China Town and Sunway Lagoon

After such a successful concert yesterday, I decided that we should all catch the mono-rail to China town for dinner and to try our hand at bargaining for goods. The mono-rail is fantastic. It's a 100m walk from our hotel and it then takes you straight to China Town.

We have seen a bit of rain each afternoon, but because it's so warm we were happy to walk in the drizzle from the train station.

The kids had a ball! Seeing who could get the best bargains, food for the cheapest, and learning the ropes of haggling for what you want to buy. We had some success stories - and some not as successful stories - but it was all in fun. We then caught the mono-rail back to the hotel to get some well earned rest.

This morning was or chance to sleep in. We didn't have to get on the road till 10.30am and it was a welcome rest.

We headed to Sunway Lagoon which is a water park, wild-life park and roller coaster park. Being so warm, we all enjoyed the water rides and the huge man-made beach. Some kids braved the roller coaster and others just lazed by the beach. We also found a Krispy Kreme shop in the mall next door, so I think nearly all the kids pretty much bought the entire days donuts.

Tonight we'll head out to dinner as a group and a little bit of shopping. We'll need an early night tonight because tomorrow will be our second concert, meaning an early rise.

Talk to you soon.

Our First Concert

After setting the kids loose on a contained area around our hotel for dinner last night, the kids all came back with great stories of what they'd seen, what they'd eaten and how much money they'd either saved or blown. This is a great part of the learning taking place, as well as team work, budgeting (all the kids were given RM15 to buy dinner with), etc.. Lights out at 9.30pm.

This morning we started with breakfast at 6.45am and were on the road by 8am to our first school concert - SMK Kepong.

To sum it up, the kids now know what it's like to be a rock star! We had the most amazing welcoming ceremony and then were treated to their students performing for us some traditional Malaysian dance and songs. 2 of their bands also played for us and then it was our turn.

From that moment it turned into a rock concert with them cheering the Concordia kids every move.

The Concert Band was fantastic, Georgia and Thalia sang beautifully, the Big Band were swinging

and Will, Lily and Tom played Johnny B Good just because it seemed like the right thing to do!

We were then treated to a wonderful lunch with some of the staff.

Our kids were having photos with the SMK kids and the Concordians handed out countless autographs!! It was incredible and something our guys will always remember. From my point of veiw, the trip has already been a winner and I hope our kids continue to get the buzz that they got today.

So next is relaxing by the pool (cause that's what Rock stars would do after a great gig) and then later on we are all travelling by mono-rail to China town for dinner and shopping.

Chat to you soon.

Day 1 and 2 (so far)

It seems like only yesterday that we said our farewells at Adelaide airport - indeed it was only yesterday!

After spending 7 1/2 hours in a tube with wings, we all safely arrived in KL, collected our belongings and boarded a very colourful and airconditioned bus to our hotel.

The kids were great. Everyone has "chipped in" to help every step of the way with loading and unloading gear, leading to smooth transitions along the way.

Once in our hotel, we quickly collected our room keys and went to bed. Well most of us. Unfortunately Germany was playing England, and some soccer fans had to be persuaded to turn off the tele.

This morning we met at breakfast and enjoyed a fantastic mix of the traditional and the Malay breakfast styles.

Sun screen and repelent on, we took off on a 1/2 day tour around the city of KL (pop. 3.8 million). The bus took us to the Kings Palace, Park of rememberance, a Mosque, Chocolate factory (Malaysia is the 4th largest exporter of Cocoa!), through the winding streets and parks, the incredible Twin Towers and a gifts shop before we had lunch in a ship themed cafe.

The kids have been great ambassadors (and "rubber necks") already, but are now keen to do some shopping! we are about to head down the street that our hotels on because it's lined with great shops and things to see (great location Cathy {from LifePlan Travel}).

Tomorrow we perform at our first concert so an early rise will be necessary. In the mean time, just know that we are safe, happy and starting to really gel as a team already.

Chat to you soon.

Rehearsals are well underway

Each Wednesday after school, the Touring Concert Band (Concert Band + Big Band) has been rehearsing in the Harmony Room from 3 - 4.30pm. They are now playing their full program with flair and we are working on polishing their pieces over the next 2 weeks. This seesion is followed by an information/question time until 5pm.
We spoke about the 2 schools we will be visiting in KL and how one of our tasks whilst away is to be ambassadors for Concordia, and indeed, Australia. The way we react to circumstances will be noticed, and so we just need to be aware of how we "come across" to our hosts.
This week after rehearsal, we also looked at web sites relating to where we will be visiting, one of which was Bethany Home. We then discussed our reasons for visiting this amazing place and again, how we should and shouldn't behave when we come into contact with people less fortunate than us.
The students are responding really well to these sessions and are encouraged to ask questions to assist them in their understanding of the overall tour experience.
More to come...........