Living Together at the KulturHaus – A Community Experience

When you sign up for an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange, you aren't checking into a standard hotel. You're signing up for a community experience that's honestly half the fun. For the "Digital Detox" project, the home base is the "KulturHaus" in Osterholz-Scharmbeck, a spot specifically designed for groups to live, learn, and hang out together.

The Setup

The venue is cozy and spacious, equipped with everything needed for workshops, movie nights, and even a playroom. But here is the kicker for anyone who loves their personal space: you'll be in shared rooms with 4 to 6 people. Before you panic, know that this is done on purpose. They mix participants by gender and country to force you out of your bubble. You might be bunking with someone from Spain, Romania, or North Macedonia, which is the fastest way to make lifelong friends.

Cooking Up Connections

One of the coolest (and most chaotic) parts of this exchange is the food situation. You don't just get served; you get involved. Participants help the chef prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Everyone takes turns on kitchen duty—preparing food, washing dishes, and keeping things clean. It sounds like a chore, but peeling potatoes with someone from France or Türkiye is surprisingly great for bonding.

House Rules

To keep the vibe focused and healthy, there are a few ground rules. First off, there is absolutely no alcohol allowed in the venue. This is a detox, after all! Also, while there is internet available, the whole point is to unplug, so don't expect to be streaming Netflix all night. It's about being present with the 42 people around you, sharing stories, and creating a temporary family in the middle of the German countryside.