by | Apr 24, 2025 | Youth Exchange
From March 30 to April 7, 2025, the beautiful seaside town of Paralia Katerinis in Greece became the meeting point for 42 young people and facilitators from Romania, Greece, Albania, Serbia, and Tunisia for the international youth exchange “Youth for Climate Action,” coordinated by Babilon Travel NGO under the Erasmus+ programme.
The week-long exchange brought together a diverse group of young people—both with and without fewer opportunities, including youth with sensory impairments—in an inclusive learning space focused on one of the greatest challenges of our time: the climate crisis.
Through interactive workshops, outdoor activities, creative sessions, and intercultural evenings, participants explored the causes, consequences, and solutions related to climate change. They shared perspectives, learned from one another, and most importantly, collaborated to create meaningful messages and actions for sustainability. 🌱
One of the most powerful outcomes of the exchange was the creation of short advocacy videos developed by mixed teams of participants, aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring change back home.
But it wasn’t all hard work—our days were filled with energizers, beach walks, cultural exchanges, and building lasting friendships. The experience reminded us that climate action is not just about policies and data—it’s also about people, passion, and cooperation across borders.
Objectives of the project included:
Enhancing young people’s understanding of climate change and its local and global impacts.
Empowering participants with tools and skills for environmental advocacy.
Promoting inclusion and international cooperation.
This mobility proved that when youth from different countries and realities come together, magic happens—ideas bloom, connections form, and change begins.
📷 Check out the photo gallery below to see the spirit of “Youth for Climate Action” in action!
by | Apr 10, 2025 | Youth Exchange
Below you can read the press release for our upcoming activity: “DigiAct”!
by | Mar 7, 2025 | Youth Exchange
We are happy to announce our next activity! In Paralia Katerinis, Greece – From March 30th to April 7th, 2025, young people from Romania, Serbia, Greece, Albania, and Tunisia will gather in Paralia Katerinis for the “Youth for Climate Action” youth exchange. Organized by Asociatia Babilon Travel under the Erasmus+ KA-151 Youth Accreditation 2024, this exchange aims to empower young people to become active advocates for environmental sustainability and promote a culture of collective responsibility in addressing climate change.
Read the full press release below.
by | Dec 9, 2024 | Youth Exchange
In late October 2024, Asociatia Babilon Travel (ABT) proudly took part in “The Impact of Us 2,” an Erasmus+ KA1 project funded by the European Union, held in Zagreb, Croatia. This transformative youth exchange gathered 65 participants from Bulgaria, Romania, and Croatia, with a focus on empowering young individuals with disabilities and fewer opportunities through sports and social inclusion. Taking place from October 23 to October 30, the project was expertly coordinated by Taekwondo Klub Maksimir in Zagreb, in collaboration with ArTeam from Bulgaria and Asociatia Babilon Travel from Romania.
Notable Results and Achievements
For ongoing updates, project results, and photos from “The Impact of Us 2,” please visit our dedicated Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/theimpactofus/ and explore the project gallery here: Photo Gallery https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.523684813844285&type=3
Asociatia Babilon Travel is thrilled to report on the significant results achieved during “The Impact of Us 2,” which made strides across several critical areas:
Increased Knowledge and Access to Physical Activity
Through workshops and practical sessions, participants gained new skills and knowledge about adapting physical activities to their abilities. All participants reported an improved understanding of the benefits of physical activity, receiving tailored guidelines on accessible exercise options and locations. ABT’s mission to use adaptive sports as a tool for inclusion was well-represented as participants explored accessible ways to stay active.
Development of Social Skills and Self-Confidence
The program’s interactive structure encouraged participants to socialize through team tasks and group sports. ABT values fostering inclusion, and through this project, participants enhanced their communication skills and self-confidence. Teamwork promoted mutual support, resulting in a shared sense of belonging among youth.
Promotion of Intercultural Connection
Participants connected with peers from other countries, sharing personal stories and discussing the challenges they face. This dialogue helped develop intercultural understanding, which aligns with ABT’s commitment to active European citizenship. Many expressed feeling more connected to the wider European community.
Motivation for Physical Activity and a Healthy Lifestyle
Over the course of the exchange, youth learned practical techniques for staying motivated and active, even in the face of daily challenges. According to a survey conducted after the event, 80% of participants intend to continue practicing the activities they started during the project.
Highlighting the Importance of the Erasmus+ Program and the Youthpass Certificate
At the project’s conclusion, each participant received a Youthpass certificate, which acknowledges their achievements and newly gained skills. This recognition will support their personal and professional journeys, aligning with ABT’s mission to promote sustainable personal development.
Project Highlight: Free Inclusive Exercise Workshops “Zagreb in Motion”
As the capstone of “The Impact of Us 2,” the event featured free, inclusive exercise workshops titled “Zagreb in Motion.” Open to the public, these workshops demonstrated adaptive exercise techniques and were a celebration of the project’s achievements, reinforcing ABT’s commitment to making sports accessible for all. Workshop details are available at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1103891137829276/.
Workshop Program:
- 14:30 – 14:40: How the Blind Exercise: Adapting Movements and Techniques
- 14:40 – 14:50: The Silent World: Exercise for the Deaf
- 14:50 – 15:00: Power in Adaptation: Exercise for People with Disabilities
- 15:00 – 16:00: Exercise for All: Correct Movements for All Ages and Abilities
You can also see video report from local news on this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbfVX7rZn4Y
Emotional and Social Impact
ABT emphasizes the powerful role of sports in enhancing emotional and psychological health. Throughout the project, participants expressed how the experience reduced their sense of isolation, boosted self-confidence, and fostered a stronger sense of community. This shared experience with European peers offered new perspectives and strengthened intercultural understanding, fostering deeper empathy and cooperation.
Long-Term Impact and Significance
ABT’s work with “The Impact of Us 2” extends beyond a single event, contributing to a movement that promotes inclusive spaces for youth across Europe. By strengthening partnerships with organizations from Croatia and Bulgaria, ABT has helped lay a foundation for future projects aimed at improving the quality of life for young people with disabilities and fewer opportunities.
Looking to the Future
With “The Impact of Us 2” now complete, the momentum generated by this project will continue. Asociatia Babilon Travel remains committed to developing adaptive programs and empowering youth through sport and intercultural collaboration. We believe this project is just the beginning of lasting changes that will enable youth with disabilities and fewer opportunities to thrive, highlighting the power of inclusion and community-driven support across Europe.
by | Dec 2, 2024 | Youth Exchange
At Asociația Babilon Travel (ABT), we are proud to have partnered in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project “Dance More Stress Less”, which beautifully aligned with our mission of promoting inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and active European citizenship through innovative tools like adaptive sports and arts. This project, funded by the European Union, held in Zagreb, Croatia, from 05.11. to 12.11.2024, brought together 58 young participants from Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Poland to address stress and mental health challenges through the unifying power of dance.
The Role of Asociația Babilon Travel
As a Romanian partner organization, ABT contributed its expertise in fostering inclusion and intercultural learning by engaging young participants, including those with fewer opportunities, in dynamic activities. The project reflects our commitment to creating accessible and transformative experiences that encourage participants to embrace diversity and develop essential life skills.
Tangible Results
- Free Dance Workshops @ Zagreb
Throughout the project, a series of free dance workshops were held across Zagreb, offering local participants the chance to explore different dance styles, including bachata, hip-hop, K-pop, lady styling, and man styling. These workshops were led by talented instructors from each of the participating countries, making it a multicultural experience accessible to all generations.
You can see more info here: https://www.facebook.com/events/830215659038963/
- Photo Gallery
We’ve curated a photo gallery showcasing the energy, enthusiasm, and connections formed during the project. The images capture moments from the workshops, social interactions, and our concluding dance party, reflecting the spirit of unity and joy that “Dance More Stress Less” created.
You can find photo gallery here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FASf4RVqY/
- Video Gallery
To bring the project’s dynamic atmosphere to life, we also created a video gallery that highlights key moments and the participants’ growth over the course of the week.
You can find video gallery here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/18JTnl9MgTkaYITOCVqrR9BQMjAolSRXT?usp=drive_link
Intangible Results: Soft Skills Developed
Beyond the tangible outcomes, “Dance More Stress Less” was a platform for participants to build essential soft skills that will continue to benefit them personally and professionally:
Participants learned techniques for managing stress through dance and developed strategies to cope with challenges in a healthy, productive way. This skill will help them handle various life pressures with more resilience.
- Teamwork and Collaboration
Working with peers from different countries taught participants the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Whether during dance routines or group discussions, they experienced the power of collective effort.
Dance became a universal language, bridging language barriers and encouraging open communication. Through verbal and non-verbal cues, participants improved their ability to express themselves clearly and understand others.
- Self-Confidence and Body Awareness
Learning dance, particularly Bachata, helped participants gain confidence and become more aware of their bodies. This self-assurance extends beyond the dance floor and into other areas of life.
- Intercultural Understanding
By engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds, participants deepened their appreciation for other cultures and fostered a sense of European unity.
The program encouraged self-reflection and empathy, leading participants to understand their own emotions and those of others, an essential skill for building strong interpersonal relationships.
Hosted by Urbana mladeĹľ (Urban Youth) from Croatia, the project partners include:
Babilon Travel, Romania, Nacionalno dvizhenie obedinenie zarazvitie na sporta i sportna kultura Fuutura, Bulgaria, and Fundacja See Beyond, Poland.
Acknowledging Our Partners
We express our gratitude to Urbana mladeĹľ (Croatia), FOOTURA (Bulgaria), and Fundacja See Beyond (Poland) for their collaboration and dedication. Supported by Erasmus+, this project stands as a testament to the power of teamwork and the importance of intercultural exchange.
The ABT Perspective
At ABT, we believe in creating inclusive spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, can experience growth, connection, and joy. The “Dance More Stress Less” project embodies these values, offering a model for how adaptive sports, arts, and intercultural dialogue can bring people together, reduce stress, and promote mental well-being.
We look forward to continuing our work in empowering young people, especially those with fewer opportunities, to engage in life-changing experiences like this. Together, we can build a more inclusive and united future.
by | Oct 24, 2024 | Youth Exchange
Asociatia Babilon Travel (ABT) is excited to announce that a group of young participants from Romania will take part in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project “Dance More Stress Less,” hosted in Zagreb, Croatia, from 05.11. to 12.11.2024. This unique initiative is funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ KA1 program and brings together young people from Romania, Croatia, Poland, and Bulgaria to improve mental well-being through the power of dance.
About the Project:
“Dance More Stress Less” aims to address the growing stress, isolation, and anxiety that many young people in Europe face today, worsened by the rising cost of living and global uncertainties. This project will provide 58 participants with an engaging environment where they can use dance, particularly the lively Latin dance Bachata, as a tool to relieve stress, enhance mental health, and build lasting social connections.
Asociatia Babilon Travel is sending a group of Romanian youth to take part in this meaningful exchange, where they will not only improve their own mental health but also participate in intercultural dialogue and strengthen their sense of European citizenship.
Why is Asociatia Babilon Travel Involved?
Asociatia Babilon Travel is deeply committed to promoting inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and adaptive sports as instruments of integration, particularly for young people with disabilities and fewer opportunities. By participating in this Erasmus+ project, we continue our mission to empower young people through inclusive experiences, helping them overcome social barriers and challenges. “Dance More Stress Less” aligns perfectly with our values, offering a platform where young people can connect, learn, and grow, both physically and mentally.
Why Bachata?
Bachata is much more than just a dance—it’s a powerful form of social engagement, fostering connections and building communities. Through the energetic and expressive movements of Bachata, participants will improve their social skills, teamwork, and confidence while learning how to manage stress in a fun and dynamic way. The health benefits of Bachata are numerous, including:
- Enhanced physical fitness
- Improved mental well-being
- Better coordination and balance
- Boosted self-confidence
For our Romanian participants, this project will offer the chance to experience these benefits firsthand, while also engaging in cultural exchanges with young people from across Europe.
Project Objectives:
- Identify and address the stressors affecting participants.
- Teach effective stress management strategies through dance.
- Promote the importance of physical activity and social engagement for mental well-being.
- Encourage intercultural awareness and foster a sense of European identity.
- Showcase Erasmus+ opportunities for youth development across Europe.
Looking Forward:
At Asociatia Babilon Travel, we believe in the transformative power of initiatives like “Dance More Stress Less.” By sending Romanian youth to Zagreb, we are providing them with an enriching opportunity to not only improve their mental health and social skills but also to gain valuable insights into other cultures and form lasting friendships. Participants will receive a Youthpass certificate, acknowledging their learning and involvement in the project.
We are proud to be part of this meaningful Erasmus+ experience and look forward to seeing how our young participants grow through their involvement in Zagreb! Stay tuned for updates from our Romanian group as they embark on this exciting adventure.
