Bangladesh
Living Blue: Where High Fashion Meets Fair Trade
Contact Matt Korn for Trip Dates
404.200.0722 | matt.korn@care.org
Wander the vibrant maze that is Dhaka's Old Town and immerse yourself in the process behind some of the world's most beautiful textiles.
This unique experience will have you sitting side-by-side with a local artisan who will guide you through the process of making your own indigo work of art.
The brand Living Blue represents high-quality, handmade indigo textile products meant for high-end markets, made by artisans in Bangladesh.
Day One
Upon your arrival into Dhaka you will be met by a CARE staff member who will escort you to the hotel for a chance to refresh and rest after your travels. The afternoon will include a tour of Old Town Dhaka, winding through narrow city streets and exploring the many historical sites hidden among the hustle and bustle of everyday life that makes up the heart of this increasingly globally connected city. Following your city tour we will gather with CARE Bangladesh staff for a welcome dinner to get to know one another and to prepare for the exciting week ahead.
Day Two
The day will begin with a shopping trip to Aarong, the BRAC-managed store where you can purchase locally and responsibly made products for friends and family. BRAC comprises a collaborative network of enterprises, development programs and investments with a vision to empower the poor, alleviate social and environmental imbalance and enhance financial sustainability. Of course be sure to leave room in your suitcase for the
beautiful Living Blue indigo products! After this brief shopping trip it’s off to the airport for the flight to northern Bangladesh, long known for its
indigo production. After checking into the RDRS Hotel in Rangpur we will make the short drive to Living Blue for an introduction to the indigo
textile process. Set in a small village among rice fields Living Blue artisans produce some of the world’s most beautiful products as the subdued
sounds of village life linger in the air. The visit will include a tour of the production facility, an overview of the textile-dying process and a look
into the different forms of design employed by the artisans.
Day Three
Returning to Living Blue we will visit the home of a local artisan and gain a deeper understanding of what life is like for the artisans and their families. Learn more about this ancient technique directly from the artisans of this unique art form as well as the process of indigo production from the cultivation of the indigo plant to the market linkages that have led to Living Blue products being sold in high-end
retailers the world over. Later in the day you will sit with one of the artisans who will guide you as you produce your own Living Blue textile to bring home. Your piece will truly be one of a kind.
Day Four
Our final day in Rangpur takes us into the surrounding villages where the famous Living Blue quilt making takes place. Using a rare technique
called lohari, these female artisans produce some of the world’s finest quilts as part of the Living Blue project. Sit with the women who create these amazing pieces and, as the quilts slowly take form, be inspired knowing you are watching master craftswomen at their trade. We will then visit Kantajew Temple, a late-medieval Hindu temple built in the 18th century. Boasting one of the greatest examples of terracotta architecture in the country, the temple is well known throughout Bangladesh.
Day Five
The day begins with the short return flight to Dhaka. After checking into the hotel we will meet CARE staff for a closing lunch, sharing stories and experiences from what will surely be an inspiring week.
Day Six- Optional
CARE works extensively with female garment workers in Bangladesh developing leadership skills and capacity for women to take on management roles. This day trip will include travel to a garment factory on the outskirts of Dhaka where you will have the opportunity to meet with female garment workers participating in the leadership trainings. Also included will be a discussion with management on the importance of developing female leaders within the work force.
*Itinerary is subject to change due to local conditions. Guests will be informed of any itinerary changes.
