Ru
I had been dreaming of visiting Lhasa for a long time. I wanted to see the birthplace of the 14th Dalai Lama and, once again, find out how my body would cope with high altitude. Perhaps it would even inspire me to attempt the kora around Mount Kailash one day! This trip fulfilled those wishes and brought me so many unexpected bonuses. Much of the credit goes to our guide, our lovely “pink girl”, Nika Yunda.
First of all, I want to thank her for the itinerary. It was planned so thoughtfully and carefully that I (aged 67) managed all the altitudes and mountain switchbacks without taking a single pill or needing a breath of supplemental oxygen. So, listen to your guide, even if they are 28 and you are 67, and happen to be a doctor, teacher and psychologist all rolled into one!
Secondly, Nika is a true treasure trove of knowledge about Buddhism, China, Tibet, team building, relationships and so much more. She is remarkably organised and responsible for someone so young. It is wonderful to see that most of Strannik's guides are of such a high calibre.
I would also like to thank Strannik for going ahead with the trip despite the group falling below the minimum required number of participants (there were only five of us). That was another bonus of our journey! Thanks also to the weather, which treated us to magnificent views of Everest, its neighbouring peaks and all the other remarkable sights; to our driver and vehicle for the smooth, careful driving and the wonderful heated and massage seats; to the delicious food (so many fresh fruits!); and, of course, to the Tibetan people for preserving their unique identity.
I was so captivated by China and inspired by Nika that I've already decided to join a tour of Southern China next year!
