We landed in Yogyakarta on January 30, 2025, at around 11:00 AM, filled with excitement and anticipation, ready to embark on this new adventure. Immigration went smoothly, and as we made our way to the luggage conveyor, a kind local greeted us warmly. Allie and I were chatting when he overheard our conversation. He asked where we were from, and we replied, "Philippines." With a warm smile, he said, "enjoy your stay here." Though a stranger, his words of encouragement touched my heart, offering a sense of reassurance that good things lay ahead. But my relief was short-lived. My checked-in baggage was missing. It had been left behind in Singapore. Even though the airline assured me it would be delivered eventually, I couldn't hold back my tears. My suitcase contained all my essentials, including important documents, clothes, and personal belongings. The exhaustion from the long journey only made it harder to stay composed. It was a mix of frustration, worry, and helplessness, but I reminded myself to stay strong and embrace the experience, no matter how it started.

 

At the airport, we met Miss Naini and Intan (one of the buddies assigned to assist us). They welcomed us warmly, their kindness immediately lifting my spirits. I handed them two boxes of JD desserts as a token of appreciation. Along with our group, we met other exchange students from Capiz State University (CAPSU), who were also assigned to Yogyakarta. After brief introductions, we rode the university van. Our first stop was a local restaurant for lunch. It was my first taste of authentic Indonesian cuisine. The moment the food arrived, I felt a surge of excitement. The locals called the grilled chicken "ayam," it looks similar to chicken inasal from the Philippines. It had a smoky, flavorful taste that felt both familiar and new. I also tried "ayam goreng" (fried chicken), and despite my low tolerance for spice, I dipped it in sambal (a spicy chili sauce), determined to immerse myself in the culture. Every bite was a challenge yet a delight, an experience that made me appreciate the bold and rich flavors of Indonesian food. Another highlight was kremes, a crispy fried flour topping that perfectly complemented the ayam goreng. One of the buddies, Intan, recommended a local drink called soda gembira (happy soda). True to its name, the drink brought me a moment of joy amid the stress of the day. Its sweet, fizzy taste instantly lifted my mood. After lunch, we traveled for about an hour and a half, making a quick stop at a telecommunications company to purchase local SIM cards before heading to our homestay. The journey allowed me to take in the sights of Yogyakarta, a city filled with rich culture, vibrant streets, and a warmth that felt welcoming despite my earlier struggles.

 

That evening, we were invited to dinner with the Vice Dean at a well-known bakso restaurant called Bakso Idola. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of Indonesian cuisine. It was my first time tasting chicken meatballs, and to my surprise, the bakso instantly became my favorite. The broth was rich and flavorful, warming me from the inside out. As we shared stories and laughter, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. I also had the chance to meet other SEA-Teachers, and our conversations flowed effortlessly, as if we had known each other for a long time. The dinner was more than just a meal, it was a moment of connection, comfort, and the beginning of friendships that would shape my journey in Yogyakarta.

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