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)