We’re Heading to Eastern Europe to Make New Friends!
Experience the heart of Eastern Europe through a unique Rotary Friendship Exchange to Bulgaria! Discover new cultures, build lasting friendships, and enjoy authentic hospitality by staying with local host families. Space is limited to just 10 participants, so don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow Rotarians and experience Rotary’s spirit of friendship firsthand. Find out how you can be part of this unforgettable adventure!
Join us for an unforgettable Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) experience in Eastern Europe! We depart on April 19, flying to Sofia, Bulgaria, where we’ll stay overnight before beginning the program on April 21. The exchange concludes on April 28.
Preference is given to first-time RFE participants and Rotarians who are actively engaged in Rotary’s mission of making the world a better place.
This is not a tour group. Participants will live with host families for 2–4 days at a time, changing hosts 2–4 times throughout the exchange. Our Bulgarian hosts design the program, guide us through their communities, provide some meals, and open their homes to us. You’ll experience a different culture first-hand—along with the occasional unexpected bump—so flexibility, a positive attitude, and good physical stamina are essential.
In return, our Bulgarian friends will visit Wisconsin late August/early September 2027.
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Trip Details & What to Expect
Dates: Start in Sofia, Bulgaria, at 9:00 a.m. and conclude in Sofia on the 28th.
Estimated airfare: $800–$1,000 round trip from Minneapolis–St. Paul (MSP).
Hosting the Return Exchange
After our trip to Bulgaria, we will host our Bulgarian friends here in District 6250, likely in late August or early September. Team members are expected to host, drive, help organize activities, or arrange for someone else to host in their place. This is a required commitment, with no exceptions.
Team Size and Deposit
The team will consist of 10 participants. If selected, you will be required to submit a $500 deposit to cover group expenses and any agreed-upon expenses associated with hosting the return exchange. Any remaining funds will be refunded to you.
For questions or to request an application and additional details about this amazing experience, please contact:
Mark Etrheim
608-769-7200
