrooms had once served as a broadcasting studio for Radio Free Europe during the historic events of 1989. Their host brought that history vividly to life. Later, dinner at the spectacular Flagship restaurant – a former theatre – featured an impromptu piano performance by one of our talented participants. Halloween festivities and a visit to a local Haunted House provided a suitably thrilling finale!
The Greatest Souvenirs Are Not Things
For C4C, DiscoverEU is about much more than visiting famous landmarks. It is about giving young people the confidence to step outside their comfort zones, make decisions, solve problems, respect different cultures and discover what they are capable of achieving.
They came home with tired feet, wonderful memories, new friendships and, most importantly, a little more confidence to take on the world.
Because the greatest journey is not always the one that takes you somewhere new – it’s the one that helps you grow.
A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped make this adventure possible!
