17th November is a date many of us already remember for past events that are now an important part of Slovak history. The Trnava's section of ESN decided to use this day off to let our Erasmus students discover some more of our culture, more specifically Slovak cuisine.
France is known for its cheese, wine and much more, Italians are famous pasta and pizza makers, Belgians have their legendary chocolate, but not many foreigners know, what specialities our little big country can offer. Last Tuesday, 16 students from different countries gathered to get this experience. Certainly hungry, a bit excited, and slightly dubious expressions on their faces were replaced by that of appreciation at the first bite of traditional Slovak meals and sweets. But first things first.
The evening started with the presentation of Slovakia, followed by the degustation. Some interesting facts and must-to-see places can't have gone unmentioned. The interactive part started right afterwards, when the students had to show their knowledge about the country, where they decided to spend their Erasmus stay. And so they did. With 17 points out of 21, Ozughan became a winner of this little competition.
Awarding the second and third place required a final battle, during which three other students with the same score had to translate, or, in some cases, to guess the meaning of some Slovak words and phrases. Finally, the most successful contestants could enjoy their prize, which included, apart from wooden medals and decorations, stewed fruits and sweets made in Slovakia.
Of course, it wouldn't be a perfect evening, with a fitting name, Tastes of Slovakia, without traditional Slovak alcohol. We are pleased to announce, that our fellow students didn't back out of this challenge and proved to be becoming fully integrated Slovak students.
Pleasantly full with homemade halušky, that were a great success, and other Slovak specialities, it was time for our favourite game, called Activity, already known and favourite part of Erasmus events.
The little food and drinks that remained were divided among the students, ensuring they could enjoy the next day without cooking, remembering the last night, munching what they can only enjoy in Slovakia. Judging by their satisfied smiles and reactions, after their depart, we will need to be sending packages full of Horalky, Parenica and Chrumky all over the world.
Text: Eva Galková
Photo: Michaela Uhorskaiová
