Surabaya: an authentic experience of hospitality
When I left for my Professional Exchange in Surabaya, Indonesia, I never imagined how warmly this city would welcome
me. From the very first day, I could feel the extraordinary hospitality of the local people: always smiling, kind, and ready
to help. It’s impossible to walk down the street without receiving a smile, a greeting, or a friendly word.
At the hospital, where I am carrying out my professional experience in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics,
this kindness is reflected every day. Doctors, residents, and all the healthcare staff not only welcomed me as one of their
own but actively involved me in every activity. Thanks to them, I was able to learn so much and assist in many different
procedures. They patiently explained every procedure and clinical decision, making sure I understood and truly learned.
There is an atmosphere of collaboration that makes every day stimulating and full of growth opportunities. I have never
felt like an outsider; on the contrary, they treat me like a colleague, a true part of the team.
Outside the hospital, the welcome has been just as incredible. The local organization team has been fundamental.
Always present, attentive, and helpful, they work every day to ensure we students have a smooth and enriching
experience, ready to support us with any need or difficulty.
Indonesian culture is truly fascinating: respect for others, kindness, and great attention to guests are deeply rooted
values here. People manage to make you feel welcome even through small daily gestures, making every moment even
more special.
Surabaya is a very hot city, with high temperatures almost all year round. For this reason, a lot of social life happens
inside the big shopping malls. They are huge, modern, and equipped with every comfort. They have become not only a
place to relax but also the perfect spots to study and work, thanks to the air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi, and quiet corners
where you can stay for hours.
Another aspect I truly love is the food. Indonesian cuisine is an explosion of flavors: spicy, rich, and colorful. Every dish
is a discovery. From “nasi goreng” (fried rice) to “satay” (meat skewers), every meal is a little culinary adventure. Even
for someone like me, who is used to different flavors, it’s easy to find dishes that suit various tastes.
In conclusion, Surabaya is not just the city where I am carrying out a professional experience – it has become a second
home, thanks to the affection, hospitality, and humanity that surround me every day. I am grateful to live all this and to
take with me not only new medical skills but above all the memory of wonderful people and a culture that teaches the
true meaning of kindness and sharing.