Meet Jan Lagerval, a Swede retired from the military who now lives in Slovenia. Born and raised in Stockholm he now lives in Duplek near Maribor. He came here after falling in love with Sonja, a Slovene who used to work in Sweden :) Today he spends his time reading books in Slovene, flies planes at the aeroclub in Maribor, walks at least 10km a day, and makes great sour milk and Turkish coffee. Jan’s advice for life: Eat good, not too much, and keep moving! Jan's music choice: Lasse Berghagen - "Stockholm i mitt hjärta". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMA9cgbq-v0 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Today we're at the theatre talking to a Macedonian theatre and film director who has been living in Slovenia for 6 years now. Meet Aleksandar Popovski, the Artistic Director at the Drama SNG Maribor. He calls theatre his home and a special place in which he can create other versions of the world. He praises Slovenia's audience noting its fine taste for theatre, opera, ballet, and arts in general. Having worked in around 15 countries so far, he says it's nice to work in Slovenia where everyone behaves like a professional. He also loves the relationship between people and nature in Slovenia. To find out more about Aleksandar, as well as theatre and film work in general, join us in our "Land of Dreams". Aleksandar's music choice: Low Roar - "Don't Be So Serious". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D56XxiS_pJ0 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week in "Land of Dreams" we meet Colleen Leminski, a free-spirited Canadian looking to set down roots in Slovenia. Colleen describes herself as a nomad who speaks three languages, an avid dancer, and a person who loves discovering different places… And one of those places is her current place of residence, Slovenska Bistrica. She loves the castle vegetable market, the surroundings, and the community… She came here because of love, and is excited to see what the future has to offer in Slovenia. Colleen's music choice: Barenaked Ladies - "If I Had $1000000". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aynCgnbbgbM You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Henry Soldevilla is from the Philippines but has been living in Slovenia for more than 40 years now. He arrived here as a professional dancer when it was still Yugoslavia. He spent most of his life in Portorož and now that he's in pension he decided to move to Ljubljana which he says is more vibrant. In all these years he still hasn't been back to the Philippines, but says he has found his "land of dreams" in Slovenia. Henry's music choice: Frank Sinatra - "My Way". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQzdAsjWGPg You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Luigi has spent most of his past 5 years on the streets playing music to complete strangers. He comes from Peru and calls himself the "Ukulele Traveler". But Luigi doesn't travel as much as he used to... After meeting a Slovenian girl Luigi is now raising a family in Maribor. However, despite settling down Luigi still plays in the streets, and would like to continue composing music for himself and others... Music in the show: "No Hay Culpables" - Luigi Mendez (Ukulele Traveler) You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week in Land of Dreams we visit the »Land of Bees« thanks to Caio and Leticia from Brazil! They both work at the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, where they research bees and take care of the faculty's own apiary in Pivola. So, what are the differences between bees in Slovenia and Brazil, what's it like to live in Slovenia, and what do they miss from back home…? Their music choice: Charlie Brown Jr. - "Proibida Pra Mim". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJRIZS4Z7Mw You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week in Land of Dreams we're by the Ljubljanica River talking to Jonas Sonnenschein, a German living in Ljubljana. Jonas came to Ljubljana after meeting his Slovene wife in Sweden. Today he's a father of two, loves the outdoors, and works for an NGO dealing with sustainability. He says Slovenes feel connected to nature and don't lag behind northern Europe regarding environmental issues. We also touch on being punctual, the challenges of being natural while speaking a foreign language... and what about swimming in the Ljubljanica River? Jonas's music choice: Jan Delay - "Oh Jonny". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW7u7ptj-j4 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Jauko is a Dutchman with a house in the Karst region. He says if you want to integrate somewhere, knowing the region's history is important. Jauko spends half his time in Holland and the other half in Slovenia, where he helps his neighbours and offers tours along the Isonzo battlefields through local guides. He loves the silence and star-covered skies in Sela na Krasu, and is happy to be creating his own family history in the Karst region! Jauko's music choice: Arcade Fire - "Age of Anxiety I". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEh4Vfzow5U You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Mel Hitchcocks, an Englishwoman running a school in Slovenia. Mel is the principal of the British International School of Ljubljana. After living in Egypt, Mongolia, and Russia, Mel shares the challenges of adapting to new locations. She says she's happy to be in Slovenia now. She praises Slovenia's education system, and loves its castles, history, and nature... Mel's music choice: Queen - "Radio Ga Ga". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azdwsXLmrHE You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/Prikaži manj

Singing makes you feel happy, helps you spread beauty and connect with others. In today's show we visit the Ljubljana International Vocal Ensemble to talk to its founder Juan Zuleta, a Colombian living in Slovenia. Juan is a musician, a singer, and conductor, who has been living in Ljubljana for three years now. He says Slovenia is beautiful, but is also a closed society which does not understand the hardships foreigners often have to go through... One of the aims of setting up the choir was to create a space where expats can meet and share experiences. Juan's music choice: Juan Zuleta - "Run for the Green". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKwin6bk1XA You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Paula is happy to be in Slovenia. She likes her job, gets to talk to interesting people and travel without traveling. The world comes to Paula… at the hostel where she works;) Paula came to Slovenia from Poland after meeting her »special Slovene man«. She now helps run a hostel in the Karst region together with her brother-in-law. People come and go, but she feels good where she is. Compared to Poland she says there's less stress in Slovenia, but dividing her time between Sežana and Matavun she does sometimes feel as the only foreigner in town… Join us for a trip in the Karst region and a walk up to a… wait… was it a hill, or a mountain?:) Paula's music choice: Dawid Podsiadło - "W dobrą stronę". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ArKq8r7quY You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296

This week we talk about coffee and being a barista with a young American who came to Slovenia because of a Slovenian girl. Meet Chris Russell, originally from Montana, USA, presently living in Maribor. After falling in love he decided to sell everything and fly across the ocean. It was his first time in Europe, and today he says he loves living in Maribor and doesn't see himself leaving any time soon… Chris's music choice: Kip Moore - "Somethin' 'Bout A Truck". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YfNFR6gh2E You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296

Meet Riitta from Finland! Slovenia crossed her path when she met a Slovenian during her studies. The feeling when she decided to come live in Slovenia was both exciting and scary at the same time. It's been around 15 years since then and today Riitta lives in Ljubljana, has a family and is a mother of two, has a successful career in business economics, and loves the mountains. Join us for a walk in Tivoli Park to find out more about Finland, the challenges of being an expat, and what Slovenians and Finns have in common… ;) Riitta's music choice: Pave Maijanen - "Elämän Nälkä". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGN3XB9YXDI You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Emre Edebali, a young man from Izmir, Turkey, who ended up in Velenje! Emre first came to Velenje to work as a volunteer. Today he works on several other projects, is enrolled in a Master's study in Nova Gorica, but still lives in Velenje. He advocates that all young people spend a year abroad in order to have the experience of stepping out of their comfort zone. Emre says that compared to Turkey life is more chilled in Slovenia, and is fascinated by Slovenia's excitement for ski jumping. Emre's music choice: Siddharta - "Ledena". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FNGZT8-EPw You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week's Land of Dreams comes from inside a school gym and we get to meet Svetlana Oletič, a PE teacher and volleyball coach in Mala Nedelja. Svetlana, a former professional volleyball player herself, came to Slovenia from Ukraine 29 years ago. Today her »prleščina« dialect is perfect, she’s an active member of the local community, enjoys writing, but also helps Ukrainians fleeing the war. She says it's difficult to talk about the situation in Ukraine but says foreigners coming to Slovenia are often stigmatized and face many difficulties… like finding a job, a home, and even friends. Svetlana's music choice: Rihanna - "Lift Me Up". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx_OexsUI2M You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Joao wanted to come to Europe ever since he was a small boy. Eventually he did, and it was in Portugal that he fell in love with a Slovenian girl. Joao is originally from Sao Paolo in Brazil. He now lives in Murska Sobota! When Slovenians find out where he's from, they say… but why?!?! But Joao is happy where he is… he's with the person he loves, surrounded by wonderful people, and says he loves living in a place which has four seasons! Joao's music choice: Demonios Da Garoa - "Trem Das Onze". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-VP_nferXM You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Try a putting a pen on a piece of paper and starting a long-distance romantic relationship... Think it would work? According to Dan, all the best stories start with a girl… Dan Penketh is an engineer who was born in the UK but also spent quite a lot of his time in Scotland. He now lives in Ljubljana. He came here because of love and tells us of his coming to Slovenia. Dan compares Slovenia to Scotland, praising its nature and people, and describing it as a very nice part of the world to be in. And yes, he'd like to stay here... Dan's music choice: Runrig - "Empty Glens". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8saq2gVsbso You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Joyce Pizarro, a Peruvian who calls herself a Latin American, and calls Slovenia her home. Her first contact with Slovenia was in primary school in India, and later in life her best friends were Slovenes of Argentinian descent. After moving from country to country she then met a Slovenian traveling the world. Eventually Joyce moved to Maribor and today she has three children and works for a Slovenian company that helps others do business in new markets around the world. Joyce says Slovenes are kind but should be more proud. She misses South America’s culture of living, the freshness of the fruit, and warm weather. Joyce's music choice: Calle 13 - "Latinoamérica". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkFJE8ZdeG8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Joao was born and raised in Lisbon, but does not regret his decision to move to Slovenia. The reason: a blue-eyed blonde girl from Maribor. He says it was love at first sight. He does miss the ocean, but now calls Maribor his home. Joao still struggles with the language but speaks German and easily finds work in neighboring Austria. He studied gastronomy and tourism, praises Slovenia's wine, and says Slovenia is a hidden gem in Europe. Joao's music choice: HMB ft. Carminho - "O Amor é Assim". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B7IknRfRz4 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Have you ever perceived Slovenia as both the great outdoors and a culinary destination at the same time? Just like many other foreigners arriving in Slovenia, Robin Hill was blown away by the beauty and outdoor activities on offer. Originally from Birmingham in England, it didn't take Robin long to buy a house and move to Slovenia. And being a chef, he eventually also opened his own restaurant business in Log pod Mangartom. Robin's music choice: Fleet Foxes - 'Blue Ridge Mountains': You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOukoIHP3m0 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Imagine an amphitheater of forest-covered mountains and a green open meadow in the middle. And a chair. And sitting on that chair is Lindsey. On one of her European travels she fell in love with Slovenia, and especially the Bovec area. Originally from Montana, USA, Lindsey Conroy then bought an old house in Lepena! Lindsey is a yoga teacher, entrepreneur, and adventurer, but says buying the property in Lepena was one of the most difficult experiences in her life. In the next Land of Dreams we pay Lindsey a visit... Lindsey's music choice: Xavier Rudd - "Follow the Sun": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0E1bNmyPWww You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Evan works a piece of land in the Ljubljana Marshes. He's often misunderstood because of his approach to life and farming, as he has no machinery or tractor… He has faced droughts, floods, and even evictions, but Evan is too passionate to stop faming and will always continue planting seeds because it's what makes him alive… The story is a "Land of Dreams" special, created and played at the 2022 Avdiofestival in Ljubljana as part of Rob Rosenthal's traveling workshop. You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Katarzyna is a Czech girl️ who initially came to study in Slovenia and found it so nice that she never went back. Today she lives in Maribor, works as a translator, speaks Slovene, is active in the local folklore group, and helps foreign students in Slovenia. Katarzyna loves the food and mix of central European and Balkan cultures in Slovenia. She says being a foreigner is difficult, but that living in Slovenia has made her a more open person. Oh, and did we mention that Slovenians love to sing and dance? Katarzyna's music choice: Big Foot Mama - "Črni tulipan": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ndrh6hcVip8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Ziauddin, a chef from India , who thought he was going to England but ended up in Slovenia. After several years of working in a number of hotels and restaurants in Ljubljana, Ahmed eventually decided to open his own place - a small takeaway restaurant serving Indian food. He says Indian food is not only curry, and says his aim is to present the variety of Indian foods and spices. Regarding Slovenian food Ahmed loves štruklji. Ahmed says he always smiles, that Slovenians are friendly, and that you can overcome any obstacle just by breathing... Music used in the interview: traditional music from India, and Anoushka Shankar & Norah Jones – "Traces Of You". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEJSWIftX98 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Joseph is from Madagascar and has lived in Slovenia since 1977. He says his soul is still very much connected to his home island, which he misses every day. Joseph is an architect, musician, and storyteller, who came to Ljubljana as a young student. He still remembers the time of Yugoslavia and Tito. He says racism was an issue in Yugoslavia, and talks of his frequent visits to primary schools giving presentations about Africa... Joseph's music choice: Malala & Navicula - "Tsy Ho Very". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiZhbhLkxSs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet the Daltons from South Africa! Werner and Nardia arrived in Slovenia with their son around half a year ago with a wish to call Slovenia their home. They say South Africa is overcrowded and love the size of Ljubljana and its quick access to nature. Nardia has a natural products business, as she makes her own environmentally friendly washing powders and dishwasher tablets. She praises Slovenia's sustainable approaches and excellent tap water quality. Werner says learning Slovene is a challenge but not unsurmountable, and said he thought VSTOP meant no entry and that the stores were closed :) Their music choice: Johnny Clegg & Savuka - "Scatterlings of Africa": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnYtcH4YS44 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week we talk to the Chernenkos, a Ukrainian family living in Slovenia. The Chernenkos have been in Slovenia for two years now but still face challenges. Andrii and Iryna arrived in Slovenia with their son and daughter to offer them a better education and future. However their thoughts are still in Ukraine, worried about the current situation and the safety of their families… We visited them in Bled to talk about their experiences so far and what they feel… Music used in the interview: Pink Floyd - "Us and Them", The White Stripes - "Seven Nation Army", and D'Angelo - "Brown Sugar". You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Slovenia is beautiful and amazing, but some people decide to move on... Ozbay Emrah, originally from Istanbul, Turkey, has lived in Slovenia for around three years. Now he's moving to neighbouring Austria. He lists some of the biggest obstacles: the Slovene language and the inability to find proper work. Nevertheless, Ozbay says he's leaving Slovenia with nice memories. If you want to find out more about his decision, we met with Ozbay on his last day in Maribor… Ozbay's music choice: Tarkan - "Kiss, kiss": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN4Rbc6HSPY You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Today's guest is an Olympic medalist from Canada, living and practicing in Slovenia. Abigail Strate first tried ski jumping when she was six. She's been jumping ever since ;) Abigail spends most of the year in Slovenia, lives in a house near the Planica Nordic Centre, has a Slovenian coach, loves bees, and has Slovenia to thank for her medal. She says she feels at home here and that going to Canada is sometimes more of a culture shock than being in Slovenia :) Abigail's music choice: Billy Joel - "Vienna": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wccRif2DaGs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Paul first came to Slovenia when he was eight years old. Later in life it turned out to be the only country he came back to which was better than his memory of it. Today Paul lives in the village of Ribno near Bled, together with his wife Abhaya, who comes from Taiwan. They love Slovenia's nature, fresh air, rivers and lakes. He says he'd like to see Slovenians be more connected, more vocal in protecting their environment, and lead more fulfilling lives... Their music choice: Jack Johnson - "Banana pancakes": You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkyrIRyrRdY You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

There's no escaping destiny, and Mehtab says destiny brought him to Slovenia. Meet Mehtab Singh, originally from Punjab, India, now living in Kranj. Mehtab has a tea shop in Kranj and says Slovenia has made him a complete man. He decided to start a business and start living in Slovenia after first falling in love with the country 14 years ago. He says Slovenians are warm and curious, very intelligent but keep to themselves. Join us as we touch on the differences between India and Slovenia as we walk up to Ljubljana Castle;) Mehtab's music choice: "Suraj Hua Maddham". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0zKs8i7Nc8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

It's always sunny above the clouds, according to Patrick Davidson, a Welshman living in Slovenia. Patrick loves the mountains and has always been attracted by all things Slavic. After spending some time in Russia he decided to move and buy property in Slovenia. Today he's involved in real estate and construction, has a Slovene wife and family, and coaches rugby. Driving on Bohinj's snow-covered mountain roads in a 20-year-old Land Rover, Patrick says he no longer has the itchy feet he had before, and says he has found his peace in the Slovenian Alps. Patrick's music choice: Vlado Kreslin - "Z Goričkega v Piran". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5hwIbsBEAM You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Annisa, an Indonesian living in the Slovenia capital Ljubljana. She says living in Ljubljana is both more peaceful and fun than living in Jakarta. She admits that living in Slovenia as a foreigner is not easy, but Annisa says Slovenians have been warm and pleasant and is grateful to live in a country where she can freely express herself. If she could change one thing about Slovenes, she would make them more spontaneous ;) Annisa's music choice: Raisa & Dipha Barus - "My Kind of Crazy". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bp8zq2X0t2s You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Krishna arrived in Slovenia all the way from Nepal. Working as a mountain guide he fell in love with one of his clients, Jasmina from Makole. The young couple then married, settled in Makole and now have a baby daughter. Krishna says he was well received by his parents-in-law and local community. He likes to hike, especially to the nearby Mt Boč, but he hasn't been up to Mt Triglav yet. Krishna's an avid vlogger, plays football for NK Makole, says his future will most likely be in Slovenia, but would like to spend time in Nepal as well. Krishna's music choice: A Nepali follk song - "Resham firiri". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPzbGpe8HN0 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Emina was born in Africa to a Croatian mother and Kenyan father. In the time of Yugoslavia her parents moved to Slovenia for work, where Emina finished her primary, secondary and university education. Today Emina is an attorney at law, a dancer, a mother…. She is also the founder of an African association in Ljubljana, teaches dance, and helps parents and children experiencing racial discrimination… All that in the latest Land of Dreams! You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week in Land of Dreams meet Simon Pribac. He was born in Slovenia,, but has spent most of his life in Toronto, Canada. His family has been going back and forth between Slovenia and North America since the 1800s… So where's home, Simon? He's currently active with the Canadian-Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and other projects promoting Slovenia in Canada and vice versa. On air today at 11:25am and again on Sunday at 2:30pm!!! Simon's music choice: Theory of a Deadman - "Santa Monica". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcryyvQAqc8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Jacobus, better known as Jacoo, came to Slovenia from South Africa without knowing anyone. Not because of love, not by recommendation and without knowing too much about Slovenia. It took just one stop at the train station in Ljubljana to get him thinking about the idea of starting his work in Slovenia. Today Jacoo has his architecture and design company, owns a van, and likes to hike and move around the country. We met up with Jacoo in Bled and touched on the differences in people and culture between South Africa and Slovenia. Jacoo says Slovenia's nature is majestic, and that Slovenians are curious by nature but don't open their doors very quickly;) Jacoo's music choice: Jacob & Taylor - "Go See Africa". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJBRrhSfsZY You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Why does a metal core band from Malta decide to move to the Slovenian countryside? We paid Kris, John, Ehren, and Matthew a visit inside their home in Zreče, near Rogla mountain. The name of their band is "Decline The Fall" and this is their story of coming to Slovenia ;) Music: Decline the Fall - "Nemesis" / Acoustic version. You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHRYOoh6RTs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Luz says adventure brought her to Slovenia. She came from Peru many years ago to visit her brother in Europe. She met her Slovene husband while hitchhiking ;) Slovenia has taught her how beautiful life can be living connected to Mother Earth. In the village of Kunova near Gornja Radgona, Luz, her husband, and son, have built a center dedicated to Earth, permaculture, personal growth and sustainable living. She says the reality outside cannot make you happy inside, and that you are only that which is inside of you. Luz's music choice: El Condor Pasa. You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88lzmV2Iuds You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Originally from Benin, Marius spent his youth in Canada, finished his studies in Moscow and presently lives in Maribor. He works at the Faculty of Law as an assistant professor and researcher with a focus on international and environmental law. Marius met his Slovene wife in Russia and got married in Jeruzalem near Ljutomer. He loves Slovenian wine, but is not that fond of "žganci". Marius says opportunities will always come to those surrounded by good people. Marius's music choice: Sarkodie - "Adonai" ft. Castro. You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipZvlG-wwWk You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

What's it like to live and work on a farm in Slovenia? Why does one decide to become a volunteer? Meet Brigid from Germany and Malva from Sweden, two young ladies growing from their challenges in Slovenia. What have they learned about/from farming in Slovenia, and does a land of dreams exist? Brigid's and Malva's music choice: Giant Rooks - "Bright Lies". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm2RgfwFZDg You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Sanam, born and raised in Iran, a law graduate from France, and now a shop owner in Maribor. Sanam has lived here for 14 years now. Her initial plan was to work in the field of law, but met her future Slovenian husband while waiting for a job interview. Today Sanam has two children and sells goods and artisan crafts mostly from Iran. We paid her a visit and were offered some traditional tea and dates. She says she feels good in Slovenia but adds that she misses the warmth and kindness from Iran. Sanam's music choice: Pink Floyd - "High Hopes". You can listen to the full song here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jMlFXouPk8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Young and in love. Jung Minuk is from Seoul, South Korea. After meeting Vanessa he decided to come live and study in Slovenia. They live together in Pernica, Vanessa goes to school in Maribor and Minuk studies in Celje. He says Slovenians eat a lot of bread, are friendly to strangers, and it was in Slovenia that he first saw a night sky full of bright stars. Jung Minuk's music choice: Busker Busker - "Cherry Blossom Ending". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXV7dfvSefo&ab_channel=StoneMusicEntertainment You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Ahmad, a young Libyan playing professional volleyball in Slovenia. Ahmad is happy to be in Slovenia, he says his team and staff in Maribor have accepted him well. He admits that coming to Slovenia and acquiring the visa was a difficult process, involving a lot of paperwork... But a smile can get you a long way and also give hope to people, which is why Ahmad always smiles :) Find out what Ahmad's favourite food in Slovenia is, and where he dreams to go one day… in the next Land of Dreams ?? Ahmad's music choice: Tekno - "Rara". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yul2-4mc6mg You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Englishman Daron Evans says he returned to his roots when he decided to buy some property in the village of Borjana in western Slovenia. Daron's mother was actually Slovene, born in the same village, located near the Nadiža river. Daron calls the Nadiža valley his ancestral home and says there is love in Slovenia. Childhood memories of swimming and trying to catch fish, discovering nature, renovating an old house and passing it all on to his children, Daron says his past and future are in the Nadiža valley. Music used in the interview: Andrej Ofak & Borut Mori - "The Echoes of River Drava", and Jože Kampič & Zorl - "Maruška". You can also follow Land of Dreams on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Viola is from Austria and Viola lives in Maribor. She's not a football fan, but she has watched NK Maribor play. Viola is a chemist who works in a lab in Maribor. She says the coffee in Slovenia is cheaper, that the people are friendly, and that Slovenia's nature is a small-scale version of Austria, with the big exception that Slovenia has a seaside ;) Find out more about Viola and her thoughts about living in Slovenia as we take a walk through Maribor… Viola's music choice: Lou Reed - "Perfect Day". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wxI4KK9ZYo You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Peaceful, silent, with blue skies above and surrounded by nature. That would sum up Peter Davey's home, located just outside one of the small villages in the Karst region. Peter met his husband, Milan from Slovenia, around 26 years ago in London. In 2005 they decided to buy some land and put up a house in Slovenia. Peter is now retired from work and lives a life in complete contrast to what he did in England????????????. He spends more time outdoors, growing lavender, fruit trees, vegetables, and playing croquet on his lawn. Peter's music choice: The first movement of Brahms Piano Quartet No 2 in A major, Op 26. You can listen to the entire piece here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPmCAGpCUzw&t=925s You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Carmen Kuntz is a traveler, environmentalist, freelance writer, hiker and kayaker. Carmen is a Canadian, who has chosen to live in Slovenia. Residing near Kobarid, next to the Soča river, she says Slovenia's mountains and rivers are beautiful and still wild. She came here because of love and goes kayaking almost every day. She still does miss a few things from Canada, like for example space, and the possibility to paddle away and not see anyone for weeks. But although things are bigger in Canada, Carmen says Slovenia has all of Canada's features jammed into one smaller country. She says Slovenia is special and calls on people not to take what they have for granted. After all, where else in the world can you drink directly from a river? Carmen's music choice: Neil Young - "Bandit". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpiJTRmBMvE You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/ Photo: Katja Pokorn

Taste the pleasure of simple physical work in an untouched region, a sweet spot at the end of the line… Meet Samuel Baldwin, an Englishman in love with the Koroška region! Sam is an author, traveler, entrepreneur and marketer, who has a 300-year-old house in Breg, near the town of Mežica. He says the house has character, and in his wish to preserve the old traditions he recently started making wooden gutters from tree logs! Breg is also a place of inspiration, where Sam came up with his Breg design t-shirts and clothing brand;) Saml's music choice: The Chemical Brothers - "The Salmon Dance". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDj7DuHVV9E You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

There was nothing rational in her decision to choose Slovenia. Neither she nor her husband knew anyone in Slovenia, they had no place to stay and no jobs waiting for them. But she was the one that chose Slovenia. She says her choice was emotional and that Ljubljana's name sounded nice and warm. Meet Tatiana Legina, who together with her husband and two young daughters made the move from Kiev to Ljubljana around 4 years ago. A move that none of them regrets. Tatiana's music choice: Pink Floyd - "High Hopes". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jMlFXouPk8 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Henri and Niina found themselves under lockdown in Slovenia while traveling the world. They found a quiet place to park their van in Sevnica and have been living there for two months now!!! They say it was meant to be, and have actually found what they were looking for: beautiful nature, mountains, warm weather, and their own food garden. Henri and Niina are in no rush to return to Finland, and are now even thinking about buying some land in Slovenia. Henri and Niina's music choice: CC White - Soul Kirtan - "Hare Krishna Mantra". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGWpqbd0yTs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Greg Difortuna, an indoor skydiving instructor living in Slovenia! Greg is an American from New Jersey, living in Ljubljana, working in Logatec ;) He says Slovenia takes care of its people. He likes the clean water, amazing food, beautiful nature, beautiful people and Slovenia's open society. To find out more about his experience in Slovenia join us for a hike up Šmarna Gora :) Greg's music choice: The Kinks - "This Time Tomorrow". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwVJ7FWc4rQ You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Rainer Schamberger, a managing director in the banking industry. And meet his alter ego, Ray Shames, a virtual musician living out his emotions in the circus of life! Rainer is an Austrian living in Ljubljana and is very much dedicated to his work and music. He says what the world needs is more empathy. To find out more about his work and experience in Slovenia so far, join us in the Land of Dreams! Rainer's music choice: Ray Shames - "Wir Sind Wie Wir Sind". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfZEsh5sBcQ You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Tanja is from Belgium and moved to Slovenia a couple of years ago with her family. She now lives in Podsreda, where she has her own ‘gostilna’ serving Belgian beer!!! She says life in Belgium was too stressful, that people in Slovenia are more open, and that her two small sons already speak better Slovene than she does :) In the past Slovenia was her family’s favourite holiday destination, but today she calls Slovenia her home ;) Tanja's music choice: Manca Špik - "Serenada". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQEps5Jnpaw You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Love opens many doors and can lead to beautiful things. For Roberto Monas it was moving to Slovenia and opening his own restaurant – a typical Italian osteria tucked away in the countryside in Imenje, which is close to Moravče and Krtina, which is not far away from Ljubljana;) Roberto loves to cook and spoil his guests, and says Slovenia is green, clean, and full of beautiful people. Roberto's music choice: Eros Ramazzotti. We chose - "Terra Promessa". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li_NL38lpkQ You can also follow Land of Dreams on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Bojan Jovanov, a young Macedonian living and working in Ljubljana. His first memory of Slovenia is winning a silver square medal at a swimming competition when he was 10-years-old. Many years later, he decided to come to Slovenia to complete a second Master's degree. He then eventually found a job and now works as an education consultant helping other foreign students come to Slovenia ;) Is he happy here? What does he like about Slovenia and what does it lack? And what about his plans for the future? All that in the next Land of Dreams episode. Bojan's music choice: Creedence Clearwater Revival - "Have You Ever Seen The Rain". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1V8YRJnr4Q You can also follow Land of Dreams on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Beril Balal and Omer Buyuktas, a young couple from Istanbul who decided to take chance on Slovenia:) First, they came as tourists and fell in love with the country. Then, they decided to move here and open a business - a Turkish street food restaurant offering Turkish style potatoes and waffles. More about their story and vision, in the next Land of Dreams! Beril and Omer's music choice: Dolapdere Big Gang - "Englishman in New York". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iMOLmLp9gg You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Denys Masliuk is a pianist from Ukraine happily living in Slovenia. He lives with his Slovenian wife and their two children in Koper. He teaches piano and plays in concert halls across Europe. In order to become a good pianist, Denys says one must be talented and work hard. 20% talent and 80% hard work! He says his Slovenian students are both talented and hard-working. Denys Masliuk's music choice: A-ha - "Take On Me". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djV11Xbc914 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Svetlana Sapelova, a Russian originally from St. Petersburg, living and working in Slovenia. We met up by a lake in Ljubljana and talked about what it's like to live in Slovenia and with Slovenians. Svetlana, a software developer, admits that making friends in Slovenia is a challenge, but says she's happy to have adopted a more active lifestyle, and a better work-life balance. Svetlana's music choice: Bigflo & Oli - "Plus tard". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UgsqtaXiwI You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Habte Tareke has been through a lot in life. Habte is from Eritrea. One day he decided to leave his country, family and children, cross the Sahara Desert and take the perilous journey across the Mediterranean Sea in hope of a better life. Today he lives in Maribor and works with the Red Cross. After three years in Slovenia, Habte still faces many obstacles… His only wish now is to reunite with his children and wife. Habte's music choice: Abraham Afewerki - "Men Yfelto". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7ZiSRImSLA You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Lucienne has experienced it all in Slovenia… touring as a pianist and singer, stardom, Yugoslavia, independence, grandchildren, and living in a house with a sea view;) Originally from Bristol, Lucienne Lončina has been living in Slovenia for 25 years now. She met her husband, who is Slovene, in Finland of all places! To find out more join us as we visit Lucienne at her home in Kolomban. Lucienne's music choice: Don McLean - "Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxHnRfhDmrk You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Elena Calderon Alaez, a young lady from Madrid working on cultural and art projects in Maribor! She's also into street art and documents graffiti walls and murals scattered across the city ;) What's it like to live in Maribor? What does it lack? And what's Slovenia like? Join us as we walk through the city and also touch on football, swimming pools and tattoos! The next Land of Dreams airs today at around 11:25 am!!! Elena's music choice: Emkej - "Probaj razumet". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEoZZbpNBLA You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Kim Doucette, a Canadian living in Horjul! She came to Slovenia because of a friend and deciced to stay because of love. Kim is a psychic medium who helps people with spiritual and personal development, and says it's a dream to be here :) Kim's music choice: India.Arie - "I Am Light". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ism8dBjxKvc You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

This week in Land of Dreams we head to the French International School in Ljubljana to get to know the school's headmistress, Marie Therese Furic. What's it like running a French school in Slovenia, what are some of the challenges, and what has living in Slovenia taught Marie Therese??? Marie Therese's music choice: Georges Brassens - "Chanson pour l'auvergnat". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=df8SYHs4X94 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Ameer Khanbai is a British national of Indian descent, born in Tanzania, now living in Ljubljana. He says Slovenia is both beautiful and also a great place to start up a business. Ljubljana's vision of becoming a green eco-friendly city is what convinced Ameer to launch an electric scooter sharing scheme, called Flox, in Slovenia's capital! Ameer's music choice: Fink - "Looking Too Closely". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoWRs7lXtYE You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Nikola came to Slovenia 10 years ago with a plan to study business economics. But it was in Slovenia that he realized that he wanted to become a hairdresser. Nikola Razmovski, a Macedonian from the town of Bitola, now lives and works in Maribor. He starts work at the hair salon at 7 a.m. and finishes when the last customer is done. He says there's always lots of work, and that he’s open to learn new things;) Nikola says he wants to make Slovenians more beautiful, and would like to continue living and working in Slovenia. Nikola's music choice: Vlatko Stefanovski - "Gipsy Song". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsGgj1QMg0A You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Darryl Glover is an American who lives in the village of Ponikve, surrounded by the good fields of Dobrepolje. This American built his house on land once owned by a local man who was called »The American«. Darryl has been living in Slovenia for 19 years now, has a wife and son, and is the author of a children's book »The Pirate Kitty«. Darryl says living in Europe has broadened his experience. He says you can connect with people much easier in Slovenia. Join us as we also pay a visit to the neighboring village and birth house of Primož Trubar, the author of the first printed book in Slovene language... Darryl's music choice: Bryan Adams - "Summer of '69". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFjjO_lhf9c You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

An Escape to Slovenia! In the next Land of Dreams we meet a family swapping their fast-paced London life for the good life in Slovenia. Just 6 months after visiting the country for the very first time, Will and Saira moved their son and daughter, dog and cat from London to Slovenia. They are now the proud owners of a dilapidated farmhouse in the village of Gorica, not far from Radovljica and Bled in the Gorenjska region! Once the renovation is complete, the plan is to turn it into both their home and a cozy family friendly hotel. Join us as we visit them and peek around the house, on a clear sunny day in Gorenjska… The Aspinalls music choice: The Maccabees - "Pelican". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rcp8SE_FxBg and Hiatus - "River": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wlz-F5O27Gc You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Thu is the name of a young Vietnamese woman who says that destiny brought her to Slovenia. She fell in love with a Slovene in the UK and then decided to move to Slovenia. Thu has no regrets about her decision, and soon after her arrival she ambitiously set out to open a Vietnamese restaurant in Maribor. Thu says Slovenians eat too much potatoes and meat, and that she loves everything that's »domače«. In the end, it’s always all about food… Thu's music choice: Phuong Vy - "Sai Gon Dep Lam". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdM1II_QnYI You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Demetrius King says he made the right decision 12 years ago. He took a chance to work as a ballet dancer in Europe, and has never looked back. Originally from New Zealand, Demetrius also went through a change of careers in Slovenia - from ballet dancing to computer science. He says everything is possible, and that one shouldn't be confined to his one job. Demetrius now looks forward to setting up a family and spending the rest of his days in Maribor. Find out more about living in a town that feels like an extension to your living room… Dimi's music choice: Radiohead You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

From the sunny beaches of Puerto Rico to the green hills of Slovenia. Meet Sue Ann Cvetko, a Puerto Rican living in Podčetrtek. She says the country life has grown on her and works with her Slovene husband as a chiropractic in Maribor. Sue has two sons growing up in Podčetrtek, says Slovenia is like a painting, and describes Slovenians as warm and hard-working;) Sue Ann's music choice: Cultura Profetica - "La Espera". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxypVAeGGI4 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

From one city of love to another, and all because of love! Meet Yuliya Nesterova, originally from Turkmenistan, now living in Ljubljana! Moving from a desert climate to rainy Ljubljana was not a problem for Yuliya. She married a Slovenian and says it's now time to create new memories in Slovenia ;) Join us in the next Land of Dreams, as we visit Ljubljana's open market and sit down for a cup of tea… Yuliya's music choice: Fools Garden - "Lemon Tree". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCDIt50hRDs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Absolutely no regrets! That's what Cesar Krauer says. He's originally from Switzerland, now living in Spodnji Duplek! He arrived here around two years ago, after deciding to spend his retirement years in a country not as expensive as Switzerland. Cesar says it's easier to get in contact with people outside big cities. He stays fit by working out in a gym and jogging. He also regularly visits the Kulturni Dom in neighboring Dvorjane, where they have cooking classes, dance, play chess and learn languages. Meet Cesar Krauer and his trombone in the next Land of Dreams! You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

You may know her;) Mariah is a popular vlogger originally from California now living in Ljubljana! Mariah came to Slovenia in 2011, after getting married to a guy called Luka Dolenc. She says Slovenians are really communicative, open and honest when expressing themselves. Mariah loves štruklji and says Ljubljana is most beautiful in the summer. She has nothing against the winter, but says it lasts too long and that it sometimes feels like its cold from October to June. A big hug to Mariah Dolenc, a mother of two girls, who openly shares her experience of living in Slovenia with others:) Mariah's music choice: Phantom Planet - "California". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wq-S8CIU7VA You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Mathieu Boulay is a Frenchman living in Ljubljana - the small scale version of Paris!!! He arrived here eight years ago and after finishing his master's degree studies at the University of Ljubljana, Mathieu decided to stay on and continue living in the Slovenian capital. Mathieu is a freelance language teacher and says the quality of life in Slovenia is much better than in France. He doesn't have a car and uses public transport, says skiing is not his thing, but does look forward to spending this Christmas in Ljubljana;) Mathieu's music choice: Nina Pušlar - "To mi je všeč". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sErniAExkZI You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

In the next episode of Land of Dreams we touch on social issues and the need for collective effort. Speaking with us from a gallery in Maribor are two visual artists, Alejandra Salinas from Spain and Aeron Bergman from the US, and their three-year-old daughter Agnes;) Their music choice: John Coltrane - "My Favorite Things". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHVarQbNAwU&t=1209s You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

One day two Canadians decided to spend a year in Europe. They narrowed down their choice to five countries, and the lucky winner turned out to be Slovenia. We met up with Trixie, the female half of this Canadian couple, on a misty morning in Ljubljana to tell us more about her decision and experience so far. Trixie works in the film industry as a screenwriter. Moving into a new culture and relying on freelance work is a challenge, but Trixie says that the welcoming Slovenes, her room with a castle view, charming cafes, hiking possibilities and the Olimpija women's rugby team, do make her feel good in Slovenia :) So good, that they're even considering prolonging that one year… Trixie's music choice: Lxola - "Follow". You can listen to the full song here: https://soundcloud.com/lxolamusic You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Why does Kristi Kruusmaa, an Estonian, keep returning to Slovenia? How come she still can't get a driving license, but still wants to live here? And what do Bosnia and cancer research have to do with her being in Slovenia? Find out more when we visit Kristi in Ljubljana. Kristi's music choice: Muse - "Undisclosed Desires". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8OOWcsFj0U You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Kirsten Hempkin, originally from Scotland, has been living and teaching in Slovenia for around 22 years now. She works at the Faculty of Arts in Maribor, is a mother of two, the wife of a philosopher, and lives by a river. Kirsten has no regrets about coming to Slovenia, says her children have become little Slovenes, and doesn't see going back to Scotland as an option for her family. Find out more about Kirsten, her thoughts on Slovenia and Slovenian students, as she takes us inside the faculty building… Kirsten's music choice: The Proclaimers - "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbNlMtqrYS0 You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Life is about happiness and you can't find happiness just anywhere. But the Kyushevs say you can find it in Slovenia. The Kyushevs, who hold dual Bulgarian/UK citizenship, made a conscious choice to move from London to Slovenia, after falling in love with its nature, people and way of life. Asen, who is otherwise a nutritionist, says Slovenia gets the best of both Bulgaria and England - charming people and nature, and a better structured society and standard of living. One year since the start of their Slovenian adventure, the five-member family now has a house in Vosek, a garden and fruit trees, and the plan is to continue growing from Slovenia. The Kyushevs' music choice: Valya Balkanska - "Izlel e delyu haidutin". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdBeSqRGIqs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Randy Mowers is a New Yorker who now lives in Sevnica. His nickname is the Ambassador of American BBQ in Slovenia;) Randy previously worked at Wall Street, served in the US military, and is now director of the Slovenian-American BBQ Society. He says Slovenia operates at a different speed and that living here is a learning process, but also something he enjoys very much. Neus's music choice: Pink Floyd - "Echoes". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuBqE9xGtiQ You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Coming to Slovenia for Neus Barcons Roca was a cultural shock. People in this country don't hug, they eat only when they're hungry, and you can't really get around unless you have a car?. But she does keep coming back to Slovenia, and the reason for that is a guy called Matjaž??. Neus is a dancer and choreographer who performs on stages across Europe. She occasionally also teaches dance in Slovenia and one of the things that impresses her the most is the positive energy and work ethics of the young Slovenian dance students! Neus's music choice: Katalena - "Lisica". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCOQVnB1uuM You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Imagine the world as one big open village, through the eyes and thoughts of Idrissa Wade from Senegal. Idrissa has been in Europe for many years now, first in Italy, then in Nova Gorica, and now in Ptuj. He says Africa is the future, but likes Ptuj for its history, culture, quietness and friendly people. Idrissa is doing his best to connect Slovenia with Africa and his native Senegal through various projects, and says some of the things Slovenia could import from Senegal are positivity, and the respect for elders. Idrissa's music choice: Guisse/Kreslin/Leonardi - "Sweetest Taboo". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofm8fXnBWLM&feature=youtu.be You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Talha Ahmad is a Dutch citizen of Pakistani origin who calls Slovenia his home. As a faithful Muslim, Talha works for an association which informs people about Islam, trying to eliminate the many misconceptions and misunderstandings connected to his religion. He says the reactions of Slovenians to his work are mostly positive. Talha says his biggest challenge in Slovenia was the language, and has now learned that the best time for shoveling snow is before it turns into ice! Tahla's music choice: Nazam - "Mera naam poochho to main Ahmady hoon (Ahmady ki tareef)". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=by5GBPHmSOo&feature=youtu.be You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Learning to live with less in the beautiful Soča Valley. Meet Stefaan Vuylsteke, a young Belgian who decided to quit his job and come live in Slovenia. A Belgian bringing back to life a 100-year-old house in the village of Čiginj, near Tolmin. It was his love for flying that first brought him to Slovenia, and his love for a girl that made him stay in Slovenia. Keeping him company in this country, which reminds him of New Zealand, are also his dog and two ducks… Stefaan's music choice: Elvis Jackson - "This time". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjpkgAD1KlE You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Maha Ahmed is young lady from Yemen, now living in Slovenia. Despite the cultural differences, she says she feels comfortable and at home in Slovenia. Maha is also devoted to her religion and wears a hijab and long dress. She says the staring eyes don't bother her anymore. Maha has been in Slovenia for around three years now, is already fluent in Slovene, and would like to pursue a career as a pharmacist. Maha's music choice: Fairuz - "Samra'u Maha". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBoQymR5pXo&feature=youtu.be You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

More than three years ago Tom Norman went on a trip visiting eight different countries and spending time in more than 10 different cities. The one that left the biggest impression on him was Ljubljana. So, Tom came back, and has now been living in Slovenia for the last two and half years. He says Ljubljana is more than just a home, but a place which has helped him grow and develop as a person. Tom now shares with others his experience as a person, his thoughts and feelings, through his How To Be Human project. Tom's music choice: The Killers - "Human". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIZdjT1472Y You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Yana Volovich had a job in Kiev. But after only a month at the job she decided to quit and come spend a year in Slovenia. As an EVS volunteer Yana spends her time traveling around the country and shooting promotional videos for Slovenian hostels. Yana says Slovenia is beautiful, but a bit empty at nights. She misses eating the fish from back home. Born and raised in Crimea, Yana says her relationship with other people is more important than issues like nationality, and says the world is her home. Music: https://www.bensound.com You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Dancing as a therapy. Jordi Brito Corominas has been sharing the benefits of dance in Slovenia for more than 10 years now. Nestled in a peaceful village in the hills of Goričko, overlooking the rest of Prekmurje, Jordi says living in a city is no longer an option. Not even in his native Barcelona. He says he was called to come to Slovenia, and decided to follow that call and let life surprise him. Today Jordi has a Slovenian wife and daughter, cuts wood for the winter months, and even does some marketing work when he's not dancing. With an open heart, we joined Jordi and his group at one of his Circle Dance sessions… You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Ernie Mendillo is a father of four, a musician, an American, and has been living in Slovenia for 19 years now. Ernie plays the Beatles and is usually out for the weekends but home during the week. He admits it is a strange work schedule, but it does make those moments when the family is together in Naklo even more special. One of the many first shocks for Ernie when he first came to Slovenia was the Slovenian music scene in the 1990s ;) He says the quality of life in Slovenia is much better than in the US, and that you can live a better life in Slovenia You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

A young Swedish activist, Benjamin Ladraa, has decided to quit his job, give a year of his life, and start walking from Sweden to Palestine! And right in the middle of his walk lies Slovenia! Benjamin is a man with a goal hoping for peace in the Middle East. But how have Slovenians welcomed him? What were his first impressions crossing into Slovenia and what has his experience so far been like? You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Tom Williams is an American from Hawaii living in Maribor. He's a freelance programmer, married to a Slovenian and a father of two. And while Slovenia may lack diversity, he says it does have great food and drinks. One thing he loves about Maribor is that it's a real sports town. Tom does not play the ukulele, but he does have a great Christmas story about how he ended up in Slovenia… ;) Tom's music choice: Keali‘i Reichel - "Kawaipunahele". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IFoZK3t-Uk You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

The smell of trees, mud and moisture… That's just one of the things Joyitri loves about living in Slovenia. Compared to her home town Kolkata, Slovenia is also clean, safe, and full of good wine, chocolate and cosmetics. We caught up with Joyitri, a PhD student in Maribor, just before flying back to India to get married:) Join us for a cup of tea with Joyitri and her Indian friend Pal at the Maribor student campus… Joyitri's music choice: Nusrat & Rahat Fateh Ali Khan - "Mere Rashke Qamar". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kP6G8D8OxE You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Navid is happy to be in Slovenia, and happy to be in Maribor. He came to Slovenia as a refugee from Iran after a long and treacherous journey together with his young wife. His daughter was born in Ljubljana shortly after their arrival. Today Navid is an active young man, involved in cultural and cooking projects, is a master degree student in international management, and his favourite free-time activity is going to the gym! Navid's music choice: Mohsen Chavoshi - "Beraghsa". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5bmqkX-Pfs You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

When a Brazilian met a Slovenian in Alaska… That's how Marta Berglez's story of coming to Slovenia begins… Marta is a Brazilian, spreading Brazil's culture and heritage in Slovenia. Marta says Slovenian men are good husbands, despite the fact that her husband works on a ship and spends much time away from home. Marta's daughter Nina goes to school in Ljubljana and already speaks three languages. Marta does miss the company of friends and family, the sea, certain Brazilian dishes… but on the day we visited her she did have the ingredients to make us some excellent Caipirinha;) Marta's music choice: Adriana Calcanhotto - "Cariocas". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iyx63i8BV5A You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Australian Neil Churches, the son of »The Crow«. The Crow that was captured in WWII and held prisoner in Maribor between 1941-1944. The Crow that later staged the biggest escape of the 20th century. Neil is a frequent visitor to Slovenia, which he feels as his second home. His wish is to turn his father's escape route into an international walking trail for people to experience, see the beauties, and taste the generosity of Slovenia. Neil's music choice: The Beatles - "With A Little Help From My Friends". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkyqRP8S93Y You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Ljubov (love) is in Slovenia. They call her Ljuba, and she comes from Russia. Ljuba is an EVS volunteer working in a children's adventure park in Maribor. She loves the Slovenian ice cream and bakeries, and is surprised how well Slovenians speak English. After spending a year in Slovenia, Ljuba says she would like to continue living abroad, anywhere and everywhere... Ljubov's music choice: Hurts - "Stay". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nP3XB7hrFo You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Today in Land of Dreams: Ahmed previously worked as a diving instructor in Sharm el Sheikh, where he met Ana, a Slovenian on vacation in Egypt. The two went out one night, stayed in contact, visited each other, and are now living together in a village near Škofja Loka. In less than a year Ahmed Lotfy has successfully completed his Slovenian language course and found a job in Ljubljana. The rain scares him, he misses the Egyptian night life, but loves the Trojane doughnuts and Maribor football team... Meet Ahmed and his Slovene wife Ana, and join our tour of Radio Si:) Ahmed's music choice: Amr Diab - "Nour El Ein". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLJA-srM_yM You can also follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Jan Aigner is an Austrian celebrity chef who decided to move to Koper, Slovenia! And not only that, together with his partner Andrea, the two have also opened a restaurant! Living and working by the sea was their dream all along. They shared the same passion and now have their very own restaurant - Okus. Learn more about their story in the latest "Land of Dreams" episode! Jan's music choice: Seed - "Wonderful Life". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk4fxsrJajY You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Mahmoud Kasabji and his son arrived from Syria as refugees two years ago. When they had to choose between Ljubljana and Maribor, they chose Maribor. Mahmoud works in an Arabic fast food restaurant called Levant, and his son M'hamed studies languages and would like to be an optrician. At the age of 57, Mahmoud's only wish in life is to give his children a good future and to live in peace. Mahmoud's music choise: Wafeek Habib - "7abat Al Toot". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXRxlRQWH8g&list=RDQMRgSzIC9ChTo You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Slovenia has changed Alejandra Ramos. She has become more active and more involved in outdoor activities, she travels and hikes more, and has also become a vegan while living in Slovenia. Alejandra Ramos is a Mexican from Acapulco living in Slovenia. She's a PhD math student at the University of Primorska in Koper, currently spending a semester in Ljubljana. Alejandra says she feels good and safe in Slovenia, and has the feeling that Slovenians really like Mexicans… Alejandra's music choise: Natalia Lafourcade - "Hasta la raíz". You can listen to the full song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKmPci5VXz0&feature=youtu.be You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Paul Veenvliet is Dutch biologist offering wildlife trips in Slovenia! Paul says he has been in love with the great outdoors eversince he was a child. After meeting his Slovene wife he decided to move to Slovenia and has been here for 14 years now. He has two sons and lives in the Bloke Plateau. Paul is involved in numerous nature conservation and education projects. He stresses the importance of experiencing nature, in order to want to protect it. Find out more about the nature that surrounds you and join us one of his tours as we visit the springs of Lake Cerknica! You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Donathan Lawrence Brown is a young American in Europe, a Fulbright visitng professor in Maribor. Born and raised in Chicago, Donathan later moved to New York. He teaches about race in American politics and is currently teaching at the Department of English and American Studies at the University of Maribor. So, is Slovenia on the map of American politics? Can Slovenia benefit from having the First Lady? Donathan says he's happy to have chosen to come to Maribor, a place off the beaten tourist track. He says he loves the old town charm, the slower pace of life and looks forward to discovering the region… You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Max Zimani is a Zimbabwean trying to make a positive change in Slovenia. Max first came to Ljubljana as a student 33 years ago. Today he is a father of four, a restaurant manager, a musician and an activist helping migrants in Slovenia. He's part of the Skuhna social business and the Zavod Global education institute, through which he strives to help Slovenia make the shift towards a more positive and open society… You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Istvan Kovacs is a mathematician who prior to coming here had never been in Slovenia before and had only seen the sea once in his life. He had no idea what to expect coming to Slovenia. Together with his wife they packed everything they had and moved their home from Hungary to the Slovenian coast. Today, Istvan Kovacs is a Hungarian living by the sea! He works at the University of Primorska in Koper and lives in Izola. Istvan loves the sea colours, the air, the wind and the Mediterranean way of life. You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Claudio Carletti is an Italian volleyball player finishing his professional career in Maribor. We met up with him and his Austrian partner Dagmar on a sunny day in Maribor. In the six months they have lived here they have nothing but compliments for Slovenia, its people and food:) Cladio has no regrets about coming to play and finishing his career in Maribor. He says that's the beauty of sport – you never know where you're going to end up… You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Anthony Bruno is a Nigerian living in Slovenia. In the two years he has been here he has lived in Ljubljana, Stična, Maribor and now Postojna! Using his own talents Bruno connects investors, businessmen and football scouts from Slovenia and Nigeria. Prior to coming here he worked in the UK for ten years, but once he set foot in Slovenia he made a decision to remain in Slovenia. He says it is here that he discovered that apart from work there is also life. Today with his Slovenian wife he has a company importing African drinks. The two also have a daughter, and Bruno's dream is to one day live in the Slovenian countryside and have is own tomatoes and chicken;) You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Niels Barends is a psychologist from Amsterdam who lives in Slovenia. Niels has been here for more than two years now, he came because of a Slovenian lady, and his plan is to keep on living in Ljubljana for as long as he's alive. He decided to start making a living by opening his own psychology practice. Most of his patients are expats living in Slovenia, and so we asked him about the issues foreigners face here. A free session with some expat counseling by Niels Barends in today's Land of Dreams. You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/

Meet Natalie Nicholls, a British native speaker living and working in Koper! She came to Slovenia at the age of 18, not because of love, but in search of work and new experiences. Today she has her own language school, three children, a husband, and a dog! She loves teaching, the sunny weather on the coast, likes to go back to England, but says she feels at home in Koper. You can also join us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Land-of-Dreams-209819855839296/