After months of planning, 31 Scouts and 11 adult volunteers from 30^th Craigalmond (Davidson’s Mains) Scout Group travelled to the Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) in Switzerland for a full week of activities with thousands of Scouts from around the world!

Arrival and Setup

The group arrived safely at KISC at 3:45pm on Saturday. They quickly set up their tented village, and by 5pm, the Pink Panther Explorers (many who were former 30^th Craigalmond Scouts) joined them. Despite a sudden thunderstorm and heavy rain that delayed the setup of communal tents, the Scouts managed to stay dry and fuelled with “tactical snacks” until a late dinner.

Sunday: International Flag Break and Sports

Sunday began with a sunny welcome and an international flag break ceremony with 800 Scouts on-site. The Scouts joined in games during the international day morning after the flag break, discovering new games to share at future camps, such as the rope walk and the popular finger light sabre game. After intermingling games and enthusiastic cheering, the Scouts enjoyed some downtime. By 2pm, many participated in international volleyball and football games, while others engaged in pioneering activities, building a flagpole and bench, or some a water fight. The day ended with a name game with the Pink Panther Explorers and an international evening for swapping neckers and gifts.

Monday: Mountain Hike

A dry and sunny Monday allowed the Scouts to take a cable car ride into the mountains. They ascended to Sunnebuhl and hiked for three hours in the Gemmi valley, stopping for lunch by a glacial lake. After a refreshing rest, paddle, and drinks, they hiked back downhill, returning for dinner and a well-earned rest.

Tuesday: Bobsleigh Track and Lake Swimming

The Scouts enjoyed another cable car ride on Tuesday, this time to Oeschinensee rohdelbahn. They raced down a bobsleigh-type track on buggies, towed back up for more fun, and spent the afternoon swimming in the lake. The evening concluded with campfire songs and the much-loved S’mores.

Wednesday: Town Exploration and Cooking

Despite rain showers and thunderstorms, the Scouts had a great time swimming in the town’s outdoor pool and exploring local shops to buy souvenirs and gifts. A Scout team took charge of cooking dinner for the camp on Wednesday evening, providing a hearty meal for everyone. The Scouts leaving the Scout Troop after summer joined the Explorers in the sauna that evening, with one accidentally visiting the ladies’ shower block by mistake, which was quickly rectified.

Thursday: Swiss National Day and Fun

Thursday was Swiss National Day, filled with activities like zip wire and crate climbing, as well as eco projects towards the KISC Challenge Badge. That evening, they joined over 1,800 Scouts from 39 countries for a BBQ and a parade into the town centre. One Scout also found a glow bug near their site, adding a magical touch to the evening.

Departure

The Scouts broke camp and loaded the van before departing on Friday morning. Throughout the week, they kept journals, documenting their experiences and reflections. Some Scouts also enjoyed quiet time making friendship bracelets. The trip concluded with the Scouts trading neckers, badges, and food, forming international bonds and enriching their cultural experiences.

Conclusion

The trip was a resounding success, offering the Scouts experiences of international camaraderie, adventure, and personal growth. Some memorable highlights from the Scouts include:

– “Free time with friends in a different country.”

– “Meeting people from different countries.”

– “The scenery.”

– “Swimming in the lake.”