In April 2017 I brought a team of 11 personnel to Nepal, so that they may achieve their life times ambition of ascending to Annapurna Base Camp. Having known DR the Managing Director of Grace Trek for over 10 years, we created a wonderful itinerary for my team, that not only emcompassed the trek, but also provided the opportunity to experience the breathtaking Nepalese culture in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. DR’s outstanding experience and excellent language skills, made the planning so simple.
After an 18 hour tiring flight, the reception we received from DR’s team was so exhilarating, enhancing the expression “you can never replace a first impression”, my team were bowled over with there immediate kindness and friendship. The Manaslu Hotel, which I have used many times before with DR, provides the perfect peace and tranquility away from the hussle and bussle of Thamel, the heart of Kathmandu.
The culteral tour of Kathmandu the following day provided an excellent and varied itinerary providing a wonderful taste of Nepalese life, leaving my team with an emotional pull of how lucky life is within the United Kingdom.
The simple flight to Pokhara and private mini bus journey to the start of our journey was painless allowing my team to relax prior to the start of their trek. With porters already waiting our arrival, DR co-ordinated his team whom set out in advance, leaving my team to enjoy their first tenantive foot steps in the Himalayas. DR planned an excellent route, which allowed my team’s confidence to build throughout the trek as the closer they approached ABC, the more belief they gained in themselves. Our tea house accommodation was booked in advance by our heroic porters who guaranteed the team remained together each evening. Being together each evening provided the opportunity for everyone to compare their thoughts and emotions, which is essential to put aside any doubts that individuals may have been having.
The ultimate day of reaching ABC was overcast but the enthusiasm and encouragement displayed by DR and his team ensured that everyone achieved their life time’s ambition. The views the following morning were simply breathtaking, making it worth every step of the ascent.
We concluded our expedition with visits to the Ghurka museum and the Himalaya’s Mountain Museum in Pokhara, both of which were recommended by DR and were thoroughly worth it.
To conclude, DR and GraceTrek are an outstanding company, who go that extra mile to ensure the success of your expedition. Having now ran 3 expeditions to the Himalaya’s, I now class DR as family friend, who has stayed with me several times while visiting the UK. The exceptional finale of each trip is the knowledge that at least 10% of your fees, directly go to Grace Foundation which run’s Grace Home that homes up to 15 orphaned children.
For further information, please contact me on [email protected]