Dear Wildlife Enthusiast,
I hope this Journal Entry finds you well and filled with wanderlust!
In this latest edition, I’m excited to share my experience at SUJÁN Jawai in Rajasthan, which has been named the 43rd best hotel in the world—a testament to the dedication and passion that have gone into crafting this unique safari destination.
A HOMECOMING AFTER 12 YEARS
It’s incredible to think that 12 years have passed since I first helped establish SUJÁN Jawai, leading the field team in understanding the local leopard population and creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. Returning now on a consulting basis has been a deeply rewarding journey, allowing me to witness the remarkable growth of the camp and its exceptional team.
During my two-month stay, I took on a mentoring role, focusing on empowering each of the 19 individuals within our talented field team. I aimed to create an environment filled with energy, fun, and excitement while challenging the team to think deeper and work harder. Our focus was on engagement—with the wildlife, the landscape, and all the guests who came to SUJÁN Jawai.
I concentrated on a diverse range of training areas aimed at enriching the overall guest experience, including:
Geology: We examined the region's geological features, focusing on how this knowledge helps tell compelling stories about the landscape, enriching guests' appreciation of its ecological and wildlife connections.
Holistic Guiding: We created a comprehensive guiding experience that includes game drives, walking safaris, visits to local villages, and soul-searching moments in temples. This approach links the rich culture and traditions of the area with the wildlife experience, providing guests with a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness of nature and human life.
Birding: Enhancing our understanding of avian species to deepen guests' appreciation of local wildlife.
Cameos: Developing the art of delivering engaging short talks that illuminate the natural world and spark curiosity among visitors.
Photography and Editing: Training on capturing stunning images for marketing content and teaching techniques that empower guests to take home better photos, enhancing their overall experience.
Data Management and Analysis: Teaching techniques for effective data collection and interpretation, vital for our conservation efforts.
Camera Trap Work: Providing hands-on training in how to better record and utilise data gained from our camera trap program, enhancing our understanding of wildlife behaviours.
Driving and Walking Safaris: Enhancing guiding skills to ensure safe, informative, and enriching experiences.
Geology classes in action 
Trackers As a mentor to the team, I engaged in numerous assessment and feedback drives, incorporating on-the-job training, lectures, presentations, and discussions. The energy and enthusiasm among the team have been truly inspiring, and they are now eager to share their enhanced skills and knowledge with guests, ensuring that every safari is a rich and immersive experience.
A DECADE OF REWILDING AND REHABILITATION
Over the past decade, SUJÁN Jawai has made significant strides in rewilding and restoring the landscape. Thousands of trees and kilograms of grass seeds have been planted, reviving an area once dominated by intensive farming. This commitment has led to the resurgence of indigenous game, boosting the prey base and nurturing a thriving leopard population.
Thanks to sustainable practices and a focus on respectful guiding, the leopards in Jawai are now more relaxed than ever. This transformation has resulted in some of the most breathtaking leopard sightings—an experience that truly distinguishes SUJÁN Jawai, not just in India, but on the world stage.
A WONDERFUL FAMILY ADVENTURE
Bringing my family along on this journey has been an extraordinary adventure for all of us. My wife, Diana, our 5-month-old son Kipling, and our 2.5-year-old son Leo have immersed themselves in this incredible culture, experiencing life in ways we could have never imagined. From the open plains of the Maasai Mara, where Leo once shared his jungle gym with elephants, to the ancient granite hills of Jawai, where leopards roam just outside our window—what an incredible life this is for our two boys!
JOIN ME ON THIS INCREDIBLE JOURNEY
I warmly invite you to be part of this extraordinary adventure! If you’re interested in experiencing the stunning beauty and rich wildlife of Jawai next year, I would love to help you plan your journey to India. Perhaps we can organize a trip for you while I am here? Together, we can create an unforgettable safari experience that captures the essence of this vibrant landscape and its remarkable inhabitants.
Thank you for your ongoing support and passion for wildlife conservation. I look forward to sharing more stories from my time at SUJÁN Jawai and hope to see some of you there!
Warm Regards,
Adam Bannister
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