Kathmandu

Well we arrived yesterday (Friday 24th) after most of the day travelling. We enjoyed our flights – we weren’t sure what to expect flying Air India. Our upgrade was nice on the first leg from Bangkok. Great leg room and plenty of Indian reading material. Georgia was excited to receive her ‘goody bag”that contained smellies and personal travelling items. The meal was nice, as was the extra juice. We had a stop in New Delhi for an hour and then onto Kathmandu. We were surprised at the airport here. Rotorua’s airport is much more modern and user friendly. We got glimpses of snow covered mountains as we landed. We got our visas and went straight through customs to our waiting guest house pick up car.

The country is very poor and everywhere you look it reminds us of how fortunate we are in NZ. We wove our way through the narrow streets, and when we made numerous stops for road works children tapped on the windows begging for money. We finally made it to the guest house. The people are very nice but facilities basic. However it is fine – hot water (at times) and wi-fi, and the promise of breakfast. What more could you ask for??

We went for a walk … That was an interesting experience the streets are crowded and lots of young men around, and all trying to see you merchandise. We didn’t feel overly safe, and were pleased to get a bite to eat and head back to our hotel. We need to get some jackets, book a bus and organise a few things before heading out to trek in the hill areas. So today will be spent doing that. It is much cooler here – we have left behind the tropics of Bangkok – we needed blankets on our beds, and don’t need air conditioning. We were told to stay only as long as you have to in Kathmandu – and we get that now!!