As told by Renu Lakra Student of PGDM, Batch (2016-18) When I was asked to write a column on an international Study trip, I was really honored to have this opportunity and genuinely blank as to where to start the package of abundant experience and memories. Now starting from Singapore, the most expensive city in the world and where we first landed by Silk Airlines is a wow factor in my mind. We were led by Dr. Chandra Niranjan and Mr. Anoop throughout the
entire trip. As soon as we landed, I could see the strictness in checking the passport and giving index finger impressions of both hands. But it was fun to be in the group. Two buses were booked and we traveled to the hotel, spellbound at the beautiful roads, the greenery, and the cleanliness of the city. We reached the hotel and after resting for some time, we went to Marina Bay (Clarke’s) for dinner. It was an amazing feeling to have dinner with friends beside a man-made lake and luxurious business space all around. The next day, it was a day for visiting NEWater where the processing of water takes place for Singapore. The guide took us through how every pipeline is linked to coming down to the storage of NEWater and filtered through various micro neuron pipes and UV. We learned how much the Singaporeans valued every drop of water. We marveled at how attractive they had made the Visitors’ Centre. They also gave us the option of signing a pledge on how we could save water and the earth. We were also served water to taste.
Visiting the National University of Singapore was amazing with its sprawling acres, swimming pool, and sports arena. Sports are a priority for any educational institution in Singapore. Our next visit was to the Tiger Beer (Brewery). We toured around the whole factory to observe the entire process of manufacturing – from raw material to the finished product. (in the hot oven-like factory). It was fun though. Singapore is a hot humid country but I have to say, the van we traveled in was as luxurious as those in a James Bond movie. In the evening, we had our first experience of the Singapore Metro Travel (MRT) and reached Marina Bay to see the magnificent view sight; the heavy jungles and hills with fresh cold breeze touching your face. The mega day event where most of the places we covered were 500 acres from Putra Jaya, taking pictures near the prime minister’s office, Sultan’s Palace, and International Convention center. The 3-tiered Putra bridge was a sight to see. The beautifully planned city and roads were amazing. Royal Selangor which depicts the culture, the custom of Malaysia producing handmade Pewter products is a sign of excellence. What’s amazing is all the workers are women. In 1994, F1 trophy was made here. Some of my friends also bought some unique pieces from the store. The next stop was the Batu caves. It is a naturally formed limestone cave that has 270
steps and it was tiring but awesome.
The last day was again an unforgettable experience. We reached KIAL airport and the whole group shopped for chocolates. With the baggage, we boarded the plane only to be delayed by more than 45 minutes due to heavy rain. We reached Singapore Changi Airport, where we were received by the airport staff and were made to run to Singapore Airlines aircraft as the plane was waiting for more than an hour for our group! We had a sumptuous dinner on the plane and reached Bangalore at 10:30 pm. 8 days of travel went by just like that! Wake up, get ready and there is a new destination to go to every day. That was our schedule.
