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.

Why Not...

People have asked me WHY we decided to visit India this year. There has been a lot of fear, based on the situation that occurred last year in Mumbai. My response always is that I won't let fear control what I do and where I go. There is also concern about health issues.

So, my answer is 'Why not?" when they ask. For now, these places can be visited UP CLOSE. I've read and heard that there might be a time in the near future when people will not be able to get close to the Taj Mahal. That's one of the reasons we chose to go THIS YEAR. We were able to walk around the structure, touch it, and go inside.

There was increased security at our hotel in Delhi and at the Taj Mahal. Is this really much different from security at our national treasures? Nothing about the security scared me. it's just the way it is. Something we accept as we visit other places. In fact, the airport security was more than at most others we've visited. (I pack my carry-on, knowing that there might be times when I have take EVERYTHING out for inspection. A little inconvenience for the travel experience.)

Even my doctor has wondered why Steve and I choose to go to countries where we need to take special meds. I've printed out info for him about recommendations for meds for our trips. Since he's not a "travel specialist doctor," he contacts a doctor he knows who is.

For Eastern Europe, it was recommended to get a Hepatitis A shot. (It lasts 10 years so I figured it would be a good idea since we intended to travel more.)

In Peru, it was Diamox for high altitude and Cipro (antibiotic...just in case). The high altitude, even with the Diamox, affected me. I don't want to think what would have happened if I didn't take it. One woman in our group opted not to take it and she had to use oxygen when we were in Lake Titicaca area. We didn't need the Cipro on that trip, but others, who hadn't brought it, did. They purchased it from the local pharmacy (no script needed).

Last year (Thailand) was our first experience with Malarone, an anti-malaria med. We had no problem with it, other than a headache the first couple of days. The alternative is something no one wants. The Cipro from the previous year was still ok to use and we did need it on that trip. Thank goodness we had it.

Our trip to India was similar to Thailand with the meds needed. We took the Malarone (finishing the regimen today since we're supposed to take it for 7 days after leaving the area) and had the Cipro with us but didn't need it. We did use Alpha-CF for some cold-like symptoms. I also used an electrolyte powder when I was slightly dehydrated. No big deal. (Dehydration can occur anywhere.)

There isn't a need for special meds for every place we visit. We do, however, bring the basic over-the-counter meds to have with us just in case we need them. Most of the time, we bring them home and save them for a future trip.

Travel...a wonderful experience to see different places and meet friendly people. No fear... but proper caution both for safety and health.