The long-awaited day has finally arrived. Tomorrow marks the beginning of an exciting adventure for me and my friends as we embark on the 9th Batch Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange program in the Philippines. Today, the day before our departure, my emotions are a whirlwind of excitement, curiosity, impatience, and a touch of apprehension. This journey represents many firsts for me – my first time traveling by plane and my first trip abroad.

My travel itinerary began in Solo, where I boarded a train to Yogyakarta International Airport. Accompanied by two of my friends, we departed from Solo Jebres station at 13:40 WIB. The station was filled with the familiar faces of my college friends, who came to bid me farewell. Solo, my beloved city, I will be leaving you for a while!

Welcome Jogja!

Upon reaching Yogyakarta station at 15:05 WIB, I made my way to the lodging that was conveniently located right across from the station. As our flight was scheduled for tomorrow morning, we settled into the inn, where we planned our evening in Jogja. Eager to experience the local culture, we ventured out to an Angkringan, a charming street food spot, where we savored delicious local delicacies. After our delightful meal, we returned to the inn to rest, allowing the anticipation for our upcoming journey to fill the air.

The night passed in a blend of excitement and nervous energy. As I lay in my bed, I couldn’t help but ponder the adventures that awaited us in the Philippines. Tomorrow, as the sun rises, we will board the plane that will take us to a land of new experiences, friendships, and learning. The journey ahead is bound to be filled with unforgettable moments and valuable lessons, and I can't wait to embrace it all. Little did I know, this trip would be a transformative experience, shaping my perspective and broadening my horizons in ways I could never have imagined.