I am starting to organize a very special, totally off the charts project in the Spice Islands of Indonesia. As many of you know, the Spice Islands was the scene of the first European colonization of Asia, and resulted in a horrendous legacy of mass murder, forced migration and worse in order for the Dutch to monopolize the world's trade in nutmeg and cloves. More recently, some of these islands have been the scene of fighting and deep divisions between the Christian and Muslim populations. I have long held the dream of recreating the spice trade on fair trade terms, and also using this as a vehicle for peace building. Lots of planning going on for our March voyage (I am taking Michael to educate the young fellah into the ways of Javatrekking in Asia). All thoughts and contacts appreciated! Dean
