Countryside experience with Mother Nature for the cosmopolitans

HECTIC schedules ... crazy deadlines ... weary minds ... exhausted bodies. This is the frequent picture of life to the cosmopolitan man. He is always on the go to accomplish his goals. He is active and pre-occupied with several things. The word "B-U-S-Y" is written all over his face. One thing he has been missing is the luxury of a vacation. He needs a break too, definitely. And who to turn to but the loving and calming arms of Mother Nature.

Eighteen participants from Cosmopolitan College of Commerce & Technology (staff and students), together with two tour guides from Anthony Tours & Travel Agency set out one Sunday morning to Belalong, Temburong in search of excitement, peace of mind, and adventure. This group is a mix of Bruneians, Filipinos, Sri Lankans, and an Indonesian. Everyone had his or her own pre-conceived ideas of Temburong. To some, it is a remarkable rainforest. Well-preserved ... exotic ... diverse ... to some, it is an object of curiosity. Water crocodiles?... Very large orchids?... Flying coffins?

Everyone did not know that Temburong would be special to each one of them afterwards.

The first timers couldn't wait to be there. They were the early birds among the group. The first stop was at the Trandie Marina Resort. A hearty breakfast was served by the courteous employees there. The next course was the ride going to the canopy walk. Climbing the mountain was a real test to everyones strength and endurance. The ladies felt like they were contestants in the reality show, Survivor. It was not easy going up the canopy. Every step was a decision to either fight or give up. Every stride on the stairs was a movement of mixed fear and courage. That is why, when upon reaching the top of the Temburong canopy, Cosmopolitan College group just wanted to holler and breathe out. Some shouted "I'm the king of the world!" Some heaved a sigh of finally making it there to the top. It was such an amazing climb!

After this tough activity, the whole group went down and experienced the splash of the waterfalls. The group were like kids who discovered something to play with. The water was so cold and refreshing! For those who are used to the heater, this is something really different.

Then, everyone prepared for the next itinerary. Free floating! This ride is very much unlike the ride that these participants take everyday. No traffic jam. If one bumps on another, no one gets angry. But, instead, just chuckles, and makes fun of it. No worries. The passenger just lets himself or herself be carried away by the water. He or she looks up at the sky and dreams for a moment, and listens to the cicadas and birds while enjoying the short travel.

The participants did not notice the time pass by. It was already time for lunch. Everyone was very eager to partake in the meal. They did not know that two more activities were coming their way to test their bravery.

Flying fox was a torture to those who have fear of heights. Wall climbing was another torment, but to those who have not exercised their arms and legs for a long time. There were some shouting, cheering, and clapping, but everything ended well.

Everyone felt tired afterwards, but the feelings towards the entire trip were so great.

This one-day excursion to Temburong organised by Cosmopolitan College and Anthony Tours was indeed an excellent teambuilding activity for the lecturers and students. I am one of the participants and I can say that I really had a wonderful time savoring the quietness of Temburong, doing the challenging activities, being with the whole team and feeling a sense of belongingness.

This trip taught us several things which are evident in real life situations. This challenge brought out mixed emotions in us. Some of us felt proud of being able to conquer our own fears. Some of us marvelled at how magnificent God's creation is. Some of us felt blessed and grateful that we can enjoy moments like these with nature.

Doing the canopy walk, flying fox, free floating, and wall climbing is not simple and easy. Everyone of us has his or her own fears and limitations. But, when one hears the encouraging words and feels the caring hand of the others, one cant help but feel assured and fearless. Age and position in life did not matter in doing the activities laid out before us. What turned out to be important are the values of teamwork, perseverance, humility, positivism, and concern for others.

Who would have thought that Alexis Bulatao, the youngest and smallest among the group would be able to climb the canopy?

Who would have thought that Siti Suhelia, a very timid lady, would be able to survive the flying fox and free floating?

Who would have thought that our principal, Suria, in his prime years would try the flying fox and wall climbing?

Aristotle once said, "In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous." I never realised the beauty of this saying until experiencing this trip.

The Brunei Times