All Systems Go!

For the past couple of weeks I’ve had my head buried in a couple of Nepal guide books (welcome Christmas presents) researching options for itineraries for my sabbatical later this year.

I’ve finally emerged and decided on spending around 2 months mainly trekking on the Annapurna Circuit and in the Everest region, but also a few relaxing days sightseeing in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagarkot. I’ve also managed to fit in an Elephant safari in the Chitwan National Park.

The treks I’ve chosen are in very popular areas of Nepal, but are not to be underestimated as they both have sections that go over 5000m passes, that’s higher than anywhere in Western Europe!

As you can imagine, there’s a lot to organise, and alongside deciding what to do in Nepal, I’ve been working on some of the logistical issues such as vaccinations, the necessary medication, flights and whether to use a western or Nepalese based trekking company.

The trekking company selection was the biggest and most difficult decision. I initially thought about going with a western trekking company as this would allow me to meet other trekkers. However, I would have to sacrifice itinerary flexibility and there was also a big difference in costs.

Following a chat with a climbing friend of mine, he suggested a local agent Yadu from Yala Adventure who he has used on previous climbing trips and for his Honeymoon!

After exchanging a few emails with Yadu, it was obvious to use a recommended local agent, he has allowed me to create a fully bespoke itinerary and has suggested places I wouldn’t have even thought of going. I will be allowed to walk at my own pace and have my own team of a guide and porter. It will also allow me to fully immerse myself in another culture, which I’ve never been able to do before. The other great thing is that by using a local agent it will ensure that every penny I spend will be going straight into the country and helping the local people.

So, all the major plans are in place, but still some of the finer details to organise. It’s very exciting.

Sonny

Welcome to 2012

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and fun New Year. I had a great time relaxing and sharing it with family.

Now that turkey season is over, it’s back to the never-ending battle against the bulge and to try new things.

So in the spirit of trying new things, I thought I’d have a go at blogging. It’s not something I’d usually do e.g. putting my life out on the interweb, but for me 2012 is going to be a special and busy year.

Here are some of the reasons why:

• In May this year I will celebrate my 40th Birthday.To mark this occasion I’m planning a small Birthday bash for family and a few friends to say thank you for all their support and friendship.
• Later this year I will be taking a sabbatical from work and having a break from the rat race.
  Current plans are to spend 3 to 4 months in Nepal, mainly Trekking, but I want to immerse myself in a totally different culture, meeting new people and experiencing different things like eating daal bhaat (lentil & rice curry) for weeks on end!!
• As part of my training for Nepal, I intend to walk around Mont Blanc (Tour du Mont Blanc) with a work colleague.
  I love being in the Alps, be it walking, climbing or mountaineering, I also have a fascination with Mont Blanc, having tried and failed to climb it a few times (I will try again!!!)
  So what better way to see it, than circumnavigate it?

Anyway I hope that you all have a great 2012 and enjoy my blog

Sonny