A DLT Retreat to Medan

In early February 2023, a visit to Medan was proposed, marking the beginning of the planning for a DLT retreat. Deacon Nathan, who comes from Medan played a key role in coordinating the trip, leveraging his local connections and knowledge to ensure a memorable experience for the group.

One of us took on most of the planning responsibilities, handling flight reservations, hotel accommodations, and tour arrangements. Another managed the trip’s finances, and another collected orders and payments for group purchases.

The group bought an assortment of local delicacies, including peanuts, crackers, kueh lapis, bika ambon (Indonesian cake), and a special flower-shaped carrot cake made by a Medan friend.

We are grateful to those who selflessly shouldered the planning and coordination responsibilities, allowing the rest of the group to simply enjoy the trip.

The journey began with a night flight from Singapore Airport T2, arriving in Medan around 9pm (Medan time) after a half-hour delay at Singapore side. Upon reaching the hotel, we were warmly welcomed by our Medan friends with a complimentary supper of noodles, drinks, and desserts.

The following morning, we visited the Chong Ah Fei museum and the Sun Plaza shopping mall. After lunch, we embarked on a two-and-a-half-hour bus journey to Brastagi, checking into the Sinabung Hills Resort upon arrival. We had dinner at Restaurant Asia, about 20 minutes from the resort.

The next day, we visited a market brimming with fresh produce, including passion fruits, avocados, and many other local delights. After that we took a scenic three-hour drive to Simalem for breathtaking views of Lake Toba. We then returned to the resort for another restful night.

After breakfast the next morning, we headed back down to Medan, where lunch was waiting for us at Mbak Bolek restaurant, hosted by a couple who were long-time friends of Deacon Nathan. After lunch, we indulged in a spot of shopping at Center Point Mall Medan before checking in to the hotel.

When we returned to our hotel that night, sleep was a fleeting luxury as we had an early departure the next morning. By 4:30 am we were on our way to the airport to return to Singapore.

While the trip may seem like a mere vacation, it was in essence a trip planned to serve as a catalyst for bonding and camaraderie within our DLT. It was a success as we achieved greater harmony and fellowship.

With heartfelt gratitude, we acknowledge God’s divine protection throughout our journey, particularly along the narrow, winding mountain roads. His guiding hand ensured our safe return to Singapore, leaving us with cherished memories and a strengthened sense of purpose.

The entire trip, including flights, accommodation, and meals, came at a remarkably affordable cost of less than S$600 per person. It was an exceptionally enjoyable and meaningful 5D-4N retreat.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalm 133:1

Martin Cheah