Hello Indonesia, Goodbye Philippines

SEPTEMBER 01 – Today is the day that I will see my forever home Philippines. I feel sad as I will leave my family, classmates, and everyone I know for weeks. There is also the feeling of nervousness since it is my first time going to another country.

I got into a taxi and dropped off at the bus station bound for Manila. While waiting for Shainna, my classmate and fellow exchange student at Universitas Lambung Mangkurat, I sat. Here comes the moment the bus conductor called, and we got onto the bus. Manila, here we come. As we leave Baguio, it rained. It’s like the downpour of rain went along with my feelings.

At Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1

Five hours later, we arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. We met with our fellow schoolmates, Jasmin and Mclaine. The next thing to do was to go to the baggage drop-off and Immigration. I got nervous when I was at the Immigration but got relieved after I passed through it. Then we move on to the boarding gate, waiting for the boarding time. Just a quick go around the airport while we’re still in the Philippines.

Here comes the moment: I got my things and entered the airplane. Then, the pilot announces to prepare for take-off. Seeing Manila from above at night made me feel amazed but, at the same time, sad as we headed to Jakarta.

Finally arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Terminal 3

We arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport close to midnight. I got my bag, and we went straight to the Immigration and baggage conveyor. Now is the time to say goodbye to Shainna and Mclaine, as their next domestic flight is tomorrow en route to Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. Jasmin and I walked as fast as possible to catch our flight at Terminal 2. Here comes the shuttle bus, got onto it, and off we go.

The bus stopped at the terminal, and we ran straight to the baggage drop-off counter. Thank God we made it. We got onto the plane, and Kendari, here we come.