I’ve just returned from a business trip to India and Israel. What amazing places … what amazing people!

First stop, Mumbai. The sights, sounds, and smells of this dynamic city are incredible. I did my best to keep up with our fantastic sales representative Kaushal Shah, as we made our way from office to office, meeting with some of the most energetic and upbeat people I’ve encountered in the industry. Their true respect for Kaushal and their warm welcome for me were wonderful to experience.

Like China, India is alive with the sense of explosive opportunity and growth. I was impressed by the size and scope of our advertisers’ operations. Each company employs hundreds if not thousands of employees. We were excited to discuss the upcoming September 2006 JCK India show in New Delhi.

We capped the week off with a lovely cocktail party at the Taj Mahal Hotel, with Kaushal as hostess. It was great to spend time with our friends and supporters and hear about their lives, traditions, families, and country.

Next stop, Israel. It’s one of the most fantastic places I’ve seen. It’s an amazing combination of epic ancient and contemporary history and a totally modern, vibrant nation.

Our representative in Tel Aviv, Issac Arikha, rolled out the red carpet. From the Yad Vashem Holocaust museum, the Western Wall, the Via Dolorosa, and the Dome of the Rock to the shores of Lake Galilee, my head was spinning with the weight of history.

Our business calls were no less exciting. Isaac—who also publishes Israel Diamonds and New York Diamonds—is an institution in the halls of the bourse, and the welcome we received showed it. I was astonished by the size and dynamism of the bourse, where I was given a wonderful tour. Our meetings with friends and supporters once again exhibited their success and energy.

Many thanks to everyone we met for the opportunity to learn more about your businesses, industries, and countries. It was truly my pleasure.