She won the HI Slovenia competition and traveled to South Africa
23 year old Ana Plešec from Medvode, Slovenia, was that lucky girl who won a prize contest Learning English in South Africa. Hostelling International Slovenia, Hostelling International South Africa, Atlantic Point Backpacker, International House Cape Town and Hot Spots2C enabled her a 21-day trip across the country, where 60 % of people drive without a license. 14 days she polished her English skills and in one week she explored the country.
Currently she is finishing the study of tourism. Because the journey across the South Africa impressed her so much she decided to make the degree on comparison of the quality and standards in the hostels in South Africa and Slovenia. This was her first solo travel on the other end of the world. She was already in a couple of nearby European countries; however, neither the time nor the finances allowed her more adventures. Now, when she has finished with exams, the contest
"Learning English in South Africa" came at perfect time. "I was thinking about the Erasmus student exchange, but I was worried about my English language skills. With the counsellor of the student exchange were discussing about the possibilities of paid learning English abroad. And she showed me a website of
Hostelling International Slovenia and this contest," says Ana. She signed up for the contest and ... packed her bags and flew off to the southern hemisphere.
You just came back from South Africa. You got an opportunity that is not given to everyone. And you grab it. With the help of Hostelling International Slovenia you9ve spent three weeks in South Africa. Why did you sign up for the competition at first place?
"The main reason was learning English. Not so much the school itself, I was aware that the communication throughout the journey will be in English all the time. In addition, I knew I’ll go alone and will be obliged to navigate through some situations on my own. In short, I had to be independent."
What does travelling mean to you? What is that ‘push’ that makes you pack your bags and leave?
"In life I would like to see more than just my country. This also allows personal growth, especially if you are solo traveller. You're forced into organizing things by yourself. Of course there are difficult situations at home; jet in a foreign country you are on your own and you have no other choice but to find your way out of it. So I put myself to the test. In addition, it is always interesting to learn about new cultures, customs, and traditions and meet interesting people. I'm studying tourism, because I'm interested in travel and in life I want to see as much as possible."
This was your first longer solo trip. Was there any fear present before you left? What kind of experience you gained, what did you learned?
"Even before I won the competition, I knew that I was old enough to go for this adventure, that it is now time for me. I wanted to test myself if I can be resourceful. Of course I was afraid, because in fact I did not know what I was getting into. Before leaving, I was well mentally prepared. However, it was slightly more difficult for me because my English was not on high level. I was wondering how I will speak to the others and how I everything will end up. I admit, the first day was really horrible, but then I just went with the flow, chill out and... travel and talk in English. "
What would you say are the memories that will remain always in your head?
"Certainly, I learned how to react in different situations, how to contact people. And I met a lot of amazing people from different cultures with whom I hope will stay in touch. These people are certainly the ones that will forever stay in my memory. In addition, all experiences, all knowledge gained and the entire trip was unforgettable."
What about any unusual experience?
"On the third day after I arrived in South Africa, we’ve spent some time in the poorest district 15 kilometres from Cape Town. What I’ve experienced there ... this guided tour of the district leave a great and emotional impression. I was shocked at the fact that there are girls as young as 13, 14 years old that already have children. There are many abortions, no protection, and consequently a lot of health problems. Yes, some fifteen year old girls have up to five children! The life of people in this village is really hard. Houses made of materials found on the road and the lack of food ... these scenes are really heart-breaking."
What surprised you most in South Africa?
"The traffic. It is certainly incredible, people drive abnormally. Later, we were told that South Africans get a driver's license for 20 euros and have to pass just the main exam. That means, without driving lessons in schools or anything like that. Father or uncle is usually driving instructor. In addition, 60 % of people on the streets are driving with no driver's license."
What did you like most?
"It is difficult to highlight anything. I'm really grateful to the Hostelling International Slovenia and the other sponsors who gave me this amazing opportunity to visit Cape Town. Everything that was possible to see, to know or to visit was on my itinerary. I’ve explored Cape Town far and wide. The entire trip was an incredible experience."
What would be your advice to youngsters who are reluctant to sign up for such contests and who are hesitating to go abroad?
"I have to admit, I was like that too. It was not easy for me to sign up. Jet surely everyone wants to see something more of a world than just native country. In addition, the personal growth on that king of adventures is certain. You are able to see in what kind of difficult conditions people live in other parts of the world, and you start to realize and appreciate what you have and where you live. Travelling always brings positive priceless experiences that are difficult to gain at work, school or from books. When you are on your own in all situations, brings more knowledge, new acquaintances and experiences. Just go with the flow."
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