Friday, 5 October 2012

News #2

Week 5
Venue: Tourism Room II, Taylor's University

REPORT

The class started with the discussion on our Visa application. Diana and Zaid are the ones in charge with Visa related matters. Diana posted the personal information form on our Facebook page for everyone to fill it in. Since there were some confusions on that form, Diana clarified and explained to the whole class on what is needed and what is asked in that form.

There was a short discussion on the possibility of changing our destination. Diana brought it up saying that she heard some words about it. Paolo joked on changing it to Singapore and he also stressed on the workload if we were to change our destination. It would not be a smart decision. The rest of the class agreed and Cheryl mentioned that she would never want to change the destination.

The class was still unclear with the cost of our trip. Paolo insisted to have Madey in the class as he has all information regarding the trip. Assad went out and called Madey to present on the budget. Madey came and presented to the class on our three options for the trip. He showed and explained the breakdown costings of each option. He further justified why are we choosing Holiday Tours as our booking means. 

Madey has also highlighted on the financial burden that we would be facing. Every student would have to top-up around MYR 400 - 500 each. He has also acknowledged that his team would try their best to get the cheaper deal for our 5D/4N trip. He mentioned that if there is any unfortunate event that any of our classmates could not come up with that amount, he welcome us to talk on this personally with him or Grace.

Further discussion on the role of F&B department. Paolo emphasized to those who are in charge on the importance of knowing all students' preferences. The whole class has pointed out that we are all fine with pork-free food. Corrine has also jotted all information on those who have allergies. Grace made it clear that she is allergic to peanuts... We'll make sure no peanuts get near you Grace! :p

The class then was brought to another important discussion, which is our Risk Management Plan. Mashi presented the plan that he and his team have came up with. Buddy system proposed by Joon Neng earlier last week was highlighted again. Paolo seems to be fond of that idea. 

Mashi further explained on the roles and duties of a group leader. He then showed the list of embassies for everyone. Unfortunately, Oman and Kazakhstan embassies could not be found/are not listed. Sarah mentioned that some embassies are together with another embassy. Paola then suggested for everyone to start searching/locating for the two embassies to ensure the safety of our two friends, Assad and Malika!

Health issue was also brought up during the class. Our Crisis Team is aware of those students who might be needing special attention during the trip. Some were asked on how serious could their conditions be. Students who are taking daily medication are also advised to have their medicines prescribed before leaving to the country to avoid any customs problem.

Other than that, Paolo mentioned on the Sri Lankan Civil War. He suggested for us to find someone to talk and discuss about it when we get there. Specifically on how the country organize itself after the war? and how are they trying to attract tourists? Simply said, if we could find someone to talk to on how the country manage its tourism after the war, it would be good. 

It is week 5 and we have gotten the estimation cost of our trip! Paolo insisted for a final proposal by next week. Chop-chop, let's do this guys! ;)

Till our next news!

Class Trip Secretary,
October 5th, 2012

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