OAT

I loved this trip! I would like to start with the amazing pre-extension to Bhutan. It was wonderful visiting this charming country which feels like it has hardly been “discovered” by the rest of the world. The culture is rich, with the people trying hard to balance their traditions with the reality and conveniences of the modern world. The natural landscape is beautiful, and their spirituality is embedded in every aspect of their daily lives. Our Trip Leader, Kesang, was knowledgeable, kind, insightful, and passionate about her country. On our last evening she brought a selection from her own wardrobe for the ladies so we could each dress up in traditional Bhutan attire for the evening. She made a personal connection with each of us on the tour, and I am sure this relationship will continue for years to come. India – my goodness – every sense was alive in this delightful country! (But be prepared for lots of car horns!) I won’t repeat the highlights, as everyone has already commented on them. I will mention though that it was fun to visit Lucknow, a new destination on the itinerary. Among other things we had an interesting walk through a local market, flew kites with local kids, and attended a beautiful dance demonstration and performance at the Kathak Training Center – a must if you are visiting India, I think. Also, I liked the fact that we took the train from Lucknow to Varanasi, since rail travel is common in India and it was another experience! This trip was so enjoyable, due in large part to our Trip Leader Raj (Adhiraj), who, in addition to his lively and warm personality, was knowledgeable, adaptable, patient, and ever so capable. He paid attention to individual needs, and if we had a request to see a particular feature in the area we were in, he would, within the parameters of timing and the group’s itinerary, arrange our drop off and pickup, and if necessary, the visit itself. Each day when there was a big chunk of free time, he offered to bring any members of the group who were interested, to one of the suggested activities. To sum up my experience, I found that India is a country rich with diversity, colour, and contrasts. Yet a flow of unity and pride in their deep history, their customs, and their culture seems to run through its core – somewhat like Mother Ganga herself.

Trip was totally incredible with lots of surprises and cultural activities.

The tour, up till the time the last six days of the tour were cancelled when Israel closed it's borders due the the COVID-19 pandemic, was wonderful. Our guides, itinerary, hotels, ship and crew--all were top notch.

Exhausting but a great trip.

I really liked getting to meet and interact with people in the villages and on a farm. We had so much fun with them and cooked and had dinner with them. It was interesting taking the various modes of transport. The train, metro and boats. It gave me a different perspective . I really liked our tour guide who was a fun addition to our group and was eager to help us have whatever experience we were looking for. He encouraged us to interact in ways we may not have thought of.