Italy

Friday 5 March, 10 am. A group of ‘Beekvlieters’ and their parents are waiting for a bus to pick them up. Last kisses and we are ready to leave. The exchange project with Italy (Nereto) has started.
After a long, exhausting but successful journey we finally saw the sign ‘Nereto’ on the side of the road. Ten minutes later we were at our destination, where we were met by our new families. After everyone had found the right family, off we went to our various temporary homes. At ‘home’ we got a delicious Italian meal and met the family.
The next morning there was a big party in honour of us at the school. We were introduced to all pupils of the higher years and then went dancing in the gym. It was nice to see and do! Contrary to we Dutch, the Italians often dance in couples and do a group dance.
After a weekend of parties it was time for an educational excursion, which was to an archaeological museum and, for some of us, a church.
Also, everyone had their work placement, where you had to work from Tuesday to Friday (from 8.30 am till 1.30 pm). As far as we know this was to everybody’s liking.
After work there was a huge lunch and often we went to the mall to shop. In the evening another large meal with the family and the off to the pub.
The week went really fast and before we knew it we were there, waiting with our luggage for the bus to take us to the airport. After an emotional farewell we were homeward bound again.

Adrienne Termeer, Myrthe Krol en Kirsten Goedhart.
This is the internet address of ‘Guiseppe Peano’: www.leceonereto.it