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MY TRIP TO RAJASTHAN
| Nick Phillips, a student at Norton School, Letchworth, had the experience of a lifetime when he visited India in December, 2000. Letchworth Garden City Rotary Club was among the organisations that sponsored him. This is Nick's account of his visit:
I met up with the group at St. Christopher School and set off, half asleep (well, it was 6am), for the airport. I was about to embark on the trip of a lifetime but, in spite of having heard so much about it, nothing could have prepared me for what India offers. |
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We brought Christmas presents to the children of Tilonia |
On arrival the culture shock was incredible. As night turned to day we were able to experience the beauty of the country, albeit on a very bumpy mini-bus ride. Everything was so different to what I am used to - the desert landscape, chaotic roads . . . and the hot weather!
Although there was time to visit such marvels as the Taj Mahal and Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, a large part of the trip was spent experiencing Indian life and providing help for those in poor circumstances. We spent time at local schools, including Disha, a school for disabled children. This was both moving and rewarding, and we were able to teach and learn at the same time. |
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On 18th December the group split into three smaller groups to go to separate NGOs (Non-Government
Organisations). I went to Tilonia which, for me, was the highlight of the trip. I was part of an Indian community for my 10-day stay. The conditions were far from satisfying but the friendliness of the
'Tilonians' made the stay very pleasant. We experienced many aspects of life in Tilonia and helped wherever possible. We threw a party for the children on Christmas Day, which they thoroughly enjoyed. Tilonia taught me a lot about living in a community and the joy it can bring. It was an unforgettable part of an unforgettable trip. The delayed flight home disappointed, although the six-star hotel in which we were forced to stay by the airport authorities, made up for it! I was safely home one hour before the new year. Overall, the trip was a fantastic experience and has taught me to respect what I have. The happiness we were able to bring to Indian children was what made the trip so worthwhile, in my opinion.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Rotary Club for their generous donation. It helped make such an experience possible. |
A game of "pass the parcel" on Christmas Day. I'm supplying the music on the drum! |
