‘Travel is the only thing that makes you richer. It is an investment in yourself.’ St Claret School provided an exclusive opportunity to have this enriching experience by organising an international trip to ‘Thailand - The Land of Smiles’. It was a 5-day, 4-night trip of a group of 36 members, which included 23 children from Stds 7 to 10 and 13 teachers, including the Principal and the tour guide. Various tourist destinations in Pattaya city and Bangkok were covered in this trip. The ‘Team Thailand’ departed from Bengaluru on 15 Oct by Thai Air Asia and landed in Pattaya at around 4am. From then on started their enthralling journey to various exquisite landmarks in these two cities. Each day was a new experience of learning, fun and loads of entertainment. The first two days in Pattaya included trips to the ‘Floating market’, the world famous ‘Alcazar Cabaret show’, Pattaya Beach, Night Market and the world’s largest Gem store – ‘The Gems Gallery’. The Coral Island with its coral reefs, crystal clear water, clean sandy beaches and various water sports was an ultimate treat for all the adventure lovers. Many indulged in para sailing, sea walking, banana boat rides etc. The entire team spent a long time playing leisurely in the pristine clear beach, never wanting the fun to end. On the third day, the team moved to Bangkok. A two-hour dinner cruise was arranged for the team aboard the ‘Chao Phraya Princess’ cruise ship. The evening came alive on the ship with dance, music and delectable food. On the fourth day, the team explored the ‘Safari World’ which included a tour of the Safari Park where several animals and birds were seen in their natural habitat. They witnessed various hilarious and artistic shows by Orangutans, elephants, dolphins and sea lions and an action packed 007- James Bond show which kept everyone captivated. Shopping at the ‘Indra Square shopping mall’, ‘Watergate pavilion mall’ and the street markets was quite an experience.The team spent hours shopping for souvenirs and other essentials at bargainable prices. The last day of the trip were pious visits to two Buddha temples, one made of Marble and the other of Gold. Thanks to the efficient tour guides, the entire team has come back more knowledgeable about Thailand – its culture and history by interacting with them and listening to them. The team bid farewell to Bangkok and boarded the flight back to Bengaluru on 20 October.