April 5 ,2017

 

 

KAMPAR: Some 60 students are shown around the world during the “Talk East Talk West” sharing in Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman(UTAR) Kampar today.

 

The speakers, Ho Sheau Huey and Melanie Lee, who were former UTAR employees, were invited to share their travelling experiences at different countries.

 

Many interesting stories were shared, although both of them had different expectations for an enjoyable trip.

 

Counselor Melanie Lee preferred going to Western countries as she enjoy shopping and high end places.

 

“In London, there is this place known as Oxford Street, where goods of famous brands, such as LV, Gucci and Chanel are sold at an unusually low price. That was the place I enjoyed the most,” said Lee.

 

Lee also enjoyed the uniqueness that are only exclusive to certain places.

 

“In Whitbey, England, I was fascinated by the unique architecture for the houses. And when I went to Brussel, Belgium, I bought a lot of chocolate, as waffle and chocolate are the specialties there,” she said.

 

“In Asian countries, we are often so constrained to work. However, in Germany, it’s only 3pm but the bar is already crowded with people, especially employees who have already finished work,” said Lee.

 

Lee advised the students to be more open to changes.

 

“One should not be confined to his or her own narrow point of view. As I reflect on my experiences, I have lost some of the most wonderful memories because I’ve only looked for malls. When you go to a new place, the sceneries and culture will make the journey worthwhile, too,”she said.

 

Another of the speaker, Ho Sheau Huey, preferred backpack travelling.

 

“I’ve been to places such as Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos. I usually travel with fewer friends and with a lower budget,” said Ho.

 

Ho enjoyed trying out different food and culture during her trips.

 

“In Thailand, the train railway is right in the middle of the market, where people have to immediately make way when they hear a train coming,

 

“I’ve also tried eating unusual food such as fried beetles, worms and snails,” she said.

 

She also went to some of the unique temples in Cambodia.

 

“Cambodia is famous for these ancient buildings. However, most of these were vandalized until they were protected by UNESCO,” said Ho.

 

“Laos, which has influence from France, also has unique architecture that resembles that of a Western country. And the pizza I bought at a night market, was the most delicious pizza I’ve ever tasted,” she said.

 

She also sees travelling as a way to calm down and reflect on oneself.

 

“Travelling to different places gives me a chance to think of my own life, my mistakes, and what should I do to live better. It was an invaluable experience and opportunity,” she said.