COCHIN (Kochi), INDIA

COCHIN (Kochi), INDIA
Arrive: 0800 Wednesday, 09 March
(Immigration Clearance approximately Noon)
Onboard Time:1800 Monday, 14 March
Brief Overview: India is a country that defies all
descriptions, explanations, and generalizations. The only
true thing that one can say about India is that your
experience will be different from whatever it is that you
are expecting. Participants often identify India as the
“turning point” of their voyage. It is a country that takes
them out of their comfort zone, challenges their senses,
and awakens a sense of beauty and appreciation for
humanity that is unparalleled.
Whether you choose to experience the Ganges River
glory by dawn, take in the backwaters of Kerala or study
social entrepreneurship in Bangalore, you will be
surprised by the diversity that exists within one nation.
India is a country that produced one of the greatest nonviolent resistance movements in history, which ended
the British Empire in 1947. Yet during the Partition of
India, the country was divided by inter-religious violence
and bloodshed. In recent years, the Indian economy has
accelerated
in
the
technology sector,
and
entrepreneurship is present at almost every level of
society. At the same time, many of its citizens struggle to
survive in conditions of overwhelming poverty.
India, she now knew, would not be content staying
in the background, was nobody's wallpaper. India,
she had found out, was a place of political intrigue
and economic corruption, a place occupied by real
people with their incessantly human needs, desires,
ambitions, and aspirations, and not the exotic,
spiritual, mysterious entity that was a creation of
the Western imagination.
― ThrityUmrigar, The Weight of Heaven
How will you know which India is real and which is legend? Only by going forth and experiencing it yourself. Get a
glimpse of this inspirational trip in the Student Photo Gallery: India.
Suggested short-cuts to simple planning; Register for the following “bundles” of trips based on your interests.
Exclusives:
Active/Adventure:
KOC 502-301 Agra, Jaipur &Bharatpur
KOC 103-101 Explore Cochin on a bicycle
KOC 410-201 Guru-G Social Entrepreneurship in Action
KOC 302-201 Eco Trek in Munnar
Cultural Highlights:
KOC 105-103 Welcome Reception with Students
KOC 405-203 Mumbai Bollywood Experience
Taste of India:
KOC 106-201 Gourmet Indulgence
KOC 201-301 Keralan Homestay
Impact Opportunities:
KOC 102-301 Chendamangalam Village Program
KOC 107-601 Service Visit: Janseva Shishu Bhavan
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: In selling tickets or otherwise making arrangements for field programs (including transportation, shore
side accommodations and meals); the Institute of Shipboard Education (I.S.E.) acts only as an agent for others who provide such
services as independent contractors. All participants accepting or using tickets or other arrangements for such services shall be
deemed to agree and consent that I.S.E. shall not be liable or responsible in any way for any loss, death, injury, or illness to person or
loss, theft or damage to personal property arising from or in connection with such services. I.S.E. shall not be responsible for
cancellation of field programs for reasons beyond its control and in such event, at its option, may refund the purchase price.
IMPORTANT: If you registered in one of the following courses, you have a field lab on the specified day.
Do not make any other travel plans as this is a designated class day in port for your course.
Field Labs
Cochin, INDIA
SEMS 2500 502
Professor James Andre
Professor Natalie
Bakopoulos
Professor Ellen Bassett
Professor Grant Hardy
Professor Lewis
Hinchman
Professor Dan Kinney
Professor Andrea Parrot
Professor Chandra
Ranade
Professor Joyce
Salisbury
Professor Janice
Stockard
Professor Andrew Kahn
ENWR 2559 501
PLAN 5500 501
RELG 1559 502
PLCP 3500 102
ENSP 3559 502
SEMS 3500 110
SEMS 3500 503
HIST 3559 101
ANTH 2210 502
DRAM 1010 502
Sunday, 9 March
Friday, 14 March
Foundations of International Business
(section 2)
Travel Writing (Section 1)
Resilient Communities
Religions of the World [2]
Asian Politics
Visionaries and Exiles (section 2)
Human Sexuality
Development Economics [1]
Medieval Travelers
Marriage & Family Across Cultures &
Histories
Introduction to World Theater [2]
Day 1: Sunday, March 9
KOC 100-101
HIGHLIGHTS OF COCHIN w/ PROFESSOR TUELLER
Explore the many facets of India’s colonial
past through your tour of Fort Cochin and
Matancherry with history professor James
Tueller. Professor Tueller is a scholar of
Iberian Catholicism and Empire, as aspect
of Cochin you’ll see on this tour. You’ll see
architectural and religious influences from
Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule, and
learn about the history of trade in Kerala.
Starting in Fort Cochin, you will learn about
the history of Christianity in Kerala as you see the St. Francis Church, the first
European Church to be built in India. Then understand ancient trading patterns
between India and China as you view theChinese Fishing Nets, or Cheenavala,
hung mid-air along the coast.
Half day
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$22
$20
Child
$11
$10
TIME
Date
Time
March 9
1400
Return March 9
HIGHLIGHTS
1730
Depart
St. Francis Church
Chinese fishing nets
Dutch Palace
Jewish synagogue
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 175
Next, visit the town of Mattancherry to see the Dutch Palace. Built in oriental
style, Mattancherry Palace was originally built by the Portuguese and presented to the king of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma, in
the year 1555 AD.
Imagine yourself as a medieval trader as you walk through the Jewish Street – lined on both sides by picture-postcard houses
and shops selling everything from spices to antiques. At the end of the street you come upon the oldest Jewish Synagogue in
India, built in 1568.
2
KOC 103-101
EXPLORE COCHIN ON A BICYCLE
Half day
The best way to discover the culturally rich city of Cochin is by bike! Pedal the
spice-scented streets of Cochin and take in this historic port city with all your
senses.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$73
$69
Child
$37
$35
Start your adventure at the Indo-Portuguese Museum, and view the artifacts of
the
earliest
Portuguese
Catholic
communities in India. Cycle to the Dutch
Cemetery, the oldest European cemetery
in India, and learn about the Dutch and
English who colonized India during the
17th to 19th centuries.
TIME
Date
Time
March 9
1130
Return March 9
HIGHLIGHTS
1645
Depart
Indo-Portuguese Museum
Tour Cochin by bicycle
View Chinese fishing nets
Cochin’s fish market & bazaar
Dutch Palace
As you cycle northwards, observe the
large Chinese fishing nets suspended midair, introduced by traders from the court
of Kublai Khan.
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 11
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 13
Enter the bustling fish market and bazaar, where you’ll find a wealth of tea,
spices, dried fruit and cashew nuts. Breathe in the pungent aroma of ginger,
garlic, cardamom and cloves as you browse the ambling lanes of vendors and their wares.From the bazaar, you will cycle to the
Dutch Palace, where you can admire the beautiful murals of Hindu temple art and sip a cup of chai tea.
As you return to town on your cycle, you can observe the colorful actions of the Dhobis. These traditional laundry men collect
clothes from families in the city and bring them to the waterfront to wash them the traditional way – scrubbing, slapping and
wringing them out by hand on rocks, then hanging them dry in India’s bright sun.
KOC 105 103
WELCOME RECEPTION
Half day
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
Child
TIME
$29
$15
$29
$15
Date
Time
Depart March 9
1800
Return March 9
2130
HIGHLIGHTS
Aarti&Tikka welcome
Mohiniyattam and Bharatnatyam
dances
Mehendi application
Learn Saree draping
Meet Indian University students
South Indian snacks, tea & coffee
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 80
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 244
3
Day 2: Monday, March 10
KOC 116 201
WALKING TOUR & TUKTUK
Half day
Explore the cultural heritage of Cochin in this walking tour of Fort Cochin. You’ll
see architectural and religious influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British
rule, and learn about the history of trade in Kerala.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$31
$29
Child
$16
$14
Starting in Fort Cochin, you will learn about the history of Christianity in Kerala as
you see the St. Francis Church, the first European Church to be built in India.
Then understand ancient trading patterns between India and China as you view
theChinese Fishing Nets, or Cheenavala, hung
mid-air along the coast.
TIME
Then you will travel by tuk-tuk (rickshaw) to
visit a fisherman’s village and understand this
traditional occupation from the local
perspective.
Date
Time
March 10
1000
Return March 10
HIGHLIGHTS
1300
Depart
St. Francis Church
Chinese Fishing nets
Fisherman’s village
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 29
KOC 102-301
CHENDAMANGALAM VILLAGE PROGRAM
Full day
Traveling in India, you notice how different life here can be from your home. Get a
taste of how 70% of Indians live – in rural villages and traditional communitieson this trip to Chendamangalam village.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$72
$68
Child
$36
$34
Learn about the state of Kerala’s holistic
rural development program, Kudumbasree.
Started in 1998, their mission is to eradicate
poverty in rural areas through teaching
women skills like organic farming, weaving
and handicrafts. The program’s engagement
strategy is: “Reaching out to families
through women and reaching out to
community through families.” Read some student reflections on the day spent
learning about the Kudumbasree program from women in Chendamangalam
village.
TIME
Date
Time
March 10
1000
Return March 10
HIGHLIGHTS
1800
Depart
Visit to Chendamangalam Village
Traditional keralan meal served on
banana leaves
Traditional cultural folk dance
Cooking demo of a Kerala dish
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 68
You will be welcomed to the village with traditional tharavadu (family house)
hospitality, includingchendamelam (drums), jasmine garland and sandalwood
chutti (jewelry), and tender coconut water to drink. Then you will view one of the traditional cultural folk dances of Kerala.
Feast on Sadya, a vegetarian meal served on banana leaves.
After lunch, watch handloom weaving by skilled villagers; weaving is a primary source of income for many of the families in the
village. For those who like to try new things, try your hand at preparing the renowned Kerala dish, Appam and fish Mappas.
Explore the winding roads of the village and spend time interacting with the villagers before returning to Cochin.
“I loved it. The people were so friendly and welcoming. It made my India trip even more amazing.” –Victoria, SP ’13 student
Please note: Comfortable, sturdy footwear, long cotton pants and protection from the sun recommended.
4
KOC 301-201
TAJ MAHAL – GROUP A
3 days/2 nights
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$795
$765
Child
TIME
$399
$383
Date
Time
March 10
0430
Return March 12
HIGHLIGHTS
2100
Depart
TajMahal& Agra Fort
FatehpurSikri
Sikh Temples & Lotus Temple
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 58
Explore one of the seven wonders of the world – the TajMahal – while learning
about northern India’s vibrant history of Mughal emperors, temples and palaces.
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna river, the TajMahal is the famous symbol of Emperor Shah Jehan’s love for his wife
MumtazMahal.It took 20,000 artisans 22 years to complete this poignant mausoleum that blends subtlety with grandeur.
Visit the haunting ghost palace complex of FatehpurSikri, built and then abandoned by Emperor Akbar the Great in the 16 th
century. Explore the unique chambers built for each of Akbar’s wives – one Hindu, one Muslim, and one Christian – while
learning about the Emperor’s policy of religious tolerance during his legendary reign.
Return to Delhi in order tolearn more about India’s religious diversity through visits to Sikh Temples and the Baha’i Lotus
Temple. Experience the majesty of one the world’s largest democracies at the Presidential Palace and India Gate, where
parades and protests gather at times of national crisis and celebration.
“I was more mesmerized and consumed by its energy than I originally thought.” –Milad, SP ’13 student voyager
ITINERARY
Day 1: (D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi via Hyderabad
4-hour trip to Agra; dinner en-route at local restaurant
Day 2: (B,L,D)
TajMahal by sunrise
Excursion to FatehpurSirki
Visit to the Agra Fort –(some voyagers prefer this over
Taj)
Road trip to Delhi (4 hours)
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Morning visit to Sikh Temples followed by orientation
drive to Old Delhi & Lotus Temple
Orientation drive to Presidential Palace & India Gate
Transfer to airport for flight to Cochin
Transfer to pier
5
KOC 405 203
MUMBAI BOLLYWOOD EXPERIENCE
4 days/3 nights
Do you delight in the drama and spectacle
of musical theater? Does your heart beat to
bhangra-rhythms? Have you dreamed of
living like a mega-film star?
Explore the world of Bollywood cinema at
the heart of the Hindi-film industry in the
vibrant city of Mumbai. Witness all there is
to see of modern India in this dazzling city
of dreams and possibilities.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$**
$986
Child
TIME
$**
$493
Date
Time
March 10
0600
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
2000
Depart
Gandhi’s House, Krishna Temple,
Learn about the tradition of social activism as
Victoria Terminus, Gateway of India
you tour Gandhi’s house. Meet the modern
Bollywood Tour & Dance Lesson
day entrepreneurs in Dharavi (India’s largest
Walk through Dharavi & Dhobi Ghats
‘slum’) where you will discover a wide range of
Kotachiwadi Neighborhood
micro-industry:
recycling,
pottery-making,
embroidery, bakery, soap factory, leather
tanning, poppadom-making and many more.
Registration Deadline: Dec. 15
When passing through the residential spaces,
** After Dec 15 pricing subject to
you will undoubtedly feel the sense of community and spirit that exists the area.
increase based on airfare.
After walking through the narrow alleys, you will leave with an enlightened sense
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 11
of the purpose and determination that exists in the area. You will also see Dhobi
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 18
Ghat, the open-air laundry to which is still popular with the citizens despite the
advent of the modern washing machine! Each morning washing from all over Mumbai is
brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. The next day, after being
aired, pressed, folded and wrapped, the bundles are returned.
CANCELLED
Spend your last morning discovering another side to this multi-layered city with a visit to
Kotachiwadi, a bustling residential area belonging to the Coastal community of Christians
from Maharashtra & Goa who have preserved their heritage homes and their culture. In the
narrow street are the picturesque houses built in typical Portuguese style with carved
balconies and small gardens. Stop here for tea at a local home and get a chance to
interact with the residents.
You will end your trip full to the brim with the sights and sounds of Bombay!
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L, D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai
Afternoon sightseeing: Gandhi’s House, Krishna
Temple, Victoria Terminus, and Gateway of India
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Dharavi Tour
Dhobi Ghats
Bollywood-style Dance Lesson at famous choreographer,
Shaimak Davar’s dance studio
Day 2: (B,L,D)
5-hour Bollywood Experience
Studio tour with live filming
Interactive session on sound mixing and dubbing
Bollywood star homes
Day 4: (B,L)
Kotachiwadi Tour and chai with local family
Transfer to airport for flight to Cochin
6
KOC 501-202
THE GLORY OF THE GANGES: DELHI, AGRA & VARANASI
In Hindu mythology, the river Ganga began
as part of the divine life force. She was
released by Lord Vishnu into the heavenly
abode of Lord Brahma. In a time of great
trial, a king called upon Vishnu to send
Ganga to earth to release the souls of his
sons from the underworld. Ganga was so
powerful that she would have destroyed
the earth, had not Lord Shiva captured the
water in his hair and released her gently
across India. To this day, the river Ganges is a holy and sacred placed for Hindus.
On this overnight you will experience the best of north Indian civilization, religion
and culture as you explore the cities of Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. Departing from
Cochin, you will travel to Agra via Delhi and visit the TajMahal. Situated on the
banks of the Yamuna river, the TajMahal is the most famous symbol of love, of
the Emperor Shah Jehan for his wife MumtazMahal.Return to Delhi to see the
Sikh temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and the QutubMinar, a glorious example
of Indo-Islamic architecture of the Mughal period.
5 days/4 nights
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$1,068
$997
Child
TIME
$534
$498
Date
Time
March 10
0415
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
1200
Depart
Agra – Taj Mahal& Agra Fort
Delhi City Tour – Presidential Palace,
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, QutubMinar
Varanasi – Aarti Ceremony, Sunrise on
the Ganges, Hindu & Buddhist studies
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 68
With this grounding of India’s history and culture, you will travel to the religious center of India – the holy city of Varanasi on
the River Ganges. Witness the sacred power of Hindu rituals and Buddhist
practices, and listen to the expert perspective from local universities.
Return to Cochin having tasted the spiritual and cultural flavors of India in
your whirlwind journey.
Please Note: In order to allow you to see the maximum number of sites
across three cities, this trip has a good deal of travel. You will take five
flights and two four-hour car rides, so make sure to check your travel
stamina against the itinerary.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (D)
EARLY Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi
Afternoon sightseeing in Delhi
Transfer to Agra by car
Day 2: (B,L,D)
EARLY TajMahal sunrise tour (closed on Friday)
Visit to the Agra Fort and Mother Teresa Charity Home
Road trip to Delhi (4 hours)
Gurdwara Bangla Sahib
Day 4: (B,L,D)
EARLY Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges
Traditional Indian Wrestling at Akhara
Banaras Hindu University
Sanarth Buddhist Centre
Central University of Tibetan Studies
Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi
Day 5: (B)
EARLY Transfer to Airport for flight to Cochin via Mumbai
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Tour QutubMinar
Transfer to airport for flight to Varanasi
Evening Aarti Ceremony and Hinduism Expert Talk
7
KOC 502-201
SAS EXCLUSIVE: AGRA, JAIPUR & BHARATPUR
During this exclusive SAS experience
you will travel like a Maharaja (“great
king”) and stay in luxurious palaces
and villa properties while also
interacting with local villagers for a
hands-on experience of the real
India. Jaipur (City of Victory) founded
in 1727, is the only city in the world
symbolizing the nine divisions of the
Universe through nine rectangular
sectors sub-dividing it. While here, visit Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant or jeep
ride, and see the City Palace and Royal Observatory. Then, on to Bharatpur!
Get a taste of India’s natural diversity at the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary by dawn,
where over 230 species of birds make their home throughout the year. Listen for
their calls in the stillness of this National Park, a forest oasis of tranquility. Visit a
village to get a sense of daily life through a visit to a school, co-op and the local
panchayat government.
5 days/4 nights
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$ 2,399
$2,268
Child
TIME
$ 1,250
$1,134
Date
Time
March 10
0600
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
1100
Depart
City Palace, Amber Fort, Royal
Observatory in Jaipur
TajMahal& Agra Fort
Bharatpur bird sanctuary
QutubMinar& Delhi sight-seeing
Overnight in Palace
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
Wonder at the TajMahal, the famous
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 10
symbol of the Emperor Shah Jehan’s love
for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 25
20,000 artisans 22 years to complete
this poignant mausoleum that blends
subtlety with grandeur, and a massive overall design with immaculately intricate
execution.
Conclude your trip in the capital city of Delhi where you’ll visit the QutubMinar, a
glorious example of Indo-Islamic architecture of the Mughal period. Reflecting upon the
many sights, sounds, and tastes of your experience in India, you will marvel at the
many wonders held within one nation.
This unforgettable tour is a chance to see the real India – both the world of the former
Maharajas and the simpler lives of its village peoples.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L,D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Jaipur via Mumbai
Tour City Palace and Royal Observatory
Overnight at Oberoi Raj Vilas
Day 2: (B,L,D)
Sightseeing of Amber Fort with stop at HawaMahal
4-hour road trip to Bharatpur
Dinner with local folk dance and music
Overnight at LaxmiNiwas Palace
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Dawn visit to Bharatpur bird sanctuary
Local village visit
Day 4: (B,L,D)
Sightseeing of Agra Fort &TajMahal (closed on Fridays)
4-hour return drive to Delhi
Overnight at The Oberoi
Day 5: (B)
Transfer to airport for flight to Cochin
Arrive in Cochin and transfer to pier/embark ship
8
KOC 406 201
KOC 502-201
JAIPUR & TAJ
4 days/3 nights
Enter a new world of the senses as you
explore the historic landscapes of
North India and the various aspects of
this country’s unique cultural,
architectural and natural heritage.
Transfer to Agra by train, and wonder at
the Taj Mahal, the famous symbol of
the Emperor Shah Jehan’s love for his
wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took 20,000
artisans 22 years to complete this
poignant mausoleum that blends
subtlety with grandeur, and a massive
overall design with immaculately
intricate execution.
Conclude your trip in the pink city of
Jaipur, the city of victory. Experience
the architecture of the maharajas from
your seat on a majestic elephant at the Amber Fort.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L,D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi via Pune
Day 2: (B,L,D)
EARLY transfer to Agra via Shatabdi Express Train
Sightseeing of Agra Fort &Taj Mahal
Drive to Jaipur
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$ 858
$822
Child
TIME
$ 429
$411
Date
Time
March 10
1010
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
1620
Depart
City Palace, Amber Fort, Royal
Observatory in Jaipur
Taj Mahal& Agra Fort
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 70
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Sightseeing of Amber Fort & Elephant ride
City Palace & Jantar Mantar (Observatory)
Dinner with local folk dance and music
Day 4: (B,L,D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Cochin via Mumbai
Arrive in Cochin and transfer to pier/embark ship
9
KOC 203-201
THE ART OF LIVING
2 days/1 night
In the Yoga Sutras, the word yoga is linked to Samadhi, or concentration,
KOC 303-301
and has as its goal the cessation of the perturbations of the mind. In India,
yoga is practiced as a combination of spiritual practices, breathing exercises,
and physical postures.
The Art of Living, a self-development program designed by Dr.Hamsapriya, will
introduce you to the holistic practice of yoga, with an emphasis on breathing
exercises and meditation. This trip will challenge you to understand yoga as more
than just exercise for the body, and delve more deeply into the personal, mental
and spiritual aspects of this ancient practice.
A two-day intensive course schedule includes: yoga
postures, breathing exercises of Pranayama and
SudarshanKriya, meditation, and informative
talks.Past participants highly recommend this trip
as a transformative exploration of your inner self.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$250
$239
Child
TIME
$125
$120
Date
Time
March 10
1000
Return March 11
HIGHLIGHTS
1620
Depart
HolisitcYoga practice
Self-development expert lessons
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 3
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 28
“I enjoyed it. It was a challenging experience that taught me ways to control my mind and be
more at peace.” –Gabrielle, SP’13 student
Note: Accommodations are triple occupancy and all meals served at the hotel will be
vegetarian.This is a contemplative, low-impact introduction to yoga course.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (B,L,D)
Board coach at pier and transfer to hotel
Morning session followed by hotel lunch
Evening session followed by hotel dinner
Day 2: (B,L,D)
Breakfast at hotel
Morning session followed by hotel lunch
Evening session followed by hotel dinner
Depart for pier and board ship
10
Day 3: Tuesday, March 11
KOC 117 301
MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY
Half-day
“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a
drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less
because of that missing drop.” –Mother Theresa
You may think of Mother Theresa’s words when
you take part of this visit to the Missionaries of
Charity center in Cochin. While you may only be
there for a few short hours, make the most of this
opportunity to live her philosophy that “peace begins with a smile”.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$34
$32
Child
$17
$16
Date
Time
March 11
1000
Return March 11
HIGHLIGHTS
1300
Depart
Missionaries of Charity
The center of the Missionaries of Charity is founded by Mother Theresa in 1950,
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 11
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 19
in Calcutta, in order to help the ‘poorest of the poor’. Since then, the order has
expanded and now counts 4,500 nuns spread over more than 600 missions
across 133 countries. At the Cochin Center, you’ll meet Sister Cheryl and the nuns and lay people who take care of
the daily needs of severely handicapped children. As you learn about the operation of this facility and share a meal
with the children, take the time to reflect on Mother Theresa’s legacy and your personal ‘drop in the ocean’.
KOC 301-302
TAJ MAHAL – GROUP B
3 days/2 nights
See the TajMahal and learn about
northern India’s vibrant history of Mughal
emperors, temples and palaces.
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna
river, the TajMahal is the most famous
symbol of Emperor Shah Jehan’s love for
his wife MumtazMahal.It took 20,000
artisans 22 years to complete this
poignant mausoleum that blends subtlety with grandeur.
Visit the haunting ghost palace complex of FatehpurSikri, built and then
abandoned by Emperor Akbar the Great in the 16 th century. Explore the
chambers built for Akbar’s wives– one Hindu, one Muslim, and one Christian –
and learn about the Emperor’s policy of religious tolerance. Returning to Delhi,
you will learn more of India’s religious diversity through visits to Sikh Temples
and the Baha’i Lotus Temple. Experience the majesty of one the world’s largest
democracies at the Presidential Palace and India Gate, where parades and
protests gather at times of national crisis and celebration.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi via Hyderabad
4-hour trip to Agra; dinner en-route at local restaurant
Day 2: (B,L,D)
TajMahal by sunrise (closed on Friday)
Excursion to FatehpurSirki
Visit to the Agra Fort
Road trip to Delhi (4 hours)
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$ 795
$765
Child
TIME
$ 399
$383
Date
Time
March 11
0430
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
2100
Depart
TajMahal& Agra Fort
FatehpurSikri
Sikh Temples & Lotus Temple
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
** After Dec 15 pricing subject to
increase based on airfare.
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 58
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Morning visit to Sikh Temples followed by orientation
drive to Old Delhi & Lotus Temple
Orientation drive to Presidential Palace & India Gate
Transfer to airport for flight to Cochin
Transfer to pier
11
KOC 302-301
ECO TREK IN MUNNAR
3 days/2 nights
Trekking at an altitude of 4,750 to
8,890 ft.above sea level, surrounded
by green mountains, lush waterfalls
and picturesque tea gardens, you will
feel why Kerala is known as “God’s
Own Kingdom”.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$198
$189
Child
TIME
$99
$95
Explore the hill station of Munnar
Depart
located at the confluence of the
Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers.
By day, your group will trek in tea plantations
and visit with farmers. At night, re-group by the
campfire and sleep underneath the stars.
Date
Time
March 11
0800
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
1300
Trekking in Tea plantations at Munnar
Interaction with the farmers at Munnar
Campfire dinners
Note: This tour will be physically strenuous and
is not recommended for those with limited mobility/endurance. Please wear
sturdy hiking shoes. Students will be provided with a sleeping bags and mattress
of 2 inch thickness (size L 6ft * B 2ft).
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 20
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 48
“Hiking through some of the most incredible scenery was pretty fantastic.
Camping was a great escape.”
“Suggestions: pack light, bring a rain jacket, bring Pepto, bring sunscreen, bring light snacks, Have FUN!” Spencer, SP ’13
student
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L,D)
Transfer to Munnar (4.5-hour trip)
Trek through tea gardens
View Kolukkumala Peak and Tamilnadu
Campfire dinner and overnight in tents
Day 2: (B,L,D)
Trek through tea plantation and farms in
local village
At Koviloor, spend time with farmers
Campfire dinner and overnight in tents
12
Day 3: (B)
Transfer to Cochin
KOC 410-301
EXCLUSIVE: GURU-G SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ACTION
The only way to truly democratize
education is to democratize access to
quality teachers. Train a teacher and
you will transform the lives of
hundreds of students. This belief has
led Guru-G to create an innovative
teacher training system. The leaders of
Guru-G sailed on the MV Explorer
Spring 2013 as part of the
Unreasonable at Sea initiative. Guru-G
at sea During this trip, you will learn
about the GURU G initiative in
Bangalore, and then see its implementation in the tribal areas.
4 days/3 nights
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$ 774
$ 754
Child
TIME
$ 387
$ 377
Date
Time
March 11
0400
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
2000
Depart
Guru G Learning Lab &Tribal School
Mysore Palace & Market walk
Srirangapatnam village overnight or
homestay
Interaction with local school children
and teachers
Elephant feeding camp visit
Social Entrepreneurship faculty Christine Mahoney will provide additional
academic insights along the way. In an increasingly globalized world many social
problems can no longer be solved within the confines of a single country or by a
Registration Deadline EXTENDED til full
single sector. Global health epidemics, poverty, terrorism, environmental
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 20
devastation, human rights violations, forced displacement, and human trafficking
all require coordinated action by governments, civil society and the private sector
to overcome. To tackle these problems we need to develop innovative solutions, the people working at the cutting edge to
create smarter solutions and push the fight for social justice forward faster are Social Entrepreneurs. They may be working in
any sector, what sets them apart is a new way of thinking, one characterized by more creative thought processes, more flexible
management styles and more rigorous metrics. This trip will give you the opportunity to meet social entrepreneurs first-hand,
learn about the problems they are working to solve, the challenges they face and the creative problem solving they engage in
to bring about real sustainable change.
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L,D)
EARLY transfer to Bangalore
Afternoon interactive session with GURU G Learning
Lab
Cultural Evening with local hosts and learn about
lifestyle in Indian homes
Day 2: (B,L,D)
Ground transfer to Bandipur
Meet with Implementation Team
Elephant Camp
Day 3: (B,L,D)
Tribal School Visit
Transfer to Mysore
Mysore Palace and Market Walk
Day 4: (B, L)
Transfer to Bangalore, enroute visit Srirangapatnam
Transfer to Cochin
Please Note: This is an itinerary that includes a great deal
of travel in cities and in remote rural/tribal areas, so please
check your stamina against the itinerary.
13
Day 4: Wednesday, March 12
KOC 104 401
RELAXING HARBOR CRUISE
The waterways are synonymous
to Kerala. A trip to ‘God’s Own
Country’ would be incomplete
without a ride through the
famous waterways.
You depart the pier by motor
boats for a boat ride on the
waterways
surrounding
the
Cochin
harbour.
Kerala’s
network of canals, rivers and
little lakes, is unique to this green and silver state.
The boat ride takes you past the Chinese Fishing Nets and round the Vypeen
Island, Gundu Island Vallarpadam Island, Bolghatty Island (no stop) and Pizhala
Canal. Your cruise provides a glimpse of the famous backwaters of Cochin.
KOC 201-301
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$28
$26
Child
TIME
$14
$13
Date
Time
March 12
1000
Return March 12
HIGHLIGHTS
1300
Depart
Backwater cruise around Vypeen,
Gundu, Vallapadam and Bolghatty
Islands
Pizhala Canal
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 196
KERALAN HOMESTAY
2 days/1 night
Tucked away in cool coconut groves or
encircled by backwaters, homestays in
Kerala offer you one of best ways to
enjoy and experience the culture,
lifestyle and flavors of the land and its
people.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$137
$129
Child
TIME
$68
$65
Depart
Begin your trip with an authentic family
lunch, followed by a backwater canoe
ride. In the evening you’ll gather for
dinner and a folklore performance.
Conclude your homestay visit with a stop at a local school to observe Indian
education system. Along the way back to Cochin, stop to see how coconut fibers
are turned into rope and mats at a traditional coir factory
“I was able to see a different part of India, away from the hustle and
bustle.” –Bridget, SP ’13 student
ITINERARY
Day 1: (L,D)
Depart pier for Alleppey (2-hour trip)
Check in at homestay and enjoy lunch with family
2-hour country canoe ride on backwaters
Main venue for dinner and cultural program
Date
Time
March 12
1000
Return March 13
1330
HIGHLIGHTS
Homestay experience and
understanding of local lifestyles
Interaction with the local family
Tour of coir factory
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 10
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 28
Day 2: (B,L,D)
Breakfast followed by visit to local school
Stop at coir factory en route to Cochin
14
Day 5: Thursday, March 13
KOC 110-501
AYURVEDIC TOUR w/ PROFESSOR CAMPBELL
NAGARJUNA's full-fledged Ayurvedic Centre
located on the banks of the river Periyar at
Kalady in Kerala, provides a complete range of
Ayurvedic Treatments strictly conforming to the
traditional practices. Join biochemistry professor
Iain Campbell on this exploration of traditional
medicine and treatments.
The surrounding landscape and the aesthetically designed rooms stimulate the
guests to rediscover life in its entirety. Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre blends deep
ayurvedic insights with traditional skills to provide a range of remedies based on
preventive, curative, rejuvenating and immunization therapies.
Full Day
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$62
$59
Child
$31
$29
TIME
Date
Time
March 13
1000
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
1700
Depart
Intro to Ayurveda Medicine & Massage
Visit pharmacy, garden and treatment
rooms
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 29
On arrival, you will experience a traditional welcome and then visit the Herbal
Garden, Treatment rooms & pharmacy. Later the Chief physician will give a
lecture on Ayurveda including demonstration of ayurvedic massage. You will be
then served a traditional Keralan ayurvedic vegetarian Lunch in Plantain Leaves before returning to the pier.
“I loved this trip! I really enjoyed learning about other forms of medical treatment and it was very educational!” –
Allie, SP’13
KOC 118 502
SOS VILLAGE VISIT
Half day
At SOS Children's Village, children
of all religions and family
backgrounds live together in
peace, under the care of one
‘Mother’. They are either orphans
or with parents who cannot
support them. During your visit to
SOS Children's Village AlwayeCochin, you will visit some of the
15 family houses, and learn
about the organization’s work.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$47
$45
Child
TIME
$24
$23
Date
Time
March 13
1300
Return March 13
HIGHLIGHTS
1700
Depart
SOS Children’s Village Tour
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 25
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 44
Become a member of the Global Grins Delivery
Squad by delivering toothbrushes and spreading the word about the link between good oral
hygiene and disease prevention. More information about Global Grins can be found at
www.globalgrins.org.
15
Day 6: Friday, March 14
KOC 106-601
GOURMET INDULGENCE: KERALA CUISINE
Nimmy and Paul have been involved in 'At
Home' hospitality for more than twelve
years.Nimmy, a professional cooking
instructor for more than twenty years, and
her stockbroker husband Paul, offer food
and hospitality to foreign guests. Nimmy and
Paul belong to the traditional Syrian
Christian community in Kerala. In keeping
with the tradition of their families they enjoy
having guests and serving good food. Nimmy
conducts cooking classes and teaches guests the nuances of
traditional Kerala recipes.
Half day
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$59
$55
Child
$30
$28
TIME
Date
Time
March 14
1000
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
1530
Depart
Cooking demonstration and home visit
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 29
“I loved the relaxed pace, our welcoming guide and host!” –Megan,
SP ’13 student voyager
KOC 107-601
SERVICE VISIT: JANSEVA SHISHUBHAVAN
Every day and night hundreds of children in
India are forced to live in the streets, denied of
their fundamental right to the basic human
necessities of food, shelter and education.
Full day
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$52
$49
Child
$26
$25
TIME
To put an end to this social injustice Mr. Jose
Maveli
began
the
organization
JanasevaSisubhavan.
In
1999,
JanasevaSisubhavan started several projects
like Janaseva English Medium School, Janaseva
Boys Home, Janaseva Senior Boys Education
Project and Street India Movement.
Date
Time
March 14
0930
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
1530
Depart
Visit JansevaShishubhavan and interact
with underprivileged children
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 44
The residents welcome the SAS visitors with garlands and a
refreshing tender coconut. Next, visit the center accompanied by the
Matron followed by cultural entertainment by the children. Later enjoy a traditional vegetarian Keralan launch served on
banana leaves, with the children. After lunch, there is time for games and sports, such as volleyball, basketball and cricket.
Become a member of the Global Grins Delivery Squad by delivering toothbrushes and spreading
the word about the link between good oral hygiene and disease prevention. More information
about Global Grins can be found at www.globalgrins.org.
16
KOC 108 601
VILLAGE CRAFT AND COUNTRY SIDE BOATING
Full day
Your day begins with a tranquil
backwater cruise in Murinjapuzha.
STANDARD PRICE
Early Booking
Adult
$50
$47
Along the way, learn about the
traditional handicrafts like pottery,
basket-weaving, and mat-weaving
using local materials like clay and
coconut fibers. Visit the local Khadi
weaving center, a legacy of Gandhi’s
efforts to restore India’s textile
Child
$25
$24
tradition under colonization.
Get a taste of village life in Vaikom when you visit a temple and eat a traditional
lunch served on plantain leaves.
17
TIME
Date
Time
March 14
0930
Return March 14
HIGHLIGHTS
1600
Depart
Backwater cruise
Visit to Handicraft &Khadi centers
Vaikom Temple
MINIMUM ENROLLMENT 15
MAXIMUM CAPACITY 88