Other world, other Marcus

Flying across the world is quite an experience.  I have an all new respect for my foreign friends that tavel home on occasiion to India, Russia, Australia...  ATL -> Chicago, Then we left Chigago at 7:30 Friday night, landing in Delhi at 8:30pm.  We saw the sun rise somewhere between Greenland and set before Kabul.  Losing a whole day (thinking of the Third-eye Bling song "Losing a whole year".  Then spending Saturday night in the Delhi airport before an AM flight to KTM.  One look out of the plane as we approached KTM made it all worth while, seeing Annapurna and the Himalayas.  The view from the airport was stunning. 

Having traveled to a few third world countries I kinda knew what to expect, but every time it gets me...  So we land at the KTM airport.  As we deboard the plane to take a shuttle to a terminal, I look over at what appears to be the old "international" terminal. 

Now this terminal was only about a 100 feet away.  Regardless, the shuttle driver took us past the terminal, did a U-turn, then pulled up right in front of where the security guards are standing.  While I was pondering this amazing door-to-door service, I saw a John Deere tractor pull out from behing the plane carrying our luggage...my expectations for the efficient use of resources by the locals was revived.

Atlanta traffic is like a walk in the park.  Try battling motorcycles, bicycles, three-wheeled carts, walkers, cows, dogs, monkeys and oh yeah, other cars coming at you.  Technically they drive on the left side of the road here.  I think that is more of a suggestion.  My truck would never make it here, as I would curb it on both sides of the road when in town. 

One of the less scary times above.  Little more crowded below.  I was holding on to anything I could in that Corolla at any major intersection.

All in all, KTM is pretty cool.  Bought a knock-off Mammut down jacket and gloves for probably $30 US.  Good views from the hotel. 

Mt. Annapurna from the roof.  Notice the water filtration system on the roof.  Filtered water, cold shower!

View of part of the Kathmandu Resort Hotel and part of Thamel.

I must admit, today I was a little off.  After getting to my hotel, I was planning to eat, then sight see and stay up until around 9 pm local time.  Must have been the water becuase I took a shower, bought my down jacket, then went to sleep.  Totally missed the first day here!  I did get out for a little dinner tonight. 

Tomorrow I'm off to Lukla and trekking.