Read along in Victor’s diary – Language Camp Genieten in Gent

Fifteen-year-old Victor joined the Genieten language camp in Ghent. In his diary, he shares all the adventures he experienced.

Day 1 – Dutch only

Finally, the language camp kicked off! After some get-to-know-you games, we got the full briefing. From now on, we will only speak Dutch. Quite exciting! We had a great meal at noon, and afterwards we chilled in the dormitory. Then we had to guess the theme: the Olympic Winter Games! And yes, we picked ‘après-ski’ as our slogan. This is going to be fun.

Day 2 – Winter Games on the water

Today we went kayaking on the waterways in Ghent. It felt a little awkward at first, but soon we cleaved through the water like a pro. And I swear I saw a seal! In the afternoon we did a big cycling themed game, and our team was great at it. This day was the best!

Day 3 – Eggs and skiers

We learned new sports, and we invented a crazy one of our own. Then the official start of our Winter Games was due. Our teams, Reisrijkland and Regenboogland, made some flags. Each team received and egg that had to be protected at all costs, because it would ski jump! We could earn some protection for our egg so it wouldn’t break, by winning games. And then finally: egg ski jump! Only one egg cracked! And the teachers got pelted with some of the broken eggs. We ended the day with live piano music.

Day 4 – Climbing to the summit

Today, we climbed the high altitudes. The easiest routes posed no challenge to us.

Some tried the steepest routes. We got a cookie as a reward, delicious! Then our skiers went back to the track. Regenboogland has taken the lead!

Day 5 – Après-ski and ice cream

The hottest day so far, but we persisted with baseball and party-aerobics. Luckily, we got ice cream. In the evening there was an après-ski bar with pancakes and hot dogs. Heidi from Tirol greeted us with a warm welcome. The teachers gave us a pinguin game – very funny, but quite competitive!

Day 6 – Casino and city exploration

We arrived in Ghent, and we explored the city in small groups. A couple of friends and myself visited Gent Festivals. Later that evening, casino night! We all dressed up and some ‘marriages’ took place.

Day 7 – National pyjama party-day

Pyjamas and the Belgian colours: the teachers did a great job today. After a one-against-all game with physical and psychological challenges we won the ultimate prize: a movie night with popcorn. Chill!

Day 8 – Beach day and a concert

Getting up early for a trip to Blankenberge. We did a photo treasure hunt; also, some shopping, and we went swimming. Then the surprise: a Sam Gooris concert. It was brief but loads of fun. In the evening, we had a marshmallow barbecue to conclude the day. Very tasty!

Day 9 – The last day and final party

The last day at camp. We played Kubb against the teachers. Very cool to see how they did that! After a cosy closing ceremony and the presentation of our certificates, the party erupted. Everyone looked gorgeous.

Day 10 – Goodbye and some tears

A lot of hugging and even some tears today. No one wanted the week to end. This camp has delivered so much: new friends, a boost of self-confidence and memories to withstand the ages. Hopefully until next year, Roeland!