Visit to Kingston from Mumbai

Rotary Friendship Exchange: From Mumbai to Ottawa, Kingston, and Montreal

The spirit of Rotary is built on fellowship, understanding, and shared experiences—and this was demonstrated during a recent Rotary Friendship Exchange when ten Rotarians from Mumbai, India, journeyed to Canada to visit Ottawa, Kingston, and Montreal.

The adventure began in Ottawa. Both visitors and hosts were excited. The city’s landmarks offered a perfect introduction: Parliament Hill, the historic Rideau Canal, the elegant Château Laurier, the National Gallery of Canada, and the National Library. The group also visited the Ottawa Rotary Home, the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park, the Experimental Farm, and the rushing waters of Hogs Back Falls.

On the way to Kingston, they stopped at the Beking family cottage near Chaffey’s Locks. Here, the visitors enjoyed a delicious lunch followed by relaxing pontoon boat rides across the sparkling water—a true taste of Canadian summer.

In Kingston, the guests discovered the charm of the city and the surrounding area. A 1000 Islands boat cruise revealed breathtaking scenery, and visits to local attractions highlighted the region’s history and culture. The group attended a couple of Rotary meetings and visited RKY Camp. They were moved by the powerful message of peace shared during a Rotary Instruments of Peace Concert.

The journey concluded in Montreal, a city alive with history, art, and energy. Here, sightseeing blended seamlessly with fellowship and warm hospitality, as local Rotarians opened their homes and hearts to their new friends from India.

One visiting Rotarian captured the spirit of the exchange perfectly:

“We were not just made to feel welcome, but truly at home. Your warmth, generosity, and hospitality have touched our hearts in a way we will never forget. Staying in your homes has given us more than comfort—it has given us friendship, cultural exchange, and memories we will treasure forever. From sharing meals and conversations to showing us the beauty of your cities, every moment has been special. The Rotary Friendship Exchange is about connecting people across borders, and you have embodied that spirit so beautifully. We leave with fond memories, deep gratitude, and a friendship that we hope will last a lifetime.”

The Rotary Friendship Exchange proved once again that when people come together with open hearts, geography becomes irrelevant. What remains are friendship, shared understanding, and bonds that cross borders—truly the essence of Rotary.