My Journey to EBC begins

It may just be an ordinary plane ride like any other trip I had but this time to an extraordinary destination and how pleasant and smooth the travel is to Kathmandu - the gateway to EBC.

Below is a video to show my journey to Kathmandu or go to this link.

 I left Toronto early on Thursday, April 7th at 1:30 am and I slept on the plane all the way to Guangzhou China. I flew China Southern Airlines which is new to me.  I chose them as it has the most direct route to Nepal but I have to pay more on the fares. I am only mentioning it because there are alternative cheaper flights but with longer travel time. Think about jet lag and the fact that I only have two days to recover before my trek begins. So far I liked their service waaay better than my frequent flyer airline... can't mention the names than it's bad mouthing...... okaaay! I also found out that if your layover is more than 8 hours, they provide you with a hotel for FREE. 

It was almost too good to be true but I emailed a request as per the fine print in their website because on my return ticket, I have 9 hours layover. Wallah! they told me to send a request with a copy of my voucher and they confirmed back. All I had to do when I arrive in Guangzhou China is to go straight to the transit desk. Sounds good to me!

When I arrive in Guangzhou China at 5 am. which by the way my first time hearing about this City, I have to change to a smaller plane and another four hours flight to Nepal. The airport is quiet and almost deserted at wee hours. However, it is a beautiful airport. I walked through the terminal lobby decorated with colourful arts and murals. It was pleasing and welcoming.

Himalayan Range

I sat on the right side of the plane going to Kathmandu and I had a birds-eye view of the Himalayas. The Himalayan range has the Earth's highest peaks, including the highest, Mount Everest. It's incredible to see an actual image and not just from the national geographic magazine. So take note when booking to select this side of the plane. See the video above...

When I arrived in Kathmandu at 10:35 am, it is already Friday, April 8th. I had to line up for a visa and paid US$40 for 30 days because I am staying more than 15 days ($25). The airport is crowded and I can tell who are the trekkers with their huge backpacks. I am staying at Hotel Dream which is arranged by Yabag Mountaineering Group in collaboration with the local operator Third Eye Adventure. I am the second to arrive from the group of 12. Most of them are from the Philippines and among them is my twin sister Teresa. Our trek will start on Monday, April 11th where we fly to Lukla and that's where we begin our trek.

Tidbits: I finally eat Chinese food while in China. It can't be more authentic than that. Ok just at the airport, but still... I also watched a Japanese movie during the long flight that suddenly inspired me to eat and cook vegetables. What timing because this trek to the base of Mount Everest will make me vegan. I won't be eating meat high up on the mountains where everything is carried up there on foot - a tip I read from travel blogs.