The Joy Journal | Vol. 14
Your monthly dose of joy | Rose Petals, Palaces, & Purpose: India Through New Eyes
Where Purpose Meets Wonder: Our Journey Through India
After 15 years, I finally returned to India. But this time, the journey felt entirely different. In the past, my trips were about visiting family and reconnecting with my roots. This time, I had the joy and privilege of hosting a group of incredible women exploring parts of India I had only ever seen in movies. My heart was filled with excitement and anticipation.
Our journey began in Chennai, where we spent the week visiting schools and witnessing firsthand the life-changing impact of keeping girls in school through the work of Opportunity International. Seeing classrooms where girls are gaining access to education—and hope for their future—was both inspiring and deeply moving.
Our home for the week was the beautiful The Leela Palace Chennai. After nearly 24 hours of travel, we walked into the hotel and were immediately greeted by the gentle scent of flowers in the air. That fragrance brought an instant sense of calm and peace, letting us know we had arrived somewhere special.
One of my favorite experiences in Chennai was, of course, the food. Each morning, I eagerly anticipated the incredible South Indian breakfast spread—one of my favorite cuisines in the world. I encouraged my fellow travelers to try traditional dishes like dosa, upma, and puri. Watching their faces light up as they tasted these flavors for the first time was pure joy. My own tongue danced with delight as I savored every bite.
From Chennai, we flew north to the romantic city of Udaipur, where we stayed at the breathtaking Taj Lake Palace—a royal palace floating in the middle of Lake Pichola. Arriving by boat felt like stepping into another era. As we entered the palace, rose petals showered over us, and we were welcomed with the warmth and hospitality India is known for. In Udaipur, we learned about the proud heritage of the Rajputs and experienced one of the most romantic cities in the country.
Our next stop was Jaipur, where I completely fell in love with the grandeur of Amer Fort and the elegance of City Palace Jaipur. The intricate architecture, the delicate carvings, and the beauty of each room left us mesmerized as we wandered through these historic spaces. And of course, no visit to Jaipur would be complete without shopping. From vibrant textiles and handcrafted art to stunning jewelry and clothing, the ladies truly shopped until they dropped.
Our final stop in India was the legendary Taj Mahal in Agra—India’s ultimate love story. Standing before it is a moment that is difficult to put into words. Set along the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal is far more than a beautiful building. It is a masterpiece of architecture and a timeless symbol of love and devotion.
Seeing it in person is an emotional experience. The symmetry, the white marble glowing in the light, and the story behind its creation make it one of the most breathtaking places on earth. It reminds us that travel is not just about seeing beautiful places—it is about experiencing stories, cultures, and moments that stay with us forever.
This journey through India was a powerful reminder of why we travel: to learn, to connect, to grow, and to experience the beauty of the world together.
With Joy,
Adele
Journey with a Purpose
The most meaningful journeys go beyond sightseeing.
Purposeful travel invites you to connect deeply with the people, cultures, and stories that shape each destination—turning a trip into an experience that truly stays with you.
It’s also an opportunity to give back. From supporting poverty alleviation and expanding access to education to promoting health and wellness, community-building, women and girls’ empowerment, and animal conservation, travel can become a powerful force for good.
When you travel with intention, you don’t just see the world—you help shape it for the better.
Rwanda - August 22 - 29, 2026
Join me on a social Impact trip to Rwanda
Join this journey to experience Rwanda's beauty and resilience and witness firsthand how Flourish Rwanda is transforming communities through education, health, and economic empowerment. Connect personally with families and children whose lives are being changed, and see the impact of community-driven development up close. Along the way, you’ll explore Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife—an unforgettable experience that will inspire you long after the trip ends.
What People are Saying….
“Adele, you are AMAZING! You are one of the greatest gifts God has given me! I do not have enough words to express the depths of my awe & gratitude I have for this trip to India. I always thought the world was so BIG, but you have bridged my small Minnesota world to the colorful and wondrous world of India…..It felt warm, comforting and I felt at home :) I loved learning about the Indian culture, religion, history, politics, romance, family system, fashion, food, & more. In a world that makes us feel anxious & divided - you brought me 3 weeks of beauty, unity, clarity, peace, joy, & sisterhood. I’m having changed, transformed, & hopeful. My theme song for this trip - Louis Armstrong - “What a Wonderful World””
Thank you
Jen
