When we were told that Rotaractors will be coming to Singapore from Thamasat University Bangkok, we were all so excited. Having hosted so many clubs from different countries, this is the first time that we are hosting rotaractors from Thailand. They arrived on the day before the Deepavali holidays. As I and Zack wait anxiously at the airport, we were worried if we are able to communicate and most importantly feel comfortable with each other.
When the girls came out of the custom, our fears were relinquished. They all were able to speak English and were a very fun bunch of people. As we proceeded to their dormitories at the Singapore Girl Guides hostel, I tried very hard to remember each and every of their 7 names.
After lunch we took the MRT to little India. As it was near to the Deepavali holidays, there were a lot of shops selling Indian sweets and decorations. The girls were overwhelmed with all the sight and sounds. They took a lot of pictures and bought some souvenirs. In the late afternoon we returned to the hostel as the girls were a bit tired and needed to prepare for the welcome dinner held at Rotarian Peter Kong’s house. I chatted with them to ask them about their club and at the same time they asked about the different cultures of Singapore. In the evening, we proceeded in 2 cars to Rotarian Kong’s house. His wife prepared a sumptuous dinner and Zack and I were taught a few Thai words that night. I stayed over with the rotaractors that night and got to know them better that night.
We visited the Zoo, Bird Park, night safari and Sentosa in the week that they were here. The Thai rotaractors also got to take a photo with our President SR Nathan at the Istana open house on Hari Raya Puasa. They also helped in the IT workshop conducted by the Rotarians and visited the Newater plant too. However as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, they were already on their last day in Singapore.
The farewell dinner was held at President Peter’s house. They did a presentation on their University and the projects they have completed and also taught us to dance the traditional Thai dance. It was indeed an enriching experience and eye opening for us all.
During their whole visit, I learnt quite a few Thai words and is able to converse in simple Thai. I guess this has been a really rewarding visit for them to understand our cultures and traditions better as well us a good exchange between the 2 clubs.
I really hope that all of them had an equally enjoyable time being hosted and well as I had of hosting them.
