Our Trip Leader

Our trip to India was our 10th one with GCT/OAT. On each trip, we are assigned to a trip leader. They have all done their jobs; making sure we get from place to place, handing out room keys at each hotel, reminding us about times to be somewhere, showing us what was on the itinerary from GCT/OAT, telling us about the sites during our visits, arranging for local "step on" guides, and other jobs that are not always noticed. It can't be easy to constantly have a new group of travelers with different personalities and needs. They are "on call" when we aren't on tour, but we don't always want to bother them since, after all, we are adults who can cope.

This trip we had the good fortune to have a Trip Leader Extradordinaire who did more than required. Within 10 minutes of entering our hotel rooms, he called to ask if everything was OK. (That's a first for us.) He went out of his way to make sure that we had the vegetarian food we requested. He was informative, witty, friendly, and caring. He always had something nice to say, no matter what the situation. When he could have taken time for himself, he didn't. Instead he took us for more "discoveries" showing us places not on the basic itinerary. He adjusted the schedule so we could fit more in and found time for us to get some relaxation time. Our group was a very congenial one, probably partly due to his leadership and guidance. Since he's been a guide for so long, he seems to know EVERYONE. The funny part was that some of the people didn't recognize him because he used to have a mustache. Shaving it off makes him look younger.

His introductory email and answers to questions I had before the trip were indicators about his efficiency and concern as a trip leader. When we visited the GCT-sponsored school, he showed enthusiasm for the project, explaining how the GCT/OAT office staff and trip leaders worked to improve the school. It didn't seem like work at all, but a labor of love. I had the impression it's a school that he will continue to do more for and not because it's required. When the principal returned to the school after an errand, it was helpful having someone translate and explain exactly what was happening at the school and plans for more improvements.

When we were at the OAT camp, we had the privilege of viewing a cooking demonstration. Again, Sanjay was involved, as he pointed out the ingredients and gave some of his own explanations. (Of course, the cook could have explained everything but Sanjay wanted to be part of it.)


While we wandered around the various sites during our "free time" there, he waited patiently for us. He was always available for the frequent questions we had.

We always could find him, especially when we left the train station. The funny thing was that he usually held up a water bottle, but this time there was an OAT sign.
No one could miss seeing that. I'm sure the locals were probably used to these signs since there are so many OAT groups who pass through the area.

Before our Farewell Dinner, he provided a summary of our trip, showing us on the map where we had been. Since many of us had planned to wear something we "got" on the trip, he wore the t-shirt one of our group members (from Texas, obviously) gave to him.

While we were at the dinner, following someone else who spoke, I read something I decided to write about Sanjay. I've written similar words for only a couple of trip leaders.

Seeks new discoveries for all of us
Attentive to details
Never ignores the smallest details
Jokes about situations that would normally be uncomfortable
Always doing extra..calling to check if room is okay
Younger looking without the mustache

Sets the highest standard for all GCT/OAT trip leaders
Exceptional tour leader
Takes what happens in stride and goes with the flow
Has infinite patience
Inquisitive mind.

With great appreciation to Sanjay for a memorable experience.