welcome to World Expeditions Himalaya australian cervical cancer foundation nepal project trip highligh ts why travel with World Expeditions?

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1 Himalaya australian cervical cancer trip highligh ts Working alongside the community to improve the medical facilities at the NACCF clinic Returning home with an intimate insight to the Nepalese people Witness the incredible work of the NACCF in Nepal Stunning views of the Annapurna Range Fully supported camping based trek including 3 hearty meals per day prepared by our cooks Trekking through Gurung Villages Himalayan Mountain flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara return Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath (a major Hindu shrine) and the giant Buddhist stupa at Bodhnath welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in our Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation Nepal Project trip. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals - philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!! Trip Duration 16 days Trip Code: SOG0679 Grade Introductory to Moderate level Activities Trekking, Community Project Accommodation 5 nights hotels, 7 nights camping, 1 night World Expeditions semi permanent camp site why travel with World Expeditions? When planning travel to a remote and challenging destination, many factors need to be considered. World Expeditions have been pioneering treks in Nepal since Our extra attention to detail and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will have a memorable trekking experience in the Himalaya. Every trek is accompanied by an experienced local leader who is highly trained in remote first aid, as well as knowledgeable crew that share a passion for the region in which they work, and a desire to share it with you. We take every precaution to ensure smooth logistics. We use excellent accommodation throughout and well maintained, good quality camping equipment whilst on trek or the community project. For your convenience and health we supply all meals on trek, whilst maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and our cooks will surprise you with a varied menu. Most importantly, our adventures have always sought to benefit the local peoples we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

2 Dhaulagiri I Annapurna I Annapurna III Annapurna IV Annapurna South Annapurna II Hiunchuli Machapuchare Mardi Peak Ghandruk Landruk N E P A L Phewa Tal Pokhara Begnas Tal To Kathmandu Mar - 13 Apr trip dates trip cost Joining Brisbane 10 to 15 Travellers: $4550 options & supplements 16+ Travellers: $4430 Plus $1000 payable directly to ACCF either by donation or fundraising.: $1000 Single Supplement: $325 World Expeditions does not require single travellers pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above. Please ask if you would like to join from another Australian city. A surcharge/discount maybe applicable. the trip It would be hard to beat this introduction to Nepal. Explore the ancient city of Kathmandu and wander amongst the numerous World Heritage sites before undertaking a 3 day community project to the medical clinic supported by the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF) in a rural pocket of Kathmandu. Amongst other things the key objective of the facility is to improve the health of the women in Nepal and to provide life-saving HPV cervical cancer vaccine for women who cannot otherwise afford vaccination. Participants will spend three days upgrading and finishing off the existing building which will result in the facility being able to operate out of additional treatment rooms. On completion of the project work, participants will take a fully supported camping based trek into the Annapurna region to beautiful Gurung villages and will experience some of the most stunning mountain scenery on earth. We get beyond the tea house trails and trek through traditional Hindu villages where we are assured of a warm welcome; follow trails through oak and rhododendron forest where the sound of the bird calls fill the air and camp in serene locations that showcase dramatic views of the Annapurna Range. All this in the company of our magnificent crew whose friendship, sense of humor and caring nature will ensure your trek is a memorable one. The trip concludes with time spent in comfortable and unique accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu with ample time to explore the surrounding places of interest. at a glance Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Days 4-6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day Mar 2012 Depart Brisbane for Kathmandu via Bangkok 30 Mar 2012 Depart Bangkok Arrive in Kathmandu (1330m). 31 Mar 2012 Kathmandu full day sightseeing tour Apr 2012 Commence community project work at the ACCF Clinic Banepa 04 Apr 2012 Fly to Pokhara, overnight at the World Expeditions Camp, Pokhara (820m) 05 Apr 2012 Commence Trek. Trek to Gandruk village (1939m) 06 Apr 2012 To Tadapani (2650m). 07 Apr 2012 To Ghorapani (2850m) 08 Apr 2012 Early Morning to Poon Hill & trek to Tirkhedhunga (1577m) 09 Apr 2012 To Nayapul (1000m) and drive to Pokhara. 10 Apr 2012 Mountain flight Pokhara to Kathmandu, sightseeing Bhaktapur then transfer to Radisson Hotel 11 Apr 2012 Day of leisure in Kathmandu 12 Apr 2012 Depart Kathmandu for Australia via Bangkok 13 Apr 2012 Arrive Brisbane what s included Return economy Thai International flights from Brisbane to Kathmandu via Bangkok including your international airport taxes approx $150 4 nights comfortable accommodation at the Radisson Hotel whilst in Kathmandu, 1 night in semi-permanent tents at the World Expeditions camp in Pokhara, 1 night at the Fish Tail Lodge in Pokhara and 1 night in an airport hotel in Bangkok. All on a twinshare basis 14 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 10 dinners Flight Kathmandu/Pokhara/Kathmandu US$196 approx. All airport transfers in Bangkok and Kathmandu Expert bilingual group leader, sirdar, assistant guides and kitchen staff Group medical kit Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

3 Trek pack including sleeping bag, down or fiber filled jacket and insulated mat and a souvenir World Expeditions kit bag which is yours to keep Private vehicle transportation All park entrance fees, trekking permits and site entry fees Porters to carry all personal and group equipment whilst trekking Porter s insurance Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur Pre departure information kit with all you need to know for your community project and trek Services of a local carpenter to oversee and direct the project No local payments policy: Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have chosen a policy not to ask for such payments. fund raising support The ACCF can provide guidance and encouragement to participants so that you can fundraise in your local community or workplace a portion of the trip cost. detailed itinerary Day 1 29 Mar 2012 Depart Brisbane for Kathmandu via Bangkok You will meet your escort from the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation at Brisbane Airport where your flight to Kathmandu via Bangkok departs at 14:00. As the flights do not connect there is a forced overnight stopover in Bangkok. Accommodation is provided at a nearby airport hotel, along with return airport transfers and a buffet breakfast. TG MAR BNE BKK 14:00 20:20 Accommodation: Bangkok Airport Hotel TBC meals: nil Day 2 30 Mar 2012 Depart Bangkok Arrive in Kathmandu (1330m). Upon arriving in Kathmandu on TG319 from Bangkok you will be met by your group leader and transferred to the Radisson Hotel by private vehicle. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. A pre-trek briefing at the hotel will be given around 5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down jacket. Drinks and snacks will generally be served from 6:30 pm until 7:15pm, and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members before you all head out for a welcome dinner at a Nepali restaurant located in a beautifully restored palace. TG MAR BKK KTM 10:15 12:25 Accommodation: Radisson Hotel meals: b,d Day 3 31 Mar 2012 Kathmandu full day sightseeing tour. Today a sightseeing tour has been arranged, taking in the key attractions in and around the Kathmandu valley. The Monkey Temple will be our first stop and from here you can get a nice view of Kathmandu and be able to see some of the places we will be visiting in todays tour. Secondly is a visit to Boudhanath boasting the world s largest Tibetan stupa, and surrounded by approximately Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

4 fast facts Countries Visited: Nepal and Thailand (overnight transit) Visas: Yes* Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Singles: A single supplement is available for this trip* Leader: Expert local leader *Ask our staff for more information. 700 mani wheels, it is heavily patroned by faithful worshippers circling its base. Nearby and standing on the Bagmati River is the site of Pashupatinath where Nepal s largest Hindu temple is found and where on occasion cremations occur along the ghats (side of the river). Kathmandu has excellent bookshops, extensive markets, and novelty and handicraft shops which contrast with fantastic centers of cultural and spiritual significance - Kathmandu has more World Heritage sites than any other city in the world. The afternoon can be used to organise any last minute gear or equipment before we fly to Lukla early tomorrow morning. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel meals: b Days Apr 2012 Commence community project work at the ACCF Clinic Banepa After a short drive from the Radisson Hotel to Banepa village we will commence our community project work. We will first meet with the local foreman who will take us on a tour of the clinic showing us what work we will be doing and in conjunction with your World Expeditions guide you will be broken up into small work teams. Some of the work across the next 3 days will involve sanding and preparing the surfaces for painting, paintings the walls, ceilings and any timber work. sweeping, light load carrying or possibly assisting the renders with their work. You will not need any specific skills or experience, just the willingness to participate and the ability to roll your sleeves up and get a little dirty, all for a great cause. Banepa will be ready for our arrival and over the following three days we will participate in the renovation of hopefully two rooms of the clinic. Working alongside the locals and other supporters and employees of the clinic will provide a rare insight into the people of Nepal and the amazing work the ACCF has been undertaking in the region. We will camp in a peaceful spot nearby the village where the local children will be delighted to pay you an afternoon visit! Day 7 04 Apr 2012 Fly to Pokhara, overnight at the World Expeditions Camp, Pokhara (820m) This morning we take a flight west to Pokhara, Nepal s second largest town (820 m). On arrival you are greeted with sights of the entire Annapurna Range. The mountains are not the only reason to visit Pokhara, as it is also located on the banks of Nepal s second largest lake, Phewa Tal. There are numerous cafes and restaurants, book shops, handicraft stores and other places of interest you can enjoy and explore this afternoon. Accommodation: World Expeditions Camp, Pokhara Day 8 05 Apr 2012 Commence Trek. Trek to Gandruk village (1939m) We set off early from Pokhara this morning as the drive to the road head at Nayapul takes around two hours and then we have a full days trekking to reach tonight s camp. Our destination today is the attractive Gurung village of Ghandruk. We have close to 1,000 meters elevation to gain today, although at first the trail is largely flat as the day progresses so does the incline! We cross the Mardi Khola many times as we slowly gain elevation, the whole time walking through small villages and and past terraced fields. Towards the end of today s trek the trail steepens and the number of stairs increases. As we trek up the staircase, we enjoy the beauty of the Himalaya at a relatively close range and observe the glaciers flowing from them to form the river below us. It really is a magnificent location and a photographer s delight. Ghandruk is the second largest Gurung Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

5 responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website trip grading To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the walking terrain, the altitude, the number of pass crossings and the length of the trek. The Annapurna Trek is graded introductory to moderate. This is primarily due to the low altitude gains and the condition of the trail which is well defined and not unduly demanding. These trips involve a combination of what is described in our INTRODUCTORY and MODERATE levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity with several moderate stages. During the trek you will be walking for up to five to six hours a day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness (remember there is no such thing as an easy trek) and we suggest 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) three to four times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a daypack in variable weather conditions is also recommended. settlement in Nepal and provides a further insight into the lifestyles of villages that have traditionally provided the backbone of the famous Gurkha regiments. The afternoon can be spent at leisure, or take a tour of the old village. Approximately 6-7 hours walking. Day 9 06 Apr 2012 To Tadapani (2650m). Our trail meanders uphill through fields and into the forest of rhododendron and magnolia. We pass by waterfalls that cascade down narrow gullies that provide the perfect home for many small ferns and delicate plants. Tadapani is a clearing in the forest and a rest place for porters.we make camp here and observe the local people as they travel by. Approximately 5 hours walking. Day Apr 2012 To Ghorapani (2850m) Today we join the old Tibet-Nepal trade route. The walk this morning offers excellent views of the Dhaulagiri range as the trail zigzags until we reach Ghorapani. This is a sizeable town and you may wish to wander through the bazaar this afternoon. Approximately 7 hours walking. Day Apr 2012 Early Morning to Poon Hill & trek to Tirkhedhunga (1577m) From Ghorapani a pre dawn 45 minutes climb brings us to the summit of Poon Hill (3200m). The view of the Himalaya are tremendous, with forested foot hills as a fore ground and some of the world s greatest mountain ranges surrounding us.the glow of the rising sun catches Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna, making the early morning rise more than worth the effort. We descend to camp for breakfast and during the morning we descend further through first and small settlements to enter a deep ravine where multiple water falls follow our trail. We pass through Ulleri village and at a point we will have an over view of our trek route, as well as views of the Annapurnas at the head of the valley. We continue on the main trail descending through small villages towards our camp site at Tirkhedhunga. Tonight we will enjoy a farewell dinner and celebration with our porters and crew who will be leaving us tomorrow at the end of the trek. It is a fun night with plenty of food, Nepali dancing and singing. Approximately 6 hours walking. Day Apr 2012 To Nayapul (1000m) and drive to Pokhara. After absorbing even more spectacular views of Annapurna South we head down the Modi Khola valley along a secluded village trail that is rarely followed by other trekking groups. After lunch at the scenic village of Dansing we complete a short, steep descent to the village of Birethanti along the Modi Khola. We cross a substantial bridge before making our way to the bustling bazaar of Nayapul. Here we are picked up and transferred back to Pokhara where for the next two days you will enjoy the surrounds and views from one of Pokharas most well known and best loved hotels. Approximately 5 hours walking. Accommodation: Fish Tail Lodge Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

6 adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. Day Apr 2012 Mountain flight Pokhara to Kathmandu, sightseeing Bhaktapur then transfer to Radisson Hotel This morning we transfer to the airport for our spectacular flight to Kathmandu. The mountain flight follows the Himalaya range and offers superb views. Once back in Kathmandu we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Bhaktapur. Here in the winding alleyways and numerous squares and temple grounds you will witness life as it has occurred for hundreds of years. Well known as a base for artists the area houses many museums and gallery s. From Bhaktapur we will return to the Radisson Hotel where the remainder of the day is free for last minute shopping and sightseeing. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel meals: b,l Day Apr 2012 Day of leisure in Kathmandu Today is an opportunity to do as much or as little as you like! The choice is yours to either enjoy the refreshing pool area or take a short walk into Thamel and cruise through the interesting handicraft stores, book shops and numerous other tempting stores. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel meals: b Day Apr 2012 Depart Kathmandu for Australia via Bangkok After bidding farewell to your guide we will transfer to the airport around 11:00 for our flight to Brisbane via Bangkok departing at 13:30. TG APR KTM BKK TG APR BKK SYD meals: b Day Apr 2012 Arrive Brisbane Thai International flight TG475 arrives into Brisbane at 11:50am. Upon arrival services cease although the memories will stay with you for a life time... meals: nil This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control. suggested extensions Kathmandu to Delhi Chitwan National Park Bhutan Retreat Ancient City of Lhasa country information Nepal is known for its beautiful and dramatic scenery. Avid walkers and non-walkers alike are drawn to its mountains and foothills to view the Himalaya and the world s highest peaks. Many also discover the beauty of the forests and the enjoyment of time spent as a self-contained expedition, far from the rush of the modern world and in the delightful company of the trek crew as they tend to our needs and ensure that we are comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond. Nepal s population of around 28 million people is a blend of Hindu, Buddhism and animist religion. Nepal is a mosaic of cultures, Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

7 ethnic groups and languages. It is remarkable that in a country of this size there are over 30 different ethnic groups, with at least as many languages. Approximately one and a half million people live in the Kathmandu Valley, but at least ninety percent of the population live in the rural areas of the lower and middle hills of the Himalayan Range. Nepal is predominantly a simple rural society and a trek in the foothills of the Himalaya is a strong cultural experience as we spend time with our crew and meet local village people. democratic republic of nepal On the 28th May 2008, the constituent assembly voted in overwhelming favour of abolishing the Monarchy in Nepal. Nepal has been proclaimed a Federal Republic State to be known as the Democratic Republic of Nepal. This historic development followed the first elections held since 1999 after a ceasefire agreement between the government and the Maoists was signed in November 2006, putting an end to 10 years of instability in the Kingdom. The Maoist party won the largest share of votes in the elections at approx. 35%, and now form the largest part of the constituent assembly. The announcement of the abolishment of the Monarchy also brought an end to 240 years of Royal rule in the country. Today the general feeling amongst Nepalis is a positive one, and many believe that Nepal is now finally moving forward with a new identity as a democratic nation and a fresh outlook. climate Our trekking season extends from mid-september (autumn) to May (spring). This trek takes place in spring where the days are warm and the nights cool yet comfortable. The rhododendrons and orchids are in bloom and there is activity in the farmers fields. In the lower hills the clouds will generally roll in by mid afternoon obscuring the high peaks from view till the morning. Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable at any time of year. It is essential to be prepared for all conditions as freak storms and unseasonal temperatures can occur. mountain flights The flights to and from Pokhara are a spectacular journey and a highlight of any trip to Nepal. Unlike the small mountain airstrips that use small aircraft and are often unreliable due to weather delays, this flight is from the major airport of Pokhara to the capital of Kathmandu. The many flights between these two cities use larger aircraft and have frequent schedules. The views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang ranges are breathtaking. a typical day Once at the project site of Banepa the crew will set up our camp where we will remain for the next 3 nights. There will be crew who will remain with you to prepare meals and provide logistical support during the community project. You will be introduced to a local foreman who will coordinate the building project at the medical clinic. In advance of your arrival, all required materials will have been purchased and transported to Banepa. Your foreman will have had extensive discussions with the staff of the clinic, the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation and the local community about the objectives of the work and will be able to direct the progress of the work during the allotted time. Normally, he will divide the group into sub groups to work on different components of the project. There will be a good deal of flexibility in the hours you will work each day, but it is anticipated that you will involve yourself in labour work for up to 6 hours a day. You should bring a pair of sturdy workman s gloves from home and wear clothing and footwear which you are happy o get dirty. The people of Banepa and the clinic will of course be very receptive to your visit and the improvements that you are making to the clinic. You can expect them to visit daily out of curiosity. After the project is completed you head for the mountains to enjoy a 5 day trek. Here you will be woken with a cup of tea brought to your tent between 6am and 7am, followed by a small bowl of warm water for washing. Before breakfast you pack your gear into your kit bag which Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

8 is then taken by the porters and will not usually be available to you until camp that afternoon. We are usually on the trail between 7.30am and 8.30am. Following a good morning s walk, we stop for lunch at around 11am. Lunch is usually a 2 hour break to allow for the trekker s meal followed by the crew meal. This break also enables you to do your washing in the warmest part of the day, catch up on your diary, read or rest. The afternoon walk is generally a little shorter and camp is usually reached by around 3pm to 4pm. Once we have reached camp and the kitchen is set up afternoon tea is served. Washing water is again provided to enable you to wash at the end of the trek day. Until dinner there is time to rest, explore the surrounding area and villages or sit and chat with the crew and local people. Dinner is usually served around 6pm to 7pm. Remember to bring your torch and water bottle to the mess tent so it can be filled with boiling water. It then makes a great hot water bottle. Trekking evenings afford some of the best memories of your trek, whether it is talking, playing cards, chatting with the crew or joining in some singing and dancing with the local people, it is always a special time. All camp chores are done for you, leaving you free to use your time to the fullest. You carry only a light day pack as your gear is carried by porters. meals during the trek We provide a full service while on trek. An important aspect of this service are the meals that are prepared for you and we are frequently complimented by returning travellers about the food provided. Ensuring that you stay healthy is one of our highest priorities. Therefore, each of our treks is accompanied by a trained cook as well as kitchen staff who provide you with three hearty meals each day. High levels of hygiene are engaged to ensure that our travellers stay healthy and fit. Our cooking staff has mastered the preparation of a varied and balanced menu and there is always plenty of food for those who may like seconds. Our cooks are trained to provide excellent food for vegetarians and anyone who has a limited diet including those who are lactose or gluten intolerant. Our meal inclusion on your trek is for your benefit and takes all the hassle, expense and worry out of your holiday. Typically, you can expect breakfast to consist of muesli or cereal, eggs, local breads and pancakes and hot drinks. Lunch will generally be vegetables, salads, bread, cheese pasta style dishes, tinned fish and meats and are normally eaten picnic style. Dinner is always three courses and includes soup, seasonal vegetables, meat, rice or pasta and bread with some local specialties also in the mix. Dessert is always served after the main meal each evening followed by hot beverages. accommodation on the trip We have selected an interesting mix of accommodation from camping whilst completing the project at Banepa and whilst trekking to the renowned Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu to our comfortable and peaceful World Expeditions Camp in Pokhara, where amongst beautiful gardens you will sleep in our semi-permanent tents. After trekking you will enjoy a night at Pokhara s famous Fish Tail Lodge where you can sit back and enjoy the panoramic views across the lake to the magical Himalayas. what you carry Whilst trekking in your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc. Porters carry all group gear and your trek pack Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15

9 equipment required Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack. Although all the equipment required for the community project is supplied, we do suggest you bring tough work gloves and a lightweight set of overalls or old clothes to use during the project work days(a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre-departure information provided on booking). porter initiatives World Expeditions are the only company in Nepal with a policy of providing mess tents, cooking equipment, clothing, food and kerosene to our porters. Naturally these initiatives come at a cost that you could avoid by travelling with another trekking company. We hope you will share our vision of protecting Nepal s fragile environment for future generations. World Expeditions was also the first trekking company to support the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG). IPPG sets guidelines for trekking companies and trekkers, aimed at fostering the well-being of mountain porters, including providing them with adequate clothing, medical care and sufficient funds to cover the cost of rescue and treatment. Our close association with the IPPG is part of our ongoing commitment to improving conditions for our porters and lessening the impact of trekking on the fragile environment of Nepal. protecting the environment Deforestation is Nepal s greatest environmental problem and World Expeditions pioneered the use of kerosene as an alternative fuel to wood on all expeditions. We do not have camp fires and we strongly discourage trekkers from buying wood-fuelled hot showers that they may encounter along the way. We do not use wood for cooking or heating water whilst in lodges but use kerosene stoves that we carry with us. We also carry our own food supplies in order to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and meal quality, and do not deplete local resources. what s not included $1,000* for the work of Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (which can be paid by voluntary tax deductible donation or alternatively by assisted fundraising). This includes $ per person for materials and associated costs for the community project. (*don t feel you have to stop at $1000 you might be inspired to contribute/ fundraise more for the important work of ACCF!) Lunch & dinner whilst in Kathmandu, except whilst at the project. (Lunch x 4, Dinner x 3) Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, , laundry, etc Tips - entirely at your discretion. Approx US$60 should you wish to contribute Nepal Tourist Entry Visa Travel Insurance, compulsory. how to book To book the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation trip, you will need to complete a booking form which can be downloaded from the World Expeditions website com. On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest World Expeditions office along with your non-refundable $ per person deposit. Please also feel free to contact Philip Wyndham at World Expeditions on for any questions or assistance Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 9 Mar :02:15