Intercâmbio na Irlanda: 10 anos de memórias transformadoras

Discovering My Passion for Travel

Exactly 10 years ago, in 2014, I began a journey that would forever change my life: my English exchange program in Ireland. I chose to live in Dublin for six months, and that decision became a major turning point in my personal journey.

During that time, my days were filled with learning and discoveries that went far beyond improving my English skills. Weekends were often spent exploring, meeting new people, or going on short trips around the Irish countryside. That experience not only improved my language skills but also planted the seed of curiosity and the desire to see the world.

That exchange program in Dublin was the catalyst for creating this blog. I felt the need to share my experiences and encourage others to embark on their own adventures. Writing about my travels has been a way to relive each moment and hopefully inspire others to follow their passions. Every city I’ve visited and every culture I’ve encountered has deepened my love for travel and exploration.

Friendships for Life

One of the greatest treasures from my exchange in Ireland was, without a doubt, the friendships I made. I met amazing people from different parts of the world—many of whom I still keep in touch with today.

These connections not only helped me improve my English but also gave me a global network of friends with diverse backgrounds and life stories.

Taking part in the extracurricular activities organized by the school—like cultural outings and social events—was a valuable opportunity to build those friendships.

Intercâmbio de inglês na Irlanda — Cultural afternoon at the English school.

Living and learning alongside such a diverse group of people taught me a lot about empathy and cultural respect. Some of these friends became an essential part of my life, and with them I’ve celebrated milestones like graduations, weddings, trips, and reunions over the years.

These friendships remind me of the beauty of cultural differences and the importance of keeping an open mind to different ways of living and learning.

Exploring Ireland and Beyond

Ireland is a country of incredible charm, and during my exchange program I had the chance to explore many of its natural and historical gems.

One unforgettable visit was to the Cliffs of Moher. Their sheer scale left me speechless. The Atlantic crashing against the towering cliffs creates a humbling feeling of how small we are in the face of nature’s power.

Smaller coastal towns like Bray and Howth also offered unforgettable experiences. The trail up Bray Head gives you panoramic views that are simply breathtaking, while Howth, with its fresh seafood market and dramatic cliffs, is a paradise for nature lovers.

Another highlight was Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. A city shaped by its complex history and resilient spirit, it offers rich cultural experiences through its architecture and museums.

The Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough are like hidden treasures. The serenity of the area is almost magical. The trails through the mountains and the glacial lakes of Glendalough seem straight out of a fairytale, creating peaceful moments of reflection.

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Beyond my travels within Ireland, I also had the chance to visit Morocco, Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Each destination brought new perspectives and cultural enrichment.

This mix of stunning landscapes and multicultural experiences made my exchange in Ireland a truly transformative journey, filled with lifelong memories.

Challenges and Personal Growth

Uma tarde tranquila no Phoenix Park, em Dublin, o maior parque fechado público e urbano da Europa — A quiet afternoon in Phoenix Park, Dublin—the largest enclosed public urban park in Europe.

A quiet afternoon in Phoenix Park, Dublin—the largest enclosed urban park in Europe. Yes, there were challenges. Living far from family and friends wasn’t easy. But it was also a powerful catalyst for personal growth. I missed home, of course—but that feeling pushed me to become more resilient and independent.

This international experience in Ireland was one of the most enriching and life-changing I’ve ever had. It strengthened my ability to face change and broadened my view of the world. Every challenge I overcame became an opportunity to grow, contributing greatly to my personal development and preparing me for adult life.