In September 2025, the fifth-year Russian-language students of HLW Lipizzanerheimat embarked on an inspiring Erasmus+ journey to the north of Europe: to Tallinn, Estonia, and Helsinki, Finland. The trip was more than just a cultural exchange. It was an opportunity to experience European diversity, strengthen language skills, and discover how history and modernity blend in two forward-thinking capitals.
The adventure began with a smooth flight from Graz via Frankfurt to Tallinn. Upon arrival, the students quickly noticed the city’s blend of medieval charm and digital innovation — a perfect symbol of modern Europe. Even buying a public transport ticket turned into a small learning moment when they discovered that cash was no longer accepted. An amusing sign of Estonia’s reputation as one of the most digital societies in the world.
The group was warmly welcomed by their partner school, Tallinna Tondi Kool, a school specialised in education for students with special needs and designed to support each individual’s learning path. Together with the Estonian pupils, the students explored the school, exchanged stories about daily life, and took part in a cheerful baking activity, preparing muffins side by side. Communication flowed naturally between English, German and a few words of Russian and even Estonian. Friendships began to form over laughter and shared recipes.
In the following days, the program combined cultural immersion with active learning. During a visit to the Europa Experience, an interactive exhibition about the European Union and its institutions, the students participated in a lively workshop about the European Union, its institutions, and its impact on everyday life. They gained a clearer sense of what it means to be European and how cooperation across borders shapes the continent’s future. Later, the group delved into Tallinn’s history at the famous Town Hall Pharmacy, the oldest in Europe, where they learned about the fascinating world of herbs and traditional medicine.
The exploration of Tallinn continued with an informative city rally, organized together with students from the partner school. Teamwork, curiosity, and a good sense of direction led to fun discoveries throughout the Old Town. A visit to the Russian Cultural Centre offered deeper insight into the city’s multicultural roots, reflecting the coexistence of traditions and languages that shape Estonia’s identity today.
Evenings were filled with shared meals and laughter, from a festive dinner at the medieval restaurant Olde Hansa, with candlelight and live music, to a delightful Russian dinner featuring pelmeni in all their delicious varieties, and finally to spontaneous karaoke sessions that turned strangers into friends. These moments highlighted what Erasmus+ is all about: connecting people, sharing experiences, and celebrating European unity through personal encounters.
After a culturally enriching and exciting week in Estonia, the group boarded a ferry across the Baltic Sea to Finland, linking two northern European countries that share innovation, sustainability, and a love for nature. In Helsinki, the students explored the city’s design scene, vibrant street art, and open-minded urban culture. They were impressed by how modern architecture and green spaces coexist harmoniously, creating a city that looks confidently toward the future.
By the time the group returned home, they had collected far more than photos and souvenirs. They carried new perspectives, fresh motivation for language learning, and lasting memories of friendship and discovery. The Erasmus+ trip to Tallinn and Helsinki showed them how rich and dynamic Europe is and how every journey, no matter how short, can open hearts and minds to the shared values of our continent.