Hi It’s Paul here in Kathmandu. Well today we decided to investigate the flight options out of Kathmandu, and it was a disappointing experience. Nothing until June 10, which is the date of our original flight. But as they say, out of adversity comes opportunity and we investigated options for what to do with 9 days time.
What to do?
We looked at a paragliding course, but with the impending monsoon they have finished for the season, we also looked at rafting trips, however we didn’t like the idea of being wet for that many days. I suggested going back into the mountains to try to climb a mountain near Namche that Fiona and I tried back in 1996, but couldn’t climb. Fiona wasn’t keen on this idea, although I still am. Not sure if the weather would hold off long enough for us to get into position though. At least we wouldn’t need any acclimatization.
A long drive?
Anyway, we think we will drive from Kathmandu to Lhasa in Tibet and then fly back here. Apparently there are some amazing sights to see along the way – Everest from the North side, Shishapangma, Cho Oyu, huge monasteries and statues and then Lhasa sounds like it will be great fun to explore. We need to get special permits from the Chinese Government to be able to visit Tibet, so we will see tomorrow if this is possible. Also it looks like you can’t travel independently, so we will have to do some sort of tour. If it is possible to go, then we would leave on Saturday.
Messages and other news
Thanks for everyone’s messages. Cas, the Everest marathon is front page news here – a record 130 entrants this year, with most of them being Nepali. The fastest time is 3:28 from base camp to Namche, via Shyanboche. I just can’t comprehend this!! Having great fun in Kathmandu catching up with everyone from the climb. Had my meeting with Billie this morning, Miss Hawley’s representative. Still haven’t seen Pat yet, but I hear he is here. Really looking forward to hearing all about his summit day. So glad he made it. Didn’t get to Rumdoodle last night, but are going there tonight for dinner.
Regards,
Paul.
have you guys looked into the option of having your flight brought forward and upgraded to business class ? Its worth a try …it worked for me . call me or mail me direct if you want any details.
cas
Paul,
Just thought I’d update you on Pat. He called me from Delhi airport this morning (Tues late afternoon there). Apparently he upgraded to business class & bought ticket to Delhi and is on standby for the midnight flight to Chicago on AA. His ticket was for June 18th so he was pretty excited to be homeward bound. Thanks for all that you did to help with his climb-the advise, blog, recommendations–the list is endless. I do hope that our paths will cross someday and I will get to meet you & Fiona. There’s always a warm bed/hot meal waiting for you in Columbia, SC! Once again-congratulations on your summit and hope you enjoy your extra week in that wonderful part of the world!
Carol
Hi Paul and Fiona,
I got out by paying an upgrade fee to a slightly higher class in economy. There were also several seats on my plane filled by stand-by passengers. Having riden a bike from Lhasa to Kathmandu-it is an amazing trip with many worthy sights. Can you secure a Tibet visa quick enough-in my experience it usually takes about a week to get one. Good luck with it all.
I’m home settling in and feeling stronger each day. Still have a bit of a post infection cough but have already started dreaming about mountains and other adventures.
TA
Hi Paul & Fiona,
Dame and I got out early by showing up at the airport and going on standby. At the airport Asian Trekking helped us secure the boarding pass. Email if you want more details.
Cheers, Tim
Hi Paul and Fiona, No advice from me (everyone else is giving it so I was feeling a little left out!)…just wanted to say hi. Beck gets home today so hoping to see her soon…they are having dinner and mum and john’s tonight but I am pretending to be cultured and going to see Othello at the Arts Centre.
Looking forward to catching up when you get home. Enjoy being stranded…try and relax and be ‘real’ tourists for a change!!
love meals
Road trip; always fun. Upgrade to bus. class; home sooner. Climbing another mountain; priceless. Have fun, whatever you choose.
MC
“What do you dream as you stand on top of the mountain? I dream of the next mountain in the distance.” m.c. reinhardt
Hi Fiz – does this mean you are going to miss the weekend away? We are all booked in and Karl is coming down with the kids……
Wow, fantastic opportunity if you get to go to Tibet, its an amazing country and so different to Nepal. If you do get visa’s which I am sure you will as luck is on both your sides, it would be better to get a tibetan guide, driver, staff, to not only support Tibetans but you will not be told untruths about history as you travel through monasteries and towns to Lhasa. Tibet for Tibetans!
p&f. same message as M.C,s blog…… .p.s. how was rumdoodle? [ken.nz]
A huge congratulations to you Paul on your amazing achievement! we have been following you expedition with interest. Fantastic news! We hope your breathing was enhanced after the great training you did with the Spirotiger.
We wish you all the best for a safe flight home
From the Spirotiger Team in New Zealand.
Hi, Fiona and Paul,
Your idea to go to Tibet sounds like the perfect plan. IF you have not been to Chitwan National Park, you might consider it after you rtn from Lhasa (if you still have a few xtra days). I really enjoyed visiting the villages tucked away in the jungle, which were so different from the ones on the way to BC.The children were not used to seeing visitors and were so in awe to see someone who looked and dressed so differently. Where ever you decide to go, I’ll be waiting to read your travel log with more of your interesting adventures. Paul, hoping to see a photo tomorrow of your “signing” at the RD–maybe next to Fiona’s name?
Dena