Know before you go: 23 ways to have an awesome #wsj2015!
Are you ready for the Scouting adventure of a lifetime?
Months of planning and preparation are about to culminate in a life-changing Scouting adventure, the 23rd World Scout Jamboree (WSJ). More than 30,000 Scouts from around the world will gather in one of the world’s most fascinating countries, Japan, to play, connect, and learn together.
I reckon there’s a mix of emotions you must be feeling right now. The excitement of meeting fellow Scouts from different parts of the world, the thrill of experiencing the activities at the Jamboree and of being in another country could be a little jittery, as it may be your first time away from home.
We have read and heard what a WSJ is like. But no two Jamborees are alike. The host of the Jamboree, The Scout Association of Japan, is doing its best to ensure that it will be a memorable Jamboree experience for all the participants but getting the most from the Jamboree depends on you.
Here are 23 ways to help you experience an unforgettable WSJ.
1. Prepare to meet the “World”
30,000 Scouts, 147 countries, lots of differences but you share the same values. So be passionate about meeting them. It’s like an instant trip around the world!
2. Listen and jam
At the Jamboree, there will be music everywhere. There will be troops jamming to their local Scout songs or some Scouts playing their native instruments. Have fun listening, and try to learn and jam along with them.
3. Tell a tale or two
Like you, other Scouts are just as interested to know how Scouting is like in other countries. Prepare some interesting facts or stories that you can share. They make good conversation starter.
4. Play, Learn, Enjoy
There are lots of fun activities at the Jamboree. It’s like an amusement park – Scouting style. Not only can you play, you can also learn a great deal. So watch out for these activities, make good use of your skills, unleash your hidden talents, and simply enjoy the moments.
5. Experience different cultures
Scouts also bring along with them pieces of their country – unique dances, food, and even ways of greeting. Be prepared to experience different cultures.
6. How do you say it in your language?
This can be both fun and funny. Have fun learning how to say simple words and phrases like “hello”, “thank you”, “My name is…” in new languages.
7. Know Japan
Travel 101 – know where you are going. The Land of the Rising Sun has many traditions and different cultural “rules”. Do a bit of research about the country; it will help you make the most out of your trip.
8. Trade and swap
The joy of trading! Exchanging scarves, pins, patches, t-shirts and even Scout uniforms has been a Jamboree tradition since the very beginning. Be sure you bring some items to swap. This is an awesome way to make new friends.
9. Change begins with a smile
Scouts from previous Jamborees have said that their two-week experience was life changing, and it all began with a smile.
10. Discover
You are surrounded by thousands of Scouts in a place full of adventures; open your eyes and discover things you never knew before.
11. Do it together
Help other people, ask if they need help, or offer to carry things for them – it may be the start of a great friendship! Teamwork works!
12. Capture the memories!
Not only does a picture paint a thousand words, it can also preserve a thousand memories. Your camera is your little time machine; keep it close to you as the Jamboree is full of photo opportunities.
13. Energy, energy, energy!
Be sure to save lots of energy before you embark on this great adventure. Because you gotta be zippy and peppy to complete this list!.
14. Cook your best
Spice up the food experience, cook your best local camping food and share it with your neighbours. They might love it – or not.
15. Gear up for camping
It is still, after all, a camping adventure. Even though it is not in the woods but in a city of tents equipped with basic necessities, you still have to gear up. Tip: sunblock!
16. Stay safe from harm
While the WSJ Team will do their best to provide you with a safe environment, you still need to look out for yourself and others. Keeping everyone safe from harm is a team effort, so follow the dos and don’ts in the participant handbook.
17. Breathe with nature
You can look forward to enjoying sunny (or rainy) days of fun by the beach, or the grassy and muddy grounds. Be ready for it - just breathe with nature.
18. Earn some badges and awards
If you love badges, you’ll love some of the Jamboree activities in store . What’s cool about this? They are unique to the WSJ!
19. CLAYGO – Clean as you go
Wouldn’t it be fantastic if we could have a litter-free WSJ? After all, the environment is central to Scouting. We can and must do it!
20. Bring more socks
It’s ok to get dirty and a little stinky after the activities but poor hygiene is not tolerated. During the 22nd WSJ, Scouts were asked to name the smelliest thing in their tent - guess what they picked. So please, bring more socks.
21. Spark that Spirit of Unity
The 23rd WSJ aims to spark the spirit of unity among all Scouts. So from Day One of the Jamboree, try to live up to this spirit and you will have a Jamboree that you will never forget.
22. Embrace the new you
Incredible new skills, life skills, and the sort of skills that might not only save your life but also someone else’s life one day. New friends, a bigger Scouting family, a better understanding of the world, life and much much more. The Jamboree will change you, embrace it, share it…
23. and Bring it home!
Your turn: Did I miss anything? Share it so that all of us can have an awesome #wsj2015 experience.
By Eul Bryan de Gracia.