Thursday 27 April 2017
Monday 24 April 2017
2017 exchange partners´ letters for you!
Hi Miha <3
I had a wonderful time with you and I’ll never forget the time we spent together in Gernika .
Before I came to Gernika, I didn’t know that you’r so nice to me and I also thought that we’ll
not laugh that much. First I was so shy with you, but you too, so we just sat in your room,
didn’t talk to each other and we had to laugh. But since Monday I waas not shy at all, because
we were so crazy and loud. Your family is also very nice and don’t worry my mother can speak
English and Spanish, but no Baskish :)
When you’ll come to Germany we’ll also have much fun and meet friends, like we did it here.
Also if you and Nana want, we can meet together again , like we did it on Monday. It was sooo
funny! I also was a little bit wondering about the houses in Gernika, because everything looks
so different in Germany and also the food is very different. I hope you had as much fun as I
have and also that you’ll like my Family and Germany. The time we spent together on the trips
were so incredible and nice! The week was so quickly over and I don’t know where the time is,
now it’s over and we have to go back to Germany. I miss you soooo much and I hope that we’ll
be friends when you come to Germany, but I think that will happen. If you want, we can go in
the “ Phantasia Land “ it’s a Fun Park with Roller Coasters, Shows and many other things, It’s
very cool so me and my friends like it to go there. I’m so happy to have a friend like you and I
don’t want to lose you! I miss you so much <3 !!!!!!
many kisses and lovely greats
Lea <3
Dear Maria,
First of all: the time that I had here was amazing and I met so many lovely people. I expected
that I would have fun but I didn’t expect that I would have such a great time. As I told you: I
don’t want to go… First I thought everyone is a bit shy because everyone was just talking to
their group of friends but then suddenly everyone just welcomed us here and made us feel
better.
So the first day I already was fascinated. The Little lake (i don’t know how to call it) were some
of us swam or the rocks were we sat for a while were so stunning!
At the second day I learned a lot of history and I especially liked museum of peace and
therewas a room where you sat on the floor and it looked like a little livingroom and a voice
told a story about her life and then there were noises of war and you felt like you were in the
center of war…
I reallly liked the third day when we ate in this restaurant were they just gave us sooo much
food. I was really fascinated when everyone began to sing and just had fun… And after that we
were at the basketball field. At firstI was a bit shy and I just stood there but with the time I
became a bit braver and tried to play. I say tried because it didn’t worked much. But it was
cool because everyone got to know each other even more.
The fourth day was really cool, too because then I knew the people and I could talk those
people. But I can’t play football very well so…
Soo at Monday we were in Bilbao but sadly I didn’t find many clothes to buy. BUT this was
good ,too, because so I could save my money. Anyway, it was so cool to be there.
Bermeo was my favorite because of the ship tour. I was sooooo happy there. To see so much
nature and so many islands and the beautiful looking sea was just incredible. We calle done
island (the tiniest island of all) Hans Baski… I sat at the front of the boat so my legs got sooo
wet!
And yesterday in San Sebastian the best thing was to sit at the beach and eat ice cream.
I am so thankful that I had the chance to meet those people, you and enjoy the time here..
Yours,
Mona
The Exchange 2017
¡Hola!
Here we want to write something about our experiences and impressions of the exchange from
Gernika and Königswinter.
When we arrived at the school all the students were dancing and we all were very excited and
also a bit afraid. We all were tired and wanted to meet our exchange partners. After a time all had
met their exchange partners and we went with them to meet the family and to drink and eat
something. Later we stayed all together and went by train to Munaka and there some were swimming.
For the German people it was strange to stay outside for such a late time but after all the days
here we all think it is very cool because in Germany we can not do this.
At the next day we visited Gernika, we went to the famous tree of Gernika and to the museum of
peace. After this we had some free time to explore Gernika.
At the weekend we had a lot of fun because we did a lot outside with all people for playing
football, basketball and things like that but we had also the opportunity to watch a rugby and a
football match.
In addition we were eating all together (one time with the parents) and we noticed that the Bask
people eat a lot more than the Germans ;)
On Monday we were in Bilbao and it was so beautiful! First we visited the University “Deusto”
and we were a bit confused because there were palms inside, but even though it was interesting
and excited. Then some went to see the Guggenheim museum and some stayed at the playground.
According to that we went to the shopping center and we all were impressed because it is very
big!
The next day we visited Bermeo but without the exchange partners. We did a boat trip and it was
very exciting to see that side of the Basque country. When we were back in Gernika we did some
traditional basque games with German and Basque people! We had a lot of fun although it was
exhausting...
On Wednesday we all were a bit sad that it is the last day but even though we enjoyed the day in
San Sebastián. The teachers had a surprise for us: Doing bubble football and it was sooo funny!!!
In the evening we were eating pizza and because it was the last night here we went to a disco and
danced a lot and we just had fun.
Now it is thursday and we have to leave the Basque Country... We all are so sad about it but we
are looking forward to see them again in Germany :) After the week here we all growed up to a
lovely group where everyone is included!!!<3
EXCHANGE GERNIKA 2017
When I was laying in my bed one day before arriving at Gernika I didn’t think much
about what would happen next day. But I thought about how my family there would
be and if I would be excited when meeting Ibai, my exchange partner.
Well, of course I was excited, but because of the amazing family and all the nice
students I realized quickly, that I wouldn’t have to be frightened of anything. I could
just enjoy this fantastic week, with all the events like driving to San Sebastian, with all
the tasty food, the nice beaches, and with the great family I got to know! Especially I
liked the sea and playing football all together. I will think of this time again very often.
But now I must say some special thanks to Ibai and his family:
Dear Ibai,
You are a very nice, funny, and careful boy, and I’d miss you and your friends very
much, if I wouldn’t know that you and your friends are going to see us again, in
Germany! Then I’ll try to make you have a fantastic time and pay you many things, just
as you did for me. Who I miss already, because I won’t see them again, is your brother,
your mother and your dad. You’re a very nice, caring, and funny family, and you cook
very tasty food! Thank you very much for all this and more! I look forward to seeing
you again soon, Ibai.
Hasta luego
Max
Gernika 2017
By Luka
First day: Off to Bonn Central Station. We are expecting Mrs Romero and Mrs Neuhaus
to hurry up, but they don’t. But hey, at least we don’t miss our train to the
Düsseldorf airport. After checking in, I switch seats with Dominique and
therefore am seated in row 6, without anyone sitting next to me (which means
that I can lay on three seats at one time!).
In the noon, we are arriving at Bilbao airport and a bus takes us to Gernika.
As we finally arrive in Gernika, in front of the school, we encounter a lot of
children who are rehearsing for a school party. They welcome us and we don’t
do anything but smile.
Gabriel, my exchange partner, has to go to his football training in the evening,
and of course I need to accompany him. Well, it pays off: After finishing he
plays football with some friends and I am allowed to play with them. At 9
o’clock his father takes us home.
Second day: I take my backpack with me and Gabriel and I go to school. We are going to get
an introduction to Gernika, its history and its special sights. For example we
visit the old parliamentary building with the oak, which is the representative
symbol of Gernika. Later we visit a history museum in which a copy of Picasso’s
painting of La Guernica is presented.
In the afternoon, we have a trip to the beach, where some people, mostly
Spanish students, dare to jump into the damn cold water. I don’t, since didn’t
bring my swimming trousers. But later, as most people are canoeing, I collect
some shells and watch the flooding fill the pits on the beach.
Third day: Well, nothing special happens during the midday. However, in the evening, we
are going to the theatre and watch a play about Gernika in the Middle Ages.
The guys behind me and Max are constantly annoying, making noises and
shouting something into the hall. Don’t any rules exist in a Spanish theatre?
Apart from that, the play is in Spanish so the only one who understands more
than 50% of the script is Lucia, and she translates the whole text to Paul!
Fourth day: Gabriel, his parents and me go to the church. Well, you will think that it’s
everything but a church if you see it. It’s a church-like room built in an old
storage.
Of course, I am not used to the kind of service they practise because they are
Evangelists and I am Catholic, but the orations totally freak me out: In some
sentences, you hear the word “Señor” approximately SIX FREAKING TIMES!!
After the service, we have “brunch” at a café, talking partly in Spanish and
partly in Basque, so I only understand part of it.
Fifth day: The new week starts with a train trip to Bilbao. We spectate the Guggenheim
Museum (from outside) and waste our time at a playground. The only thing
that I consider funny is climbing up the metal slides. Later we go to a shopping
center (but the only thing I buy is a tin of Coca Cola).
Sixth day: We take the train again – this time to the other direction, to Bermeo. There,
we have a boat trip around the coast near Bermeo, visiting the giant cliff, the
fishing port and another port near the railway bridge. In the afternoon, we go
to school where we play some traditional Basque games. During the game in
which you grab sticks from the running line and bring them back to your box, I
have a circulation weakness and have to stop.
Seventh day: We have a nice trip to San Sebastián. Marta celebrates her birthday inviting us
to a football game with gum balls around the body, and to a literal ramming
game, which is actually called “DrumBox”. In San Sebastián, me and the other
boys – and our exchange partners waste our time sitting around in the city and
eating an ice cream, while other students are visiting the “Concha”, the “Shell
Bay”. We regret not to have visited it. After this, we visit a cliff near a reef, in
which the waves cause strong wind blows in the wind channels which are
opened to the ground of the cliff. NICE!!!
However, the BEST thing about this day is the Goodbye disco. Everybody has
fun and whenever songs like “My Way” appear, my dancing totally escalates!
Last day: After packing the rest of my things, I go to school with Gabriel, where all the
other students are already there. Marta wants us to go to the computer room
and to write this.
My special thanks go to Gabriel and his parents.
¡Os deseo mucha suerte y un felicísimo Pascua!
April 6, 2017
6 de abril de 2017
Hello Naroa,
I had a wonderful week with you and I think I’ll never forget this time here in Gernika.
The trips and the places we saw were great. I hope you had as much fun as I had. I
liked best the trip to San Sebastian because of the beautyful sea and this wonderful
beaches. You and your family are very nice and I think you’ll like my family too.The
food and and some other things were different to Germany but I liked this new
experience.
I’m really looking forward to your visit in Germany and I hope you’ll like the country
and the things we’ll do.
Jana
Hello Paul,
The exchange was better then I have thought.
It was a very cool week with you and your class.
At first I was a little bit irritadet because we came in the school and there were students who
practiced for the traditional dance…
I was really surprised when we go to the beach but it was very cool
Second day:
We went to the beach and we went canoeing.
It was really heavy and after that we was very tired.
Third day:
We were so tired that we slept until 1:30 o clock.
The other went at 10 o clock to a football match but we slept ;)
In the evening we played a basketball match which was really funny.
After that we went to a theater and I don’t understood anything.
The best of the day was the eating pizza at 12 o’clock ;-)
Fourth day:
Nothing very special, just the dance.
Fifth day:
The awesome trip to Bilbao, but the best was the hot chocolate with caramel
Sixth day:
You went to school and we took the train to Bermeo and took a boat with which we drove
around an island, but for me it was boring…
After that we played traditional games with the whole group.
Seventh day:
We went to San Sebatian and we played a football match, in what we were in big balls a
crashed with the others.
When we went back someone had shit under her shoes. It smelled very gggooooodddd. :)
After that we went to the city center and eat some ice cream.
Than we drove to a cliff where some holes were.
In the night there was a really cool party
In the end it was a really cool exchange and I would do it again.
Simon
PS: Aitor that’s for you: BUUUMMMPPPIIINNNGGG ;-)
Hi Kiara,
I really enjoyed my stay in Basque Country with you and I am very fascinated of the landscape
in this country. I hope you had as much fun as me.
It was very suprising that we already did such a lot of cool things on the first day. I really loved
visiting Mundaka in the evening and I have to acknowledge that Spanish people are just much
more kind than German people.
In the museum in Gernika I got known with the history of Basque Country: I have seen the oak
of Gernika and the big Picasso picture near the museum. I am captivated by the huge and
beautiful window of the room cover in the museum.
I am also fascinated by your school. There are such a lot of plants in the buildings and the
buildings are so colourful. Lots of furniture and steps in the buildings are marmoreal and
wooden! I have never seen something like that before! I like it that the school is very small and
I enjoyed the food in the canteen. In our canteen the food is not as delicious as in your
canteen and I am envious becauseof the palms in the country.
We often went to basketball and football fields. We all enjoyed the community that was
dominating there. It is very funny (and also a bit exhausting) for me that you are eating dinner
and go to bed so late. I think there are much more restaurants in your country than in
Germany. In our town we have only got one restaurant! We were eating outside very often
and I must admitt that the food was very delicious.
On Sunday we have seen the day of dance in schools . In Germany we havent got anything like
that. The clothes that the kids were wearing for the dance were very funny and sweet, just as
the dance itself.
We had lot of fun in Bilbao where we have seen the University and the Guggenheim museum
from outside. After that we were able to go shopping in Bilbao and I must acknowledge that I
love the city.
I was so electrified by seeing Bermeo on Tuesday. You have got such a beautiful ocean in this
country and also so beautiful mountains and forests! Althought the trip on the boat was very
exciting it was also very cold . Every day we got a lunch box for the trips.It included water or
juice,some cookies and a sandwich . The sanwiches wereamazing. They put omelette with ham
and cheese or potatoes on it or sometimes also chicken or vegetables!
My favourite day was Wednesday when we went to San Sebastian, went for a run and had a
party in the night. The party was taking place in a disco and the mood was just awesome there.
When we watched the photos of our trips I really wished that I could stay for a longer time
with you.
I am really looking forwardto show you Germany son,
Your Exchange partner
Viola
Hola Iker
The time with you in Spain was very great. The food that I tried was very well. I`m looking forward to
see you coming to Germany. I don`t know more to write, thats why this letter is finished now
Paul S.
Blog: The whole travel started at 7 o`clock in the morning at the train. We had to say ``Bye``to our
parents and we took the train to the airport to fly to Bilbao. After it we saw your school and we
went home to our hostfamilies. The days after it in Bilbao, Bermeo and San Sebastián were really
exciting and thrilling. We went swimming in the cold Sea, played Football and Tennis and walked
through great cities. But it was very hard to say Goodbye, but I´m looking forward to see my parents
again.
I really enjoyed the time in Spain because I was really surprised how nice it was. I didn`t
expect that it will be so nice and that I won`t go back home. The time was great because the
people were so nice to us.
When we met our partners for the first time I was a little bit curious and confused because I
just knew my partner from WhatsApp and Instagram but then I was really happy to have Alaia
as partner. (Thank you to her and her family. It was a wonderful time and you are such a nice
person).
When we went to her house I was happy because she has such a nice family and it is really
beautiful there.
Me gustaba mucho el tiempo con ustedes en España. La comida estuvo muy rica y me
gustaba el tiempo con los otros alemanes y españoles en la tarde. Estuvo muy
sorprendido que el tiempo no estaba muy bueno en las primeras días, pero después
se cambiaba y había mucha sol.
Me sorprendió que nosotros pudiéramos ir en la calle tan tarde y no sabía que no es
peligroso en las calles a la noche. Después de todo estuvo muy cansada y me dormí
muy rápido.
Todo empezó cuando me despidió de mi madre en la estación en Bonn. Después
nosotros fuimos con el tren hasta Dusseldorf y de allí volamos con el avión dos horas
hasta Bilbao. Con el bus nosotros fuimos hasta el colegio donde nosotros vimos los
dances de los niños. Cuando nosotros fuimos a nuestras parejas estuvo muy tímida
porque no conocí a nadie. La familia fui muy amable y me gustaba mucho el tiempo
con todos.
Dear Alalia,
I had a very incredible week and I will miss this time a lot.
Before I arrived I was very excited and I didn`t know what I have to expect. I knew you a bit
from Whatsapp but that wasn`t a lot. I just thought that I would be more shy than in my house.
When we arrived I had a very good impression because you all were very nice and friendly to
me. Your parents were very nice too, although they can`t speak so much english. The whole
week was planned very well. In the first days all the people were a bit shy and were just with
their friends but then we got to know and and a large group emerged. We did many wonderful
things together and we had a lot of fun. I think it was very good that we didn’t just sat at home
but were outside all theafternoons.
The first day we went all together to Mozaka and the place is very pretty! The second day,
while you had school, we went to the museum peace and we went to see the famous ork of
Gernika. After that we all went to the beach. The most of the people went to canoeing but I
stayed in the beach and it was very cool, too. At the third day we went to a restaurant and it
was really tasty! The basketball game later was also very cool. And the theatre, although I
didn’t understand much, too. At the Sunday we went to a restaurant with your family and then
we went to play football. I enjoyed both very much. At Monday we went to Bilbao and it was
really great. A day later we went to bermeo while you had school. We made a boat trip and
even if my clothes get a bit wet ,I found it great. At the last whole day we went to san
sebastian , but we didn`t know what we are going to do there. The teachers told us yhat we
are going top lay football with this big balls. It was very cool and funny! When we finished we
went to san sebastian and went to the beach. San sabastian is very pretty and I was impressed.
The party in the evening was also very cool!
At home you were very nice, too and you was a very good hostess. In my opinion the Exchange
could have been a bit longer than a week.
All in all it was a very cool week with very cool people and will miss all of you.
Arianna
Mi tiempo en España: (Un text de Susanna Kilian)
Cuando hemos llegado en la escuela, todos los alumnus han estado nerviosos y
entusiasmados. No supieron como sus compañeros del intercambio van a ser y que van a
hacer durante la semana. Por que no pudimos ir a nuestros compañeros directamente,
charlamos sobre la viaje y lo que sabíamos de nuestros compañeros. Después de una hora
finalmente pudimos ir a nuestros compañeros y saludarlos. Y aunque teníamos dudas primero,
al final no era importante. Fuimos a casa y aludamos la familia. Esperamos, que vamos a ver
nuestros compañeros alemanes en el día, que viene, pero después del primer visita , fuimos a
Mundaca y veíamos a todos. Algunos chicos de España y también algunas personas de
Alemania nadaron en el mar y era muy frio, pero aunque era divertido. Por la noche cenamos
con las familias y casi todos comían fresas. El segundo día fue tan bueno como el primer. Por la
mañana visitamos el museo del paz, pero llovía mucho. Por la tarde hicimos canoa y la lluvia
terminó. Era muy divertido y nos rociamos con agua. Por la noche comíamos juntos y nos
acostamos muz tarde. En el fin de semana dormimos mucho, pero después cumplíamos con
todos y jugamos al baloncesto. No he pensado, que vamos a ver a todos tan muchas veces,
por que es muy diferente en Alemania. Pero era maravilloso y conocíamos a todos después
poco tiempo. En otros días también comíamos con todos, jugamos al fútbol o solo hablamos.
En dos días hemos visitado ciudades, Bilbao y San Sebastián. Pudimos comprar algo o visitar
famosos sitios. Durante la viaje con un autobús alguien encienda la música y cantamos mucho.
Me sentía como en casa después pocas horas y conocía a todos. No quería ir a casa pero
quedarme aquí durante mas de una semana. En la noche final, era una fiesta y todos bailaron y
ase divirtieron. Termina temperado y no quería ir a casa. Ahora puedo ver muchas diferentes,
pero no son malo: Aquí todos comían mas que la gente en Alemania. La escuela empieza mas
tarde, los chicos se encuentran muchas veces, hacen mucho deporte y hablan en voz alta.
Hi Wyllhrana,
I really enjoyed the last week with you and I hope you had as much fun as me! You and
your family are really kind and Gernika is just beautiful.
In my opinion every day was very cool: visiting Mundaka on the first day, seeing the
tree of Gernika and the Museum, going to Bilbao (twice) and watching the theatre
(allthoug I didn’t understand much ), seeing the children dancing, hanging out with
friends, visiting Bermeo and San Sebastian and of course the “Fiesta de despedisa” !!
I was a bit suprised at the first day because I thougt we wouldn’t do much on the first
day but then we went to Mundaka all together! It was very beautiful there and I’m
happy that we went there. It’s very cool that we did almost everything without any
teacher. Maybe in Germany it wouldn’t always be posible. :(
But not just the things we did were very awesome: also the people. Some of you are a
bit crazy but isn’t everyone a bit crazy? ;)
One thing I like very in Gernika is that everyone lives very close to each other. In Bonn
it isn’t like this. You can’t just go out and meet your friends because they live more far
away.
I’m really looking forward to your visit in Germany and to seeing you again!
Your exchange partner
Mathilde
I had a wonderful time with you and I’ll never forget the time we spent together in Gernika .
Before I came to Gernika, I didn’t know that you’r so nice to me and I also thought that we’ll
not laugh that much. First I was so shy with you, but you too, so we just sat in your room,
didn’t talk to each other and we had to laugh. But since Monday I waas not shy at all, because
we were so crazy and loud. Your family is also very nice and don’t worry my mother can speak
English and Spanish, but no Baskish :)
When you’ll come to Germany we’ll also have much fun and meet friends, like we did it here.
Also if you and Nana want, we can meet together again , like we did it on Monday. It was sooo
funny! I also was a little bit wondering about the houses in Gernika, because everything looks
so different in Germany and also the food is very different. I hope you had as much fun as I
have and also that you’ll like my Family and Germany. The time we spent together on the trips
were so incredible and nice! The week was so quickly over and I don’t know where the time is,
now it’s over and we have to go back to Germany. I miss you soooo much and I hope that we’ll
be friends when you come to Germany, but I think that will happen. If you want, we can go in
the “ Phantasia Land “ it’s a Fun Park with Roller Coasters, Shows and many other things, It’s
very cool so me and my friends like it to go there. I’m so happy to have a friend like you and I
don’t want to lose you! I miss you so much <3 !!!!!!
many kisses and lovely greats
Lea <3
Dear Maria,
First of all: the time that I had here was amazing and I met so many lovely people. I expected
that I would have fun but I didn’t expect that I would have such a great time. As I told you: I
don’t want to go… First I thought everyone is a bit shy because everyone was just talking to
their group of friends but then suddenly everyone just welcomed us here and made us feel
better.
So the first day I already was fascinated. The Little lake (i don’t know how to call it) were some
of us swam or the rocks were we sat for a while were so stunning!
At the second day I learned a lot of history and I especially liked museum of peace and
therewas a room where you sat on the floor and it looked like a little livingroom and a voice
told a story about her life and then there were noises of war and you felt like you were in the
center of war…
I reallly liked the third day when we ate in this restaurant were they just gave us sooo much
food. I was really fascinated when everyone began to sing and just had fun… And after that we
were at the basketball field. At firstI was a bit shy and I just stood there but with the time I
became a bit braver and tried to play. I say tried because it didn’t worked much. But it was
cool because everyone got to know each other even more.
The fourth day was really cool, too because then I knew the people and I could talk those
people. But I can’t play football very well so…
Soo at Monday we were in Bilbao but sadly I didn’t find many clothes to buy. BUT this was
good ,too, because so I could save my money. Anyway, it was so cool to be there.
Bermeo was my favorite because of the ship tour. I was sooooo happy there. To see so much
nature and so many islands and the beautiful looking sea was just incredible. We calle done
island (the tiniest island of all) Hans Baski… I sat at the front of the boat so my legs got sooo
wet!
And yesterday in San Sebastian the best thing was to sit at the beach and eat ice cream.
I am so thankful that I had the chance to meet those people, you and enjoy the time here..
Yours,
Mona
The Exchange 2017
¡Hola!
Here we want to write something about our experiences and impressions of the exchange from
Gernika and Königswinter.
When we arrived at the school all the students were dancing and we all were very excited and
also a bit afraid. We all were tired and wanted to meet our exchange partners. After a time all had
met their exchange partners and we went with them to meet the family and to drink and eat
something. Later we stayed all together and went by train to Munaka and there some were swimming.
For the German people it was strange to stay outside for such a late time but after all the days
here we all think it is very cool because in Germany we can not do this.
At the next day we visited Gernika, we went to the famous tree of Gernika and to the museum of
peace. After this we had some free time to explore Gernika.
At the weekend we had a lot of fun because we did a lot outside with all people for playing
football, basketball and things like that but we had also the opportunity to watch a rugby and a
football match.
In addition we were eating all together (one time with the parents) and we noticed that the Bask
people eat a lot more than the Germans ;)
On Monday we were in Bilbao and it was so beautiful! First we visited the University “Deusto”
and we were a bit confused because there were palms inside, but even though it was interesting
and excited. Then some went to see the Guggenheim museum and some stayed at the playground.
According to that we went to the shopping center and we all were impressed because it is very
big!
The next day we visited Bermeo but without the exchange partners. We did a boat trip and it was
very exciting to see that side of the Basque country. When we were back in Gernika we did some
traditional basque games with German and Basque people! We had a lot of fun although it was
exhausting...
On Wednesday we all were a bit sad that it is the last day but even though we enjoyed the day in
San Sebastián. The teachers had a surprise for us: Doing bubble football and it was sooo funny!!!
In the evening we were eating pizza and because it was the last night here we went to a disco and
danced a lot and we just had fun.
Now it is thursday and we have to leave the Basque Country... We all are so sad about it but we
are looking forward to see them again in Germany :) After the week here we all growed up to a
lovely group where everyone is included!!!<3
EXCHANGE GERNIKA 2017
When I was laying in my bed one day before arriving at Gernika I didn’t think much
about what would happen next day. But I thought about how my family there would
be and if I would be excited when meeting Ibai, my exchange partner.
Well, of course I was excited, but because of the amazing family and all the nice
students I realized quickly, that I wouldn’t have to be frightened of anything. I could
just enjoy this fantastic week, with all the events like driving to San Sebastian, with all
the tasty food, the nice beaches, and with the great family I got to know! Especially I
liked the sea and playing football all together. I will think of this time again very often.
But now I must say some special thanks to Ibai and his family:
Dear Ibai,
You are a very nice, funny, and careful boy, and I’d miss you and your friends very
much, if I wouldn’t know that you and your friends are going to see us again, in
Germany! Then I’ll try to make you have a fantastic time and pay you many things, just
as you did for me. Who I miss already, because I won’t see them again, is your brother,
your mother and your dad. You’re a very nice, caring, and funny family, and you cook
very tasty food! Thank you very much for all this and more! I look forward to seeing
you again soon, Ibai.
Hasta luego
Max
Gernika 2017
By Luka
First day: Off to Bonn Central Station. We are expecting Mrs Romero and Mrs Neuhaus
to hurry up, but they don’t. But hey, at least we don’t miss our train to the
Düsseldorf airport. After checking in, I switch seats with Dominique and
therefore am seated in row 6, without anyone sitting next to me (which means
that I can lay on three seats at one time!).
In the noon, we are arriving at Bilbao airport and a bus takes us to Gernika.
As we finally arrive in Gernika, in front of the school, we encounter a lot of
children who are rehearsing for a school party. They welcome us and we don’t
do anything but smile.
Gabriel, my exchange partner, has to go to his football training in the evening,
and of course I need to accompany him. Well, it pays off: After finishing he
plays football with some friends and I am allowed to play with them. At 9
o’clock his father takes us home.
Second day: I take my backpack with me and Gabriel and I go to school. We are going to get
an introduction to Gernika, its history and its special sights. For example we
visit the old parliamentary building with the oak, which is the representative
symbol of Gernika. Later we visit a history museum in which a copy of Picasso’s
painting of La Guernica is presented.
In the afternoon, we have a trip to the beach, where some people, mostly
Spanish students, dare to jump into the damn cold water. I don’t, since didn’t
bring my swimming trousers. But later, as most people are canoeing, I collect
some shells and watch the flooding fill the pits on the beach.
Third day: Well, nothing special happens during the midday. However, in the evening, we
are going to the theatre and watch a play about Gernika in the Middle Ages.
The guys behind me and Max are constantly annoying, making noises and
shouting something into the hall. Don’t any rules exist in a Spanish theatre?
Apart from that, the play is in Spanish so the only one who understands more
than 50% of the script is Lucia, and she translates the whole text to Paul!
Fourth day: Gabriel, his parents and me go to the church. Well, you will think that it’s
everything but a church if you see it. It’s a church-like room built in an old
storage.
Of course, I am not used to the kind of service they practise because they are
Evangelists and I am Catholic, but the orations totally freak me out: In some
sentences, you hear the word “Señor” approximately SIX FREAKING TIMES!!
After the service, we have “brunch” at a café, talking partly in Spanish and
partly in Basque, so I only understand part of it.
Fifth day: The new week starts with a train trip to Bilbao. We spectate the Guggenheim
Museum (from outside) and waste our time at a playground. The only thing
that I consider funny is climbing up the metal slides. Later we go to a shopping
center (but the only thing I buy is a tin of Coca Cola).
Sixth day: We take the train again – this time to the other direction, to Bermeo. There,
we have a boat trip around the coast near Bermeo, visiting the giant cliff, the
fishing port and another port near the railway bridge. In the afternoon, we go
to school where we play some traditional Basque games. During the game in
which you grab sticks from the running line and bring them back to your box, I
have a circulation weakness and have to stop.
Seventh day: We have a nice trip to San Sebastián. Marta celebrates her birthday inviting us
to a football game with gum balls around the body, and to a literal ramming
game, which is actually called “DrumBox”. In San Sebastián, me and the other
boys – and our exchange partners waste our time sitting around in the city and
eating an ice cream, while other students are visiting the “Concha”, the “Shell
Bay”. We regret not to have visited it. After this, we visit a cliff near a reef, in
which the waves cause strong wind blows in the wind channels which are
opened to the ground of the cliff. NICE!!!
However, the BEST thing about this day is the Goodbye disco. Everybody has
fun and whenever songs like “My Way” appear, my dancing totally escalates!
Last day: After packing the rest of my things, I go to school with Gabriel, where all the
other students are already there. Marta wants us to go to the computer room
and to write this.
My special thanks go to Gabriel and his parents.
¡Os deseo mucha suerte y un felicísimo Pascua!
April 6, 2017
6 de abril de 2017
Hello Naroa,
I had a wonderful week with you and I think I’ll never forget this time here in Gernika.
The trips and the places we saw were great. I hope you had as much fun as I had. I
liked best the trip to San Sebastian because of the beautyful sea and this wonderful
beaches. You and your family are very nice and I think you’ll like my family too.The
food and and some other things were different to Germany but I liked this new
experience.
I’m really looking forward to your visit in Germany and I hope you’ll like the country
and the things we’ll do.
Jana
Hello Paul,
The exchange was better then I have thought.
It was a very cool week with you and your class.
At first I was a little bit irritadet because we came in the school and there were students who
practiced for the traditional dance…
I was really surprised when we go to the beach but it was very cool
Second day:
We went to the beach and we went canoeing.
It was really heavy and after that we was very tired.
Third day:
We were so tired that we slept until 1:30 o clock.
The other went at 10 o clock to a football match but we slept ;)
In the evening we played a basketball match which was really funny.
After that we went to a theater and I don’t understood anything.
The best of the day was the eating pizza at 12 o’clock ;-)
Fourth day:
Nothing very special, just the dance.
Fifth day:
The awesome trip to Bilbao, but the best was the hot chocolate with caramel
Sixth day:
You went to school and we took the train to Bermeo and took a boat with which we drove
around an island, but for me it was boring…
After that we played traditional games with the whole group.
Seventh day:
We went to San Sebatian and we played a football match, in what we were in big balls a
crashed with the others.
When we went back someone had shit under her shoes. It smelled very gggooooodddd. :)
After that we went to the city center and eat some ice cream.
Than we drove to a cliff where some holes were.
In the night there was a really cool party
In the end it was a really cool exchange and I would do it again.
Simon
PS: Aitor that’s for you: BUUUMMMPPPIIINNNGGG ;-)
Hi Kiara,
I really enjoyed my stay in Basque Country with you and I am very fascinated of the landscape
in this country. I hope you had as much fun as me.
It was very suprising that we already did such a lot of cool things on the first day. I really loved
visiting Mundaka in the evening and I have to acknowledge that Spanish people are just much
more kind than German people.
In the museum in Gernika I got known with the history of Basque Country: I have seen the oak
of Gernika and the big Picasso picture near the museum. I am captivated by the huge and
beautiful window of the room cover in the museum.
I am also fascinated by your school. There are such a lot of plants in the buildings and the
buildings are so colourful. Lots of furniture and steps in the buildings are marmoreal and
wooden! I have never seen something like that before! I like it that the school is very small and
I enjoyed the food in the canteen. In our canteen the food is not as delicious as in your
canteen and I am envious becauseof the palms in the country.
We often went to basketball and football fields. We all enjoyed the community that was
dominating there. It is very funny (and also a bit exhausting) for me that you are eating dinner
and go to bed so late. I think there are much more restaurants in your country than in
Germany. In our town we have only got one restaurant! We were eating outside very often
and I must admitt that the food was very delicious.
On Sunday we have seen the day of dance in schools . In Germany we havent got anything like
that. The clothes that the kids were wearing for the dance were very funny and sweet, just as
the dance itself.
We had lot of fun in Bilbao where we have seen the University and the Guggenheim museum
from outside. After that we were able to go shopping in Bilbao and I must acknowledge that I
love the city.
I was so electrified by seeing Bermeo on Tuesday. You have got such a beautiful ocean in this
country and also so beautiful mountains and forests! Althought the trip on the boat was very
exciting it was also very cold . Every day we got a lunch box for the trips.It included water or
juice,some cookies and a sandwich . The sanwiches wereamazing. They put omelette with ham
and cheese or potatoes on it or sometimes also chicken or vegetables!
My favourite day was Wednesday when we went to San Sebastian, went for a run and had a
party in the night. The party was taking place in a disco and the mood was just awesome there.
When we watched the photos of our trips I really wished that I could stay for a longer time
with you.
I am really looking forwardto show you Germany son,
Your Exchange partner
Viola
Hola Iker
The time with you in Spain was very great. The food that I tried was very well. I`m looking forward to
see you coming to Germany. I don`t know more to write, thats why this letter is finished now
Paul S.
Blog: The whole travel started at 7 o`clock in the morning at the train. We had to say ``Bye``to our
parents and we took the train to the airport to fly to Bilbao. After it we saw your school and we
went home to our hostfamilies. The days after it in Bilbao, Bermeo and San Sebastián were really
exciting and thrilling. We went swimming in the cold Sea, played Football and Tennis and walked
through great cities. But it was very hard to say Goodbye, but I´m looking forward to see my parents
again.
I really enjoyed the time in Spain because I was really surprised how nice it was. I didn`t
expect that it will be so nice and that I won`t go back home. The time was great because the
people were so nice to us.
When we met our partners for the first time I was a little bit curious and confused because I
just knew my partner from WhatsApp and Instagram but then I was really happy to have Alaia
as partner. (Thank you to her and her family. It was a wonderful time and you are such a nice
person).
When we went to her house I was happy because she has such a nice family and it is really
beautiful there.
Me gustaba mucho el tiempo con ustedes en España. La comida estuvo muy rica y me
gustaba el tiempo con los otros alemanes y españoles en la tarde. Estuvo muy
sorprendido que el tiempo no estaba muy bueno en las primeras días, pero después
se cambiaba y había mucha sol.
Me sorprendió que nosotros pudiéramos ir en la calle tan tarde y no sabía que no es
peligroso en las calles a la noche. Después de todo estuvo muy cansada y me dormí
muy rápido.
Todo empezó cuando me despidió de mi madre en la estación en Bonn. Después
nosotros fuimos con el tren hasta Dusseldorf y de allí volamos con el avión dos horas
hasta Bilbao. Con el bus nosotros fuimos hasta el colegio donde nosotros vimos los
dances de los niños. Cuando nosotros fuimos a nuestras parejas estuvo muy tímida
porque no conocí a nadie. La familia fui muy amable y me gustaba mucho el tiempo
con todos.
Dear Alalia,
I had a very incredible week and I will miss this time a lot.
Before I arrived I was very excited and I didn`t know what I have to expect. I knew you a bit
from Whatsapp but that wasn`t a lot. I just thought that I would be more shy than in my house.
When we arrived I had a very good impression because you all were very nice and friendly to
me. Your parents were very nice too, although they can`t speak so much english. The whole
week was planned very well. In the first days all the people were a bit shy and were just with
their friends but then we got to know and and a large group emerged. We did many wonderful
things together and we had a lot of fun. I think it was very good that we didn’t just sat at home
but were outside all theafternoons.
The first day we went all together to Mozaka and the place is very pretty! The second day,
while you had school, we went to the museum peace and we went to see the famous ork of
Gernika. After that we all went to the beach. The most of the people went to canoeing but I
stayed in the beach and it was very cool, too. At the third day we went to a restaurant and it
was really tasty! The basketball game later was also very cool. And the theatre, although I
didn’t understand much, too. At the Sunday we went to a restaurant with your family and then
we went to play football. I enjoyed both very much. At Monday we went to Bilbao and it was
really great. A day later we went to bermeo while you had school. We made a boat trip and
even if my clothes get a bit wet ,I found it great. At the last whole day we went to san
sebastian , but we didn`t know what we are going to do there. The teachers told us yhat we
are going top lay football with this big balls. It was very cool and funny! When we finished we
went to san sebastian and went to the beach. San sabastian is very pretty and I was impressed.
The party in the evening was also very cool!
At home you were very nice, too and you was a very good hostess. In my opinion the Exchange
could have been a bit longer than a week.
All in all it was a very cool week with very cool people and will miss all of you.
Arianna
Mi tiempo en España: (Un text de Susanna Kilian)
Cuando hemos llegado en la escuela, todos los alumnus han estado nerviosos y
entusiasmados. No supieron como sus compañeros del intercambio van a ser y que van a
hacer durante la semana. Por que no pudimos ir a nuestros compañeros directamente,
charlamos sobre la viaje y lo que sabíamos de nuestros compañeros. Después de una hora
finalmente pudimos ir a nuestros compañeros y saludarlos. Y aunque teníamos dudas primero,
al final no era importante. Fuimos a casa y aludamos la familia. Esperamos, que vamos a ver
nuestros compañeros alemanes en el día, que viene, pero después del primer visita , fuimos a
Mundaca y veíamos a todos. Algunos chicos de España y también algunas personas de
Alemania nadaron en el mar y era muy frio, pero aunque era divertido. Por la noche cenamos
con las familias y casi todos comían fresas. El segundo día fue tan bueno como el primer. Por la
mañana visitamos el museo del paz, pero llovía mucho. Por la tarde hicimos canoa y la lluvia
terminó. Era muy divertido y nos rociamos con agua. Por la noche comíamos juntos y nos
acostamos muz tarde. En el fin de semana dormimos mucho, pero después cumplíamos con
todos y jugamos al baloncesto. No he pensado, que vamos a ver a todos tan muchas veces,
por que es muy diferente en Alemania. Pero era maravilloso y conocíamos a todos después
poco tiempo. En otros días también comíamos con todos, jugamos al fútbol o solo hablamos.
En dos días hemos visitado ciudades, Bilbao y San Sebastián. Pudimos comprar algo o visitar
famosos sitios. Durante la viaje con un autobús alguien encienda la música y cantamos mucho.
Me sentía como en casa después pocas horas y conocía a todos. No quería ir a casa pero
quedarme aquí durante mas de una semana. En la noche final, era una fiesta y todos bailaron y
ase divirtieron. Termina temperado y no quería ir a casa. Ahora puedo ver muchas diferentes,
pero no son malo: Aquí todos comían mas que la gente en Alemania. La escuela empieza mas
tarde, los chicos se encuentran muchas veces, hacen mucho deporte y hablan en voz alta.
Hi Wyllhrana,
I really enjoyed the last week with you and I hope you had as much fun as me! You and
your family are really kind and Gernika is just beautiful.
In my opinion every day was very cool: visiting Mundaka on the first day, seeing the
tree of Gernika and the Museum, going to Bilbao (twice) and watching the theatre
(allthoug I didn’t understand much ), seeing the children dancing, hanging out with
friends, visiting Bermeo and San Sebastian and of course the “Fiesta de despedisa” !!
I was a bit suprised at the first day because I thougt we wouldn’t do much on the first
day but then we went to Mundaka all together! It was very beautiful there and I’m
happy that we went there. It’s very cool that we did almost everything without any
teacher. Maybe in Germany it wouldn’t always be posible. :(
But not just the things we did were very awesome: also the people. Some of you are a
bit crazy but isn’t everyone a bit crazy? ;)
One thing I like very in Gernika is that everyone lives very close to each other. In Bonn
it isn’t like this. You can’t just go out and meet your friends because they live more far
away.
I’m really looking forward to your visit in Germany and to seeing you again!
Your exchange partner
Mathilde
Friday 7 April 2017
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