Embarking on My First International Trip: A Journey to Malaysia
February 2015 marked the beginning of a memorable journey for me. I had the opportunity to attend a leadership development program in Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia, part of a sponsored program by ICICI Bank and GlobalNxt University. Despite the excitement, my journey was far from smooth, with a series of unexpected challenges.
Setting the Stage for Adventure
ICICI Bank had granted me a leave to participate in an internship program in Malaysia. However, the journey to my first international destination was far from easy. The flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Terminal T3, under Malindo Airways, was by no means comfortable. The pressure of the program weighed heavily on me, especially when I spent days alone in my 1 BHK flat.
On the Day Off to Kaula Lumpur
The night before my departure, I left my rented flat and saw my neighbor, Jasmin, standing at a corner shop in her swing machine, wishing me luck. Her warm words were a source of comfort amidst the stress.
Boarding the Malindo Airways flight, I felt a mix of excitement and unease. The flight journey stretched for six long hours, during which I faced intense muscle pain and migraines. It was a challenge to sit still, and sometimes I found solace in watching navigation arrows on my tablet or videos on a device attached to my seat in the air.
Arriving in Kaula Lumpur
Despite the discomfort, I arrived at the Kaula Lumpur airport in the morning, only to find that the pain and migraines persisted. Staying at a star hotel, I had a beautiful city view from my window, but the health issues were no less pressing. I searched extensively for medicine but could not find any nearby, either in the city or at GlobalNxt University.
During my stay, I relied on the daily college buses to travel to and from GlobalNxt University. The intern program was a busy schedule, with internships, classes, and social events all part of the journey. The culmination of my experience was a farewell party and the presentation of certificates from the faculty members.
A Painful Yet Valuable Experience
Although I had to battle physical discomfort throughout the internship, the experience taught me valuable lessons. It emphasized the importance of carrying essential medications when traveling internationally and showed me the true meaning of resilience.
Ultimately, my first international trip to Malaysia, though challenging, was an enriching experience. I completed the program successfully, and this journey not only broadened my horizons but also instilled a strong sense of preparedness for future adventures.
Lessons Learned:
Carry essential medication when traveling long distances. Stay hydrated and manage stress during long flights. Prepare yourself mentally and physically for unexpected challenges.Wishing you a safe and happy journey in the future!