HUMANITARIAN ORGANISATION CHILD’S HEART TOURISM IS MORE THAN TRAVELLING AT “SOUNDS OF THE HEART”
A t the heart of Belgrade, where the daily din of the city quietens and streets that are filled with life gain a new dimension, is a café that isn’t just a place for you to enjoy your favourite coffee. The Sounds of the Heart café at 12 Čuburska Street has become a genuine oasis for all those who believe tourism shouldn’t be a privilege, but rather a right of every person. And that doesn’t apply only to visitors, but also to those at the centre of this story: the people with mental disabilities who run this unusual space with plenty of passion and dedication. The Sounds of the Heart café isn’t just yet another Belgrade coffee shop. It has become a symbol of social tourism; a space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their abilities. Even the name of the café isn’t coincidental – every cup of coffee served, every word of kindness uttered, every laugh heard from the terrace, has its own story and its own sound. And it is right there, in that sound, that people find connection, support and understanding. People with disabilities aren’t just employees here – they are ambassadors of social tourism. For tourists, a visit to the Sounds of the Heart isn’t just another opportunity for sightseeing in Belgrade, rather it’s a unique experience that opens the door to understanding and acceptance. Every sip of coffee connects visitors with the story of the lives of people who, despite facing challenges, show the world the importance of the power of community and support. Visitors to the Sounds of the Heart never know for certain what they’ll get. It could be a slice of birthday cake, organic fruit juice or the joy of a music workshop. Visitors can participate in every event and by so doing learn how to play, knit, make cocktails or simply enjoy themselves. The people who work at this café are happy to share everything they have on offer that day with others, while visitors will certainly enjoy an unusual experience that makes a strong impression and leaves no one feeling indifferent. Tourism without borders Belgrade is increasingly becoming known as a destination that offers inclusive tourism thanks to the Sounds of the Heart. This café enables people with disabilities to not only
participate in society, but also to shape it. It is also an opportunity for tourists to feel like they are part of something much bigger than simply enjoying Serbian hospitality. A visit to the Sounds of the Heart is an invitation to ask what real tourism is. Is it just ticking off a city’s attractions or is it an experience that connects us with all aspects of the community? This café shows that tourism can be a tool for change, inclusion and spreading empathy. The Sounds of the Heart represents a network of work hubs that employ people with developmental disabilities and also offer rural and mountain tourism. In close proximity to Belgrade, in the settlement of Vrčin, the Sounds of the Heart runs a rural homestead that’s open to all visitors seeking a tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of the city. A large number of fruits are grown and cultivated at this work centre and used to make natural organic juices. Nature lovers can also visit the Sounds of the Heart on Zlatibor mountain, where they can find respite and enjoy the beautiful views and natural resources on offer. People with developmental disabilities approach everyone in a direct, honest and completely natural way, which is harmonised with the offer. Every beverage served comes with a special story. Employees tell guests about their lives, challenges and the successes they’ve achieved. These stories aren’t only inspiring – they’re a call to action and a reminder that, regardless of ability, everyone can do what they love and what drives them, and can thus contribute to society. When she first started working, Milica said that she would use her first salary instalment to buy her grandmother a wardrobe. Srećko explained that, thanks to his salary, him and his father are able to live much better. These stories come entirely from the heart and allow guests to embark on an authentic journey of experiences that change us forever. “Sounds of the Heart” isn’t just a network of work hubs and cafés – it is proof that tourism can be a tool for change. These establishments encourage tourists to ponder how we can be better as a society and how we can contribute to creating a world where no one is excluded, and where everyone has a chance to contribute in their own way.
izazovima i uspesima koje su postigli. Ove priče nisu samo inspirativne – one su poziv na akciju i podsećanje da svi, bez obzira na svoje sposobnosti, mogu da se bave onim što vole, što ih pokreće i time doprinesu društvu. Milica je na početku svog rada ispričala da će od prve plate kupiti svojoj baki ormar. Srećko je podelio da, zahvaljujući svojoj plati, njegov tata i on mogu mnogo bolje da žive. Svaki delić njihovih priča dolazi iz srca i omogućava gostima da se upute na autentično putovanje doživljaja i iskustva koja nas zauvek promene. „Zvuci srca“ nisu samo mreža radnih centara i kafić – oni su dokaz da turizam može biti alat za promene. Oni podstiču turiste da se zapitaju kako mi kao društvo možemo biti bolji i kako možemo doprineti stvaranju sveta u kojem niko nije isključen, a svi imaju šansu da doprinesu na svoj način.
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