The Brits Do Bonfire

The Brits Do Bonfire

“Socializing in the ex-pat community”

Remember, Remember the 5th of November! The British lads in Slovenia certainly didn’t forget. In the cold night rain the host of the evening William from England, entertained guests with a traditional Bonfire night celebration. Guests enjoyed a warm fire, a glass of Slovene mulled wine, a baked potato and some acoustic guitar jamming; a perfect way to spend an evening discussing all manner of issues with people from across Europe and beyond.

The celebration of Bonfire night originates from the foiling of a gunpowder plot to destroy parliament on November the 5th 1605 by catholic conspirers. Traditionally fireworks are let off during the celebrations and a fire is lit with a “Guy” (a representation of Guy Fawkes; the leader of the plot) on top.

The Brits Celebration perhaps demonstrates the warm welcome many ex-packs can receive from their follow travelers and settlers in Slovenia. Although your reasons for living in Slovenia may primarily be to submerge yourself in the Slovene culture, often talking with people from in the same situation can be reassuring. But how do you meet fellow comrades?

Tips for making friends in the ex-pat community.

1) If you hear someone speaking your own language say hello and begin a conversation. Don’t be afraid to try to make friends; a social network is one of the many aspects of creating a true life in Slovenia. The people you met can also share there experiences and lessons with you.

2) Attend classes. Are you learning Slovene yet? If not you really aught to look into this Slovene lessons are also a fun place to met people in the same boat.

3) Take up some activities you like doing. It’s the Slovenian way to be active, so join in. Take up a sport or join a club. Take opportunities when they arise, learn to say yes to life.

Eventually I’m sure you’ll meet a whole host of strange and wonderful people. Maybe even me.

Peace.

Patrick Byrne

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