How this group of travelers formed a life-long bond thanks to one of their fellow travelers
By Nancy Bennett, 7-time traveler, Brookline, Massachusetts
What do a photographer, librarian, export manager, preacher, college professor, and information technologist have in common? Our OAT group's story of friendship began in India—where 14 strangers met for the first time—but continued around the world. We ranged in age from 21 years to over 80, and hailed from the East Coast, West Coast, and everywhere in between.
For me, it started with a wish to visit India in 2007. For fellow travelers John and Barbara, our Heart of India trip offered a chance to take their children to see where John had traveled as a young man. For Bill, it was a chance to explore his passion for photography. For the second Barbara in our group, she was drawn to the color of the saris and flowers. Janine was intrigued by the itinerary. Warren decided to go because his wife Myra gave him one hour to decide—and it seemed “easier to go than not.” Katherine brought her “If it’s there, I want to see it” philosophy to the table. And for Adele, India was a place she'd always wanted to visit. In each case, expectations were more than met.
Nancy’s group discovered the natural, cultural, and religious beauty of India—like this serene scene in Varanasi along the Ganges River—during their first adventure together in 2007.
The unexpected part of our trip was the way 14 people found that their experiences were enhanced even further by the unique qualities each member contributed to the group. More than just sharing an adventure with others—although it certainly was that—our group learned more about life and the world than we ever expected. And we were lucky to be led by Ajay, an exceptional OAT Trip Leader. I wondered what it would be like to explore India with 14 strangers … and was delighted to leave Delhi having made 14 great new friends and “travel buddies.”
One of those new friends was Adele—and during our last days in India, as the group excitedly discussed plans to travel together again, Adele confided to me that she doubted she’d be able to join us in the future: She’d been diagnosed with cancer recently and wasn’t given much time. So I was astonished when, several months later, Adele was the one to suggest that our group’s next trip (which we departed on almost one year to the date after our first adventure to India) be Costa Rica: Natural Parks & Tropical Forests.
One of Nancy’s fellow group members, Adele, brought her passionate spirit and zest for life everywhere she went.
Adele arrived for our Costa Rica trip looking full of life, and deeply committed to having a wonderful time. She and her frequent travel companion Barbara challenged our Trip Leader with their wisdom, curiosity, and humor. As with India, we enjoyed every minute of our journey—spotting elusive wildlife like male and female quetzals; zip-lining through the rain forest canopy; and sharing lots of laughter. When it was over, Adele allowed no goodbyes … just a simple hug, and a wish to “Take care.”
Our group planned to travel to Africa next. We hoped Adele would pack her bag, put on her travel vest (with its numerous pockets), and provide commentary every step of the way, but sadly, she lost her battle with cancer just ten days after our group returned from Costa Rica.
Adele’s inspiring philosophy lives on in her fellow group members wherever they travel.
Travel is about visiting new places, discovering new ideas, meeting new friends (if you’re lucky), and learning about life in all kinds of ways—some of which are sad and painful, while others are wonderful and exciting. Adele’s irrepressible spirit remains very much alive in the hearts of all of her “travel buddies”—reminding us to seize the moment and cherish each and every day, whether we’re exploring exotic destinations together or staying closer to home.
Discover the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Costa Rica on our Costa Rica: Natural Parks & Tropical Forests adventure.