Travel and being immersed in different cultures can be an eye opening experience that provides a form of education that can only be obtained outside of the classroom.

In a bid to ensure young Europeans have the chance to seek out these invaluable experiences, the European Union has launched a new initiative.

DiscoverEU will see 15,000 18-year-old Europeans, among them 315 young Greeks, given tickets to travel to four European cities over the summer.

By venturing to different parts of the continent, and stepping outside of their comfort zone, organisers hope young people will have the chance to experience freedom of movement, better understand Europe’s diversity and cultural richness, and make new friends while also discovering themselves.

The initiative coincides with European Year of Cultural Heritage, giving successful applicants the chance to be present for a number of events taking place throughout the region.

Those who receive a travel pass will mainly be travelling by rail, granting them the opportunity to take in the different towns and landscapes that Europe offers. The pass will also permit travel on buses and ferries, and in fewer cases by plane.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
· Be 18 years old on 1 July 2018 (born between 2 July 1999 and 1 July 2000);
· Have the nationality of one of the 28 Member States of the European Union;
· Be able to supply your ID or passport number on the online application form;
· Start your journey in one of the EU 28 Member States;
· Plan to start your travel between 9 July and 30 September 2018;
· Plan to travel between one and up to 30 days inclusive;
· Plan to travel to at least one and up to four foreign country destinations within the EU;
· Be willing to become a DiscoverEU Ambassador.

Applications are now open until 12:00 (CEST) 26 June 2018. To find out more and to apply, visit the European Youth Portal.