My December Blog

 Hellooo!!!

This blog is about my second month with the Ander organization. December, 2025. I didn’t even realize how quickly time passed here; it feels like just yesterday was my first day in Ankara… Being a part of the Ander family and collecting beautiful, unforgettable memories is such an emotional and incredible feeling. There is very little time left until I return to my homeland, Azerbaijan, and I spent my second month in Ankara so, so beautifully.

Together with my fellow volunteers, we traveled around, visited amazing places in Ankara that we hadn’t seen or discovered before, had so much fun, and returned home with unforgettable and lovely memories. Let me share with you where I went in December and what kind of impressions stayed with me  Let’s gooo 

At the beginning of December, I started by visiting Ankara’s wonderful parks. One of them was Kuğulu Park. It was incredibly beautiful and fascinating. I could never get enough of watching the scenery—especially the swans. I fell in love with their beauty and elegance. Seeing people quietly sitting and watching the view and the swans was so peaceful. Even the cleanliness of Kuğulu Park impressed me. Autumn suits Kuğulu Park perfectly  The sounds of nature, the colors, the falling leaves… In short, I was deeply touched by the park; it was truly delightful.

Then I went to the Botanical Park. Even just being there felt very special. The cleanliness of the park, Ankara’s wonderful air, the silence… Since the Botanical Park is located on higher ground, the view is amazing, and watching Ankara from there is truly enjoyable. For those who want to go, I recommend visiting either at sunset or sunrise—the view is absolutely beautiful 

We also visited the botanical area itself; seeing the plants up close, feeling them with the crackling sound of the fire, and experiencing the elegance of the place in the moment was very special. In short, every part of the Botanical Park is meaningful 

Atakule… How magnificent you are!!!!! In one word: perfect. I went there together with my volunteer friends. Since we visited close to New Year’s, the decorations were breathtaking. Atakule is very tall, and watching the view from the very top floor is unbelievable  We also visited another high floor to enjoy the view again from above, and there is a beautiful park there where you can walk around and admire the scenery. Additionally, there are simulation games you can play, and we didn’t miss the chance to enjoy them  Everything was perfect.

Ankara Castle… 

Everyone who comes to Ankara must visit this place. It is located very high, and the view is magnificent. It feels as if you can sense all of Ankara up close—so close to the clouds. Every stone of the castle carries history. You are so beautiful and special, dear castle.

Ice skating…

Together with my fellow volunteers, we went ice skating. It was such a wonderful feeling. Having friends with experience teach you how to skate, falling and laughing together, and enjoying the moment—it was amazing. My dear friends, having my first ice-skating experience with you was truly special, and I will never forget it.

Dear Ankara, thank you for welcoming me with a beautiful family, friends, and memories. I will never forget you; you will always remain in the most beautiful corner of my heart.

With love,

Gülsüm