First thoughts from Paul Geof

This will be the trip of a lifetime. Nepal is supposed to be cool in December and January. We will focus our trip on the lower and mid-level elevations- Kathmandu Valley, the area around Pokhara(near the Annapurna Range) and Royal Chitwan National Park, which is actually a rain forest. I think the higher areas will be too cold and snowed in for a visit, but we may get some other information when we are there.

We are thrilled, departure time is in a little more than two weeks. We'll see lots of natural places as well as learning about the people and history. I hope we find a sitar concert or two! Nepal is going through a lot of political changes right now, this should be quite fascinating.

Japan will largely be an urban adventure, where we will experience the culture, people and history. We will make time for some hiking. We both have friends who live there and we will spend time with them. Again, I hope to make it to some cultural events.

Since some of you know me as Paul and others as Geof, I will identify myself as P.G. when I have something to say.

Take care, P.G.

Beginnings

We are preparing for our first trip to Nepal and Japan, leaving December 16. We don't yet have an itinerary for Nepal but will post our plans as we get them. In Japan, we will be going to Tokyo and Kyoto (overnight buses in between), with our last night in Nikko. At this point, we are making our packing lists, practicing Nepali, and hiking in our local parks to get in shape.

Kate