Back to Kathmandu

The 'Nepali way' can be a little trying at times to say the least. Left at 8.15 in plenty of time to catch the bus/jeep down the mountain as the tourist bus was due around 9.30/10 am. In Bandipur I get on the bus as I'm told it will leave 1st and then am informed that the buses are on strike today. "What about the jeep" "No jeep!"
I walk back to the hotel as I'm sure Ram or Tony, a londoner who owns the hotel, will help. I had a long chat with Tony last night and this morning but that's another story!. Anyway Ram comes and arranges the jeep which normally costs 25 rupees or 300 if you take it to yourself and we set off at 9am with full jeep - he also sends a young lad with me - thank God. Just about a half mile before we reach Dumre, the lad and the driver start arguing over the cost - driver wants 400 rupees and I only have 300 (which he's not getting!) We spend the next 10 minutes arguing (and my time is ticking to catch the tourist bus) but eventually it's resolved (how - I don't know nor care!)and we arrive at Dumre.

While I'm waiting for the bus, people keep telling me that the 'buses are on strike -NO BUS!' But I know Ram rang the bus and he definitely said it was on it's way. 2 hours later and it finally arrives - Phew!! Off we go and then stop at Mugling where the students are protesting (do they need a reason?) and preventing any traffic from going through. And NO there are no alternate routes - one road in - one road out. Eventually they let us tourist buses go through and 5 hours later I arrive in Kathmandu - I certainly won't miss the Nepali transport.
I shared a taxi with an Israeli guy and a couple from China and back at the hotel I'm given a room which overlooks the garden for the same rate I had before - I feel honoured.
Had coffee after dinner with a Scotsman who was so full of himself, I didn't even ask his name. A dutch woman who buys stuff here for her shop joined us and asked if we'd like to join her for dinner tomorrow night (being today) but if he's going I think I'll give it a miss.

Today is my last full day in Nepal so am just sorting things out, packing and making sure I have enough rupees to last me and leave (it costs 1700 rupees tax to go).
Another leg of my journey coming to a swift close - Bangkok - here I come.

Jeanette tells me our Rubes caught the bus on her own yesterday, although she was a bit tired when she got home but 'Well done our Mam!' I'll try and ring you later before I leave tomorrow.

Not sure when I'll get to the internet so be patient!

Love you!!

Sue xxxxxxxxxxxxx