Permaculture Visit: Sunday 12th May 
The Rotaract Club of Montebello set off for an enriching and thought-provoking visit of the permaculture garden on this bright Sunday morning. Situated in the south-east of the island, under the care of Gael Soupe, the land is rich in a plethora of plants and trees ranging from exotic and endemic to indigenous.
Our incredible host, Gael, started off by explaining the difference between the main types of trees and their multifaceted nature. The visit was carried on with a trekking of the area which contained several stops during which the members learnt about the specific trees and their uses.
The garden comprises of bonsaï, decorative plants, fruit plants, vegetables, medicinal plants, infusion plants among others. 
Not only did the members have the opportunity to experience the soothingness of a tiny bamboo forest, but they also had the privilege to taste freshly plucked mandarines and guavas from the trees along with savoury leaves used for aromatic purposes.
Upon completing the tour, it was clear that the host had created a self-sustaining and self-sufficient ecosystem for him and his daily life. By being one with nature and delving into the books about agriculture and permaculture, Gael managed to make ends meet with flourishing success while living by his own rules which he considers as the biggest form of freedom in today’s materialistic world. From collecting and storing thousands of litres of rainwater to harvesting solar energy for electricity, Gael taught the members that nature provides us with everything essential we need to not only survive, but also live life to the fullest. He shared that the experience allowed him to free himself the claws of society’s expectations despite the discouraging comments of people as he finally lives according to his own will and with a spiritual path of his liking.
The visit was not only educational in terms of agriculture, but it also provided the Rotaractors with tremendous insight on another facet of life which is more in touch with God’s gift-nature, and one’s own being.
The Club wishes to express its utmost gratitude to Gael Soupe for this mind-blowing opportunity. Special thanks are extended to our SAA Dylen for making this beautiful, inspiring project happen.
The takeaway of the day is that life can be as simple and fulfilling as we wish as long as we open our eyes to the multitude of natural resources and remedies surrounding us.
The project ended with a lovely fellowship which always helps to strengthen the bonds among members. It was a fruitful Sunday and nicely spent among the fellow Rotaractors.
