From the 24th of June to the 4th of July, our select group embarked on an unforgettable trip to Indonesia, exploring the rich cultural and natural diversity of Bali, Flores, Jakarta, and Bandung. This journey provided us with a unique opportunity to experience the loud and colourful culture, archipelago landscapes, and warm hospitality of Indonesia.
Our adventure began in Bali, the nation’s tourist capital. Bali is known for its big flowing waves, gift shops and street vendors. In Ubud, we visited the House of Masks and Puppets, where we learned about the expressive tradition of Balinese puppetry and mask-making.
A highlight of our time in Bali was the Potato Head Sustainability Tour in Ngurah Rai. Here, we learned about innovative sustainability practices, from upcycling waste materials to creating eco-friendly products. This eye-opening tour emphasised the importance of environmental conservation and inspired many of us to think about sustainability in our own lives. We made candles from reused cooking oil and then relaxed at the scenic beach club.
We also visited our sister school, Ngurah Rai University. We engaged in cultural exchanges, participated in a joint dance workshop and made new friends, deepening our understanding of the Indonesian language while learning bargaining skills from them.
Next, we flew to Labuan Bajo, an island known for its stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife. Island hopping in the Komodo Islands was an unforgettable experience. We explored several islands, each offering unique landscapes and opportunities to see the famous Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
The trip included a coral conservation and snorkelling expedition. We participated in coral restoration projects and snorkelled in the crystal-clear waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The sight of colourful fish and coral formations left us in awe of the underwater world.
Our journey then took us to Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital city. Jakarta’s vibrant energy and modern skyline provided a stark contrast to the serene landscapes we had previously experienced. It surprised me how much greenery was present in patches around the city, and the religious differences around the country.
Our final stop was Bandung, often called the Paris of Java for its charming architecture and cool climate. We took the WHOOSH train from Jakarta to Bandung, enjoying scenic views and a comfortable journey. It was an early rise, and we didn’t sleep for the next 20 hours.
In Bandung, we had the honour of lunching with the Vice-Governor of West Java at “The Pakuan.” This special occasion allowed us to see a well-built white mansion, develop a relationship between MHS and Indonesia and enjoy a variety of traditional dishes.
Each day of our trip was well-structured, starting with a buffet breakfast, lunch at various local eateries, and free time for dinner, allowing us to explore and experience local cuisine independently. This routine ensured a balance between scheduled activities and personal exploration.
Aeon Yu 9L
