My First International Conference Experience in Bangkok, Thailand
I attended my first-ever international conference where I was able to present a part of our project and joined a tour around Bangkok!
Last November 20-22, 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first-ever international conference – the International Conference on Environmental Education in Southeast Asia, hosted by the Philippine Network of Environmental Educators (PNEE). This exciting event took place at the Maruay Garden Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, and was an unforgettable experience both professionally and personally.
Thailand is a country of rich culture and honest people. The magnificent temples are a sight to behold.
Presenting at the International Conference on Environmental Education
As someone who took up BS in Forestry with a specialization in Urban Forestry, this conference was a dream come true. I had the chance to present about green building practices and their application in the Philippines, particularly in the context of our Environment Code project for Calaca, Batangas. It was a valuable platform to share insights and discuss solutions for sustainable urban development.
In addition to presenting, I also assisted in the facilitation of the event. I helped participants with attendance registration and provided technical assistance for their PowerPoint presentations. While the experience was fulfilling, I did face a bit of a challenge as I wore heels that caused foot pain from standing for long periods of time!
Exploring Bangkok: Shopping, Food, and Fun
In addition to the conference, I had the chance to explore Bangkok and experience its vibrant culture and cuisine. We visited popular shopping spots like Pratunam Night Market and Chatuchak Market, where we bought souvenirs and local products.
We also indulged in Thailand’s famous Pad Thai and tried another noodle dish served with soup (unfortunately, I can’t remember the name!). A must-try for travelers, I highly recommend grabbing a bowl of Pad Thai when visiting Thailand!
One of my favorite purchases was Poy-Sian, a popular inhaler used to relieve nasal congestion.
Travel Tips for Visiting Bangkok
Here are some tips to make your trip to Bangkok smoother:
- Currency Exchange: I recommend exchanging money in the Philippines before your trip. The exchange rate is generally better in the Philippines than in Thailand, especially when converting from Peso to Baht.
- Transportation: We used both the train and Grab for getting around. The train system is affordable and convenient, with fares starting at 15 Baht. However, keep in mind that you may need to walk a longer distance to get to your destination and back to the train station. While it took us a little time to find our way back to the hotel, the train stations were well-signposted, making navigation easy.
- Weather: Bangkok’s weather is hotter than in Laguna, Philippines, likely due to its urban setting. Expect high temperatures and humidity, especially during the day. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes to stay cool and sweat-free!
Bangkok Tour: Temples, Shopping, and a Cruise Ship Buffet
On the third day of our trip, we went on a separate tour around Bangkok with the CETD team and some professors from UPLB-SESAM. This was a perfect way to experience the city’s best sights and sounds.
We visited stunning temples, strolled through the luxurious Icon-Siam Mall, and even enjoyed a cruise ship ride along the river with an unlimited buffet. The cruise had a live band, which made the experience even more enjoyable. We even joined the other tourists in a fun dance-off! To my surprise, the singer was a fellow Filipino!
Final Thoughts: A Memorable Trip to Bangkok
This trip to Bangkok was definitely a highlight of my professional and personal journey. I learned so much from the conference and gained valuable insights into the environmental challenges in Southeast Asia. As for Bangkok, it’s a city I would love to return to someday – the temples, the food, the shopping, and the amazing people made it a place worth revisiting.