This once in a lifetime experience includes (2) roundtrip tickets from Chicago to Trivandrum, India, in the beautiful oceanside state of Kerala. Upon your morning arrival in Trivandrum you are met by your personal tour guide throughout your journey, LIFT's founder, Father Jamels James, along with a private driver to whisk you through the Kerala countryside. You and a companion will head towards the inland town of Triumnevelli, stopping along the way to enjoy a relaxing meal poolside in Kovalum at the 5 star Leela Hotel and Spa. Upon arrival in Triumnevelli you will be greeted by the children of LIFT and shown to your guest quarters in the LIFT residence- a western style air-conditioned room. Spend your day exploring, unwinding, or catching up on your sleep. During your stay you will visit with the Bishop of Tamil Nadu in his home, explore one of Trimunevelli's most famous Hindu temples, and will be greeted with open arms as you visit a village and home of one of LIFT's students. Depending upon the length of your trip and time of year, other options include (and are not limited to) a boat ride across the beautiful Papanasam Resevoir to a hidden waterfall, visiting with villagers and doctors in a medical camp hosted by LIFT, attending an evening festival and dance performance by the LIFT students. Your meals in Trivandrum will be prepared by the cooks at the LIFT facility who are very careful and knowledgeable in their meal preparations for western guests. The wining bidder of the Journey will also be hosted for a meal with seasoned LIFT volunteers that have traveled to India to discuss preparations for their travels before they leave the US. This excursion can be customized to the winning bidders interests depending upon travel times and length of trip.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION PLANNING: LIFT friend and travel agent Judy Rayer in Delhi can assist you in extending your trip in India should you wish to visit the backwaters of Kerala on houseboat, walk in Mother Theresa shoes in Calcutta, or tour the Taj Mahal in Agra. Please note: optional excursions are not covered by LIFT.