✨ The Hesitant Starter
There’s always that one person who decides last minute — and this time, it was me. With some release blockers popping up and uncertainty lingering, I nearly dropped out. But with a little nudge from caring colleagues, I was back on board. Deep down, I knew the return would be filled with happiness, great stories, and memories I wouldn’t trade for anything.
🚐 Day One: Foggy Thoughts, Warm Coffee
The first leg of the trip wasn’t easy. Between the mental clutter of unfinished tasks and the physical fatigue of travel, I felt like I was just going through the motions. But then came that coffee — a simple gesture from our trip organizer that felt like a soul-reboot. Comfort in a cup, it shifted the vibe from drained to grateful in a heartbeat.
Our stay at Hotel Spruce Wood — also known as the Arcadian — was an absolute highlight of the trip! From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into a serene mountain haven. The rooms? Impeccably clean and cozy. The staff? Exceptionally warm, helpful, and always ready with a smile. And the food? Honestly, next level. I’ve stayed at plenty of places in the north, but the culinary experience here? Unmatched. Every bite felt like a gourmet treat after a long day of adventure.
🏔️ Makra Peak: Where Resolve Was Tested
Climbing Makra Peak was nothing short of epic. Almost 13,000 feet high and with no clear track. After reaching base camp, I pushed on solo for a while until clouds rolled in, swallowing the trail in fog and doubt. I thought of turning back. But then I saw a few colleagues heading up — it was the encouragement I needed.
The final stretch — two grueling hours — was pure grit. Every step demanded strength we didn’t think we had. Encouraging each other through exhaustion, we finally reached the summit. Hands down, the toughest peak I've summited yet — and the most satisfying.
🌲 Day Two: The Spontaneous Forest Mission
The initial plan was to rest. But the idea of spending the whole day confined to a hotel room didn’t sit well with my restless spirit. A quick breakfast chat about visiting Sharan Forest led to a spontaneous campaign to rally fellow adventurers. What started as a search for five companions turned into a mini movement. Enthusiasm snowballed, and soon we had a full crew set for the woods.
Sharan Forest was every bit the natural masterpiece we’d hoped for — thick greenery, peaceful trails, and a waterfall that looked like it had spilled straight out of a fantasy novel. Wandering through the jungle and soaking in the soothing sounds of water cascading through trees was truly unforgettable.
Post-exploration hi-tea felt like luxury, and team activities brought out the laughs. And yes, seeing bubble sort applied in real time (and still losing) was a hilarious reminder: algorithms may be brilliant, but execution is king.
🌟 Reflections
This wasn’t just a trip — it was a chance to reset. Office excursions like these are more than scenic retreats; they open a window to life outside deadlines and inboxes. Whether it's sharing quiet moments, pushing limits on rugged terrain, or rediscovering joy in simple conversations, they remind us of who we are beyond the job titles.
And though I started with hesitation, I returned with perspective, newfound energy, and stories worth telling.
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