(source: Print screen of Sme.sk)
Being an expat in Slovakia, it’s useful to speak at least some of the local language. It helps to know a little bit about cultural differences too. Like to learn when and why to kiss people on both cheeks.
In this video interview, you can see that potato dumplings stuffed with bryndza are a must for every foreigner, that Slovak language is not easy to learn and programmes like Erasmus and Work and Travel make Slovakia very attractive, especially for young men. Also, even though Slovakia won the hockey championship more than 10 years ago, it has still been one of the most popular subjects for conversation. Additionally, alcohol plays an important role in Slovakia. Most commonly beer, shots and wine from sampling in private cellars to cheap wine from local producers. We were curious about the comparison with other countries and only one of them had the same attitude concerning alcohol.
We asked also a couple more serious questions about experience with conditions for employing foreigners and residence permits in Slovakia; to see if the rumour is true, that the easiest way is to marry a Slovak citizen. The last question was a big surprise for us and it’s about personal experience with xenophobia.
By Lucie Meisnerová
