"In the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, young men of well-to-do families in Great Britain set out after university graduation to travel around Europe. They observed language differences and absorbed foreign cultures to complete the final stage of their education. This socio-educational institution, known as the 'Grand Tour,' included visits to foreign courts. The Grand Tourists also stood among ancient ruins and at historic sites to appreciate history and the arts more fully. The ultimate destination of the Grand Tour was Italy."
Reiko Itami, professor emeritus of Keio University, believes that life itself is a grand tour. "You go ahead," she said. "You have to move around. My main belief is in lifelong, long-distance education."
She is possessed of an exuberant, free, pioneering spirit, fostered in her childhood by her father. "He graduated from Keio, and could speak English," she said. "Before the war he collected books -- I grew up surrounded by books. He didn't say because I was a girl I couldn't do this or that. He always encouraged me. I am very grateful to him."
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