Intro Travel

Why did you choose this program?

Ever since visiting Thailand in 2020 (right before the lockdown), I became fascinated with what Southeast Asia has to offer. The traditions, amazing views, and the warmth of the people are things I always remember fondly, so it was just a matter of time until I returned. The opportunity came quickly: two friends and I were coming back from a ski trip one late evening when the topic of this year’s vacation came up, and in just one minute, we collectively decided on Bali.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

The tour included accommodations: a hotel in Canggu, a private villa in Lovina, twin rooms in Gili Trawangan and Ubud, transport mainly by van between locations and boat rides, and some meals, primarily breakfast. I only needed to purchase the flight and set aside some pocket money for snacks, drinks, and extra activities.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Don’t hold back! Take it all in and go all out. Strike up conversations with your fellow travelers, enjoy karaoke in the van while on the road, and share your funniest stories. Savor the local food, dance when your favorite song comes on, or better yet, sing it! Explore during your free time: for example, I ran from the hotel in Canggu to Tanah Lot Temple, which we visited the next day, and did two laps around the island while in Gili Trawangan.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

A typical day starts with breakfast, which may or may not include hangover from last night’s party. The group leader arrives, does a quick headcount, and announces our scheduled activity for the day. During this time, the group is mostly quiet, with only small talk present. After the first activity, the group’s energy rises during lunch, where jokes can be heard all around. The second activity brings joy to everyone, as each person gives their best to have fun or excel. By dinner, spirits are high— and not just the ones in the glasses—and reflections on the day’s funniest moments are shared aloud for all to enjoy.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

For me personally, I have a fear of deep water and I'm not a strong swimmer, so surfing and snorkeling felt like challenges I had to overcome. Surprisingly, surfing went much better than I expected; I enjoyed it so much that I didn't want to take a break. Snorkeling was another pleasant surprise. Last year, I couldn’t stay in the water for long, but this time I completed the whole activity thanks to my friends, who made sure I was okay—checking that my mask was properly fitted and keeping an eye on me. I’m truly grateful for their support.

It’s very hard to name one favourite travel memory, as no trip is ever the same, and even if you return to the country you’ve been before, you’ll always have a new favourite memory!

But if I have to name one, it’s going to be the volcano sunrise hike in Bali! Watching the sun come up on the horizon from the top of an active volcano is such a once in a lifetime experience!

I’ve realised that travelling with a group is the best way to travel!

Whenever I used to go travelling, I would go all by myself and try to meet new people along the way. But that isn’t always easy if you only have a week or two to spend in a country.

But if you come with a group of like minded people from day one until the end, it changes the whole experience completely!

IT’S DOUBLE THE FUN IF YOU CAN SHARE IT WITH SOMEONE!