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| General |
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How did you all get started as a trekking guide?
Originally we are from the high Himalayas country side of Nepal. Since our childhood period we used to get a number of trekkers walking through our village that first caught our attention toward the tourism sector. We started to understand well about the value of tourism and its great scope in this little country, so first we worked as a porter from small trekking agency for 3 years, after that we got training from the government of Nepal, Ministry of Cultural Tourism & Civil Aviation in Kathmandu to become a professional government licensed guide. We again work for a company first as an assistant guide accompanying a senior group leader. After numerous trips into various regions we started to guide for mini group to big group.
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What kind of courses did you learn in training period?
In our training period, we learn the theoretical course that provides the general information mainly about the topography, Cultural scenery, the history, zoology, first- aid training with broad information on how to recognize and treat altitude sickness, rescue and other associated topics. After 3 months of theoretical program, the practical part involves 24 days that includes rock climbing as well as camping organization.
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Why and how did you decide to become an independent guide?
For the past 7 years, we have been working for the trekking company with many mishandling of clients and trekking staffs because of the tight competition in tourism industry. Working independently is a risky decision for us because big companies are able to attract many tourists through their advertisement. Unfortunately the guides and porters that have to work for the trekking agencies are often not paid fairly because of big profit margin.
Of course! You pay the agency for your trek but the guide often obtains limited cash to pay for lodging and food for the entire trek. If the amount is too small, the guide has to make up the expenses by his own way. This type of financial crisis can create an uncomfortable situation for both guide & client and this limited amount funds the companies give their guides for the trek is not sufficient to provide quality service but being independent trekking guide we feel free to work with our clients, and provide them high quality service as much as we can and more importantly we have clear understanding each other as we are directly involve during the planning process.
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What is the minimum and maximum group size that you can lead?
On all of our scheduled treks we take only a minimum 1 to maximum of 15 clients per trek. But we also arrange the big group trek for school and university students with discount.
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Is someone going to meet me at the airport?
Yes, one of our airport representatives (guide) will welcome you at Kathmandu Airport with a banner and drop you to your Hotel. After check-in at the hotel and refreshments, your guide will formally introduce himself and provide a trip briefing. You should bring 2 passport size pictures to issue the trekking permit.
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| About accommodation & Equipment |
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What types of hotels do you use in Kathmandu and other cities?
In major cities area we provide 3 stars to 5 star deluxe hotel accommodations but different categories of hotel can be arranged up on your desire.
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What sort of accommodation can I expect in trekking?
Teahouses are generally locally built of timber and are very comfortable. We usually provide single and double rooms as well as the occasional dormitory with clean toilet facilities. The dining room is downstairs around a fire. All food will be cooked to order in the little kitchen. You should not enter the kitchen unless asked to do so. Most lodges provide a mattress and a quilt or blanket but it is good idea to always have a sleeping bag.
If you choose a camping trek, a tent will be provided if you do not have your own. We provide a kitchen tent, dining tent and toilet tents for all camping treks with sleeping bags, mats and whatever other home comforts you need. We usually camp in or near a village, which allows you to buy luxury items such as chocolate, beer or soft drinks, which we do not carry with us. We also provide a limited amount of toilet paper and facilities for hand and face washing before meals.You will also get a bowl of hot water each morning in your tent for a quick scrub up.
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Can I have a single room/tent? Do I have to share?
Single supplements are only available on a few extension trips and lodge/tented camp accommodated safaris but of course we can provide you the single room/tent upon your desire but most of our trips if you are traveling alone you will share a room or tent with another same sex solo traveler and will not be charged for or have the option, of a single supplement.
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What clothing and equipment will I need?
Often this is about getting the balance right, you need to have enough gear to be warm and comfortable but without overloading. Usually you will experience warm days and cold nights depending on altitude and the time of year. Most treks to around 3000 m. are really quite comfortable especially in springtime. Please click here for a suggested list of items to bring or e-mail us for our equipment list. It is worth remembering you can buy or hire a lot of what you will need in Kathmandu before your trek at very reasonable prices; we can also provide our own hire pack to you. Footwear is best purchased at home before your arrival to ensure they are comfortable and worn in.
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| About Food and Beverage |
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What sort of food can I expect in trekking?
Most teahouses cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal-bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages you may find some meat on the menu.You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps.
If you are on a camping trek the cook can prepare specially requested food if you advise before leaving Kathmandu. In any case, you will have similar fare to teahouses, except that along the way we may buy some fresh local produce such as fish, chicken or cheese to supplement the supplies. And the cost of all the food we prepare is included in the price of the camping treks – you can eat as much as you like. If you have any special dietary requirements please advise us in advance so that we can make the necessary arrangements.
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- I'm a vegetarian is that a problem?
No, problem there are lots of vegetables available on the trek but you should let us know, so that we can make necessary arrangements before start the trek.
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Is the water OK to drink? Do I need to bring purifying tablets/filter
In most places bottled water is readily available. On camping treks we will provide the purified with chemicals or boiled water. Yes, it is important that you should purify the water before drink, so bring purifying tablets with you.
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| About Health and Safety |
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What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness often known as acute mountain sickness (A.M.S.) in general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. We ensure minimal risk by building in rest days into our trekking itineraries. Most people will feel some affect of altitude, shortness of breath and possibly light headed, this is fairly common. Acute mountain sickness is very different and normally involves a severe headache, sickness and loss of awareness. In almost every potential case there are enough warning signs to take appropriate action. Descending to a lower altitude will generally be enough to prevent any further problems.
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What happens if there is an emergency?
We all are trained in basic first aid and can deal with the basic ailments that may occur on trek. In the event of an emergency we can arrange you any rescue operation. You can recover these expanses from your insurance company. In the more frequented regions there are health posts, which have been established by foreign doctors and many are staffed by overseas personnel.
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How strenuous is the trip? Am I fit enough?
We have a wide variety of trips that require active participation to a greater or lesser degree. In general the fitter you are the more you are likely to enjoy an active trip. Click here to check the trip grading, anything listed as strenuous or challenging is just that.
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What will the weather be like on my trip?
It depends where and when you are traveling but most trips are planned to operate when we expect the weather conditions will be good for traveling.
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What happens if I get sick
The most important thing is DON’T PANIC. You should always ensure that you have a well-stocked and appropriate medical kit as well as sufficient insurance in case you should have to be evacuated. A slight case of diaroehea is to be expected, as well as sprains and muscle aches – all a part of walking in the hills. Altitude sickness is extremely dangerous but mostly avoidable if you follow a few simple rules. Click here.
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| About Touring and Leadership |
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Can I take more or less time than I had planned and paid for?
A trekking holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. In fact, most of the time it isn’t even about the end point. Walking in the mountains is about enjoying the beauty of nature and the people and places. Any differences can be made up on your return. Remember, it’s your holiday and so long as you enjoy your trip the time taken is mostly irrelevant. You may find that weather or illness means you have to turn back, sit it out or take another route. No problem..
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What are the trips leaders like?
We all are leader/guide ourselves; we are carefully selected for our personality, general travel experiences and enthusiasm for our style of travel. We facilitate the smooth running of your trip and are there to help you get the most out of your adventure. We are recruited on the basis of our resourcefulness and people skills, rather that for expert knowledge of a destination.
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How much additional money should I bring to spend in trekking?
This will depend on the destination and your spending habits. However we will give you an idea of how to budget for additional meals, optional excursions, and extra expenses you might incur on any specific trip. In general, US$ 10 to 35 will be enough for to buy chocolates, water, few beers. But its all upto your capability.
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Can I use credit cards in the places visited?
In most cities yes, to some extent. However once you leave those cities behind, no. In some more remote, less developed destinations, you cannot use your credit card at all.
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Can you help with hotel accommodation, if I arrive early?
Yes, we can arrange additional accommodation if you plan to arrive early.
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Do you offer any other trip besides trekking?
Yes, We offer other adventure, gentle and relaxing trip beside trekking such as peak climbing, wild life safari, river rafting, bird watching, hot air ballooning, bungee jumping, mountain & motor biking, hotel reservation, historical places of Nepal & Tibet.
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