From Rails to Real People: My Human Europe

At the beginning of this journey, I was excited and a bit overwhelmed. DiscoverEU sounded like an adventure of a lifetime, but I didn’t think I realized just how profound of an impact it would have. Instead of what I thought would be a fun trek across Europe, it turned out to be a rich personal and cultural journey.

Arriving felt like I was dropped into an episode of « Pékin Express ». I was by myself, navigating trains, cities, and languages, with only a backpack and a plan. Each day brought surprises, challenges, new friendships and lessons. I had to adapt, react, and learn. I learned quickly that when you're alone in a foreign country, every miniscule decision cultivates your confidence.

I began in Dublin 🇮🇪, where the warmth and hospitality of the Irish made me feel welcome right away. I spent nights in hostels, speaking with other travelers from around Europe, and it was here that gained fluency and confidence in my English. Dublin marked my first waypoint.

Then came London 🇬🇧 so full of energy and diversity.  It felt as though it was a meeting point for the world, where many different stories and perspectives collided. It also made me realize how much of the European identity still exists, even away from the European Union, through people, culture, and connection.

Belgium 🇧🇪 was a highlight for me, not only for the beauty, but for the connotations that come with visiting, especially in light of what I discovered. Whilst in Brussels, I visited the house of the EU institutions and saw how palpable European cooperation really is. To walk through the walls of the Parliament and feel proud to say that I am a European youth gave real meaning to what DiscoverEU stands for.

Amsterdam 🇳🇱 was very different for me. A city of bikes, canals, and innovation. It demonstrated how sustainable and open-minded urban living could be. The other Dutch students I met encouraged me to think completely differently - particularly around social and environmental topics.

Berlin 🇩🇪 was mesmerising. The weight of history is palpable in that city : the Berlin Wall, museums, memorials. But equally, there is an amazingly creative, progressive youth culture that appears to be determined to build a better future. It made me think about the vast distance Europe has come over the last two generations; and while we face many challenges, and a period of uncertainty, we can do so much more together.

Vienna 🇦🇹 was elegant and cultured. As I sat in cafes, galleries, and concert halls, I felt I was threading myself through a long-standing tradition in Europe of art and thought. It reminded me that culture is not merely entertainment. It is an underpinning for a shared identity.

Zagreb 🇭🇷 was different; it offered a raw, more intimate, Europe. It felt much less touristy and much more personal. As I talked to locals, I saw a different part of our continent a part we don't think about much, and, while not very rich, a part that contained a lot of pride. It reminded me that while Europe offers differences in language, we also offer some of the same stories, struggles, and dreams.

Finally, I made it to Venice 🇮🇹 to a dreamlike ending. I felt like I stepped away from existence while I wandered the winding streets of Venice. I stopped planning and just lived. I knew it would be the perfect appendage to what had been an already change journey.

In the end, I learned that Europe is not merely a place; it is a connection. Not simply landmarks or boundaries on a map, but people, cultures, and value systems. I came back more independent, more aware, and more connected. I found a passion for intercultural exchange, and for building bridges, and for advocating mobility opportunities for others.

Since I first went on my adventure, I have become an Ambassador EuroPeers and active student ambassador for my university. None of this would have happened without DiscoverEU, this was the spark. DiscoverEU pushed me out of my comfort zone, challenging me to face the unknown and grow every single day.

This is why I think every young person should have the opportunity to experience mobility : travel is not escaping, it is connection. Connection with yourself, connection with others, and connection with what it means to be European.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bag, pick up your pass...and go for it!

Updated on Tuesday, 27/05/2025