Part one – From Mariborčan to Idriičan

Before I came to Idrija I already experienced living in Slovenia. From 2016 to 2017 I studied in Maribor. I lived my dream for two semesters with a lot of joy from the people, country and region. Living in Maribor was so strong and emotional, that I was sure that I can’t experience another stay in Slovenia for a longer period. But then I was pretty lucky when I was accepted for the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange in Idrija for 2 weeks in 2021. I was on many similar projects before but this one in Idrija was very special. It was full of love, great people, openness and also there was a specific vibe between the people and organization. At the end of this project, I was resolved that one day I will come back. It happened in the spring of 2022 and I knew my Maribor vibe will be lost, but not forgotten.

Part two – Warm welcome

We can talk about how other cities are better, wilder with more opportunities for young people, in sport, culture, etc., but about what all this will be if there is no warm welcome, friendship, trust or joy. Because I knew the majority of the people from MCI, it was very easy for me to start my internship or live in Idrija. But what I really enjoyed and appreciated was that other people who I met from Idrija in the first weeks were open, nice and happy that I came to Idrija to do something for the city or youngsters. It helped me a lot. 

Part three – Work hard play hard?!

Working for MCI was pure joy. I can speak about it for hours but if I should pick something it will be communication, trust, and people from the organization and volunteers. What I experienced was in my case perfectly balanced between work, joy, free time and self-development. Love you guys and thank you again! <3

Part four – Enjoy as much as you can

Idrija and Slovenia are very special. If you love nature, sport and just walking in the forest, this is the country where you have to move. Idrija is situated in a small valley surrounded by hills and forests. The fauna and Flora are just magnificent. Rivers, lakes, caves, forests and grasslands are everywhere. It’s important to mention that Idrija is 1,5 hours to the seaside and 1 hour to Triglav national park. Endless hiking, trekking and biking possibilities all around Idrija were the best what you can do in your free time. Idrija is also a special place because is a member of UNESCO. You can visit mercury mines or explore the history of the region in the local museum. Even Idrija is about seven thousand people, culture and history are strongly connected and it’s giving something special to the city. On the nice hot days, you can swim in the river, in the evening go for a drink at bars, sometimes you can listen to music, taste coffee or repair your bike for free on the main square. At the night go to a concert at the local club and with a hangover eat some great food like žlikrofi or jota and not even talk about great festivals taking place every year in the city.

Part five – To the machines!

Beer – Pivo is a very difficult topic. In Czech we have one of the best beers in the Word. So when they sell you Laško or Union you should expect a hard morning. Luckily for Slovenia, craft beers are getting more and more popular and the taste of many of them is great. I can recommend you Zajc, Crazy Duck, Pelicon or Castra. But if you prefer wine, you are lucky. Slovenia is heaven for wine lovers. Different wine regions, different wines but the same satisfaction.

Part six – I’ll be back

I spent in Idrija around 3 months which was amazing. I was lucky that I met so many beautiful people who made my stay unforgettable because it doesn’t matter where you are if you have the right people around you. In my last 6 years I spent the almost same time in Czech as I spent in Slovenia. It’s not a coincidence, its home.

Hvala!

Lukáš