An Advanture that never ends

''Living by the Sea'' Team

Authors:

·       Kazikli Ortaokulu, Milas -Turkey

·       OŠ Žrnovnica, Split - Croatia

·       IES Corralejo, Corralejo – Spain

·       Ahmet Zeki Atalay Ortaokulu, Alapli – Turkey

·       Saulkrastu Vidusskola, Saukrastu Novadas – Latvia

·       OŠ Vrpolje, Croatia

·       ICS 2 ‘’Cavour’’ di Ventimiglia - Italy

·       Vakfikebir Atatürk Ortaokulu, Vakfikebir – Turkey

·       Mariupol specialized school No 4, Mariupol – Ukraine

·       IES La Marxadella, Torrent – Spain

·       Sehit Ȍğretmen Haci Ȍmer Serin Ortaokulu, Mersin – Turkey

·       Ceip Bertomeu Llorens I Royo, Catarroja – Spain

·       College et Lycée General pennsionat de Versailles, Basse Terre,

France

·       Licieul Teoretic Mihail Kogalniceanu, Mihail Kogalniceanu -

Romania

DEDICATION

Everything not saved will be lost,

everybody working on this book have something in common that will always remain.

Everything that is written is there to read,

everything that is read affects your imagination...

Take your time and enjoy this adventurous book we have created.

In behalf of LBS TEAM, Jelena Vukičević

AN ADVENTURE THAT NEVER ENDS

Let me introduce my friends and I: Ann, Bryan, Nick and myself, Jane. We are American students who decided to travel all around Europe to discover new cultures, traditions and make new friends. As we all live by the sea, we first tried our luck not too far from home and chose an island where the weather is hot and sunny all year long. We left the States during winter on a freezing day and took the plane from New York to Pointe-à-Pitre in the French Caribbean or the French West Indies as the British say.

We arrived at Pôle Caraïbes Airport on Monday, February 24th 2020, the day just before the big parade in Carnival in Basse-Terre. A taxi-driver drove us to our hotel. When we arrived Bryan and Nick jumped into the swimming-pool because they were so hot! The sky was so blue, the sun was shining really bright!

For dinner we decided to go on the seafront of Basse-Terre because eating a “bokit” while walking along is very typical. Then we had a “sorbet coco”

We got back to our hotel with the fabulous sunset.

On Tuesday morning, we first went to the ancient cathedral for the religious celebration during which the lady sellers of the market gave delicious fruit (mangoes, coconuts, bananas, watermelons...) to the Christ to be sure to be successful during the year. Then, as it was Shrove Tuesday, we discovered the wonderful parade of carnival with groups of dancers and musicians. They all looked so beautiful with their madras costumes.

On Wednesday, we went to the beach of Malendure in Bouillante not very far. It is famous because there is the Jacques Cousteau reservation for fish and sea birds. The sand is fantastic: it is black because of La Soufrière, the volcano near Basse-Terre. Ann, Bryan, Nick and I thought it was very nice to swim in a warm sea, it was like swimming in our baths! We even swam with turtles!!

In the afternoon, we went hiking in the tropical forest and discovered a wonderful waterfall and flowers. We visited a bananas plantation and just had time to drive to Grande-Terre for a last swim in the ocean!

As we were about to leave " La Guadeloupe", we started dreaming about future plans...one window just appeared in front of us...We could see Spain in the distance!! Next June, we'll fly again and our next trip will be much far away!

On the Lucky Islands

I never thought that traveling with my friends would be so interesting. We had such a good time together in Guadalupe that ... "Why wait until June to continue our adventure?" - Nick suggested. "I think there is a place in Spain, in the Canary Islands, world famous for its carnivals, its spring weather all year round, its endless sandy beaches and the warmth of its people" The truth is that it was not a bad idea, so We searched the internet for that place that our friend was telling us about. "Here it is," said Jane. "It is called Fuerteventura, and it is one of the eight islands that make up the Canary Archipielago" They are geographically close to the African continent, but they belong to Spain, although their history and customs are highly influenced by their contact with the American continent, especially Cuba, Venezuela, Argentina ... We were all so enthusiastic with the idea of continuing our adventure that this afternoon, and after having informed our relatives of our decision, we took out a ticket to ticket to Fuerteventura.

We left at dawn on Friday and although the trip was very long (from Guadaloupe to Madrid, then to Gran Canaria and finally to Fuerteventura) we arrived at the Insular Airport of Fuerteventura in time to enjoy the experiences that this new place offered us. We decided to stay at the Albergue del Cohombrillo, near the town of Corralejo, so while the bus (the "guagua" as they call it here) made its way to the north of the island, we were able to enjoy one of the most beautiful marine sunsets we had never seen, next to the Dunes of Corralejo National Park. On the way, we met some very nice teenagers who invited us to the Carnival Parade that would take place that same night through the streets of Corralejo. Although we were tired we could not resist that invitation. Canaries are very open and friendly people who know how to have fun.

After spending the night dancing and enjoying the "Chiringuitos" and "bochinches", places where we could eat "Paponazos" (huge boiled potatoes stuffed with meat, corn, onion ...) and drink "Clipper" of strawberry (a soft drink typical in the Canary Islands) on Saturday we got up to visit the town of Corralejo, its huge yellow sand beaches, the Las Palmeras Shopping Center, the pedestrian street, full of cafes and restaurants and we went to a street craft market in the Center "El Campanario" commercial where we ate the typical Majorero cheese and tried the wrinkled potatoes with "Mojo Picón". In the afternoon, we decided to stay resting on the beautiful Playa del Cotillo, enjoying the good temperature and the sunset.

On Sunday, Jane and Nick woke up wanting to practice water sports, so they signed up for paddle surfing, kite surfing and other sports, while Bryan and I decided to take a ferry trip to Lobos Island. During the short boat trip we were able to see dolphins and turtles "Careta Careta", which are very protected here because they are in danger of extinction. At Lobos beach, which is uninhabited, we made a local fish grill, and ate "viejas", "samas" and "sardines" on a volcanic stone grill, and a local man made a "Pella de Gofio" which is a very typical dish in the Canary Islands.

We were running out of time. The three days in Corralejo were ending and we still had the desire within us to continue our traveling adventure. Spain seems very interesting. Our next jump will be to the mainland. Will it be as interesting as what we have already seen? We will certainly have to find out.

Valencia, the city of light, flowers and music

At last, it’s Monday and we finally arrive in Valencia. We wake up with the light of this fascinating city and the scent of the orange blossoms. I can’t imagine how many great experiences we are about to live together!. The trip gets more exciting every time we visit a new city in Europe.  

For breakfast, we are going to a traditional chocolate shop called  Santa Catalina where you can enjoy horchata (tiger nut milk) with fartons or homemade fritters with hot chocolate. Um, yummmy!!!

Now, it’s time to visit the Oceanographic aquarium. It is the largest aquarium in Europe representing the world's main marine ecosystems. It is the home for more than 40,000 animals of 500 different species. The shark dome is amazing and threatening at the same time...

“Aren’t you hungry, guys?, I’m starving. Why don’t we try the most typical Valentian meal, PAELLA?” - Jane said. Everybody agrees, so let’s go!! After enjoying a delicious lunch, the group decides to watch the local basketball team of the city playing in La Fonteta de Sant Lluis stadium and after it, they buy some souvenirs.    

Nowhere better to sleep than in Las Arenas Hotel, the most luxurious hotel by the Mediterranean sea. We have been told that this place used to be an old bath zone dating back to the late XIX century... The day has been great!!!.

After a small walk by the sea, we hang out by  the maritime crosswalk which is full of restaurants and leisure areas where people meet to chill out. La Malvarrosa is a very popular beach, surrounded by colourful fishermen houses.  

Ey, look, the tram is coming! Let’s go to the city centre! - says Ann.

We all run and catch the tram. Once in the city, we can sightsee by a touristic bus. We can see the Mestalla football stadium, the Gulliver’s Park in the Turia riverbed, and do activities such as cycling, enjoying playgrounds with children, admiring the botanical garden and a large lake.

Malvarrosa beach

Today is our last day in Valencia and we are a bit sad because there are still  lots of things we would like to do before leaving but we cannot miss the chance to visit the Bioparc.  “It’s a nice park where you can see incredible animals in their natural habitats and I love animals, you know” - exclaimed Brian.  

Bioparc

Gulliver's Park

On the way to the train station, we can visit some interesting spots like the Cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen which is a relevant place for all the falleros and falleras who bring flowers to the Virgin every March during the famous Fallas.

- “Look at that high tower!” - says Jane.

- “Oh, yes. It’s the Micalet. From up there, you can see the whole city”- says Nick.

Our train leaves in 10 minutes, guys!! Let's run!! Hopefully, we rush across the City Hall and we get into the beautiful station on time for our train to Catarroja. Here we go again!!!

Mascletà

Marching band

In our first day, our friends friends arrived at the train station just before lunch. We had “all i pebre”. It is the typical dish from Catarroja. It has got potatoes and eel. After lunch, we rode our bikes through the paddy fields to see where the paella comes from. Finally, we get to the Albufera, it is the biggest lake in Spain. It’s beautiful.

CATARROJA

In the next morning, we took a boat to sail the lake. We stopped on a little island to birdwatch. Ann loves birdwatching. She brought her binoculars to watch birds and insects. We can see flamingos, beetles, ducks, ants, grasshoppers...

We arrived just in time to see the sunset.

Hello friends!

WELCOME TO ITALY

At last we landed in

Genoa (Genova)

the birth town of

Christopher Columbus.

Hop on the train to Ventimiglia and straight to the Calandre beach where all the teenagers of the town gather to have fun!

We couldn't resist to visit the wonderful HANBURY BOTANICAL GARDENS. This part of Italy was very popular with the 1900 European aristocracy. They loved to come here in the winter where weather is still sweet.

Sir Thomas Hanbury fell in love with the area and decided to build his family house with huge gardens.

The FLOWERS are one the main assets of the local economy.

Today's attraction is the Friday market. Lots of people go to Ventimiglia especially from the nearby France. You can find EVERYTHING here.

VENTIMIGLIA ALTA is the old town and it's a real attraction.



Tall buildings in narrow alleys... the perfect place to play hide and seek! And to shelter form the summer shining sun.

In the afternoon, we went to Cullera's castle by bus. There's a church and a tower. It is on the top of the mountain by the sea. The landscape is very nice. We decided we are going to have "arroz al horno" for lunch. After lunch, Ann, Jane, Brian and Nick took so many photos. We left the castle to go to "las hoces del cabriel"

It is an amazing natural park.

Next day, we woke up 6 o'clock, we were going to have loads of fun. We went canoeing down the river. And then, in the afternoon, we had an awesome experience bungee jumping.

When we finished, we went straight to the airport because we can see in the horizon the boot-shaped peninsula: Italy.

TORTA VERDE - GREEN PIE

a savoury pie made with courgettes or artichokes, cheese and rice.

TIME TO EAT! yummy.....

and for the sweet tooth the CASTAGNOLE, made with chocolate, coffee and spices. They were invented in XXVIII to imitate the expensive marron glacé which the people could not afford.

That was the sweet end of our stay in Italy.

Our friends from IC2 Cavour Ventimiglia took us to the train station.

We'll be back for the famous 'Battle of the Flowers' next year! ARRIVEDERCI! CIAO! OFF TO BEAUTIFUL CROATIA, CAN'T WAIT TO GET THERE!

The kids came at 10 a.m. and a taxi picked them up and dropped them at Sara's place where we all stayed for the visit.

First, they unpacked their things, we had lunch and went for a walk by the river Žrnovnica. We went riding horses there at our equestrian club. These horses are the prettiest animals ever! 

In the afternoon, we went sightseeing in Split. We visited Diocletian's Palace which is 1705 years old. We showed them Peristil and the sphinxes. They were pleasantly surprised by the unique Saint Duje’s Cathedral we visited afterward. We sat in a cafe and enjoyed the sight of the clean Adriatic Sea. 

The next day,  we went to Trogir, we visited Saint Lovre's church. After that, we crossed the bridge and came to an island called Čiovo. There we went to a beach, stayed till the night and watched a beautiful sunset. 

On the third day, we went climbing the mountain Mosor where we organized different sport activities surrounded by the beautiful nature. In the evening, we went to the cinema at Mall of Split.

On the fourth day, we went to the Klis fortress where the Game of Thrones series was filmed. The fortress was there to stop the invasion of The Othoman Empire in Dalmatia. It was very interesting to watch old weapons and learn something about it. It is a very beautiful fortress with a beautiful view. Then we went to a beautiful town Solin. We were very happy. 

At the end, we were very sad to say goodbye to our new friends.

Come and visit us again!

Happy and Unforgettable Memories in Šibenik

It was the first day in Šibenik. Ann, Jane, Bryan and Nick came early in the morning and they were already amazed by the city, they decided to start their adventure. The first destination was the National Park Krka. A Tour guide named Stipe led them to a bus for Skradin.

They saw the Roški slap and walked around the trails. They almost explored the whole park, they were amazed by its pretty and calming nature. They watched the sunrise just before they had to leave. After the whole day spent there, Stipe decided to bring them to a coffee bar Moderato; it's a perfect place to get some coffee and desserts after a long day. The night-time approached, they went back to the hotel. 

 The next day was perfectly made for a little tour around the city, they visited the most beautiful building in Šibenik; The Cathedral of Saint Jakov. It has 74 head sculptures on it and on the inside, it has beautiful pictures and statues and an organ made by Franc Janko from 1968. 

They stopped for some ice cream, It was a hot sunny day in late June. They visited St. Nicholas’ Fortress, located at the entrance of Šibenik Channel; the fortress from the 16th century with an amazing view and unique style. 

 After that they went for lunch at a restaurant called Gušt. The last day they decided to have a little bit of fun, they went to the International Children's Festival. That's a festival that’s being held every single year, there are a lot of activities and fun things for children and adults accompanying them; art galleries, workshops, theatre plays, toy stands, candy, trampolines, concerts, street performances, free movies in the old town and many more. Late in the night, there is an amazing firework show on the first day of ICF, they stuck around for it. 

The next day it was time to leave, they packed their stuff, said goodbye to Stipe and thanked him. Jane, Ann, Bryan and Nick got on a bus with sad faces, but with happy and unforgettable memories.

Jane, Ann, Bryan and Nick arrive with Latvian airlines flight in Riga, capital of Latvia

Children saw the panorama of Riga

Ann, Jane, Nick and Brian arrive in Latvia in the morning and they all thought ‘’Wow’’. They called a cab to Old Riga.

Brian had read that it was a beatiful city, and that there were great cafes.

They ate breakfast, went to ‘’Doma laukums’’, explored the city. They were really tired so looked for a place to get some dinner.

They eat Latvian cheese with caraway, boiled peas with fried dried meat and drank birch juice

Freedom monument

Old Riga: The Black Heads house, Cat house, Nouveau houses... and Executioners houses little window

There is taking place

world -wide competitions

After the great dinner Jane wanted to visit the old castle of Turaida in Sigulda. Ann had heard of the giant bobsleigh track and wanted to ride once.

When they arrived at Saulkrasti the sun was already setting so they took a walk on the Sunset trail which lead them right to the White dune. Nick, Brian, Jane and Ann exchanged their thoughts on the view.

Summer beach volleyball is very popular

Nick said:

‘’This is an amazing view but the birds ruin it’’

Brian continued:

‘’But the air is so fresh’’

Ann continued:

‘’But we are so high that I`m scared’’

Jane completed her:

‘’We are scared together’’

The last stop was at the school were they met Alice, Jean, Peter and Sam. They were staying at Sam`s backyard in a tent.They were tired so they went straight to bed.

The next day they woke up bright and early since they were staying in the backyard, the dogs woke them up because of the scratching.

Sam came out and appologied:

‘’I` m sorry they were scratching your tent,their not used to strangers.’’

Nick replied:

‘’Of course it`s okay, they weren'`t ready for us’’

After breakfast they went for a walk to the forest which was right by Sam`s house.  For the second day they were supposed to relax but they decided to tag along Alice,Sam, Jean and Peter. They walked around Saulkrasti seeing it from people who live there.

They and Latvian friends go to fish at sea

The cycling museum

Pottery

After that they went back to Sams, grilled some beef and chilled.

It is real Palace of Light!!!

On day three they packed their bags and went to the airport, they driving through Riga and looking at the Palace of LIGHT- Latvian national library. The road followed to airport...

Good - bye, Latvia!

Mariupol, Ukraine

The journey continues. Once Ann heard a story of Mariupol, an old city by the sea of Azov and proposed her friends to visit it. The guys were so tired of the trip that they decided to go to some hotel first. It was Spartak Hotel, a historical building by a famous architect Nilsen. After having some rest the friends decided to go sightseeing and ordered a guided tour.

The first place they visited was the Water Tower. Their guide was a girl from Mariupol specialized school 4. She was glad to meet her peers from the USA and to tell them about her city. Her name was Elizabeth.

"If you go up the Tower, you will see a picturesque landscape!" - said Elizabeth

"I can see the roofs of houses and Drama theater!" said Bryan.

The guide told about the history of Mariupol.The city was founded in 1778 by Greeks. They were brought here from Crimea by metropolitan Ignatiy because Tatars oppressed them.

"Let's go to the theater'', - said Ann. Her friends agreed.

After the play Ann, Bryan, Nick and Jane were proposed to visit the monuments of Mariupol. There are many monuments to warriors who defended the city during the Second World War.

The next day American teenagers continued to go sightseeing.

"Nick, look, the monument to an anchor!", - said Bryan.

"Oh, I can also see an anchor on the square!" - Bryan answered. The guide explained that it was a symbol of Mariupol and you could see it everywhere.

There is also a monument to a famous artist Arhip Kuindzhy in the center of the city. Elizabeth proposed to visit the Art Museum by A. Kuindzhy. The guys were impressed by his paintings. They also saw the works of I. Aivazovskiy, I.Shishkin, T.Yablonskaya and others.

Jane was already hungry.

"What about going to some restaurant?"- she said. The friends came to Ribatskiy restaurant and tasted national Ukrainian dishes: borscht with galushki and vareniki.