In early October, sixteen students across the Hotel School Australia’s three CBD campuses travelled to Singapore for a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of tourism and hospitality in a new cultural context – gaining experience and insights that extend beyond the classroom.
Students commented very favourably on their introduction to Singapore. One has already told us ‘this is the best thing I’ve ever done – coming here on my own!
Industry Insights
Singapore is home to some of the world’s best hotels with establishments setting a high bar for luxury and service. Visits to top hotels like JW Marriot, Grand Hyatt, Intercontinental, Parkroyal Collection and Fullerton Hotel offered invaluable industry insights into world class operations and leadership.
At JW Marriott on Beach Road, students had the privilege of meeting General Manager Patrick Janssen who shared his career journey and offered great advice while answering student questions. Jenny and Shirley from the Marriot team took students on an extensive tour of the hotel’s facilities including rooms, public spaces and club areas.
Over at Grand Hyatt, Hotel Manager and THSA Alumni Timothy Parr walked students through the hotel’s recent renovations and refreshed property. He provided an insightful talk on project planning and upcoming upgrades, with students engaging in a lively Q& A session. Students got to explore the new rooms, behind-the-scenes areas, restaurants and the stunning poolside eatery.
Visits to the Fullerton Hotel, Concorde Hotel, Intercontinental and Parkroyal Collection were also part of the itinerary. Each visit further enriched the students’ understanding of the industry and presented potential career inspiration for our students in tourism, business management and hospitality.
Building Professional Networks
A special aspect of the study tour was the opportunity to make meaningful connections with industry leaders and aspiring professionals. Students met with students and faculty from SHATEC, a leading hospitality school in Singapore, where they gained an understanding the importance of mentorship and hands-on training essential for growth in the industry. Students also got to collaborate with peers from Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) where they were introduced to Singapore’s approach to higher education in tourism and hospitality.
These exchanges fostered not only friendships but also professional networks that can be valuable for career advancement. Establishing these global connections broadens professional opportunities while strengthening cultural understanding and collaboration in the interconnected hospitality industry.
Cultural Immersion
The trip began with an exploration into the heart of Singapore’s culture where diverse traditions exist seamlessly with modern life. Students embarked on guided tours through iconic areas such as Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India. Each place revealed a different facet of Singapore’s rich, multicultural heritage. More than just sightseeing, the guided tours were a close look into the city’s cultural tapestry.
This cultural immersion was a full experience, allowing students to dive deeply into Singapore’s traditions, customs and even its language. Classes in Mandarin and Malay gave students an opportunity to learn useful phrases and greetings, then a visit to a traditional tearoom brought an authentic look at the elegance and meaning of a tea ceremony. This exploration also extended to food, as students got to explore Singapore’s famous multi-cultural hawker centres where they sampled iconic dishes that reflected the city’s unique blend of Asian influences.
A Transformative Experience
The Hotel School Australia’s Singapore Trip was an immersive adventure that gave our students a first-hand look at the hospitality industry in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. Through cultural immersion, industry insights and academic reflection, students returned home with new skills, valuable connections and memories that will help shape their futures.
Want to be part of this experience in the future? Click here to learn more about The Hotel School.
