Kathmandu, Nepal
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Touchdown in the year 2068, as it apparently is here in Nepal.Shattered from 2 flights & having to wait 3 hours in Delhi International, who's terminal could easily be in London were it not for the 16 check stamps in my boarding card, that I've scanned my hand luggage, been patted down, made it to the escalator, confirmed I'd gotten off the escalator...you get the idea.The short flight to Kathmandu was great as a family friend advised me to make sure I sit on the left side of the plane...I got my fret glimpse of the mighty Himalayas dominating the skyline.What seemed like a vortex landing, forever circling our way down like a bird to the runway. Kathmandu's airport terminal is a shed compared with Delhi. Got my bags real quick, passed immigration quickly thanx to the to the fact I already had my visa and walked out into 'Taxi' land, I assume that's what it was because that's all I heard & could see.The journey in the taxi was fine, I can only say that because I'm used to Goan styles of road etiquette and the blaring of horns. Eventually we found the hotel, the usual 'do you know where the hotel is?','yes sir!'...he had no idea and had to stop and ask several times. I checked in and was pleasantly surprised to see I got an upgrade...yes I had a bathroom!Had a quick cat nap then headed out into the noise, chaos, filth and culture...I love it all, it gives the atmosphere character.Wondered the maze of streets careful to remember all the turns I'd taken (don't fancy getting lost on day 1), popped into a local Momo cafe and got 10 Momo's for 80Rs to go (not sure yet if I'm being ripped off...probably), picked up 2 bananas and water & began to walk back munching on the Momo's . Obviously still new at this as when I'd finished the very last Momo I found the dipping sauce, I'll get the hang of the local customs soon.Sat on the bed now having reshuffled my bag (can you believe it only weighted 9Kgs!), finished my bananas... I'm ready for bed.
