We are now well into our trek, this is simply to get acclimatised before we get into base camp. We are trying a circular trek near the Nepalese border. It's very interesting to see the ‘newcomers’. They are as keen as mustard. Within 2 mins of finishing breakfast they are packed and ready to go. The old farts just take their time and amble around until the trek leader is ready.
Whilst walking, some people gallop a head, and wait until the group catches up. Some amble along at a slow pace, not breaking into a sweat. Some people look at every flower and try to remember some Latin name and come up with some rubbish that it was discovered by Colonel Bozo on some pre-war expedition! Some love the wildlife, others the different farming methods.
I love the things that we seem to have lost in England; wonderful butterflies, a relaxed way of life and simple organic food. The scenery is spectacular; from wonderful deep green paddy fields, to far off mountains that go on forever as if in an Athena poster.
The great thing about expeditions is that altitude has no respect for age, sex or fitness, or even if you have money or not. It is the perfect leveller. That is partly why the group has gelled so well. A great atmosphere, with everyone helping each other. Partly of course, it’s self preservation. Help a friend in trouble now, and he might help you high on the mountain in a few weeks time. A couple of the lads have had dodgy tummies, so everyone is rallying around after them. Very nice to see.
I’m sat right now in a cold mess tent, the sun has gone in and the mist is rolling up the hills. The floor is a mud bath, and it's freezing. I really cheesed myself off earlier, I had a shave and dropped my white, well, semi white towel, onto the ground. Hmmm, that is going to take some cleaning.
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