As we prepare to cross over into the next exciting chapter of scouting—joining the Boy Scouts—our final Cub Scout camping trip was one for the books. We spent an unforgettable weekend at Desa Laguna, a peaceful eco-resort nestled in Indonesia’s Thousand Islands. This trip was more than just an adventure—it was a celebration of everything we’ve learned and shared as Cub Scouts.
The Journey Begins
Our adventure started early Saturday morning as we departed from Ancol Marina at 7:30 AM. Riding a slightly aged but comfortable speed boat equipped with air conditioning and life jackets for everyone, we enjoyed a scenic 90-minute ride to the island. Upon arrival at Desa Laguna, we were warmly welcomed with cold drinks and sandwiches—exactly what we needed to kick off the day.
Island Life & Eco Living
Desa Laguna immediately impressed us with its commitment to sustainability. We learned that while fresh water is brought in for showers, saltwater is used for flushing toilets. The island has no air conditioning, but the ocean breeze and thoughtful layout made the heat bearable.
Accommodations varied: some scouts stayed in cozy bungalows, others in stylish ‘glamping’ tents, and a few brave souls in dome tents under the stars. Despite the range of setups, everyone settled in quickly—and the fun began.
Scouting Adventures
Older scouts got busy working toward their Citizenship, Paddlecraft, and Fire Safety badges, while the younger scouts focused on Whittling and Knife Safety. At night, they gazed in awe at the moon and constellations dotting the clear island sky.
Meanwhile, the Boy Scouts—already preparing for more independence—set up their own tents and cooked their own meals, learning essential outdoor skills.
We all joined forces to take part in a meaningful service project, planting coral and mangrove trees and cleaning up the beach. We also snorkeled in crystal-clear waters, tried our luck at fishing, and ended the night around a glowing campfire, roasting marshmallows for classic s’mores.
Meals, Moments, and Memories
All meals were served on the breezy outdoor deck, lovingly prepared with both local and Western flavors. Vegetarian options were available, and the food was fresh, flavorful, and filling. Coffee, tea, water, and juice were included, with cold soft drinks available for purchase.
Though there’s no A/C on the island, the “lounge” area—where Wi-Fi is available—became a communal space for cooling off, relaxing, and sharing stories. Bungalows had electrical outlets for fans and phone charging, adding a little modern comfort to our rustic adventure.
Planning Your Own Island Adventure
If you’re inspired to visit Desa Laguna yourself, the resort can host up to 55 guests. For around 2–2.5 juta IDR per person, you’ll get lodging, meals, drinks, and activities all included. We were lucky enough to reserve the entire island for our group, but if you’re visiting with a smaller crowd, you may share the dining area with other guests.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
As the sun set on our final day, we gathered one last time as Cub Scouts—full of sand, laughter, and a little nostalgia. Desa Laguna gave us more than a destination; it gave us memories we’ll carry into our next scouting journey.
Here’s to new adventures, new badges, and the next big step as we bridge over to the Boy Scouts.
