Leader Insights – Just back from Nepal!

October half term in Nepal was a welcome return for Tim, one of our Global Action leaders, who’s been leading teams for us since 2014!  We asked him how it was to return to his favourite Himalayan destination this autumn.

How many times have you been to Nepal?

This was my 21st trip in Nepal and 19th trip for Global Action.

What did you do this time?

We had the team ever working at our project site – digging an 8ft hole ready for a water tank to be put in for a school – which will provide safe drinking water for both the school students and teachers, which in turn will help to minimise days off sick so that they maximise the privilege of an education.

We enjoyed a 4 day trek that was nothing short of spectacular. The views in October on the route we trekked were simply jaw dropping – it is hands down the very best time of the year to be out in Nepal – dry days, huge blue skies, lovely temperatures, phenomenal scenery. I have been on this trail so many times and yet it still takes my breath away and I felt privileged to walk amongst this landscape and with such a wonderful group.

We also enjoyed a really inspiring workshop at an NGO in Kathmandu that looks to help marginalised women, children & communities through education and skills development. We didn’t want to leave!

What new things did you learn?

Having been out to Nepal so often I knew that despite the recent landslides & floods and all the media coverage, we would be safe and that our health & wellbeing would always be the single most important thing out there. I know Global Action and our wonderful in country partners well and trust them implicitly to look after us. I was so glad we went because at all times we felt safe and well looked after, and this was an exceptional trip I will cherish for many years to come.

What was the highlight of the trip?

The people! There can’t be many countries in the world that has such a warm and welcoming population. The Nepalis & Tibetans are so friendly and fun to be around, trustworthy and dependable, always smiling and happy. There are always tears when its time to say goodbye at the end of the trip.

What do you love about Nepal? And why should everyone go there?

If Nepal is not in your bucket list – it really ought to be.  It’s a phenomenal destination for cross-curricular learning and adventure travel, combined with some of the most hospitable people on the planet and the most breath-taking landscape anywhere. And if you get a chance to go in October – grab it firmly with both hands and hopefully I’ll get to see you out there.