My trip to Germany | Luisa Costa, Servas Brazil

Servas International Story & Video Competition

Most voted by Servas members story prize awarded to Luisa Costa, Servas Brazil

I recount my transformative trip to Berlin. Overcoming initial insecurities about language and loneliness, I embraced the warmth of my hosts and the vibrant culture of the city. Through unforgettable experiences—like exploring Mauerpark, reconnecting with old friends, and discovering the joy of public transport—I found a new confidence and curiosity about the world. This journey not only deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures but also ignited a desire to return to Berlin for more adventures

Text:

I can still remember how incredible my trip to Berlin was, from May 3 to June 7, 2024. 

Before leaving, I was nervous—worried about getting lost, feeling lonely, and the only German I knew was “Hallo” and “Danke.” But those worries faded quickly, and by the end, I felt much more confident and excited to explore the world. 

My hosts were amazing from the start. Mira and her family were so kind and welcoming. Mira had a calming vibe, she was very kind, and her kids, Lamin and Malika, were always smiling. Her husband Ayo had a great sense of humor and a passion for music. He even showed me some Gambian plant seeds and instruments he loved. 

A few weeks later, I stayed with Jens, who was well-traveled and easy to talk to. He also loved Brazilian music, which made me feel right at home—he played Wave by Tom Jobim for me! Jens spoke Spanish too, so we had fun switching between languages. 

This was my second time as a guest with Servas, and it felt special. Even with a packed schedule at the museum and university events, I spent as much time as I could with my hosts. I couldn’t be more grateful for their warmth and kindness. 

I also got to meet Susanne, who took me to Mauerpark on a sunny Sunday afternoon. There was a clown entertaining everyone, and we laughed a lot. I tried German beer and Fritz Kola for the first time! Later, I joined a Servas Berlin meeting at a Greek restaurant, where I met other members and felt at home. 

One day, I took the Flixtrain from Berlin to Leipzig, where Lena, another Servas member, showed me around. We stumbled upon a concert at the conservatory, had a picnic in the park, and she practiced her Portuguese with me. It was a perfect day. 

To my surprise, I didn’t feel lonely in Berlin at all. Between Servas and friends from my exchange program, I met so many great people. I also reconnected with an old German friend whom I hadn’t seen in seven years and a Brazilian friend I hadn’t seen in five. 

Berlin totally won me over with its mix of cultures, love for nature, and cycling scene. This trip made me realize just how important good public transport is—it made it so easy to explore. I honestly wish every city could have this! 

This journey left me with amazing memories and a curiosity to see more of the world. I hope to return to Berlin someday, eat more Döners, soak up the multicultural vibe, and hop back on the U3 to Krumme Lanke—my new favorite German word. 

Dankeschön!