As the name suggests it was a trip that was simply not for leisure. At the end of the seven-day programme from 24 to 30 September 2009, 39 of us have learnt so much from the expedition, be it acquiring new knowledge or gaining new experiences which could be useful for our future.  Sydney was chosen because of its popularity as one of the top international tourist destinations.

This study trip was aimed to enhance our learning as students taking the Hospitality and Tourism module by translating classroom learning into real world experiences.  Seven student leaders from Diploma in Integrated Events Management (DIEM) were involved in setting the specific learning objectives as well as conceptualising, planning, executing and other pre- and post-trip activities such as researching and post-trip sharing on various aspects of tourism.  The trip was accompanied by three facilitators.

Overall, the learning was tremendous.  This was especially so for most of us who have not stepped onto the Australian soil before.  For many of us, it was chance of a lifetime to travel in an A380 flight to and from Sydney.  We were able to experience Sydney and had the privilege to see the different sight of the city.  We visited attractions like Sydney Opera House, Featherdale Wildlife Park, Manly Beach, Bondi Beach, Chinatown, Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower and Blue Mountains.  Every night, we had to complete the worksheets on the attractions visited and update our travel blogs.

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