I went to India for a 3 months work assignment. This is my first out of the country travel so I really prepared for it. I had to undergo cultural training and briefing, vaccines, medical exams etc to ensure that I am able to adapt to the change smoothly.
There is no direct flight from Manila to India. Originating from Manila, one should either make a transfer flight in Singapore, Malaysia or Thailand and then head out to any state in India. For this trip, my base is Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka State. India is a Republic so they call their provinces as State. Filipinos going to India requires a visa before we can enter the country. Visa application is via online. Check more details at Indian Embassy in Manila.
Arriving in Bangalore via Singapore Airlines at Kempegowda International Airport, the airport is 35km (45minutes drive) to Bangalore. Quite far so better book your transport in advance. My good friend came to fetch me when I arrived, as we would always do as well for our visitors in our country.
My temporary home is called Tristar Apartments located at Indiranagar, a posh area lined with other hotels and Restaurants/Cafes. This place is clean and spacious. All equipped with kitchen needs, very nice comfort room and dressers are lighted. The apartment also has gym, reception area with books and they serve international breakfast.
My first day at work was rather heart pounding as I have to take the commute to office. I also don’t have my badge registered yet to the reception so I have to walk from the main guardhouse to my building at RMZ Infinity, home of Thomson Reuters as well as other big companies in the area. The meet and greet was rather cheerful and exciting as I finally have to put a face to the names.
Me being in Bangalore is because I won the proposal for a potential project to be implemented cross-location. A program called Team Leader Exchange was launched to which eligible managers can apply for. I was lucky to have won the proposal in exchange with my colleague who was also assigned in Manila. While we are on exchange, we will also be handling the teams that we left in the location.
And so, my Bangalore adventure begins…. read the part 2 here.
