Most Inspirational Moment
So many moments. The guides - Lakpa (apologies for any incorrect spellings), Pemba and Nima are wonderful. Tea in the morning, banter, knowledge and expertise are second to none. Care, humour, everything - faultless.The scenery - has to be seen to be believed - the mountains are incredible.It's very difficult to find words to describe this trip. It is by far the best thing I have ever done.Our group was brilliant - we were very lucky to have an Exodus member of staff with us - thanks to Chloe X
Thoughts on Group Leader
All the staff were great.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take a metal water bottle - doubles as a hot water bottle at night.I was very glad of a down jacket but layers would have been as good. Do take a good hat. You can buy hats and all sorts in Namche and Kathmandu - I spent a fortune in the UK -wish I had waited till I was there to buy stuff.Go slowly - the best things about the trip are the people you will meet and the scenery - don't rush through it.Take good lip balm - high factor.Egg, chips and beans :-)You can charge phones, camera batteries etc everywhere but it gets more costly higher up. However, not unreasonable anywhere. Fitness - I did Snowdon and a high level walk in the Peak District back to back plus general walking as often as possible. It is hard but there are plenty of breaks and because of the scenery and the group and the guides its ok. Get as fit as you can but don't worry too much about it. Take ear plugs if you are a light sleeper. Typical day - woken by the guides at 7am with "Morning tea". Then pack your kit bag and have breakfast eg - porridge, toast, eggs, pancakes.8 ish ( bit earlier on Base camp day) start walking, usually 1 or 2 hours before you stop for refreshments somewhere beautiful. Its a good idea to take snacks - chocolate, dried fruit.Some more walking. LUNCH :-) Try the Momo's.Either more walking or you will have arrived at your tea house.If you have arrived at your lodge by lunchtime on the way up there will be an acclimatization walk -DO THESE. a) they are fabulous, b) they are really helpful.Lodges/nightime - all the lodges we stayed in were great. Most had hot showers - girls - have showers as early as possible so that your hair will dry. I took dry shampoo also.Take wet wipes.I had planned to write a journal - I managed this for 2 days, too much to do/see/people to talk to.Back in Kathmandu - Pizza Hut - turn right out of the hotel - go to the roundabout, turn right, PH is just across the road. Mango Smoothies! The Irish Bar in Thamel is great.Nervous? - there are 5 suspension bridges - (up and down) - I am a wimp,I hate heights and exposure, I managed them - the guides and the group will get you over them - do not let them stop you doing this trip. Don't look down - I recited telephone numbers while crossing them. They are short and made of steel. Seriously. If I can do them anyone can!!