A Journey Unto Itself

Welcome to the aio Discovers India blog! Although the trip is still three months away, there's plenty of things to do in the meantime. What that exactly is, I'm not too sure, so this blog will chronicle my thoughts, feelings and actions as I prepare for this life-changing humanitarian trip.

While filling out the volunteer application for the aio Discovery program, India and China piqued my interest because both stand as the most populous countries in the world and are emerging as top economies. The most intriguing part, however, was that these ancient civilizations still have many many people below the poverty line that require aid as we begin the 21st century. And although we hear so much about both countries in the news, what do the common people think? Since we'll be going with Global Hope Network International (a humanitarian aid organization), we'll get to meet people in rural areas, too.

When it came down to a decision, I chose India because I wanted to learn more and the aio Discovery program had yet to send anyone to India.

A month ago, the first things that came to my mind when someone said millionaire were outsourced call centers, Slumdog Millionaire and curry. Oh, and this:



I emailed Rick Watson of GHNI, who will be the project leader on this compassion trip, and he says the best thing for me to do is to learn as much about India as possible. So that's what I've set out to do. As I learn more I'll post them up as I go along, and I'll detail the steps I take to get to India, like applying for a visa, getting immunization shots and packing the right clothes.

Also, I'd like to hear some feedback (suggestions, advice, travel tips). Email me at jasonu@hawaiibusiness.com or leave a comment at the end of the post.