Debrief in Thamel
Our first few days in Nepal were spent at “Debrief” where we were able to meet with our leadership team and process all that we had experienced…And what better place to process than Thamel, Kathmandu!!??
Thamel is a popular launch point for treks up to Everest base camp and other exciting destinations. The streets are filled with vibrant colors, a wide variety of languages, and countless adventurous souls…The perfect introduction to Nepal :)?
All Squad Month
On every World Race route there is one month when our whole squad works with the same ministry partner. Our “All Squad Month” happens to be this month in the Jawalakel region of Kathmandu (about 20 minutes from Thamel). All 50 of us have been ministering with The Agape Ministries International (TAMI) and have been living in a four story house with a beautiful rooftop view. I have been sharing a bathroom (squatty potty, bucket shower, and sink) with twelve other women and a kitchen with sixteen people. While alone time has become a thing I now treasure, I have also loved every conversation and shared experience.
Tonight, a local restaurant has agreed to host a “Prom” for us. I think I am the MC, so after I post this blog I have to try to get pretty using only the things in my pack…which might warrant another blog 😛
International Hub
Due to the hunger for Christianity and the devastating effects of recent earthquakes, Kathmandu has become a hub for NGOs and various ministries. Every Sunday multiple international Christian churches host worship services, seats filled with people from around the world. Attending English worship services and hearing the stories of those called to Kathmandu long-term have made Sundays my favorite days in Nepal.
Food
Kathmandu is full of coffee shops and food spots, fruit stands and mobile vendors. I have one guy I buy cucumbers from, one I buy oranges from, and even though my apple guy is inconsistent, his prices make him worth the wait 🙂
Transportation
Most everyone tries to take advantage of you, but once you know a reasonable price it is fairly easy to negotiate with taxi and bus drivers. Also, please know that paying bus fare does NOT ensure you will have a seat. I have been on countless busses that I thought were completely full, only to have ten more people squeezed on. Bus “Bouncers” stand by the open bus doors and make sure people only get on/off at designated spots. I don’t recommend messing with them.
Dust/Pollution
According to locals, Kathmandu has some of the worst air pollution in the world. Peak season for respiratory infections doesn’t hit till January, but most locals wear masks to protect their lungs year round. If I were staying any longer than a month, I would definitely be investing in one.
Festivals
Currently, we are in the middle of Diwali, the Festival of Lights (the Hindu equivalent of Christmas). Shops and houses are decorated with lights and many of the shops are closed. Children basically go “caroling” around the city and traditional dancers/sidewalk art lace the city streets.
Animals
As I write this sentence, two cows and a dog are walking past my little coffee shop window. Animals run things around here. To see a cow or two sleeping in the middle of a busy freeway is normal. They do what they want…And dogs – don’t get me started. I’ve never seen so many dogs running around. I’m a dog person, so I don’t fully hate the Nepali dogs. However, every night they have gang fights outside our windows so most of the squad loathes them.
A post about ministry is on it’s way soon.
Thank you for joining with me on this experience!
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