on our way back
Kathmandu is quite different now with the strike. It is very quiet compared to our initial time spent here. Initially when we came into Kathmandu there was total chaos with cars, motorcycles and bikes and people all over the streets. Now, the streets only have people walking and most stores are closed until the time they can be open,from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. We are so thankful that we were able to travel around Nepal prior to our Base Camp Trek and the strike, as it would be impossible to organize any trips now.
May 4th, we are feeling somewhat strange as it is difficult to get money from the banks, and the stores were closed. We eventually find a place that we can access some money, which was a great relief to us to be able to buy some water and snacks. We also were able to find another place, the Zen Experience, which would sneak us in to get a massage. The place had 'lookouts' at the 'garage door'. The massage was wonderful and cost less than $20.00 for over an hour.
On May 5th, we walked around the Thamel District and ventured outside of the District
to explore the area. We came across the area of Kathmandau/the park in which the protesters were speaking and rallied their supporters. We have been reading the papers here and getting some information about the strike.