October 5 – Visit to Handicraft Center and OAT Camp

In Ranthambore, we had the opportunity to visit a women’s handicraft center. The coordinator of the center told us that it provides a place for women to create products that generate an income for them. Each woman has her own bank account, enabling her to assist her family, including sending children to school. Many of the fabric items were of exceptional quality at very reasonable prices. We bought some items, knowing our purchases will financially help some of the women.

Lunch was “in the middle of nowhere” under a tent that had been set up just for OAT groups. People from the camp cooked and set up our buffet lunch. There was a “toilet tent” that had a flush toilet and nice sink. Very unusual to zip a tent closed and have “all the comforts.” OAT set this up because there really isn’t any other place to stop for lunch as we travel to the camp. (It’s more than four hours from where we stayed the night before to the camp.)

We had to get into jeeps to go from the main road to the camp. Very bumpy road but interesting as young children kept running out of their homes to yell “hello” to us as we rode by (but mostly “bye-bye,” which seemed ominous, as if we were heading to a “roach motel” or a soylent green facility!).

At the camp, we were greeted by the staff with marigold garlands and a cold drink. We were told that the camp facilities were simple and small but it didn’t seem that way to me. Each of us (either couple or single person) had our own cabin with private bath and evaporative fan that had water to cool the room. Problem was with the low doorways. Steve hit his head twice so he hung toilet paper from the top so he’d remember to duck down before going through the doorway.

After a short time in our cabins, we went back outside for the camel ride. I was very nervous about this but decided that I was going to overcome the fear. I did okay as the camel got up but held on very tightly to both handle areas. I thought I’d never make it through the 45 minute + ride but, with the encouragement of some of the other people in the group, I relaxed and held onto the right handle and enjoyed the ride. I didn’t take any pictures along the way, not wanting to let go. When we returned to the camp, I dismounted and was happy I participated in the experience.

Before dinner, we had a cooking demonstration of a veggie dish and breads. Entertainment was by a local family who played music and danced. At the end, we all danced in a circle with them. Dinner was held inside, all very good with fresh local ingredients. I was exhausted when we returned to our cabin, looking forward to the next day.