Black Swan Journeys

10/02/2024

Ditch Europe this holiday season! Instead travel with us to Georgia for 'In vino veritas' (in wine, there is truth).

Be awed by Georgia’s architecture, by its 8000-year-old wine making traditions, its ancient monasteries and the rhythmic folk music of a ‘Supra’. The ultimate expression of Georgian hospitality is the ‘Supra feast’ – a unique cultural festivity that offers an extravagant spread of food, wine, and folk dance!
BSJ will guide you through the medieval castles, take you grape-picking on the steeply terraced vineyards to divulge the secrets that lie within each grape. You can enjoy the gastronomic offerings of Georgia, do a hands-on culinary class with an expert, and go grocery shopping with a local. We offer a slight distraction from all that good wine by taking you on an edifying tour to a Brandy factory. Wander through the lively streets of Old Tbilisi, discover tiny villages hidden in the Caucasus Mountain ranges and put your feet up on the shores of the Black Sea in Batumi.

For a peep into Georgia’s distinctive geography, gastronomy, wine, history, religion and culture, we will be happy to curate an itinerary around your interests on dates that suit you.

04/02/2024

We began 2024 right where we left off last year, in Kolkata - this time to celebrate the literary heritage of the city combining it with our trip to the International Kolkata Book Fair, the largest in Asia! This visit also took us to Kumartuli's old narrow lanes, just as Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge, idols were being made ahead of the Saraswati puja. In Kolkata, the worship and celebration of Saraswati, over the more popular Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, illustrates the Bengali love for knowledge. Accompanied by a historian, we traced back the significant influence of the British Raj in Kolkata - while the grand colonial buildings charmed us, the recounting of colonial history was equally enlightening.

Our stay at Shantiniketan was a charming homestay run by warm and welcoming hosts, who also happen to have the Tagore lineage. Every nook in Shantiniketan narrates Rabindranath Tagore's inspiring life story and works which, one hopes, are respectfully preserved for future generations to witness. It was an apt place to be immersed in the mystical sounds of Baul music. Our drive out into the countryside opened a whole new world of exquisite terracotta temples, erstwhile indigo plantations and ruins of sprawling Rajbaris.

No trip to this region would be complete without indulging in its delectable array of culinary delights. Our food adventures included visits to some of the iconic eateries in Kolkata as well as lavish home-cooked meals, including one at the home of an art collector which is housed in a historic building overlooking the city's skyline.

Intrigued? This was just our first journey of the year. There's lots more to come which includes a revisit to these two historic multicultural destinations!

17/01/2024

The culture from the land of Tehzeeb and Tunday kebabs, Shayari and Shorbas, Lucknow (erstwhile Oudh or Awadh) offers a fine blend of immaculate mannerisms and other-worldly cuisine. Both the mannerisms and the Awadhi cuisine reflect the Nafaasat (refinement) and Nazaakat (delicateness) of the era of Nawabs. A delightful blend of Central Asia, North India, and the Middle East embedded in the Awadhi cuisine offers luxurious flavours that perform through its choicest spice trove like cardamom and saffron. Often cooked over a slow fire (Dum- pukht technique), the food here appeals to all the senses since that was the standing order to the erstwhile royal khansamas – to dish out food that charms the eyes, nose, and palate.

The melt-in-your-mouth Tunday or Galouti kebabs were created thanks to an ageing Nawab who wanted to enjoy the succulent kebabs without having to chew them. The Idris biryani displays a perfect symphony of spices and the dum pukht technique with ‘yakhani’ (meat stock) that lends its wholesome flavour. Like the Galouti kebabs, the malai giluari, a sweet delicacy of folded milk layers and nuts was devised to cater to the weak teeth of maybe a certain Nawab.

The Khasta kachori, a delicious fried pastry, and aloo tikki are the more mass-friendly offerings of Lucknow that leave you wanting for more. While the traditional kebabs and biryanis are steeped in the longing for a slow life, the kachoris and chaat represent the fast pace of the changing face of Lucknow.

You can enjoy this thrilling gastronomic ride that steps back and forth through the rich culinary culture of Lucknow on the Street Food walk that Black Swan Journeys offers.

02/01/2024

A journey through the Hindi Heartland of India is that of cultural immersion and spirituality.

On Black Swan Journeys’ ‘Oudh Odyssey’, you can witness the confluence of cultures unfold in Allahabad. Take a deep dive into the rich history of Oudh with the curated museum tour and visit landmarks like the Kaushambi ruins. Embark on a spiritual ride as a heritage boat ferries you along the River Ganges - seamlessly threading the religious and cultural evolution the banks of the holy rivers of Ganga and Yamuna have witnessed.

Lucknow, the city of Tehzeeb and Taqaluf, beckons you with a promise of culinary excellence, art, heritage, and nostalgia. Savour a range of culinary delights from traditional Awadhi cuisine at an old Kothi in Kaiserbagh. Watch the karigars at work weaving their Chickenkari magic at a crafts atelier. Navigate the busy streets of the city to visit the diverse past through the architectural landmarks. Walk through the forested grounds of the ruins of the British Residency and learn of the fierce fighting during the 148-day siege. You can go gourmandising on the kebabs, biryanis, and sweet delights as you amble through the labyrinthine ‘gallis’ on our food tour.

Spend a spellbinding evening with a master musician and storyteller who interweaves the rich musical traditions of Sozkhwani with the storytelling art of Dastangoi.

Reconnect with your spiritual side at the religious pilgrimage in Ayodhya.

Thread your own stories to create a vibrant tapestry of your own on this Oudh Odyssey with Black Swan Journeys.

This winter, we invite you to witness this magic first-hand. Call/WhatsApp us on 9822132092 or write to [email protected] to book your experience.

01/01/2024

If the last year has taught us anything.

It’s cautious optimism. We went from uncertainty to celebrating our best year as a travel company since we began in 2010.

We travelled further into Bengal and Avadh to curate more black swan experiences this year. We still cannot get over Chettinaad and the Coromandel basin for what they offer the culturally inclined traveller. An erstwhile Maratha empire in the heartland of Tamil Nadu! The art of wine making and cuisine of Georgia and Vietnam's beautiful landscapes and culture delighted many a new traveller that visited their shores.

While we hold close the many joys of 2023, we look forward to meeting more art historians, artists, poets, folk musicians and chefs in 2024! Here's to new friendships as we travel through India and the world doing what we do best, curating experiences for like-minded travellers!

23/12/2023

The essence of a place is intrinsically woven in its culture, art, and heritage. And that is precisely what Black Swan Journeys’ Tamil Nadu cultural trail offers, it threads in intangible subtleties and provides a new canvas of this destination.

Our experts guide you through its rich heritage, and skilled artisans provide insights into their lives, craft, and techniques. The goldmine of the Thanjavur Maratha Empire is sometimes overlooked in our history books. Here under the patronage of Kings, kavyas, devotional commentaries and philosophical treaties were composed.

Time stands still as you watch the waves crash on the craggy outcrop of rocks jutting out of the Bay of Bengal. Stuck in a time-warp - Tranquebar, this little piece of colonial history sits quietly on the Coromandel Coast. At Chettinad step into the exquisite traditional mansions of the Chettiar or Chetti, the old mercantile, and land-owning families.

This trip would be incomplete without indulging in the delectable Tanjavur-Maratha cuisine and interact with the members of the Royal Family as they share anecdotes of the past and present over traditional meals served in the Palace, which they call home.

Experiences from the way your food is made to the way their statues are cast - in the way of their forefathers! We present to you a slice of Tamil vibrance, past and present combined!

We invite you to witness this magic first hand. Call/WhatsApp us on 9822132092 or write to [email protected]

20/12/2023

London dazzles during the festive season and attracts a horde of visitors every year. It's not just the shimmering window displays of the high-end stores and the striking Christmas lights donning the streets that woo the people, but also London’s Christmas markets that are a big draw. The famous Borough Market is one of them.

With a heritage of more than 1000 years to boast, the market is busy all year round, but it’s more so during Christmas. With an eclectic mix of architecture ranging from Victorian to Art Deco, the market has evolved over the years. You are swamped with a deluge of micro-experiences that play on your mind as you walk through the weathered brick archways while also stealing a peek at the Shard that makes its presence felt in the backdrop.

The market offers not just world-class produce but also a wide variety of cuisine that charms its way into the hearts of tourists, locals, food connoisseurs, and food professionals alike. The Christmas cheer follows you as you make your way through the crowd, lured by the delightful aromas and pleasured by the sight of the smorgasbord of food options on display.

The Crème Brule doughnut at Bread Ahead invites you with the warmth you seek on chilly winter afternoons, and so does the winter-spiced mulled wine offered at several stalls. At the end of a long queue awaits the generously portioned Christmas sandwiches at The Black Pig paired with its delectable festive cranberry sauce. Then there are the Instafamous chocolate-covered strawberries for those curious about the hype. While the cheesemongers can indulge in ‘an Evening of Cheese’ at the market’s annual festive event.

Swing by if you’re in London or it’s never too early to plan for a trip next year.

06/12/2023

Travel may seem like an escape but can lead you to answers that transform you. At least that’s what our solo traveller, Apoorva had to say after her trip to Kashmir with us.

“The trip to Kashmir has made me much stronger than any of the previous trips. Even though each one of the places/people had taught me things that I can embrace and apply in my life.

I have learned and continue to learn so much from the people I happen to meet during my travels. Nature has taught me to be grounded, become stronger, and healthier both physically and mentally. Travel was the only getaway for me. Never knew that travelling alone could bring so much change in me that people now look up to me.”

23/11/2023

A travel curator with an incurable craving for cheat treats needed.

We are expanding and looking for someone who reflects our ideology & complements our sales & operations team. A self motivated person with a willingness to be flexible in a small team. Broadly the job will involve product development, designing immersive travel experiences, client servicing and supplier liasoning.

If you or anyone you know is looking for such an opportunity we'd love to hear from you. Please DM us your CV or email @ [email protected] to know more about the opening.

23/08/2022

12/06/2022

The Cultural Expanse of the Maratha Kingdom

The goldmine of the Thanjavur Maratha Empire is sometimes overlooked in our history books. Here under the patronage of Kings, kavyas, devotional commentaries, philosophical treaties, etc. were composed. In the medieval Sarasvati Mahal Library, encounter a treasure-trove of ancient manuscripts and at the royal palace be inspired by tales of the Maharaja of Thanjavur, Serfoji II, a polymath and avid patron of science, art, music and cuisine, who also performed surgeries! At Tharangambadi (aka Tranquebar) explore the town which had been a trading hotbed for the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British. At Chettinad step into the exquisite traditional mansions of the Chettiar or Chetti, the old mercantile, and land-owning families. This trip would be incomplete without indulging in the delectable Tanjavur-Maratha cuisine, which brings together the cultural flavours of two traditions.

Call or WhatsApp us on 91 9822132092 to discover the delightful intermingling of these two cultures! You can email us at [email protected]

Image courtesy: Bid & Hammer Source: Live Auctioneers

14/11/2021

Winters in Kashmir are so special that each stage has a name, Chillai-Kalan (harshest period of 40-days), Chillai-Khurd (small cold) and Chillai-Bachha (baby cold). The autumn colours are transformed, blanketing the landscape with powdery white snow and freezing gurgling streams. Kashmiris bring out their kangris and pherans as nature weaves its magic.
This winter, we invite you on a journey through the valley to witness this magic first hand. Call us on +91 9822132092 or email us at [email protected]

14/10/2021

For a state that is roughly the size of Portugal, Bengal's legacies are aplenty. Its flavourful cuisine, vibrant art forms, literary heritage, and colonial architecture weave a colourful tapestry. Forming a distinct cultural fabric, it is the beating heart of India’s past.
The Bhagirathi-Hooghly river, an arm of the river Ganga, has played a prominent role in shaping the region's history. The Proper Bengal Experience navigates this rich history. It unravels the many-hued threads that hold ancient traditions together. Witness the journey of Bengal as you traverse two centres of trade and cultural exchange along the banks of these sacred and secular waterways.
This year give your holiday a cultural spin. Discover Bengal’s heritage on a journey through two of its capitals – the old (Murshidabad) and the new (Kolkata). Travel back in time to uncover their fascinating past and intriguing secrets.

Message us to curate this journey!

06/09/2021

Destination Stories: Maheshwar

Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath temple, which finds reference in the Puranas, was built, razed, and rebuilt numerous times. The temple, as it stands today, was finally constructed in 1780 by a philanthropic Maratha Queen.
Married at the age of eight and widowed at 29, she soon lost her father-in-law and son. A twist of fate, paved the way for a simple village girl to become the Queen of Malwa. Rather than submit to her grief, Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar, as she is popularly known, petitioned the Peshwa to take over the administration of the Malwa kingdom. Ascending the throne in 1767, she chose Maheshwar as her capital.
It is in Maheshwar, a city that wraps around the sacred river Narmada, that one can truly appreciate her exemplary stature. Her simplicity and elegance are reflected in the rajwada, her modest home, located inside the Ahilya Fort. She was also responsible for bringing the handloom weaving tradition to Maheshwar, encouraging craftsmen from outside her kingdom to settle here and teach her people this elegant craft. The Maheshwari saree, arguably her biggest living legacy, draws design inspiration from the fort and the languid flow of the Narmada.
A great ruler, she was also a social reformer, philanthropist, and patron of the arts. Possessing a sharp political acumen, this noble queen ruled with wisdom and compassion, prompting her people to exalt her to a saintly status. Her reign, lasting over three decades, is beautifully summed by the Scottish poet Joanna Baillie –

“In latter days from Brahma came,
To rule our land, a noble Dame,
Kind was her heart, and bright her fame,
And Ahilya was her honoured name.”
- (1849)

Affording panoramic views of the spectacular Ahilya ghat, a boat ride on the river adds a unique perspective to the life and times of this ‘Philosopher Queen’.

Image Details: Pencil and ink drawing of Maheshwar fort with the river and bathing ghats in the foreground by Sir James Abbott (1807-1896) in 1843
Image Credit: British Library

31/08/2021

Destination Stories: Murshidabad

He visits my town, once a year.
He fills my mouth with kisses and nectar.
I spend all my money on him.
Who, girl, your man?

No, a Mango.

-Amir Khusrau

Carefully place it on a bed of soft cotton and change its position every few hours. When ripe, gently slice it with a sharp wooden knife, ensuring the fingers don’t leave any impression. These are the instructions to store and relish the Kohitur mango. Having almost no fiber, it melts in the mouth. Its flavour, so delicate, that the 230 kms journey from Murshidabad to Kolkata alters its taste. Prompted by these qualities, the state government is seeking a GI tag for this precious jewel among the king of fruits.
While local specialties existed in pockets, Mughal patronage led to thousands of mango varieties being grafted in orchards across the country.
Kohitur was first grafted in the 18th century for Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, who like Akbar was a connoisseur of different varieties of mangoes. Hakim Ada Mohammadi is credited with the creation of this variety, most favoured by the Nawab. In its heydays, it is believed, Murshidabad’s orchards grew around 200 varieties of mangoes!
While its Nawabi pedigree isn’t surprising, it was also patronized by the Sheherwali Jains. A merchant community that migrated from Rajasthan to Murshidabad 200 years ago, they carry the lineage forward. Only 25 to 30 Kohitur trees remain today, making it one of the rarest varieties. Costing anywhere between Rs.800 – Rs.1500 apiece, its name rhyming with a particular diamond doesn’t seem a mere coincidence!
Once a thriving city, along the lines of London, Murshidabad’s legacy is hinged on a handful of crumbling monuments, a few passionate locals, and this decadent fruit. Kohitur encompasses Murshidabad’s alluring history. Like the fruit, this last capital of independent Bengal has a complex flavour but a delicate nature. Savouring the Kohitur is akin to a journey into the city’s glorious past.

Image details: Kachha Keri, Pukka Aam, 1814, Calcutta, watercolour on paper, from an album of Botanical Studies by the master artist Sita Ram (a Mughal artist believed to be from Murshidabad).
Image credit: Arts of Hindostan

20/08/2021

We admit, wanderlust is hard to shrug off. Thus we return with a trunk full of anecdotes in this series called - Destination Stories. In this we reminisce about the forgotten stories that form the fabric of a destination. Entwined in local traditions, these stories invite you to experience our shared world with all its quirks.
The Golden Temple, Amritsar
Amritsar, the spiritual heartland of Punjab, harbours many such stories. One, dating back to the 17th century, is particularly pertinent in current times. It celebrates a bond of friendship and deep respect shared by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, and Mian Mir, a Muslim saint from Lahore. It was a bond that transcended ethnic and religious boundaries.
Guru Arjan Dev conceived and designed the Sri Harmandir Saheb (aka The Golden Temple) himself. Mian Mir is believed to have traveled from Lahore to Amritsar, on the invitation of his friend, to lay the foundation stone of this revered site. An act that was as rare 300 years ago as it is unheard of today. But one which still lives on among certain communities.
Metaphorically it laid the secular foundations of Amritsar – a city that got its name from the pool (Amrit Sarovar) that embosoms the shrine. Ironically, it is also the city that bore the brunt of a partition effectuated on religious grounds.
Even with a tumultuous recent history, the Golden Temple remains a spiritual and cultural hub for the Sikhs and millions of others. By some estimates, it sees as many visitors as the Taj Mahal, if not more! The shrine stands as a reminder of the bond shared by Guru Arjan Dev and Mian Mir, whose lives embodied the wisdom of non-duality.
Photo Credit: sikhiwiki.org

To customise a memorable vacation to this land write to us at [email protected]

04/02/2021

Here’s a video journal of our travellers Prasanna R Salvi and Shweta Salvi from their Kashmir vacation

“When you travel you visit more than just a place… you find extraordinary in the mundane, warmth in toughened hearts, peace in conflict, beauty in harsh landscapes… you notice more than what’s around, you notice ‘you’. Thanks Black Swan Journeys … Kashmir is ❤️”

If you want us to curate a memorable vacation to this land that has lot to give and lot to show, write to us at [email protected]

28/01/2021

In a time of tumultous change we carry hope into a future full of possibilities. We look with new eyes upon our world, delighting in its wonders having tasted transience.

We are hoping that you have many travels planned in the coming few months. Our suggestions, motivations, and general opinions on prized locations across our beautiful country will continue to come, and we encourage you to send us questions, opinions, and/or enquiries.

One of our all-time favourite destinations is Anegundi, in Karnataka. This green paradise is a must-visit for nature aficionados, history buffs, heritage-freaks, mythology-seekers, and generally anyone who is interested in gathering earthy stories. But come March, the sun begins to beat down on this spot with unbearable ferocity. So we have February to explore and experience. Then begins the wait for the summer to pass, and the magical monsoon to begin.

In short, if you would like to go, now is the time!

26/01/2021

As doors to other places close, windows within ones own home open.

"Through many years,
At great expense,
Journeying through many countries,
I went to see high mountains,
I went to the oceans.

Only had I not seen at my very doorstep,
The dew drop glistening
On the ear of the corn."

– Rabindranath Tagore

Living in a land of diverse peoples, the curious traveller dives into oceans of possibilities. This year let us explore India together, her ancient stories, deep wisdom, sheer beauty and delightful cuisine.

The Indian constitution grants you the freedom of movement anywhere across the nation. Take pride and exercise your right!

Happy Republic Day!

04/01/2021

We watched 2020 hold our wanderlust captive in the confines of our homes, but that didn’t stop us from reminiscing about the roads travelled, yearning for the next adventure, and earnestly prepping to make travel magical again. We see the wheels turning already, we finally got back to doing what we love the most. Black Swan Journeys kickstarted 2021 by designing a long-awaited holiday to Chettinad for Deepthy Rajagopalan and Bharath.

It involved ambling along the narrow village lanes awestruck by the grandeur of Chettiar mansions, staying in a traditional Chettiar home and drooling over sumptuous Chettinad food; we couldn't have asked for a more exciting start!

We finally feel the resfeber kicking-in as we look forward to 2021 with anticipation. Our goal however, remains the same - to make travel immersive, sustainable and more experiential.

Here's to making more conscious and responsible choices. Happy New Year!

06/11/2020

Goa is more than just balmy beaches and sundown parties, it is a melting pot of all things creative. On this tour, we visit Museum of Goa, a gallery space that weaves social, historical and cultural strings of Goan heritage in its contemporary installations, sculptures and visual arts. The 3-storeyed museum tucked in a quiet street of Goa stimulates you with untold emotions. It pulls you in with its riveting abstract storyboard - intriguing and sometimes playful.

We’ll make sure it’s Goa but like you’ve never known before. So, connect with us soonish to get on board.

04/11/2020

Nothing says Goa quite like a cashew feni.
It is, after all, Goa’s heritage spirit and the first liquor in India to receive GI status.

Allow your palate to be charmed by feni’s robust hit, as we straight to what is probably the world’s first Feni cellar. Get a peek into the craft of making it right, and much like a connoisseur, learn of its scent bouquet, clarity, and taste.

Connect with us to reserve your spot!

03/11/2020

This Diwali we offer a heady cocktail of culture! A delightful self-drive, non-cooped up, all things considered Goan experience.

Roam freely, in a travel adventure that is not only considerate of you, but also of the places you visit. So pack your bags, sunglasses and masks, and get your cars road-worthy, for we are hitting the good old road to Goa!

Join us on our limited capacity 4 day celebration of the enchanting side of this party capital! Connect with us to reserve your seat!

15/10/2020

We are back!
Well, trying to be.

After 7 months of waiting, social distancing like these terracotta statues, and planning and figuring out what travel would look like in the far and near future, we finally have signs of our road ahead. We present to you a delightful self-drive, non-cooped up, all things considered, and still fully authentic 'Goan' experience. Our first of hopefully many, deep dives into Goa. We roam freely, in a travel adventure that is not only considerate of you, but also of the places you visit.

We offer golden beaches and a heady cocktail of culture! Feni tasting and barbeque dinner in the world’s first feni cellar set in a fragrant spice plantation. Savour Portuguese cuisine on a heritage tour in a centuries old Portuguese mansion. Explore a lesser known 12th century temple. Discover installations and sculptures in India’s largest private contemporary art museum. Wander through picturesque Goan streets that are reminiscent of their Portuguese past. Take a moment to enjoy the sea breeze atop the Reis Magos fort as you visit their Mario Miranda gallery.

So pack your bags, sunglasses and masks, and get your cars and bikes road-worthy, for we are hitting the good old road to Goa! *A limited capacity, 4 days of exploring all things Goan! Connect with us @black-swan.in to reserve your seat!

11/10/2020

Post 7 | Travelling Travel Company

Maqtha Art District, Hyderabad

At first glance, this nondescript locality in Khairatabad, right next to the Hussain Sagar Lake with nameless narrow alleyways and modest houses tightly packed together, might seem a very odd choice to display art. But as you turn the corner at the end of the main road and come face to face with the vibrant murals painted across its walls you will be pleasantly surprised by this juxtaposition.

Adding colour to an otherwise featureless and ordinary neighbourhood, the St+Art India foundation in collaboration with many national and international artists along with a few residents has transformed it into what is now known as the Maqtha Art District. The project brings art to the streets, quite literally therefore making it accessible to all. With themes depicting Maqtha’s long lost greenery to highlighting the tacit divide between the migrants and tenants in the urban landscape; the murals here narrate the story of Maqtha’s people and many such localities tucked away in the urban landscapes of today’s India.

The artwork has not only given an identity to the neighbourhood but also its nameless alleyways. They now have names like Green Gully, Yellow Gully, Pink Gully and Blue Chowk. By taking contemporary art to the streets, the project has opened up the world for a cultural exchange not only among artists but also between visitors and the locals. Ambling along its vibrant streets you soon see the boundaries between the real and imaginary fade away bridging the gap between us and them.

06/10/2020

Post 6 | Travelling Travel Company

Thanjavur

The maker of these clay bottomed Papier-mâché dolls is as proud of being from Thanjavur as he is of his families involvement in the art. By the time we made it to his home, after a day filled with music, musical instruments and history, the Doll maker had gone off to the temple. We had to wait for his return if we wanted to see the dolls in action. We could wait, his evening prayers couldn’t. Upon his return he talked with pride about his ancestors making these dolls. These dolls are coloured in bright royal colours and become what is known as the Thanjavur Raja-Rani Dolls. Geographic Indicator or not, these dolls can only be made here. There is too much history to go anywhere else.

Thanjavur is a town of many talents. Temples, history, museums, The birthplace of the Nadaswaram, Tavil, Veena and the Tamil Sambar. Ask us and we will tell you of our exploits... infact, we can’t stop talking about it.

27/09/2020

This World Tourism Day is an invitation to re-boot!

Once upon a time most of us roamed free, taking this freedom for granted. Black Swan’s experiential journeys have reflected the responsibility that springs from our freedom. Our itineraries have woven into its fabric our interdependence on our shared community and environment. As we journey into a kinder world we hope that each of us are able to make wiser, more aware choices, as we once again begin to explore our shared world.