Author: Tamara Mrázová
Oli Džupinková: “Our Country Has Many Talented People Capable of Competing with the Best”
“Slovaks have big goals and dreams, and since they have more opportunities today, they go after them. They take on new challenges and seek opportunities that they might not have at home,” says Oli Džupinková, author of the book They Succeeded Abroad, but We Don’t Know Them at Home. In her book, she mapped the lives of 170 successful Slovaks. In an interview, she revealed: How she selected the stories for her book, the most challenging part of the writing process, the difficulties Slovaks face abroad and how they raise awareness about Slovakia, what it was like filming a music video with Celeste Buckingham. What inspired you to write They Succeeded Abroad, but We Don’t Know Them at Home? Does it relate to your radio show? I was inspired to write the book by my work at Rádio Expres, where I hosted a program about Slovaks living abroad for ten years. During that time, I conducted over 300 interviews. Later, when I took a sabbatical and travelled more, I personally visited many of them in the countries where they live and work. This project was very personal and inspiring for me, and I gradually realized that I wanted to celebrate and conclude those ten years by publishing a book. I wanted to document their stories and inspire others because their successes often remain unknown at home, even though they are incredibly successful abroad. How did you select the stories for the book? What were your criteria? I chose stories based on themes I decided to explore about Slovaks abroad. Over the years, I kept track of all my interviews—I had a list of countries, topics, and continued to follow these individuals. A year ago, I defined the book’s main themes and began reviewing my entire archive to select stories that fit. The book starts with stories of people who left before 1989. It continues with chapters focused on science and research, healthcare, technology, education, business and finance, law, marketing, sports, travel, communities, photography, design, art, fashion, music, and dance. There is even a chapter on food and bartending since I love cocktails. The final chapter, Returns, features stories of people who were living abroad at the time of the interview but have since returned to Slovakia. In this chapter, I explored their reasons for returning, their feelings during their first year back, and their new lives in Slovakia. What message do you want to convey to readers through these stories? This book carries a message for all of us—not just Slovaks living abroad, but also for people in Slovakia. It shows what we are capable of, how brave and hardworking we are. Slovaks contribute to global projects, lead international companies, and create groundbreaking concepts. We can all be proud of them because they represent Slovakia positively worldwide. For me, this book is about courage, hard work, and success, reminding us that our country has many talented people capable of competing with the best on a global scale. What were the most fascinating discoveries while working on the book? Was there a story that touched you the most? Each story was unique, and every field had something new to offer. Through my work in radio, where I conducted interviews for 15 years, I learned to tune in to my guests and always gain new insights. For example, in bartending culture, I discovered things I had never known before. Talking to Slovak scientists, I learned important facts about science and research. The same applies to finance, art, travel, architecture, and ecology.Through these interviews, I expanded my own knowledge. Some facts now seem like common sense to me because I have absorbed them. I highly recommend reading the book, where everyone can find something surprising and new. Do you think success abroad brings unique challenges and opportunities not available in Slovakia? Absolutely. My radio show was born from the realization that so many Slovaks around me were living abroad and working in positions that are rare in Slovakia. Many have reached top roles in global companies or succeeded in fields that have little tradition or support in Slovakia. This is not a bad thing, on the contrary, it is thanks to their skills and courage to travel, work in a foreign environment, and step out of their comfort zone. These challenges and new opportunities abroad have allowed them to succeed in ways that might not have been possible at home. By working hard, gaining education, and acquiring new experiences abroad, many Slovaks have achieved remarkable success. So yes, success abroad presents unique challenges and opportunities that are not always available at home, and it also showcases the potential we can develop beyond our borders. How do you see courage in relation to migration and seeking better opportunities? There are many perspectives on this. Today, we have far more opportunities for studying, working, and travelling. We also have more courage to try a new life in a foreign country. In a way, migration happens not just across borders but also within Slovakia itself. I am an example. I come from Snina in eastern Slovakia and gradually moved through Prešov and Košice to Bratislava. Slovaks have big dreams and goals, and since they have more opportunities now, they go after them. They take on new challenges and seek opportunities that might not be available at home. This takes courage—to leave your comfort zone, face new challenges, and try something different. I support everyone who does this because being courageous means stepping up to challenges, chasing your dreams, and creating your own path—whether at home or abroad. But remember, courage is not just about leaving, it’s about stepping out of your comfort zone. How do you see the role of Slovaks abroad and their influence on the countries where they live? I see it very positively because Slovaks abroad have a strong voice and hold important positions in many projects, jobs, and communities. Of course, it also depends on the individual—some Slovaks integrate more, make friends, and actively engage in communities, while others are more reserved. During my travels to places like the Philippines, Barcelona, and Australia, I noticed how well Slovaks integrate into local communities and spread awareness about Slovakia. They talk about our traditions and culture, keep up with events at home, and share them with their foreign friends. In this way, Slovaks abroad have a significant impact on the countries where they live while also representing Slovakia positively on an international level. Before the book They Succeeded Abroad, but We Don’t Know Them at Home, you wrote Fairy Tales from the Wolf Mountains and Mom’s Rusyn Kitchen. Which book was the most enjoyable to write? That’s a tough question because each book was a completely different project. Mom’s Rusyn Kitchen was a family project. I talked a lot with my mother, my godmother, and my grandmothers. My cousin Zuzana Sýkorová and my publishing partner Peter Šuchtár worked on it with me. It was an emotional and powerful project that brought our family together. Fairy Tales from the Wolf Mountains was part of a project with Wolf Syrups, which has a strong local and national story. We involved children from across Slovakia, who wrote fairy tales. My role was more managerial, coordinating, and editing with language editor Katka Vaškaninová. It was a beautiful project, different from my other books. They Succeeded Abroad, but We Don’t Know Them at Home was the most challenging book, and I say this with hindsight. The biggest challenge was the authorization process—I had to get approval from 170 people, which was very demanding. Fortunately, I had help from my friends. The book is nearly 500 pages long, weighs 2.5 kg, and reflects the immense work and energy we put into it. I am extremely proud of it and of all Slovaks who have succeeded abroad. You recently appeared in Celeste Buckingham’s music video about female confidence. How was that experience? It was an unforgettable experience and one of my top moments of 2024. Celeste invited me to be part of her video, and I immediately said yes. We wore baroque gowns with crinolines—I had never worn anything like that before and felt like I was in a fairy tale. But these dresses also symbolized how restrictive that era was for women. The video promotes self-love and confidence and supports mental health awareness. It already has over 360,000 views, which is amazing. Celeste is a strong voice not only in music but also in society, and she is a role model for many young girls and women. What are your future plans? Any new books? I am not planning a sequel to this book. In fact, this book marks the end of my podcast and my show for Rádio Expres after ten years. I have decided to move on. I also don’t plan to publish another book on similar topics and would like to take a break from publishing for a while – I hope I can stick to it! Remember that. (Smile). I have many plans, some of which are connected to my Rusyn projects – the Rusyn Experience Dinner and concerts of Rusyn music. I am looking forward to the Christmas concert of Dominika Novotná with the jazz formation AMC Trio at Studio L+S in Bratislava. Regarding other projects, on February 1, 2025, I am excited about the Czech-Slovak Ball in Prague, where I will be part of the organizing team – a new and big experience for me. I have also launched the Cocktail Vibes Live podcast in collaboration with Robo Šajtlava and his bar agency, Cocktail Vibes. We are preparing a series of interviews about bar culture and cocktails with various guests and enthusiasts of this world. In 2025, I am joining the organizing team of TEDxHumenné. I am very excited that after Bratislava and Trenčín, this global TEDx format has now reached the east of Slovakia. Humenné is currently the Slovak City of Culture, bringing people together and creating a strong community that is doing great things. I definitely recommend visiting the east. (Smile).
The Story of a First Female Professor Laura Bassi: What a historic milestone she achieved
When we think of women in science during the 18th century, Laura Bassi’s name shines brightly. This Italian physicist, professor and philosopher, Laura Maria Caterina Bassi Veratti (1711–1778), was not just a groundbreaking scientist but a persona who shattered the glass ceilings of her time. She was the first woman in the world to secure a university professorship. Also the second female character to earn a doctorate in philosophy. As a leading figure of the Enlightenment, her work inspired generations of scholars and thinkers. Born on October 31, 1711, in beautiful Italian Bologna, a city renowned for its academic and cultural legacy, Laura demonstrated exceptional intellect from a young age. In an era when education for women was rare, her family ensured she had access to learning. Her talents were quickly recognized by her tutor, the physician and philosopher Gaetano Tacconi, and later supported by Prospero Lambertini, the Archbishop of Bologna and future Pope Benedict XIV. At just 20 years old, in 1732, Laura achieved a historic milestone. She earned a doctorate in philosophy from the prestigious University of Bologna, becoming the first woman to attain such a degree at a European university. Read also: Let’s enhance our communication skills The World’s First Female Professor In April 1732, Laura publicly defended 49 theses in front of the professors of the University of Bologna. Having been considered a remarkable achievement, it led to her receiving her doctorate on May 12. Shortly after, she was appointed as the university’s first female professor. However, her role came with limitations—she was initially barred from teaching all-male classes. With the support of Lambertini, then Pope Benedict XIV, Laura obtained permission to give private lectures and conduct experiments, which the university granted in 1740. Her appointment as a professor of philosophy was revolutionary. In a time when women’s public engagement in academic life was almost unthinkable, Laura’s presence at the university caused a sensation. Despite restrictions, she embraced the challenge and used it as an opportunity to pave the way for others. A Life of Female Professor In 1738, Laura married Giuseppe Veratti, a physician and scientist. Their marriage was not only a personal partnership but also an intellectual collaboration. Together, they worked on scientific research, particularly in experimental physics and medicine, embodying a rare example of an intellectual marriage in that era. Laura was also a mother to eight children (some sources suggest as many as 12), yet she managed to balance her family life with a demanding scientific career. Her ability to combine both roles made her an inspiration for women aspiring to follow their ambitions. Scientist with Knowledge Laura Bassi wasn’t just a scientist; she was a passionate advocate for science. She organized lectures and experiments in her home, educating young scientists and students. During the Enlightenment, which emphasized spreading knowledge to the public, Laura stood out as a pioneer. Her lectures often focused on physics and natural sciences, and she was an avid proponent of Isaac Newton’s theories, which fascinated her. Not only did she excel in theoretical work, but her talent for experimentation set her apart. What a rarity at the time! A Legacy That Lives On Laura Bassi passed away on February 20, 1778. At the age of 66 she left the world likely due to health complications exacerbated by multiple childbirths. However, her legacy endures. As a pioneer for women in education and science, she broke barriers and proved that intelligence and ability transcend gender. In 2019, a research vessel was named RV Laura Bassi in her honor, reflecting the enduring impact of her contributions. Laura Bassi remains a symbol of courage, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity that continues to inspire today.
Pay Discrimination Persists, but the Issue of Wage Inequality is Gaining More Attention
Just a few days ago Equal Pay Day Slovakia conference was held in Bratislava. For the second time, event managed to draw the attention of companies, organizations, the media, and public. At the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, people who care deeply about equality and want to make our society better came together to address a key issue: the fact that women work for free for about two months of the year. The Equal Pay Day conference, brought to Slovakia by Martina Novotná, founder of Akčné ženy, o.z., focused extensively on the topic of the “women’s euro.” Moderators, speakers, and ambassadors openly discussed wage inequality, but they did not stop there. The event was packed with positive examples from practice, tips for achieving equal pay in the workplace, and panel discussions on age discrimination, intergenerational collaboration, talent drain, and financial literacy. The Symbolism of Red: From Deficit to Strength “Two years ago, I would not have imagined waking up and going to bed with the colour red every day, but today I started my day with the slogan ‘We’re going red.’ Red symbolizes a deficit in accounting and represents the minus of Equal Pay Day. However, we view it positively. For us, it is a symbol of energy and female strength, a symbol of our ability to make changes, amplify women’s voices, and highlight the critical work they do,” said Martina Novotná, the organizer of Equal Pay Day Slovakia, in her opening remarks. Philip Morris Slovakia Returns as the General Partner “I am very proud that our company can support this event for the second year in a row. The topic of equal working conditions and equal pay is very close to my heart, not only because I am a lawyer but also because I am a woman and, most importantly, the mother of an 11-year-old daughter. That is why it is essential to talk about these issues,” said Nadežda Beňová Miklovičová from Philip Morris Slovakia. Survey by 2muse on Perceived Inequality in Pay in Slovakia A survey conducted by 2muse, presented by Patrícia Kollár and Michal Vyšinský, revealed that considerable progress compared to the previous year is still lacking. However, awareness of various types of discrimination, including those linked to pay disparities, has increased. While age discrimination remains the most common form of workplace bias, the survey showed that women, especially mothers, are the most vulnerable group in terms of workplace inequality. Employers are beginning to address these issues with measures like flexible working options and part-time roles. Respondents highlighted stereotypes about older employees being less adaptable and younger workers lacking experience. Data revealed that men and women aged 45–50 often feel insecure about their jobs. Aditionally, they face significant anxiety about their roles, making them more likely to accept lower pay and less likely to negotiate salaries. Panel Discussions on Critical Topics at Equal Pay Day The conference featured a series of expert panel discussions. They presented topics such as intergenerational understanding, financial literacy, the destabilizing effects of young talent leaving Slovakia, and the challenges of succession planning within companies. Participants received numerous practical tips on implementing fair pay policies and eliminating age discrimination in the workplace. “Fighting discrimination, especially age discrimination, is one of our company principles. We take preventive measures and foster mutual respect. Discrimination of any kind has no place here. For example, we have programs that allow mothers to actively participate in projects during their maternity leave, working when it suits them,” said Martina Kandera from Slovak Telekom. “Although I studied in Austria, I never considered staying there. Opportunities found me here in Slovakia, and it was always important for me to stay close to my family. We must think about the culture we want to live in and raise our children in,” said Sandra Balážiková from ING Hubs Slovakia. “If half of humanity is responsible for the very existence of our species, then they should receive something in return. Thanks to women, we live, and it should be a given that disparities are eliminated. Offering flexibility to mothers came naturally to us, and this approach should be the norm across society,” added Andrej Zaťko from 365.bank. Mentoring and an Engaged Audience at Equal Pay Day The importance of the conference’s topics resonated with participants not only during the event but also through mentoring sessions. Outstanding mentors shared real-life examples and solutions tailored to various age groups. The success of the mentoring sessions and the audience’s active engagement underscored an urgency. The urgency of continuing discussions about all forms of discrimination. Equal Pay Day 2025 The most vulnerable groups of men and women need our support and action. Equal Pay Day is not just a symbolic day when women try to catch up with men’s pay. Equal Pay Day is about providing everyone with an equal starting line. It is also about tolerance, respect, and mutual appreciation. Regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status. “We owe great thanks to our partners, supporters, and ambassadors. With their help, we launched the Equal Pay Initiative earlier this year, and dozens of additional companies have since joined. The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, and Family has invited us to collaborate. Aditionally, we managed to do so on transposing the directive on pay transparency, which also aims to reduce wage inequality. We have conducted workshops focused on discrimination and expanded Equal Pay Day activities to regional areas. We will keep working tirelessly and have already begun preparing for the third conference because we truly believe in this mission,” concluded Martina Novotná, founder of the Akčné ženy magazine and organizer of Equal Pay Day. Thank you to all the conference partners and participants for their strong attendance and positive feedback. We look forward to seeing you at the third annual Equal Pay Day conference on November 19, 2025!
Breast Cancer Awareness: The Story of Janka Šišková and Her Message to Women
Breast cancer is a disease that affects thousands of women every year, many of whom face the challenge without warning or awareness of prevention options. Despite advancements in medicine and early detection methods, one-third of breast cancer patients in Slovakia still visit their doctor in the later stages of the disease. At an event focused on promoting women’s health, Janka Šišková, a woman whose story embodies courage, determination, and a desire to help others, shared her journey. Her path from breast cancer diagnosis to recovery serves as both a lesson and an inspiration. Breast cancer and Janka’s fight Janka Šišková’s story began subtly. “It was just an ordinary afternoon,” she recalls. “I was trying on new clothes at home when I suddenly felt a lump under my fingers.” At first, she thought it was nothing serious. However, after a few days, she decided to see a doctor, who diagnosed her with breast cancer after a series of tests. “Suddenly, my life turned upside down,” she admits. The diagnosis was clear: stage three cancer with metastases in her lymph nodes. Despite the shock and feelings of helplessness, Janka knew she had a choice, give in to fear or start fighting. Why is breast cancer prevention a key Janka emphasizes that the greatest chance for successful treatment lies in detecting the disease at an early stage. According to the World Health Organization, early detection can reduce breast cancer mortality by up to 30%. Prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. Important are regular self-examinations, routine gynecological check-ups, and participation in mammography screenings which are available for women aged 50–69 in Slovakia. “Unfortunately, many women believe that it can’t happen to them, or they postpone prevention for later. That is exactly the mistake.” Janka’s message: Know your body “Every woman should take the time to understand her body,” Janka says. She highlights that self-examinations are a simple yet effective way to detect changes in the breasts. Here’s her recommended method: Visual inspection in front of a mirror: Look for any changes, such as redness, dimpling, or changes in the shape of your breasts or nipples. Palpation: Using circular motions with your fingertips, examine your breasts and underarm area for lumps, hardening, or sensitive spots. Consistency: Perform self-examinations every month, ideally three to five days after your period. If you don’t have a period, choose a fixed day each month. Cancer and its treatment: More than a physical burden Breast cancer treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and, in some cases, hormonal therapy. Janka stresses that the psychological aspect of the battle is equally challenging. “When I lost my hair, I felt like I had lost a part of my identity. That’s when I realized I needed help,” she shares. Janka sought support from a psychologist and gradually learned to cope with her emotions. “Psychological support is just as important as physical treatment. It helped me not only survive tough times but also understand myself better,” she admits. Today, she encourages all women to seek help, whether professional or from loved ones. Read also: Women in business and diplomacy Awareness as a path to change After her successful treatment, Janka decided her experience shouldn’t go unnoticed. “I want women to know their health is invaluable. Every day without prevention is an unnecessary risk,” she says. She now actively participates in campaigns promoting breast cancer prevention. One such initiative was Mila’s campaign held on International No Bra Day, which underscores the importance of breast health awareness. Thanks to these events, more women are realizing that prevention is the best protection. A message to women “Breast cancer is a fight every one of us can win, if we act in time. Prevention is our greatest ally,” Janka reminds women. Her story proves that even in the toughest moments, strength, inspiration, and determination to help others can be found. Janka’s message is simple yet profoundly important: Take a moment for yourself, care for your health, it could save your life.
Women in Diplomacy: Breaking Barriers and Setting Higher Goals with Megan Naylor
In today’s world, women are taking on roles that were once thought to be the sole domain of men—whether in business, government, or diplomacy. Megan Naylor, a senior economic officer for the US Embassy, is one such woman reshaping the face of international relations. Her story reveals the challenges and opportunities women face in diplomacy, which often mirrors the experiences of women in business. Let’s dive into her journey and her perspective on the evolving role of women in leadership. An Unexpected Journey into Diplomacy Megan’s journey into diplomacy wasn’t part of her childhood dreams. Growing up in Texas, she had little awareness of international relations. Initially, she worked in economic development in the United States and pursued graduate studies in Business Administration and Economic Development. It was only after meeting someone passionate about a career in the Foreign Service that Megan was introduced to the world of diplomacy This “someone” later happened to become Megan’s husband. She followed him to Liberia, a post-conflict country, right after finishing her MBA. For Megan, it was a challenging shift. Leaving behind her peers who were pursuing high-level corporate positions for an unfamiliar country with limited infrastructure. However, she saw this as an opportunity for growth and embraced it. Megan took on a role as a public affairs officer at the embassy. “It led to a lot of soul searching and kind of thinking about what I wanted to do next,” Megan shared. Working alongside Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who is currently the US Ambassador to the United Nations, had a profound impact on her career. “She has this wonderful, amazing personality, and is full of so much energy and is so authentic and engaging,” Megan said. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield showed Megan that diplomacy could be driven by authenticity, warmth, and genuine engagement with others. Navigating Gender Challenges in Diplomacy as Women Megan acknowledges that being a woman in diplomacy comes with its own set of challenges, similar to those faced by women in business. Historically, the US Department of State had rules that prevented women diplomats from working if they got married. It took lawsuits and significant societal changes to break down those discriminatory barriers. Today, about 40% of American diplomats are women, but only 30% of ambassadors are female. This disparity highlights the lingering challenges women face in reaching senior positions, both in diplomacy and business. Women still face institutional barriers, societal expectations, and challenges balancing work and family responsibilities. Megan pointed out how men often find it easier to navigate these aspects due to societal norms, where women are typically expected to prioritize family over career. “As a woman in diplomacy today, I see myself as someone who is meant to be here,” Megan said. The Importance of Setting Ambitious Goals for Women Megan emphasizes the need for women to set “big, audacious goals”. A term she borrowed from a book she is currently reading, written by one of her business school professors. She believes that while no one achieves 100% of what they want, it is important to aim high, even beyond what feels comfortable. “You’ll never get to 100%, but if you keep your ambitions low, it’s going to keep you down even further,” Megan said. Pushing beyond limits, even if it leads to some disappointment, ultimately results in greater success. Megan also shared how women need to balance assertiveness with warmth. This can help them advance while maintaining good relationships with their peers. This balance is often key to navigating the complexities of leadership roles in male-dominated fields. Support and Mentorship for Women A strong support network is crucial for women navigating challenging fields like diplomacy. Megan believes in the power of mentorship and allyship. Supporting each other, being there to guide and motivate, and acknowledging that sometimes the system is stacked against women, can help lift others up. It’s about showing empathy and setting an example. Example of what effective leadership looks like—combining decisiveness with care for the team. “It’s so important for women to support each other in the workplace,” Megan emphasized. “We can support each other as we work against barriers.” Women in leadership roles have the opportunity to break stereotypes by being both assertive and empathetic. Megan highlighted that in the past, some women in senior roles might have tried to emulate men by being more ruthless. However, there is a growing recognition that empathy and vulnerability, when combined with strength, make for a truly effective leader. Balancing Work and Life Balancing professional and personal life is another major challenge for women in demanding careers. Megan shared her own experience of managing her diplomatic duties while raising two children. She emphasized the importance of being conscious about choices—deciding where to spend time, and sometimes outsourcing tasks like childcare or household chores to focus on what truly matters. “There are constant choices,” she said, “like last night, I really wanted to attend a diplomatic gathering, but my kids had a school bake sale, and I chose to be there for them.” She also pointed out that work-life balance isn’t just important for women with families but for everyone. Employees should be able to pursue their hobbies and have time to relax, without feeling obligated to work constantly. Setting boundaries, such as limiting the time spent checking work emails, is key to maintaining that balance. Changing Gender Roles and Leading by Example Megan also touched on the evolving roles of men and women in both households and the workplace. She spoke about how, in her own family, responsibilities are shared equally between her and her husband. “We are partners,” Megan said. She believes in setting a good example for her sons. By teaching them from a young age that tasks like cooking and cleaning are normal and necessary for everyone. This shift towards shared responsibilities and more egalitarian roles is something that Megan hopes to see more of in future generations. By involving children in household tasks and modeling equal partnerships, parents can help shape a future where gender roles are more balanced. Megan’s experiences remind us that with determination, support, and the courage to aim high, women can achieve remarkable things—even in fields historically dominated by men. This conversation was part of a podcast, and our readers can watch and listen to it on various streaming platforms.
From Slovakia to Sun: Matej Jurášek’s Life-Changing Move to Madeira
Matej Jurášek, known as “Rarach,” is a Slovak who, together with his family, made the move to the island of Madeira. But settling in turned out to be trickier than he imagined. Through his Instagram account, “rarachjenamadeire,” Matej shares insights into life on the island. In this interview, we asked him why he and his wife chose to move abroad, what life on the island is like, and much more. Matej, where did the idea to move come from, and why Madeira? When we first started considering the move, we only had one son. We thought that living abroad might be better for the three of us. Plus, we knew it would be easier for our child to adapt while he was still young. For my wife and me, it was definitely much harder than it was for him. Initially, we had Spain in mind. We kept thinking about the move, planning it all out in our heads. Then we took a trip to Madeira, and we made the decision pretty quickly. We just fell in love with the island—the scenery, the people. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. The climate also suited us perfectly, with its pleasant spring-like weather almost year-round. You wake up to sunshine, and you can swim all year. It really lifts your mood, and it’s much nicer to wake up to sunny mornings than cold, gray winters. Read also: Girls in marketing Do you remember your first feelings after moving? Oh, definitely. I remember that first morning so clearly. We stayed with friends for the first three weeks to give us time to get settled and find our own place. It might sound like something out of a movie, but I woke up to the sound of the ocean, and every time I looked out the window, I was in awe of the view. I even started crying, thinking, “Wow, we actually did this.” But, of course, reality set in soon after, and it wasn’t easy. It’s amazing to watch my sun switch between languages. He knows exactly who to speak to and in which language. He speaks Slovak with me, Portuguese with the neighbor, and English with our friends. He handles it all so naturally! Did moving to Madeira have any downsides? We were surprised to find that everyone here takes their time with things. We arrived with a financial buffer, ready to invest wisely, but things moved so slowly that it was frustrating. It was a bit of a roadblock for us. Within the first two weeks, we found a long-term place to live with the help of locals. Then we started looking for a property to invest in. We wanted to create accommodation for travelers and promote it through my Instagram. But it wasn’t as easy as we thought—the properties looked completely different in real life compared to the listings. Our plans weren’t coming together, and everything felt so chaotic. In Madeira we burned through our savings much faster than expected and didn’t have any steady income. Those first weeks and months were tough, but eventually, things started to fall into place—though not without a lot of effort. Read also: Nikola moved to Spain to follow her dreams Did you experience any surprises on the island? Yes, several! In one week, we found a house to renovate, bought a car, and had to fly back to Slovakia for work. A few days before the flight, my wife Andrea wasn’t feeling well, so we had some tests done. We found out we were expecting our second child! Andrea was already 18 weeks pregnant. It was such a shock—suddenly, we realized that we had been moving as a family of four, not three, all along. That was definitely the biggest and craziest surprise for us! Matej, were you able to complete your property project in Madeira? We were worried that the local laid-back attitude would mean unreliable services. We feared that the workers wouldn’t show up on time. But in the end, we got there, though it took a lot longer than we anticipated. We now have a house with four apartments that we’ve been renting out since August. Do you miss having your family nearby? Funny enough, my wife and I were just talking about this the other day. We thought about what life would’ve been like if we’d stayed in our small apartment in Bratislava. But we quickly realized why we made the move and why we chose Madeira. Neither of us is from Bratislava, so our parents were never super close by anyway. They only visited occasionally, so we were used to handling things on our own. It’s tough not having family around, but since moving here, we’ve met some amazing people who are always willing to help. What food do you miss the most, and what local dishes from Madeira have you come to love? Back in Slovakia, I wasn’t a fan of fish at all—it was a struggle to even eat it at Christmas! But now, I could eat fish every day. The fish here looks and tastes different, and it’s so fresh and affordable. We also love the local traditional dishes, and since there are so many foreigners here, you’ll find all sorts of international restaurants—Italian, Indian, Vietnamese. There’s so much variety. I don’t miss Slovak food too much, but I do miss my bike! (Laughs) Matej, what would you recommend to those considering moving abroad? It’s tough to give general advice because everyone’s situation is different, but what helped us was spending a longer period here before making the final move. It gave us a chance to get to know the island and the way things work here. One tip I’d give is that moving abroad is a big decision, and it should be a shared one. It’s important to have a plan and to get to know the country before making the leap. Every place is unique, and it’s important to be ready for whatever that uniqueness brings.
Your communication skills deserve to be upgraded. This is how!
Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, whether it’s with your partner, friends, family, or colleagues. If you ever feel like finding the right words is a challenge, here are some tips to help boost your communication skills. Let’s elevate how we connect! Learn to Listen One of the keys to effective communication is listening. Pay attention to what others are saying and try to understand their perspective without interrupting. This will help you respond thoughtfully, showing that you value the conversation and are genuinely interested in what the other person has to say. Know What You Want to Say Before speaking, take a moment to consider your main points. Being clear and concise, especially on complex topics, helps avoid confusion. There’s no harm in expanding on the topic later, but start by getting your main message across. Starting with clarity can prevent misunderstandings and keep the conversation on track. Body Language Speaks Volumes Gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact can often say more than words. Keep your body language open and friendly. Avoid folding your arms or standing with hands on your hips unless that suits the message you’re conveying. Sometimes, these non-verbal cues can come across as distant or authoritative, even if that’s not what you intend. Read also: How to always appear elegant? Emotions Matter Too Developing emotional intelligence is key. Focus on empathy and recognizing others’ emotions, and learn to respond appropriately. Empathy and good timing in your responses can show that your communication skills are truly top-notch. When you can tune into the emotions of others, you build a deeper connection and show them you care. Take Feedback to Heart Constructive criticism can be tough, but asking others for their opinions and accepting feedback as a chance to improve will help you identify areas for growth. Taking the time to ask for input and reflect on it is a powerful way to improve your communication style. Stay Focused Whether it’s a work discussion or a personal chat, keep the purpose of the conversation in mind. Avoid unnecessary tangents that might take attention away from the main point. Staying efficient and purposeful is crucial, as this approach helps keep everyone on the same page and makes the exchange more productive for all involved. Effective communication is, at its core, about making real connections and understanding others.
Hidden gems in Europe: This city will not ruin your wallet, and yet is still attractive and fun!
The bustling energy of a modern city, historical architecture preserved with care, a wild nightlife, and wallet-friendly prices that won’t break the bank. If you’re picturing Hungary, you’re spot on. Today’s star is the beautiful city on the Danube, Budapest. You’ll Be Hooked from the Start For us Slovaks, Budapest is incredibly convenient to visit. It’s just 80 km past our border, and you can get there by EuroCity train from Bratislava in just two and a half hours. Choosing this option is well worth it. As soon as you step off the train at Nyugati station, you’ll feel the city’s charm. This station is a stunning example of how much Hungarians value what they have, beautifully restored and clean, with yellow taxis and trams creating a lovely contrast around you. History Everywhere You Look In Bratislava, historical architecture is mostly concentrated in the Old Town, but in Budapest, it’s all around you. Most buildings have been restored, yet they retain their historic character, allowing you to enjoy a clean, polished city that still feels timeless. Read also: Mental Health Matters The Jewel of the Danube Stretching along both sides of the Danube, Budapest remains accessible despite recent floods and still offers riverside strolls. Watching the sun set along the Danube is a priceless experience. There are four bridges across the river, perfect for a scenic walk. And with trams and buses, getting around is easy and affordable, with a 48-hour ticket priced at just 12 euros. Must-See Tourist Spots You can’t visit Budapest without hitting up the iconic sights that showcase its rich history. Some favorites are Fisherman’s Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament building, Citadella, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Buda Castle. Plan a route that starts at the Parliament, crosses the Old Bridge to Fisherman’s Bastion, and leads up to Citadella. With around 25,000 steps by the end of the day, you’ll be ready for a break! A Taste of Hungarian Delights And, of course, don’t leave without trying some delicious Hungarian food. Treat yourself to a classic chimney cake, enjoy ice cream at every corner, and take advantage of discount stores with treats from around the world. For main dishes, we highly recommend trying traditional goulash or pörkölt. Yum!