Boston College Board of Regents Presents Exploring India: Solar and Sanskrit Featuring Dean Gautam Yadama from the School of Social Work
January, 2020 9 Days/ 8 nights Boston College Board of Regents Presents
Exploring India: Solar and Sanskrit Featuring Dean Gautam Yadama from the School of Social Work
January, 2020 9 Days/ 8 nights July 10, 2019
Ms. Joanne Goggins Office of the Board of Regents Strategic Engagement Officer, University Advancement Boston College 140 Commonwealth Avenue Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Dear Joanne,
We are delighted to submit a proposal for the Board of Regent’s trip to India. There are five key reasons why we think ATA would be a strong strategic travel partner to further develop exciting travel opportunities for this engaged group of supporters.
1. The breadth and depth of our experience. We have been in business for 69 years, are passionate about educational travel, and serve a diverse set of audiences. We have a deep bench of experienced travel professionals, as well as a global reach of knowledgeable specialists in many professional fields and around the world.
2. Our focus on innovation, customization, and themes. Few, if any, of our peers have our unique ability to focus on specific educational themes, nor have the business model that permits the level of customization that ATA offers.
3. The stability of our leadership Kate Simpson, ATA’s President, Mark Lenhart, Director of CET Academic Programs (our study abroad division) and I bought Academic Travel Abroad after careers with the company of nearly 25 years each. Most other senior managers here have over a decade of experience. The longevity of our key personnel creates an unbeatable level of stability and trust.
4. Our expert crisis management and survival skills. We know that change is constant and risk is inevitable in our business. Therefore, we spend considerable resources protecting ourselves and our partners against risk whenever possible. We manage foreign currency carefully to protect our program prices, carry the highest level of insurance in our industry, and safeguard our stability through the on-going diversification of our portfolio.
5. Our longevity and sterling reputation. We have formed and maintained relationships with partners, colleagues, and competitors for decades. We value trust, honesty, and a spirit of partnership and collaboration that acknowledges and respects the needs of both parties. We are well suited and well-resourced to take on the role of Boston College’s partner in India for this trip, and feel confident that we would deliver a well- managed program. We look forward to discussing the proposal at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Chase Poffenberger Executive Vice President and Co-Owner
ndia is captivating and complex, a country where exquisite artistry and sumptuous palaces coexist with extreme poverty and a dearth of infrastructure, education, and Ilocal governance. Boston College has partnered with local scientists, sociologists, and entrepreneurs on promising initiatives in rural India, breathing life into a key principle of Jesuit education and the core mission of our School of Social Work: to address human suffering and improve the human condition. We invite you to join Dean Gautam N. Yadama as we explore these different dimensions of India through the lens of Boston College’s work in the country. Along with visits to spectacular royal sites and historic cities from Udaipur to Jaisalmer, we will spend time in rural communities where Boston College School of Social Work is lending support and expertise to help local people harness resources, improve their environment, and expand opportunity in a sustainable way. Understanding the plight of the rural Indian through firsthand experience allows us a more spiritual connection with our fellow humans, and an acknowledgement of the interconnectedness of the world.
Our travels take us from Mumbai to Udaipur and on to the desert cities of Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. Along the way, we’ll visit our partners at Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B) and take a field trip to a community near Udaipur where IIT-B works with local women to develop renewable solar energy solutions. Another excursion will take us to a village where the Foundation for Ecological Security and Dean Yadama are working with rural communities to revitalize public lands, rehabilitate ecosystems, and impart technical skills to local people.
Highlights
• Explore four of India’s fabled cities: the colorful metropolis of Mumbai; Udaipur, the city of lakes and palaces; Jodhpur and its famed Blue City; and the sandstone wonder of Jaisalmer. • Meet with local women near Udaipur who are developing solar technologies to bring renewable electricity to impoverished communities. • Take a field trip to a village where the Foundation for Ecological Security and Boston College School of Social Work have collaborated to rehabilitate the environment, teach rural communities new skills, and improve livelihoods. • Enjoy three unforgettable dinners, featuring traditional entertainment, local hospitality, and regional specialties; and dine with special guests at many of your meals. • Look for rare wildlife on a guided visit to Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and visit the nearby Ranakpur Temple, a masterpiece of Jain architecture.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Mumbai, India Arrive in Mumbai in the evening on independent flights, and transfer to your hotel.
The Taj Mahal Palace or Trident Nariman Point
Day 2: Mumbai A capital of commerce with a strong spiritual undercurrent, Mumbai is a bustling island city on India’s western coast. Spend today getting to know this city, known as Bombay during the British colonial era. Visit the Gateway to India, built at the water’s edge in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary—and the spot from which the last British colonists departed in 1947. Continue to Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, also known as Mount Mary Church, a pilgrimage site that began as a Jesuit chapel in the 17th century. At Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a train station formerly known as Victoria Terminus, admire the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Victorian Gothic architecture. Next, meet with faculty and staff at the National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education at Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) and learn about new developments in the research and development of solar cells, photovoltaic batteries, and energy storage. Tonight, several IIT-Bombay faculty members join us for a welcome dinner.
The Taj Mahal Palace or Trident Nariman Point (B,D) Day 5: Udaipur/Field Site Visit: Foundation for Ecological Security and Boston College Head into the countryside to visit a rural community where the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES) has worked with Boston College School of Social Work to improve land stewardship and alleviate property. Established in 2001, FES aims to reduce rural poverty and revitalize India’s common lands, which have been exploited by corporations and local government corruption. After building the trust of skeptical community members over many years, FES now empowers villagers to secure rights to land, protect their Day 3: Udaipur natural resources, and improve water management and Take a short (roughly 1.5-hour) flight to Udaipur this soil quality—reducing poverty and bringing ecosystems morning and set out on a field trip to Dungarpur to back to life in more than 6,000 villages across India. visit DURGA Renewable Energy Technologies, a solar Dean Yadama and Boston College have collaborated device manufacturing company owned and operated by with FES to share Community Based System Dynamics women from the local tribal community. Boston College expertise, and the Packard Foundation, the Omidyar School of Social Work has teamed up with IIT-Bombay to Network, and others support the work of FES. Meet support this initiative, wh`ich addresses a fundamental community members, visit project sites, and discuss need—electricity—in a sustainable, renewable, and the effects of these interventions on ecosystems and socially conscious way. Working with technology poverty in rural Rajasthan. Enjoy at evening at leisure to provided by IIT-Bombay, the women of Durga produce explore Udaipur. solar-powered lamps, solar panels, and street lights. In the process, they have gained technical, business, and RAAS Devigarh or Trident Udaipur (B,L) professional skills—and their community has benefitted from a renewable energy source that improves safety, health, and quality of life, and the educational prospects of its schoolchildren who previously studied by candlelight. Return to Udaipur for an evening at leisure.
RAAS Devigarh or Trident Udaipur (B,L)
Day 4: Udaipur Enjoy a full day to discover the serene beauty of Udaipur, a city of palaces and temples situated amid four tranquil lakes. Tour the majestic Udaipur City Palace, which was built on the edge of Lake PIchola over a period of 400 years. See the elaborate carvings and architecture of the Day 6: Kumbhalgarh Wildlife 17th-century Jagdish Temple, and delve into the narrow Sanctuary/Jodhpur lanes of Udaipur’s Old City to find temples, traditional Journey north for a four-hour drive by private havelis, ghats (steps leading to the waterfront), and step coach toward Jodhpur today, stopping for a safari in wells. Tonight, sit down to a specially arranged dinner: Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, in the shadow those staying at the Devigarh will enjoy an excellent of the hilltop Kumbhalgarh Fort, join a guide to search meal on a private rooftop balcony. Guests at the Trident for a wide variety of creatures, including wolves, jackals, will dine at the Jag Mandir, a palace situated on an island elusive sloth bears, rare birdlife, and numerous unusual in Lake Pichola. antelope species. Continue to Ranakpur Temple, a 15th-century Jain temple that showcases the exquisite RAAS Devigarh or Trident Udaipur (B,D) carving and craftsmanship of this Hindu sect. Arrive in Jodhpur and gather for a special dinner this evening. Guests at the Ajit Bhawan will dine at the renowned Dhani restaurant, those at the ITC Welcomhotel will head to the Khaas Bagh, a stunning mansion.
Ajit Bhawan or ITC Welcomhotel (B,L,D)
Days 7 & 8: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan After a morning visit to Mehrangarh Fort and Jodhpur’s medieval “Blue City,” continue your journey by private coach deep into the Thar Desert to Jaisalmer. Once a thriving post on Central Asian trade routes, Jaisalmer was developed by wealthy merchants, who built intricately carved sandstone mansions known as havelis. Spend a full day in this beautiful city studying its elaborate architecture and touring its traditional neighborhoods and centuries-old courtyards. Explore the Golden Fort and take in expansive views of the city from its ramparts. On your final evening, celebrate your experience in India at a specially arranged farewell dinner set amid the sand dunes and accompanied by traditional entertainment.
Suryagarh Jaisalmer
(Day 7: B,D; Day 8: B,D)
Day 9: Jaisalmer/Mumbai/U.S. Transfer to the Jaisalmer airport for a group flight to Mumbai, and continue home on an overnight flight. (B) Expert | Dean Gautam N. Yadama
Dean Gautam N. Yadama is responsible for ensuring that Boston College School of Social Work continually innovates in social work education, research, and scholarship to prepare highly competent practitioners, and scholars focused on improving the quality of life for the most vulnerable and address social policy challenges confronting our communities, regions, and the country. He is responsible for shaping the vision and strategic direction of the school in training the next generation professional social work practitioners in the MS program and future academic scholars in the doctoral program. Dean Yadama has worked for many years in India to understand rural communities and help them develop interventions that will address the complex issues of energy poverty, health and environmental outcomes, and economic and social mobility. Another significant aspect of his role is to manage and deploy the financial and human resources of the school so that we are educating a diverse group of practitioners, on the cutting edge of social work practice, to address the most significant social challenges of the day in the US and abroad.
Price Information – 9-Day BOR Trip to India 2020 – Double Occupancy*
January, 2020
9 days, 8 nights, India Rates below are based on 10, 12 and 14 pax in two levels of accommodations:
No. Pax Option A (Luxury) Option B (5 Star)
Double Single Double Single
10-11 $8,675 $1,645 $7,750 $1,250
12-13 $8,450 $1,645 $7,525 $1,250
14+ $8,275 $1,645 $7,350 $1,250
*10 passenger minimum to operate
[email protected] | 800.556.7869 | academic-travel.com Understanding the plight of the rural Indian through firsthand experience allows us a more spiritual connection with our fellow humans, and an acknowledgement of the interconnectedness of the world.”
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Two BOR staff, an ATA Tour Manager, and an English-speaking guide for all tours • All accommodations and meals as outlined in the itinerary, including welcome and farewell dinner • Non-alcoholic beverages at all lunches and alcoholic beverages (beer and wine) at all dinners • Two additional travelers for all dinners • Ground transportation in an air-conditioned private coach for all travel within the itinerary unless otherwise indicated • Airport transfers on arrival and departure • Internal flights (economy class) (2) • All sightseeing and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary • Comprehensive educational program by professional on-site guides • Service charges, taxes, and gratuities for guide, bus drivers, porters, hotel staff, and restaurant staff • Porterage • Medical Evacuation insurance and political/ natural disaster evacuation coverage for U.S. participants and staff • Wireless listening devices (Quietvox) during all visits • Bottled water for all bus rides • Credit card fees • Comprehensive pre-departure briefing for BOR tour planners and tour staff • A custom-designed website with comprehensive pre-departure mailings and materials with information about the destination • Assistance of ATA professional travel team to assist with pre-trip questions, travel arrangements, including flights, extra hotel nights, and other services
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Travel and trip cancellation insurance • Meals not specified in the itinerary; food and beverages not part of the included meals • Personal items such as telephone, fax and internet charges, laundry, room service, alcoholic or other beverages not specified as included • Gratuities for non-group services • Expenses incurred in making individual travel arrangements in conjunction with the tour • Marketing expenses • Fee for BOR • Meeting rooms
[email protected] | 800.556.7869 | academic-travel.com Boston College Board of Regents
About Your Hotels
We propose two levels of accommodations on this trip: Option A, a selection of world-class luxury and heritage hotels, or Option B, which features excellent five-star hotels. All hotels are well-appointed and centrally located, though dining options vary dependent upon the selected option.
Option A: Luxury Hotels
The Taj Mahal Palace: Overlooking the Gateway of India, the iconic Taj Mahal Palace opened in 1903 and is known as India’s first luxury hotel. Its 285 rooms and suites are beautifully appointed with period furnishings, and the hotel features nine bars and restaurants with a wide range of cuisines, a spa, a sumptuous high tea service, and live music every evening.
RAAS Devigarh: An 18th-century palace-fortress set amid the Aravali Hills above Udaipur, the Devigarh offers just 39 individually decorated suites. Within its marble courtyards, gardens, and terraces provide tranquil retreats and panoramic views across the hilltops. Along with a bar and restaurant, meals and refreshments can be served in a variety of intimate nooks and rooftop patios. The palace features a pool and spa.
Ajit Bhawan: A fixture in the heart of Jodhpur’s Blue City, the Ajit Bhawan Palace recalls the royal traditions of the city’s majarahas. This is India’s first heritage hotel, and each accommodation— whether an elegant suite or a luxury tent—evokes a bygone era. The palace offers a spa and four bars and restaurants, including a garden restaurant and an authentic Rajasthani dining experience.
Suryagarh Jaisalmer: Rising out of the picturesque landscapes of the Thar Desert, Suryagarh is a palace of sandstone imbued with local culture and heritage. Its 72 stunning rooms and suites include four standalone havelis with private courtyards. The hotel features a spa with a sauna and rooftop pool, yoga, a gym, and indoor pool, and a games and billiards room, as well as two restaurants and a bar. Option B: 5-Star Hotels
Trident Nariman Point: The 35-story Trident is ideally located close to Mumbai’s lovely promenade and the city’s art galleries, museums, and boutiques. Its 555 stylish, modern rooms and suites offer world-class amenities and sweeping views of the city or the sea. The hotel features two restaurants, a lounge with light fare, and a bar, as well as a gym, pool, and spa.
Trident Udaipur: Set on 43 acres of gardens on the shores of Lake Pichola, the Trident is a luxurious sanctuary offering 141 well-appointed rooms and suites. Along with a palm-fringed swimming pool, shaded verandas, and a fitness center and spa, the hotel offers a bar and two restaurants—one located on a terrace with stunning views.
ITC Welcomhotel Jodhpur: The contemporary architecture of the ITC Welcomhotel Jodhpur sets it off from the rugged desert landscapes that surround it. Artistic and stylish in its design and décor, the hotel features 98 rooms, chambers, and villas. Dining options include two restaurants, a bistro, and a bar; and the hotel features a pool and a spa with a variety of beauty and massage services.
Suryagarh Jaisalmer: Rising out of the picturesque landscapes of the Thar Desert, Suryagarh is a palace of sandstone imbued with local culture and heritage. Its 72 stunning rooms and suites include four standalone havelis with private courtyards. The hotel features a spa with a sauna and rooftop pool, a gym, and indoor pool, and a games and billiards room, as well as two restaurants and a bar.
Hotels City Nights Option A: Luxury Hotels Option B: 5-Star Hotels Mumbai 2 Taj Mahal Palace Trident Nariman Point (Oberoi Group) Udaipur 3 Raas Devigarh Trident (Oberoi Group) Jodhpur 1 Ajit Bhawan ITC Welcom Hotel Jaisalmer 2 Suryagarh Jaisalmer Suryagarh Jaisalmer
[email protected] | 800.556.7869 | academic-travel.com ACADEMIC TRAVEL ABROAD Professional Delegations
HIGHLIGHTS OF Ahead of their annual conference, the 2007 Urban Land Institute completed a OUR WORK leadership retreat for 40 travelers. IN INDIA The Brookings Institution traveled with 47 on a study tour to India – focusing on a probing 2008 look at an emerging power – Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Udaipur, and Delhi.
New Mexico State Bar sent a delegation 2012 to India in May.
National Art Education Association sent a delegation of 14 members to 2007 India in October.
American Academy of Audiology sent a 2012 delegation of 9 members to India.
Asia-Pacific Mediation Summit welcomed 30 US mediation professionals to New 2015 Delhi in February to exchange with international counterparts.
DELEGATION HIGHTLIGHT: Collaboration between the American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section, UNCITRAL Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific, the Association of India Mediators, CPR Institute, the Singapore International Mediation Centre, the Foundation for Sustainable Rule of Law Initiatives, and several respected International ADR leaders from around the world. Adult Educational Travel Student Study Abroad
The Corning Museum of Glass traveled with 21 donors CET launched a study abroad program 2006 to study Indian glass arts. 2015 to Varanasi, India in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin-Madison as school of record. UW has 50+ year history in the Indian academic community. 13 yogis from the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health participated in a regenerative 2017 visit to yoga’s country of PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: origin in India’s Western state Students dive into intensive of Karnataka. language studies, courses in Urban Geography and Indian Religious Student along with a directed field studies in topics like India’s social structures or the health care system.
37 students from USA universities traveled 2016 to India for semester long programs.
54 students from USA universities traveled 2017 to India for semester long programs.
CET is expecting over 115 students from 2019 universities across the USA to travel to India.
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