The biggest adventure of my life so far began in July 2018 and lasted for a year. I had the opportunity to study in Bhutan, one of the most mysterious countries in the world. I left behind my usual life and stepped into the unknown. I didn't know anyone and I didn't know much about the country, but I was sure it would be exciting. And I was right.

During this time, I completely left my comfort zone and learned that I was a lot tougher than I originally thought. Fortunately, my home university and the Royal Thimphu College (RTC) have helped a lot to make the first few weeks very comfortable for me due to which the cultural differences were much easier to handle.

In a new country and a completely different environment, it was not easy to be "the exchange student", but in RTC, everyone was kind and helpful. Besides, I was not the only international student so I had other people who were going through similar experiences like mine and so we bonded over the common situations we found ourselves in.

Studying for a couple of semesters in Bhutan is an exceptional opportunity. I can recommend it to everyone because you can gain experiences that can influence your entire life.

Without the Erasmus+ exchange program, I certainly would not have been able to visit Bhutan and discovered its amazing culture. In addition to learning, I had the opportunity to travel around Bhutan, get to know the countryside, hike, go out with friends, and get to know new people. One of Bhutan’s greatest advantages is that mass tourism has not reached the country - despite all the beauty it has to offer. Due to a conscious and smart decision made by the government, there is a limit on the number of tourists who can visit the country and so in many places, nature is untouched. Modern and traditional aspects blend naturally in the country due to which its towns and cities have a special atmosphere.

RTC differs in many ways from Hungarian universities and colleges, so I learned a lot of new things here. Its biggest advantage is that English is the primary language, which makes the college completely international and open to students from outside the country.

I can safely say that it was one of the best decisions on my part to apply for Erasmus + and come to Bhutan because it was an experience I will never forget. The exposure to a completely new culture has shown me that the world is much larger and more colorful than I could have ever imagined. 

-Akos Domahidi