Our first two days at Inner Mongolia were spectacular. Day one, we camped in the EnGeBei desert and marveled at the beautiful scenery. We built our tent, cooked our own meals and even watched the sunrise at the top of a sand dune!

Day two started with orienteering in the desert. With only a compass, we had to find our way to the final destination. Already tired from camping, I had a hard time climbing up the steep slope then followed by a 2.5 km run. However, our classmates cheered me on which helped me tremendously, “You can do it, Shirley! I will give you a hand if you are tired.” With great teamwork we were able to finish the activity successfully. It was a worthwhile activity for me as I learned that my teammates are both caring and considerate. After that, we enjoyed a relaxing sand sliding activity and an exhilarating camel ride. Both of these activities made us all truly appreciate the desert.

These past two days have been an unforgettable experience. It was remarkably satisfying to work together with my classmates and appreciate the wonderful desert. I am absolutely sure that the rest of the trip will be equally amazing and meaningful.

-From Shirley, Year 12

The first two days of our expedition have been incredible and certainly memorable. Sand sliding, camel rides, beautiful sunsets and getting lost in between all the sand dunes are exactly the kind of experiences you are supposed to get in a desert. And now we all know what the true meaning of having sand everywhere really is. One of my favourite parts – using sand to wash our dishes!

-From Elisa, Year 12

The days have been so useful but tiring at the same time. I have learnt many things like how to wash my bowls with sand and how important it is to walk in a very straight line when doing orienteering. I am glad I came!

-From Luna,  Year 11

Away from the crowded city of Shanghai - shops with neon lights and furious cars storming blindly by.  We left, scarpered even, for this longed-for escape into the EnGeBei Desert.

Yet things weren’t as easy as it sounds, especially when the weather was less than favourable. During our navigation course, where the six of us raced against time to find our way back to the campsite, black clouds gathered above us and cold rain was pelting on our backs. The sand which was dry had quickly became sluggish.  Our morale was low but Aaron was there for us at the end. We persevered and found our way back; the feeling was like no other.

I find solace in activities like this, just to break the monotony of city living and realise that you can do more beyond your capability. 

-    From James, Year 10

So far we’ve had loads of fun! Every day has been amazing and I am looking forward to the next few days! My favourite part was getting lost in the desert while orienteering! Oh, and also waking up at 4am to see the sunrise.

-    From Lucia, Year 11