In January 2024, the abolition of visas to the Schengen area marked the end of years of isolation and the arduous visa application process.

With visa liberalization, we gained the freedom to explore countries that had long felt out of reach. For the first time, many of us were able to take flights to destinations we had always dreamed of visiting and were able to reunite with relatives.

What was your first plane ride like? What stood out to you? Where did you go and why did you choose to go there? What did you discover and what felt different? How did it feel to experience a new country, far from the Balkans, for the first time? Would you recommend this destination to others and why? Did you face any fears, uncertainties, or challenges during the journey?

Share the emotions, challenges, surprises and everything you experienced on this trip — we want to hear your story!

Write about your journey and share the most memorable moments of this adventure with us.

Send a story between 800 and 1,000 words to [email protected] by October 31, 2024, and inspire young people in Kosovo to explore the world. Writers should be between 18 and 30. Also, writers whose articles are accepted for publication will be paid. 

Feature Image: Atdhe Mulla / K2.0