High rollers

Date: Saturday 9th April, 2011
Where to today: Bangkok --> Kathmandu
Where are we sleeping: Kathmandu
How do we get there: Plane

Today we were high rollers and flew business class from Bangkok to Kathmandu =)

I've flown business class before, but only on domestic flights, not international. We took full advantage of all the privileges that come with business class and visited the Thai Silk Lounge for our complimentary 30 minute massage. I began to think that missing our flight wasn't so bad after all! We then headed to another section of the lounge to relax in the leather chairs and feast on delicious food and snacks. Ben and I began to think it was a bad idea flying business class though, as we now felt that we can never go back to flying economy! The massages, food, and free magazines were all too satisfying.


Ben enjoying Business Class

We arrived at Kathmandu International Airport in the afternoon. I was so surprised to see the poor condition and security of the airport. It was no bigger than Balina airport and an AFL game would have more security and staff than that place. Whilst lining up for our visas and immigration to be approved we met a New Zealand man, Jim, who was planning a 2 month trip to summit Everest. He looked to be around 65 years old. Ben and I were so impressed!

Outside the airport, we were picked up by Dhruba (tour group owner and manager) and his driver, and were taken through the narrow, crowded and very dirty streets (in a car smaller than my previous Daihatsu Charade) to our hotel. It was amazing (and sad) to see the living conditions of this city. Compared to Nepal, places like Thailand and Malaysia are so very clean! So many dogs with matted fur and rashes roaming the streets. So many unfinished or crumbling buildings. No traffic lights, or lines on the road. Random cows (or deers?) walking the streets. Monkeys crowding together on the road and jumping from roof top to roof top. In addition, frequently during the day the electricity cuts off suddenly and everything switches off (probably why they don't bother with traffic lights). Luckily our hotel (and most larger buildings) have generators that kick in after about 20 seconds.

A cow walking the city streets


Monkeys crowding on the roadside

Tomorrow we are heading to Lukla, the starting point of our trek. Our flight is at 7:30am. We will have to tag along with another group before we meet up with the boys in Namche on Monday (2 days away). I really miss Josh. Wish we could experience this together.