Merhaba, It’s Lorenzo
Living in İzmir has been an exciting adventure, full of new experiences and opportunities. While my work is important, what makes this journey unforgettable are the activities I share with other volunteers, Turkish friends, and mentors. Together, we explore the city, have meaningful conversations, and experience Turkish culture.
I love going out with the other volunteers. We often visit cafés or bars, where we have long, lively discussions. It’s a great way to relax, and learn from each other. We’ve also explored many places in İzmir, like local markets and neighborhoods. One of the highlights was attending a basketball game and feeling the excitement in the Arena in Karsiyaka.
I really enjoy visiting cities that are far from the center, like Urla, Foca, and Sirince. Urla is a small town near İzmir, with beautiful landscapes and cozy cafés. We also went to the Christmas market, where we enjoyed the festive atmosphere. Watching horse races at the Hippodrome was another fun experience.
We’ve traveled to other cities too, Pamukkale, Diyarbakir and Gaziantep and Mardin, known for their rich history and delicious food. Each trip has deepened my connection to Turkey’s culture and people.
Living in İzmir has been more than just volunteering; it’s been a journey of friendship, discovery, and growth. Every experience, conversation, and meal has helped me understand Turkey better.