Going into this trip, I had pretty high expectations, as my previous exchange (Austria, 2023) exceeded all expectations. Looking ahead, this year’s camp in Norway turned out to be incredibly heartfelt, rich, and truly welcoming.

 

The camp brought together 37 participants from 26 different countries. Despite the large number of people and the busy program, our leaders coped with all the organizational challenges perfectly.

 

In line with the theme of the Imagine Peace camp, we visited a number of important and at the same time tragic places connected with the dark pages of Norwegian history. It was interesting to see this successful, stable and seemingly completely safe country from a different, deeper side. These moments were sad, but important for a better understanding of Norway and its past.

 

The camp program was balanced: in addition to meaningful excursions, we had many fun activities. For example, one day we were offered to canoe across a lake – a task that turned out to be unexpectedly easy and very fun. Another day we went to a farm where we could pet Norwegian cows and calves, who were used to visitors and seemed to be genuinely happy to have us (it was mutual).

 

I especially appreciated the efforts of the organizers to create a comfortable atmosphere for each participant. The first day was entirely devoted to team building and getting to know each other. Short meetings were held every day, during which we shared our impressions, and the counselors listened carefully to our feedback and took it into account in the subsequent program. Despite the general friendliness and loyalty, there were clear rules in the camp, which, in my opinion, were quite justified.

 

A special highlight was the preparation for the final concert. We learned a Norwegian song and prepared several folk dances from different countries. What seemed difficult and a little awkward at first turned out to be a great way to bond and have fun.

 

And, of course, the entire atmosphere of the camp was enhanced by the incredible Norwegian landscapes, walks, sincere and warm (despite stereotypes) people, and a sense of peace and freedom.

 

From this camp, I brought not only memories, new friends, and a Norwegian song, but also a desire to return to Norway again and again.