Kathmandu - girl

 

A quick flight and we were in another country, almost another world. Still a country with a Hindu majority, still cows on the road (although rather fewer), still palpable poverty yet totally different: calm whilst busy, kind whilst intrusive. Of course, almost every word in that sentence is a massive generalisation and stereotype but we both felt immediately welcome and happy here in Kathmandu. The feeling hasn't gone away. It feels like somewhere we could spend a few years very happily. Perhaps we'll be able to find jobs here one day and get back to be a part of this country's continuing development.

 

Two giant stupas, one on either side of the city, appear to watch over the residents - in a good way, I guess. We enjoyed visiting both of them, and also enjoyed the long, confusing walks to find them. Durbar Square, where the royal family used to live, a fascinating place to sit and people watch for hours, which we did. We were both particularly enchanted by a young woman and her small child chasing each other around the shrines.

 

And then there's Thamel - a tourist haven said to be second only to Khao San Road in Bangkok. Here one can shop until drop time before diving into an Irish Bar (not that we have) playing host to a truly dire band. One can eat good food at any hour of the day and one can even find volunteer opportunities. C and I have made contact with a street kids' centre where we'll hopefully spend five or so days volunteering.

 

Our days in Kathmandu tend to begin in Pumpernickel, a great breakfast place. Then we wander around, see a monument or something, walk some more, rest a bit and then find a good supper place. Not a tough life. I also accidentally did some shopping here too.