Embedded Files
Welcome to this part of my blog, where I take you along on my journey to Samarinda — from the exciting adventures I experienced to the incredible people I met who made my stay unforgettable.
Welcome to this part of my blog, where I take you along on my journey to Samarinda — from the exciting adventures I experienced to the incredible people I met who made my stay unforgettable.
This was me, so excited for my first international flight alone. No family, no familiar faces—just me, embracing the moment and testing how far my independence could really take me.
En route to Samarinda—but with 16 hours to spare in Singapore, you know I’m turning this layover into a mini adventure!
Seize the day—Carpe Diem! I made the most of my 16-hour layover with a quick escape to see the iconic Merlion and the breathtaking Marina Bay Sands. A spontaneous detour turned into a memory worth keeping, this is how you turn waiting into wandering. Special thanks to my sister's friend who toured me and my schoolmate around SG! Fun fact: While we were booking our flight to Samarinda, we actually made sure to pick one with a layover in Singapore—had to make the most of the trip!
Off to Samarinda!
Off to Samarinda!
We arrived at Changi International Airport around 1 AM, and with barely any sleep, we headed out for a quick tour of Singapore by 7 AM. From the Merlion to Marina Bay Sands, we tried to make the most of our 16-hour layover and ended up doing a lot of walking. By the time our flight to Samarinda was about to board, I was completely exhausted—my eyes were heavy, and all I wanted was sleep. Still, I couldn’t help but feel excited. I’m finally on my way to UNMUL!
My favorite view!
My favorite view!
Finally! Touchdown Indonesia!
Finally! Touchdown Indonesia!
At this point, we had just discovered that our luggage hadn't arrived with us and wouldn't be arriving for another two days. We were both tired and a little frustrated, but instead of letting it get to us, my schoolmate Via and I decided to just let things unfold as they would. And that's when we were blessed with an unexpected act of kindness—a sweet Ibu who welcomed us with open arms. Not only did she make sure we had a place to rest, but she also went out of her way to buy us pajamas and other essentials for the night, knowing we had nothing with us. Standing there in that moment, I thought, 'This journey is already testing me, but it’s also showing me the strength that comes with staying calm in the face of adversity, and the incredible kindness that can turn even the toughest moments into something beautiful. <3
UnMUl Banggeris Campus - It is a 30-minute drive from the main campus where we were residing. The faculty members there gave me a welcome program. I felt so special and welcomed!
We finally arrived at UNMUL at exactly 12 AM, and after such a long journey, all we wanted was to sleep. But by 10 AM, our buddies woke us up with some surprising news—they’d gotten us clothes from a professor so we could head to UNMUL and start our SEA Teacher journey. Our first day felt like it lasted forever, but I couldn’t help but reflect: this is the reality now. I’m on my own, in a new place, and it's up to me to navigate through the challenges. As tired as we were, I realized that sometimes the beauty lies in the uncertainty. It's a reminder that growth often comes from stepping into the unknown, figuring things out, and embracing whatever comes next.
UnMul Professors. So glad to have met them, they were very welcoming and kind! <3
Selamat Menikmati!
Selamat Menikmati!
This was the first Indonesian food I tried, and I have to say, it’s pretty similar to Filipino food in taste. I was so pleasantly surprised! It was absolutely delicious—definitely a great way to kick off my food adventure here!
My first drink in Indonesia!
My first drink in Indonesia!
I honestly thought I was drinking juice, but when I took a sip, I realized it was tea! And I’m not exactly a fan of tea. 😂 But as I looked around and saw everyone drinking it so casually, I had a little culture shock moment. It hit me, maybe tea is just as much a part of daily life here as coffee is back home! It’s funny how small things like this can make you realize just how different cultures can be. Guess I’m going to have to give tea another shot!
This day was incredibly exhausting—especially when we had to exchange our pesos into IDR. I was honestly shocked by how many zeros were on the bills in Indonesia! Holding hundreds of thousands in my hands felt so surreal, and since math isn't exactly my strong suit, I had to quickly get used to the exchange rate. 😅 On top of that, we had to run some personal errands, like getting SIM cards, sorting out our accommodations, and figuring out transportation. Huge thanks to our buddies, Sesel and Gusto, for being so patient with us. They stayed with us the whole time, helping us adjust and explore the place while we tried to get the hang of everything!
On the following day, I already went to SMP 37 to meet the faculty and ask for my schedule. They were so kind, sweet and welcoming!
The faculty of SMP 37 let me try a traditional Indonesian delicacy - Kolak.
I liked it! Very similar to "Ginataang Saba" <3
My very sweet IX-Brave! I'm so surprised that despite the communication barrier, these kids showed enthusiasm and curiosity. They were respectful and smart!
CULTURAL DAY in UNMUL!
CULTURAL DAY in UNMUL!
My Footprints in Kalimantan Timur
My Footprints in Kalimantan Timur
Cruising around Mahakam River
Cruising around Mahakam River
Exploring Ladaya
Exploring Ladaya
Pantai Mangrove-Pasir Merah
Pantai Mangrove-Pasir Merah
TENGGARONG
TENGGARONG
BUDDIES!!!
BUDDIES!!!
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse