Post written December 28: After a relaxing and uneventful day in Kathmandu, I awoke early to catch my 9:30 am flight to Nepal’s second largest city, Pokhara (820 metres). Located 200 km west of Kathmandu, it’s a touristy place near the Annapurna mountain range, and often acts as a base for those venturing out to complete the Annapurna Circuit or other treks in the area. The flight was a quick 20 minutes, and before I knew it, I was walking along Phewa Lake and breathing in cleaner air.
Post written December 25: Well Merry Christmas to all.
Today I awoke after a really nice sleep. A light breakfast of toast and jam was served, and my daily medications were brought to me. I had a “Merry Christmas” chat with my family via Skype, which was really nice and needed. I was feeling much better today and ended up being discharged in the morning. I can honestly say that it was a great 2+ days in the hospital. In fact, it was similar to a hotel. I can’t say enough good things about the doctor, nurses and staff at Swacon International. They were so caring, attentive, and the service was great. I do have to return for a follow-up appointment, but until then, I was off to be my old self.
Post written December 24: When I booked the trip to Nepal, the tour company, Nepal Eco Adventure, mentioned it was mandatory to have travel insurance. Of course I would ensure that I was fully covered because that’s just smart travel… but usually with travel insurance, you never think you’re going to need it.
Post written December 23: The past night has been the coldest so far. I’m pretty sure I was wearing most of what I own: a baselayer and fleece-lined windproof pants. Underlayers on top, with fleece and a heavy down jacket. Then I shimmied into my fleece sleeping bag liner, into a heavy sleeping bag, followed by a heavy blanket on top. And I was still cold. When Dan and I awoke, a layer of ice covered the windows.
Post written December 22: Todays’s trek from Namche Bazaar (3440 m) to Tengboche and Deboche (3820 m) was tough. Of course everything was beautiful and we had great sunny views of Everest throughout most of the trek, though clouds began to form above the peak. We first descended 200 metres to the river followed by 600 metres of strenuous uphill. At the current altitude, it was brutal.
HIKES & HAMSTRINGS 