11/11/2022
3 weeks in Nepal drew to an end a few days ago. The jetlag persists a little and a Kathmandu cold still congests between my eyes. Memories already start to feel like dreams, leaving only photos, connections and a credit card bill.
50hrs+ door-to-door either way necessitated spare rooms from relatives, dirty airport floors and backs of taxis (first time I’ve hallucinated from lack of sleep) as a place to rest my eyes.
From the bling, gold and excess of Doha airport to the humble and ancient, earthquake damaged streets of Kathmandu; travel reminds me of the spectrum of human existence and environment. I love living in the Kootenays but it sure can make you forget the rest of the world exists.
8000m icy, diaphanous peaks framed with a foreground of traditional Buddhist living with a iPhone in hand. Chaotic alleyways smelling of grease, incense and fumes with hidden Hindu shrines tucked between leaning Newari buildings. Nepal can feel like many countries in one. Corruption is rife, brain drain from an escaping educated youth is visible and tourism continues to leave it’s scars. I hope the country can find it’s way while the neighbouring superpowers salivate over it’s rich natural resources.
Im forever grateful to family, friends and co-workers who help me take the time off to visit other parts of this world.
Nepal, I’ll be back once again, and it won’t be soon enough ❤️
