Humans of IYACA

"During my short-term EVS project in IYACA I experienced many funny, exciting and shocking events that would barely fit in a book. However, one unexpected situation pops into my head at the moment... It was an ordinary Tuesday and I was heading to a school from which I supposed to go to a kindergarten where I was teaching kids English. However, the principle warned me that the roads, leading to the school, were too slippery, therefore he did not want to risk and take me there, so I stayed the whole day in school having discussions with middle-schoolers. Not expecting anything unusual, I went to the first class. As soon as I opened the doors I saw how surprised and happy the students were and they started asking me a question after a question... Most of them were very excited to know more about me, my country, however, soon the discussion turned into chaos when some teens started wondering what were my Facebook and Instagram nicknames and felt the need to take bunch of selfies with their new „teacher of a day“. When the bell rang I stood up ready to head to the next class, however, it was impossible due to students surrounding me. They did not want to let me go. Finally, one worker came and took me to the principle‘s office. I felt like it was a dream and did not expect this situation to repeat. 

Coffee Down

One of the first things that I saw when I was going to the IYACA’s office for the very first time was Coffee Down. It attracted my attention because most of the workers that I saw there had Down syndrome. Since the beginning I felt the need to get to know more about the coffee and its workers, therefore IYACA’s volunteer Ayhan and I went there to interview them.

Lithuanians in Ankara: why they are here, their experiences and culture shocks

Before coming to Ankara for my Erasmus + project I have received many different opinions about Turkey from my family members and friends. I have to admit, most of the things that I have heard were negative and very far from the truth. I heard warnings about how rude and impolite locals are, advice to take many shorts and shorts sleeve blouses because the weather must be so hot and warnings not to trust anyone. However, the things that surprised me the most during the first week of my stay were the ones no-one warned me about.
Half of the Turks smoke everyday

There are plenty of articles online depicting the dreadful statistics of how many Turks are dying every year from smoking-related diseases, however, you will have a hard time realising how many people smoke here until you come to Turkey. As a citizen of a country where most of the grown ups stay away from tobacco, I was surprised seeing significant part of the Turks that I have met smoking. Even though, the country have recently banned smoking in workplaces and enclosed public spaces, sadly, most of the Turks don't obey the law. If you are a non-smoker which hates the smell of tobacco, I have to warn you that it will be possible to escape it only if you will stay at home during your visit here.

Ankara's hidden gems for art lovers

Every time when I am traveling abroad my first encounter with the place starts from exploring the old parts of the city, enjoying unique architecture, and trying local cuisine. However, recently I have realized that in order to get to know the area better it is necessary to go further than the city center, which is often crowded with tourists (that might make many of us feel annoyed), because the real spirit of the city is often more visible far from the touristic gems.

Since I am a huge fan of street art and all forms of modern art in general, I have been trying to find some interesting places here in Ankara that are usually out of must-see lists. However, there is not much information provided on the internet, therefore I wish my text will not only encapsulate my experience in Ankara so far but also be benefıcial for many tourists who are looking for additional information before coming to the capital of Turkey.