Many of you have commented throughout the years about the level of unsurpassed hospitality in India. I couldn't agree more. Whether staying in a guest house, luxury hotel or haveli, there is an almost unwavering commitment to assuring the guest is comfortable. The philosophy is that the lodging is an essential element of the traveler remembering the destination positively.

As I write this, I am sitting in my room at the Country Inn and Suites in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. We are currently in India to meet with our team, view properties, and - because my husband is from Delhi - visit family. This particular hotel is a newer property in the central area of the city, and a wonderful escape from the 112 degree temperatures outside. Although Ahmedabad is one of the fastest growing residential and business cities in India, and the state boasts many natural parks and historical landmarks, it still remains one of the least visited regions in the country by foreign tourists. Only an hour flight from Delhi and Mumbai, Ahmedabad is well connected to other cities in India and a primary hub for most tours in Gujarat. The Country Inn is no exception when it comes to extending a warm welcome to tourists, and the staff has been wonderfully accommodating.

Prior to Ahmedabad, we traveled to Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Limbdi. We also had the opportunity to visit a few villages along the way. Limbdi was a princely state and the hometown of my mother-in-law. We had the opportunity to visit with family and tour her birth house. Limbdi was a pioneer in women's education, establishing a girls-only school in 1859 when India hardly offered any girls schools, even in the larger cities. And my mother-in-law is very proud of this, being one of those women who attended school and graduated from college.

I encourage all travelers to consider Gujarat for a truly authentic Indian experience. Tomorrow, I leave for South India and will be sure to reconnect with all of you in a couple days from Pondicherry.