Hi Andy,
I thought it was a great trip. For starters, I appreciated the accurate prep advice, timelines, travel insurance, vaccinations, gear, coordination, etc. from you and Mark as I was fairly clueless and ended up feeling well prepared. I really enjoyed Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu, lovely place and staff.
Mindu and Paolin were fabulous guides and our porters were reliable. Weather was great which was a bonus, and I appreciated that we were booked into better rooms when available. We chose a popular time to trek (reliable weather) and popular location and that was reflected in crowded trails and lodges at times, not a big deal really, but now that I feel more comfortable with trekking and I think I would pick a more off the beaten track route next time.
Finally, flying out of Gorakshep after Kala Patthar was just perfect for a guy my age and with a job to get back to. I don’t know if it was David’s request or your suggestion, but it was an efficient end to our trek and it was a bonus to see the Khumbu valley from the air on the way back. I would highly recommend this option to people in our age group.
The added bonus is that I made new friends for life, Andy and Mark, Mindu and Paolin. I am so fortunate to be pulled into their world by David and this trip.
With sincere appreciation,
Grant G. in Tampa, FL