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Recommendation: Nepal Eco Adventure

by Rick Chin Leave a Comment

http://www.nepalecoadventure.com/

http://www.nepalecoadventure.com/

I only have great things to say about Nepal Eco Adventure. I posted the following review on tripadvisor and trekbooking.com, so I thought I’d include it here on my blog:

Me and two friends decided to trek to Everest Base Camp over Christmas. I contacted Chhatra and he was professional, knowledgeable, and very quick to respond. He was able to accommodate our group for the dates we wanted at a great price, and was able to advise on logistics and gear. All safety concerns were addressed beforehand, so we arrived in Nepal ready for an amazing adventure. [Read more…]

Everest Base Camp: Time to Look Forward

by Rick Chin 1 Comment

This trek was not a failure. I have to remember that.

This trek was not a failure. I have to remember that.

Post written December 29: I’m particularly hard on myself.

I’ve gone thorough the range of emotions, from elation to utter dissatisfaction. I recently saw EBC photos from the group. The scenery was incredible in the ways I had hoped and expected. I was super thrilled that they had accomplished that feat. But then I felt beside myself again, saddened by the fact that I needed to turn back. Dan had left a University of Guelph Alumni t-shirt with the words “Ricky and the Sparkling Momos”. It’s so cool that the shirt now hangs in Gorakshep… but not cool that I never reached base camp.

And here’s why I’m hard on myself. Despite logically knowing that the decision needed to be made; that the guides and my friends were thinking of my well-being first; that I had told myself beforehand that I will turn back if advised; that trekking for 5 days and making it to Tengboche is an accomplishment on its own… I’ve had that nagging voice in my head screaming “You failed.” [Read more…]

An Unexpected Christmas

by Rick Chin 1 Comment

My fancy room at the Royal Penguin Boutique Hotel and Spa

My fancy room at the Royal Penguin Boutique Hotel and Spa

Post written December 25: Well Merry Christmas to all.

Today I awoke after a really nice sleep. A light breakfast of toast and jam was served, and my daily medications were brought to me. I had a “Merry Christmas” chat with my family via Skype, which was really nice and needed. I was feeling much better today and ended up being discharged in the morning. I can honestly say that it was a great 2+ days in the hospital. In fact, it was similar to a hotel. I can’t say enough good things about the doctor, nurses and staff at Swacon International. They were so caring, attentive, and the service was great. I do have to return for a follow-up appointment, but until then, I was off to be my old self. [Read more…]

Why Travel Insurance is a Must

by Rick Chin 3 Comments

Swacon-1Post written December 24: When I booked the trip to Nepal, the tour company, Nepal Eco Adventure, mentioned it was mandatory to have travel insurance. Of course I would ensure that I was fully covered because that’s just smart travel… but usually with travel insurance, you never think you’re going to need it. [Read more…]