Auroville

Auroville is a place where people can live in peace and harmony, while they search for their "truth" or self-realization. It was planned in the shape of our galaxy by Sri Aurobindo and a French woman mysteriously called "The Mother" as you can see pictured above. Rather than particpating in a mad race to see how quickly they can deplete world resources, the Aurovillians have an organic garden, use energy saving resources, make their own clothes, drink sun-charged water, practice yoga, and don't exchange money- only services. Everyone is encouraged to walk or ride a bicycle to help the environment. What we love the most is that since 1974 they have planted over 2 million trees! In school, the children here learn to connect with their souls through music, art, yoga, meditation, song, and dance, as well as academics. The educational concept is about being a well-rounded person. There is no religion at all and 1200 adult members (800 children) from over 100 countries participate. Auroville was an interesting place to visit where everyone has names like Harmony or Tranquility. We stayed at Tenderness Guesthouse for only one night because it was too remote (and we were ready to get back to the real world where we could waste a lot of stuff).