07 Apr 2024
2024 Indonesian Immersion Tour
Students and teachers were filled with anticipation and excitement as they departed for the Indonesian Language and Geography tour to Java and Bali. The itinerary was packed with enriching experiences, from exploring ancient sites to immersing in village life.
In Yogyakarta, students were privileged to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. Witnessing a traditional Javanese dance performance of the Ramayana at Prambanan was a magical moment that will be an indelible memory for us all. Each day brought new and unique activities, including riding traditional pony carts, learning rice planting techniques, and students even tried their hand at batik painting. Tasting local cuisine and playing the gamelan added to the cultural experiences.
In Jakarta, collaboration with students from Jesuit Gonzaga College offered valuable insights into the Indonesian geography, culture and language. Amidst visiting some of the capital’s landmark sites, there were also valuable opportunities for the students to visit the United Nations and Australian Embassy. And of course, experiencing Jakarta traffic was unforgettable!
As the pace slowed in Bali, students honed their bargaining skills in local markets and enjoyed the flavours of tropical fruits. However, the highlight of our Bali experience was a workshop with the inspiring women of the ROLE Foundation, who spoke on the importance of environmental conservation in Bali and empowering local women to earn a livelihood within the bustling tourism industry. As the group returned home to Australia, each student carried with them not just souvenirs, but also a deeper appreciation for Indonesia's heritage and a renewed sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship.