Let’s start from the beginning.

When we reached the foot, everyone began taking precautionary measures against any potential pests like mosquitoes and leeches. I felt safe and a sense of like-mindedness that despite having the traits of city bumpkins, we were here to truly enjoy the nature.

We began ascending. The climb was really not expected of a one star trek. I was thinking if it was the examination period that caused me to feel weak amidst trying to keep up with the pace when “5 Minutes Break” was announced. The climb was good because adequate breaks were given. We could take a deep breath, seek comfort from water, and appreciate the roots and soil and trees.

What was even better was the company. The live performance from the talented singers in the committee kept us going. And the photo sessions kept us even more entertained.

The cooler climate continued drawing us up.

And there we were, after some exercise, the peak!  We massaged each other backs (well the girls only), set up our tents and prepare the food for cooking before it turned dark.  It was awesome bonding time in the windy and starry starry night.

The sleep was cozy with 4 other girls in the tent. How often would we get to enjoy this?!

We woke up in the morning for the peak of the peak. After climbing shaky ladders after shakier ladders, we reached the vantage point of a spectacular scenery below.  The skies were blue and cloudy and padi fields below were green and lush. We could be part of a poster. The strong wind made capturing moments like these challenging and we got to say that these photos taken were really valuable.

It was soon running late morning and hence we packed up, and as usual left nothing behind.

The climb down was really thrilling and it was like an obstacle course. It was only descending that we realized how steep the trails were. I was just awed at how we even climbed up. We “koala” hugged numerous logs, slide down a few slippery roots and immersed in the speed.

What a mixture of feelings I had when we reached the base.  Was it happiness that we had such a wonderful time together, or was it going to be dispiriting that all these ended too soon?

I guess there are far too many things we gained from this trip. But what sums it all up would be the NUS ODAC spirit we felt amidst the outdoors.

I look forward to great moments yet to be made with our participants.

(Dorcas Koo)

I am one of those who are particularly conscious about the weight of my bag pack. Especially when it comes to long trekking trips. I was a noob when it comes to trekking items and thought that sleeping bag only comes in those bulky sizes (which can easily occupy most of the space in a 45 litre bag).  Until I was introduced that these things do come in small sizes.

Then again, I was skeptical about the performance of the sleeping bag.  I was already struggling with the comfort level of my sleeping bag- a relatively common brand found in Singapore- which has now retired from its services.  It has much more cloth, but somehow, I was already having problems sleeping snugly in it (although it does help keep off some of the cold). The worse nightmare happens when it came down to packing. It not only occupies a large space in my 45 litre bag, it also adds a substantial weight to the load. Soon, it became a dilemma to me whether I should pack that for my trips.

After reading much positive reviews from the internet about Dreamlite 500 by Deuter, I decided to give it a try and I finally bought the sleeping bag.  Weighing at only 500 grams, it’s more than half the weight off most common sleeping bags. The best thing- it gave a better comfort rating than my previous sleeping bag.  Because it is stream-lined, it reduces excess weight and occupies lesser space compared to an ordinary sleeping bag. With the size of only a 1-litre water bottle, packing becomes a breeze.  Additionally, the material used allows stretching within the sleeping bag which means you can toss and turn w/o affecting your sleep.

I have survived well using Dreamlite 500 for two trips which occurred during the monsoon season (in Cameron highlands and Gunung Datuk) and several camps and can testify the comfort rating of this sleeping bag by Deuter.  However, do note that the temperature rating is only around 40 to 60 F. This means, you will not feel as warm in temperature close to zero degrees. Afterall, it’s only 500grams! The convenience of this sleeping bag is definitely worth the price.  Now, I do not have to compromise my comfort for convenience and you should not too!

Features:

• Adjustable Hood with Drawstring
• Anti-catch Zipper Strip
• Stuff-sack
• Zipped Inner Pocket
• Temp. Rating: 40 - 60 F
• Body Size: 6''0"
• Pack Size: 4.75 x 9.75 inches

Specifications:
Style: 37075
Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz.
Dimensions (HxWxD): 81 x 30 x 19 inches
System:   
Materials: Shell: 210T Nylon Ripstop
Lining: 237T Nylon DuPont Tactel Taffeta
Fill: Polydown

The lightweight backpack is a reliable trekking companion as it is durable and comfortable. The Aircontact Lite back system provides comfortable cushion for the back and shoulder and does not strain the shoulder despite the heavy bag load. The stabiliser straps help to prevent unnecessary movement of the bag as we trek. This is very useful as the bag hugs close to the trekker and helps the trekker to stabilise and balance better. The interior is well compartmented, and provides sufficient compartments for different equipments. Last but not least, with weight as light as 1560g, the bag is neither bulky nor heavy. This greatly reduces the strain on the back due to heavy bag load, thus, making trekking more comfortable.

NUS ODAC wishes you a Happy Lunar New Year!

May the year of the Tiger bring much happiness to everyone! Enjoy the mid-term break and celebrate responsibly.

Do not drink and drive.

Yours sincerely,

NUS ODAC