At Expat Explore, one of our core values is family-style hosting. Our travellers become a part of a diverse, worldwide family from the moment they start planning a tour with us. These family values are a true reflection of the Expat Explore team. With offices in London, United Kingdom and Cape Town, South Africa and staff members from all over the world, our team is truly one big, international family.
However, due to distance, this also means that we don’t always get to see, or even meet, our work-family members. This is why Expat Explore organises the annual Mega Company Training (MCT) Tour, allowing our team to interact in person with office staff, tour leaders, drivers, suppliers and anyone else who forms a part of the Expat Explore family.
The newest family member to join this year’s MCT is Hannah Batoon. Hannah lives in Cebu, Philippines and is an Onboarding Consultant for Expat Explore. We caught up with Hannah to hear all about her experience on tour, what it was like to meet her colleagues for the first time and what travel means to her.
Related: Learn all about this solo adventurer who became a part of the Expat Explore family!
How Hannah’s love for travel began:
When did you travel for the first time and where?
I’ve always travelled locally since I was very young. I spent my summers in Boracay because I grew up on the Mainland. I also travel to North and South Cebu a lot to visit the beautiful beaches. My first international trip was to Hong Kong because it’s near the Philippines.
Would you consider yourself to be an explorer at heart, is travelling something you’ve always loved?
My family called me “Laagan” or wanderer. When I was younger, I followed my feet, hiking through everything from coconut groves to beaches, rivers and waterfalls.
I always enjoyed seeing unique places and loved the peace and serenity of taking a break from everyday life. I don’t mind walking long distances as long as there’s a nice view, good food, or cold water to dive into once I reach the end!
What scared you about travelling, if anything?
I was initially worried about handling cash while travelling abroad, but I was pleasantly surprised. ATMs were readily available, and most souvenir shops and food stalls accepted Visa cards without any issues. It made things so convenient!
Getting a Schengen Visa was also a concern. However, Expat Explore provided thorough documentation which made the whole process a breeze.
Related: Find out more about visa applications with our handy visa guide.
In what ways would you say travel changed you (changes you)?
I caught the travel bug on my recent Europe trip (the MCT) with Expat Explore, and it was a game changer for me. Experiencing life on the other side of the world was eye-opening. The crisp air, stunning landscapes, and charming cobbled streets left a lasting impression. It inspired me to work towards travelling internationally more and to explore everything the world has to offer.
What would you say to someone who’s never travelled before?
If you’ve never travelled before, I’d say it’s a fantastic way to step back and reflect on life. Taking a break from your routine offers you a chance to clear your mind and see things from a fresh perspective.
Travelling isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s a journey of self-discovery and a window into different cultures and lifestyles. It enriches your understanding of the world and yourself.
Related: Going on an Expat Explore tour quite literally changed this traveller’s life.
Read on to find out more about Hannah’s journey on the MCT:
What did you learn from the other people you met on tour? Are there any differences between the Expat Explore team in the Philippines and the teams from London and Cape Town?
In the Philippines, we have a two-person team (and currently training a third) that works as an extension of the Onboarding Team in Cape Town. During my time with them, I got to experience their vibrant culture and witness their close-knit bond firsthand. It was clear to see how they value each other, treating one another like family. Their teamwork and camaraderie made the experience both enjoyable.
They are chill/relaxed people but they walk really fast! I was so excited about everything but I walked at a slow pace. Maybe they have longer legs than me or take longer steps!
Did you notice any cultural differences while on tour?
I didn’t consciously notice any cultural differences. To me, people are just people, with their own unique attitudes and behaviours. So, cultural nuances might not have registered with me during the tour.
What was your favourite destination that you visited?
Budapest was fantastic! The food, sights and the pace of the visit were perfect. The Shoes on the Danube Memorial moved me. The cast iron shoes represent the footwear left behind by Jewish victims who were shot and thrown into the river during WWII.
The food in Budapest was spectacular. I still think about the tomato soup in Spinoza Cafe & Restaurant. The Hungarian food during the Danube Dinner cruise was also very enjoyable. We also explored the Central Market Hall where we did some food tasting and shopping. The building itself was memorable, built in the late 19th century with a very pretty roof. I got to see Budapest’s Highlights at night during the cruise including the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and the stunning bridges.
Related: Discover the beauty of Budapest on our Eastern Highlights tour!
Is there a funny story or favourite memory from the MCT?
Yes, after dinner in Interlaken, I was walking around and when I looked up, I saw a star. It wasn’t a twinkling star but the shape was a legit “star”. I paused and looked up and I thought to myself – Wow! The stars look like that here?!
I continued walking with my friends but kept looking back at the star. Then I chuckled when I realised it wasn’t a real star. It was probably the Harder Star (a winter symbol on Interlaken‘s famous Harder Kulm mountain). Whenever I was walking in Switzerland, I was just so enchanted – the place was beautiful. I still smile every time I remember or see a star.
Was there something you learned about Expat Explore or our tours that you did not know before embarking on the MCT?
During one lunch, Ananda Heyl, our Managing Director, explained the structure of TourAxis (Expat Explore’s parent company) and I witnessed how the Operations team put everything together to create an unforgettable tour experience.
Was there a destination on the MCT that surprised you in some way?
Beaune in France was an absolute treat —it is one of the most beautiful towns I have ever seen! This enchanting walled city feels like stepping back in time with its medieval charm, complete with timber-framed buildings and vibrant, patterned roofs. Strolling along the cobbled streets, I was captivated by the town’s rich history and unique character.
In what way do you feel that the MCT has helped prepare you for working with our customers?
I can relate more to the customer’s excitement and uncertainties. Now, I can share my personal experiences, especially about the optional excursions they will be doing. I learned so much and went through the process each person from the Philippines goes through. Applying for my Visa, getting the approval, preparing my luggage, the excitement of finally going to the airport for my trip, getting the airport transfer and making my way to the airport.
Then, meeting the Tour Leader, experiencing the tour with the amazing people I met and saying goodbye to everyone. It was an amazing experience. The little things like getting money from the ATM, how much walking they will be doing, what to expect with the hotels they will be staying at, carrying their luggages, etc. also really helped to understand the customer experience.
I learned to take long videos instead of multiple photos, to remain offline while on the coach to rest and prepare myself for the next amazing place I’ll be seeing. I learned to walk briskly while taking photos and videos too.
Number one highlight of the MCT?
The tour of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, Hungary. A local guide explained the history of the Basilica and the details of its ornate interior. We also saw the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen! I was blown away by every detail of the church’s interiors from the ceiling to the floor.
To top it off, we climbed to the Basilica’s dome and were treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline and the majestic Danube River. It was truly a memorable experience!
Related: Feeling Hungary? These are the top Hungarian dishes you have to try!
What destinations do you want to see next and why?
I want to see Brazil, Spain and Portugal, Greece, the northern lights in Tromso, Norway or Reykjavik, Iceland. I also want to visit the Netherlands during the tulip season!
Related: This is the ultimate guide to the top experiences in the Netherlands!
As a keen explorer and passionate team member, Hannah embodies what it means to be an Expat Explore family member!
You too can join the family of adventurers when you book an Expat Explore tour! Start planning your trip of a lifetime and look forward to magical memories and unforgettable experiences.