There is a question that comes up repeatedly among those thinking of submitting their proposal for the upcoming calls for Madrid Xplora: What are you really up to when you get back?
The response from the 20 mentors of the 1st Generation (who experienced the expedition in Egypt in June 2026) is unanimous: you don't just bring back photos or tourist souvenirs, you bring back a family for life and experiences that completely transform you.
We put the travel guides to one side and dive right into the real-life stories, amusing anecdotes and unforgettable moments told in the first person by the expedition members themselves.
🤝 Are you making new friends? From colleagues to a second family
Spending 12 intense days travelling down the Nile in a felucca, going on a 4×4 safari or sharing secrets at night creates an unbreakable bond.
“From this experience I take away 20 friends and some incredible group leaders who treated us like family. If anyone was left out a bit in the meetings or meditations, we immediately integrated them.”
Miriam Fernández – Xploradora Egypt 2026
Sharing routines, meals and late-night conversations after intense days turned 20 strangers from the Community of Madrid into a close-knit group capable of overcoming any challenge.
“Not only am I taking away incredible friends, but several people who have changed me forever and who have become my best friends, my home away from home.”
Julia Ortega – Explorer Egypt 2026
🌅 The moments that leave a lasting mark forever
There are moments on the expedition where the accumulated effort makes complete sense and time seems to stand still.
“During the school visit with the children in Banana Island, a little girl gave me one of her rings without asking for anything in return. I gave her one of mine, so we both keep a part of each other in different parts of the world.”
Martina Salas – Egypt Explorer 2026
Both human contact with the local population and the great adventure milestones left an indelible mark on the expedition members. From sailing the Nile in a felucca and venturing into the Valley of the Kings, to going on a 4x4 safari through the dunes of El Fayoum and watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Sinai.
“Sunrise on Mount Sinai was unique. After spending the whole night climbing the mountain, getting to the top and seeing the sunrise made the effort totally worth it.”
Cristina Parejo – Xploradora Egypt 2026
❤️ Stories that will never be forgotten
Between historical sites and research, improvised laughter and comic situations were the constant soundtrack of the adventure.
“Returning from Sinai exhausted, Eva and I were the only ones awake on the bus. We went from seat to seat taking funny photos with everyone who was asleep.”
Lorena Santos – Xploradora Egypt 2026
The group's little traditions, absent-minded mistakes and shared jokes turned every journey into an unforgettable story.
“Many remember the moments when I lost things (I nearly lost my passport), which led to a few laughs and a few well-deserved bollockings from my companions.”
Iker Zheng – Xplorador Egipto 2026
💥 Do you dare to write your own story?
Egypt was only the beginning. The legacy of the 1st Generation continues and applications for Costa Rica 2027 are now open 🌴. If you are between 16 and 17 years old, study in the Community of Madrid and want to live a life-changing experience, don't miss out. Prove what you're capable of and register before the deadline closes.