Read about Wendy Weisman's trip last year!

I have always been an animal lover so when I heard about this trip, I was very intrigued. When I found out I would have to go to Borneo to participate, I was hesitant. I looked at the map and Borneo seemed very far away. Also, images of snakes, spiders and leeches came to mind. Fortunately, my adventurous side took over and I applied to participate. With the trip months away, I had time to do some research. I got a copy of Dr. Galdikas’s book Reflections of Eden and entered the world of Camp Leakey through her memoirs.

Finally, it was July and I was on my way to Singapore for two days to adjust to the time and climate change. After two days of sightseeing in Singapore, I was ready to leave the concrete jungle and head into the real jungle.

Everyone met up at the Jakarta Airport Hotel and I was pleased to see that all the participants were very nice. The next morning we flew to Pangkalabun and were met at the airport by Dr. Galdikas herself. I was surprised about how much time we were able to spend with her. She was with us at most meals and for walks in the forest. She was always willing to answer in great detail any question that was asked of her and tell us stories about her experiences. Also, waiting for us were Irene and the two guides, Thomas and Fari who went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we were comfortable and taken care of. Also, Irene made sure we kept to our schedule so that we did not miss anything special. And believe me, there was lots of special things to experience.

If you are considering this trip, I would not hesitate to tell you that it is simply amazing and you will experience things that you cannot experience elsewhere. I have been back for two months now and I still think about the trip everyday. I hope to return to Borneo as soon as possible.

P.S. I never saw a snake, saw only one tiny leech and one small spider. So, way worse in my imagination than in reality.