Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas. Plus optional extensions in Bhutan: The Last Shangri-la and Tibet: Return to an Ancient Path

Transcription

1 Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas Plus optional extensions in Bhutan: The Last Shangri-la and Tibet: Return to an Ancient Path 2016

2 Overseas Adventure Travel Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas Handbook Table of Contents 1. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS... 3 YOUR PASSPORT... 3 VISAS REQUIRED... 4 EMERGENCY PHOTOCOPIES... 5 OVERSEAS TAXES AND FEES... 5 AIRPORT TRANSFERS HEALTH... 6 IS THIS ADVENTURE RIGHT FOR YOU?... 6 STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOUR TRIP... 8 JET LAG PRECAUTIONS STAYING HEALTHY ON YOUR TRIP Electricity Supply MONEY MATTERS HOW TO CARRY YOUR MONEY Cash ATMs Credit Cards CURRENCY TIPPING SHOPPING CLIMATE: A WORD ABOUT THE WEATHER PACKING JUST WHAT YOU NEED YOUR LUGGAGE & LOCKS LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS STYLE HINTS AND DRESS CODES NOTICE - PACKING FOR NEPAL PACKING CHECKLISTS A WORD ABOUT ELECTRICITY LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION NEPAL AT A GLANCE BHUTAN AT A GLANCE OPTIONAL EXTENSION TIBET AT A GLANCE OPTIONAL EXTENSION CULTURE & POINTS TO KNOW SAFETY & SECURITY COMMUNICATIONS ADDITIONAL RESOURCES SUGGESTED READINGS SUGGESTED MOVIES USEFUL WEB SITES... 45

3 Travel Documents 1. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements Your Passport Please take a moment to confirm that your passport meets all of these requirements: It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S. It should have the recommended number of blank pages (see below for details). The blank pages must be labeled Visas at the top. Pages labeled Amendments and Endorsements are not acceptable. Recommended number of blank pages Know that this recommendation is based on a worst case scenario. When you are on this adventure, you might use fewer pages, depending on the whims of the Immigration official on duty that day. Since the consequence of having too few pages can be severe you could be denied entry into a country we at OAT feel that in this case, safe is better than sorry, and we strongly recommend that you follow these guidelines. Main trip only: If you are taking only the main trip, you will require 4 blank passport pages. Pre-trip extension to Bhutan: You will need 2 more pages for a total of 6. Post-trip extension to Tibet: You will need 2 more pages for a total of 6. Both the pre- and post-trip extensions: You will need a total of 8 blank passport pages. If you need to renew your passport: Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at , or visit their website at for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at for help with your passport. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 3

4 Travel Documents Visas Required We ll be sending you a detailed Visa Packet with instructions, application forms, and fees about 100 days prior to your departure. In the meantime, we re providing the information below as a guideline on what to expect. This info is for U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change. Nepal visa required. We recommended you obtain this in advance. Entry requirements can change at any time; obtaining your visa in advance decreases the likelihood that you will encounter problems at the border and may protect you if entry requirements subsequently change. If you are taking the optional extension into Tibet, this itinerary requires a 30-day multiple-entry visa for Nepal; otherwise a 15-day visa should suffice. You will also need to bring 2 passportsized photos with you to Nepal in order to apply for a local trekking permit. United Arab Emirates visa required, unless you are taking the Bhutan pre-trip extension or are making your own air arrangements. We recommend you obtain this onsite. Travelers who book their international air with OAT and who are not taking the Bhutan pre-trip extension will have an overnight stay in Dubai, U.A.E. Currently the government of U.A.E. allows U.S. citizens to obtain a tourist visa free of charge on arrival in Dubai. Please note that if you are taking the pre-trip extension to Bhutan with OAT s air, then your flights pass through India, not U.A.E. India visa required, if you are taking the Bhutan pre-trip extension. This visa must be obtained in advance. You must obtain your visa for India before you leave home. You will need a multiple-entry visa. Bhutan (optional pre-trip extension) visa required. We recommend you obtain this onsite. A photocopy or scan of your passport will be needed before departure. There are two steps to obtaining a visa onsite: The first step is advance registration, and the second is the formalities that you complete when you arrive in Bhutan. To register with the Bhutanese government in advance, you must send a clear color photocopy of your passport informational pages (the page with your photo and the opposite page) to OAT no later than 45 days prior to your departure. You will receive detailed instructions for Bhutan and a return envelope in your Visa Packet. Please Note: The cost of this visa onsite is $40 U.S. cash per person. In addition to this fee, the local government will also charge a Bhutan Tourism Development Fee of approximately U.S. $12 per person and a Bhutan Airport Tax of approximately U.S. $18 per person. Because these fees are subject to last-minute changes without notice, we suggest you bring more than $70 in cash to cover any unexpected changes. Tibet (optional post-trip extension) entry permit required. We recommend you obtain this onsite. A photocopy of your passport will be needed before departure. In order to secure this onsite, you must send OAT a photocopy of your passport s photo page no later than 45 days before your departure. After you arrive in Nepal, there will be additional formalities in Kathmandu. Although Tibet is controlled by China, the process for entering Tibet from Nepal is not the same as entering mainland from China; please do not get a Chinese visa. You will receive detailed instructions for Tibet and a return envelope in your Visa Packet. Important note on Tibet Tibet does not allow tour groups to enter unless everyone in the group is of the same citizenship with the exception of Americans and Canadians, who can be in the same group together. If you are not an American or Canadian citizen, please call to make alternate arrangements. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 4

5 Travel Documents Embassy contact information If you are staying longer in any of these countries, you should check with their embassy for the applicable regulations. (The government of Bhutan does not maintain an Embassy in the U.S., but questions can be directed PVS International at or at this website: Nepal: United Arab Emirates: India: China (Tibet): or Traveling without a U.S. passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about possible visa requirements. For your convenience, we recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at or Emergency Photocopies The smartest and easiest security precaution you can take is to carry photocopies of key documents: the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, your air itinerary, and credit card numbers. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals. This can save you time, money, and bother if your documents are lost during your trip. TIP: If you are taking the post-trip extension in Tibet, then our Trip Leaders strongly suggest that you bring a photocopy of your passport to carry with you while your paperwork for Tibet is being processed in Kathmandu. Overseas Taxes and Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents. Airport Transfers Please note: If you plan on booking your own international flights or arranging with our air department to arrive/depart on an earlier/later date than standard for your program, airport transfers will NOT be included in your program price. Transfers must be purchased separately, as an optional add-on, and are subject to availability. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 5

6 Health 2. Health Is This Adventure Right For You? We ve worked closely with our local Trip Leaders and regional associates to identify the aspects of this adventure that you should be aware of, from physical requirements to cultural factors. Please carefully review the information below prior to departing on this adventure. We reserve the right for our Trip Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers. Physical Requirements This trip is one of our most active adventures. It is only for very physically fit and healthy travelers and is not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. The itinerary involves a lot of walking, hiking, and climbing, with treks of hours in length. You must be able to walk 5 miles unassisted each day and participate in 3-5 hours of walking at a time, including climbing several steep steps without handrails. During our A Day in the Life experience, we will hike approximately 1,100 feet to reach the village. You must also be comfortable participating in 4-6 hours of daily physical activities sometimes at elevations above 5,000 feet. Health limitations influence how well you can adapt to high altitudes. Pacing 5 locations in 15 days; early mornings. Pacing on this trip is brisk, with no more than 2 nights in most locations. We spend 2 days rafting and 3 days hiking. There are 2 regional flights. Expect delays in regional air service. Weather Not being prepared for the weather is one of the top comments from former travelers. The Climate chapter of the Handbook can help you, but you ll also want to double-check the current weather forecast online a week or so before you depart. The hottest months are from April -September. Temperatures can go up to 90 degrees. From October-March cold winter weather can cause discomfort both outdoors and indoors. Outside of Kathmandu, most hotels in Nepal lack central heating, and will be cold. Bhutan and Tibet will also be cold during these months, especially at higher elevations; like in Nepal, the hotels in Bhutan and Tibet have very limited heating. The rainiest months are June through September, which is Nepal's monsoon season. Terrain We will travel over some rugged paths as well as bumpy, unpaved, dusty roads. We will be trekking through foothills that can be steep and slippery. We also raft down a river with Class II- III rapids. Transportation: We travel by minibus, canoe, river raft, and elephant back. There are no toilet facilities onboard the minibus, but we will make convenience stops. Only the bus in Kathmandu has heating/air conditioning. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 6

7 Health Accommodations The accommodation while trekking, rafting, and on jungle safari is very basic and no airconditioning or heating is available. Sometimes even access to hot water is limited. There is no electricity in your room in Annapurana, at the Seti River tented camp, or in Chitwan. These places run on solar-powered generators, with very limited access to electricity. In Annapurana and Chitwan, you will be able to charge camera or phone batteries, but that is about it. And at the Seti River camp, you won t be able to charge anything. Cuisine There will be basic local cuisine, which can be hot and spicy. We try to provide simple and nonspicy food as much as possible. Western food is very limited. Pollution Kathmandu city is very polluted and dusty to due lot of road work and other types of construction. Please bring your own face mask if you are not used to dust and pollution or are sensitive to air quality. Cultural Differences Be prepared to be confronted with a different standard of living. While poverty and poor sanitation can be distressing, please don t let that keep you from experiencing the amazing culture or rich natural heritage of Nepal. Optional Extensions If you are taking the optional extension to Bhutan or Tibet, many of the previous statements will apply to your extension as well. We travel in buses that do not have toilet facilities on board; however we do make convenience stops on a regular basis in small villages during the long bus rides. Some of the roads will be very basic and very bumpy. We spend a good deal of time at high elevations during both of these extensions, and there is a lot of walking involved, including long uphill walks or treks at some locations. There are long bus rides from city to city up to 7 or 8 hours with stops along the way. If after reviewing this information you are not certain that this adventure is right for you, please call our Traveler Support Team at NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 7

8 Health Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave on your adventure, there are at least four health-related things you should do. We ll outline some of these steps in more detail in the following pages, but for now, here s the short list: Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you ll be visiting. You can contact them online at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor. Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.) Medical Checkup After checking the CDC s recommendations, we strongly recommend that you have a medical checkup with your doctor at least six weeks before your trip. (We suggest you check with the CDC first so that you can have an informed conversation with your doctor about vaccines and such.) Topics to discuss during your checkup are: The CDC recommendations. The CDC makes suggestions based on the destination, but that doesn t mean the suggestions are right for you. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what is best considering your unique medical history. Advice on what medicines (if any) to bring. For our suggestions of what types of medications to ask your doctor about, see the section titled Medications that follows. Remember to get a copy of any prescriptions written as a generic drug name so you can replace your medications if they are lost during the trip. Your fitness for this adventure. This is a must if you have any medical conditions or physical limitations. Use the Is This Adventure Right For You? section on previous pages as a guideline. Make certain to review any medical condition you have, particularly cardiac or respiratory disease or diabetes, and discuss the details of the trip itinerary as it pertains to your health. Remember, your trip may take you into remote areas, with no nearby medical facilities. Please notify us in writing about any medical condition that may require special attention. If your report is normal, you don t need to send it to us. If you send us a medical report, we don t use it to determine if you should take this trip, or if you are likely to enjoy it. Those decisions are up to you and your doctor. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 8

9 Health Medications Prescription medication suggestions Of course, you ll need to bring an ample supply of any prescription medications you happen to be taking. You ll also want to talk to your doctor about any medications suggested by the CDC. In addition, we suggest you ask about prescriptions for: An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness A pain medication. You might need this in the unlikely event of an injury in a location where medical attention would be delayed. Altitude sickness medication (if you are taking the Bhutan or Tibet extension) At time of writing, the CDC did recommend discussing anti-malaria medication with your doctor for Nepal; see the following TIP for more details. TIP: At time of writing, the CDC specifically recommended anti-malarial medication for stays in Nepal at altitudes below 2,000 meters. On our main trip, some of the locations we visit are below 2,000 meters (Pokhara, the Seti River camp, Chitwan, etc.). Anti-malarial medication can have strong side effects, so be certain to ask your doctor first. Over-the-counter medication suggestions When traveling, keep in mind that not every country has approved every medication. Most major brands are OK, but some medications we take for granted are not allowed in other countries. Fortunately, the U.S. State Department offers advice on restricted medications online at (Look under the Criminal Penalties and Special Circumstances sections of each country you ll be visiting. If you don t see anything mentioned, then major U.S. brands should be fine.) TIP: At time of writing, the State Department did not have any special warnings about American overthe-counter medications for Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibet (China). However, they did mention that medications with codeine and similar narcotic-like ingredients are banned in the United Arab Emirates, and that a doctor s prescription should be carried along with any medication that is brought into U.A.E. Traveling with medications To avoid loss and to have them handy, pack medications in your carry-on bag. For quicker security screening at the airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 9

10 Health Jet Lag Precautions You will feel better on the first days of your trip if, shortly before you leave home, you start to adjust to the different time zone of your destination. Since you will cross several time zones to reach your destination, you may lose many hours of regular sleep. On arrival, your body then will have to suddenly adjust to new sleeping and eating patterns. The result is jet lag. Its symptoms are fatigue often compounded by insomnia and general restlessness irritability, and vague disorientation. You cannot totally avoid jet lag; but you can minimize it. Here's how: Start your trip well-rested. Begin a gradual transition to your new time zone before you leave or switch to your destination time zone when you get on the plane. Attempt to sleep and eat according to the new schedule. Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before and during your flight. Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying. Stretch your legs, neck, and back periodically while seated on the plane, and make an effort to get up and walk about the cabin a few times to keep your blood circulation normal. After arrival, avoid the temptation to nap. Don t push yourself to see a lot on your first day. Try to stay awake your first day until after dinner. Staying Healthy on Your Trip Safe Water Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water or treated drinking water is readily available. Inspect each bottle before you buy it to make sure the cap is sealed properly. Carry a bottle in your daypack at all times. Bottled drinks and juices, and hot drinks that have been boiled, are safe to drink. Carry a handkerchief to dry the tops of bottled drinks before and after opening. Safe Food We ve carefully chosen the restaurants for your group meals. Carry a handkerchief to dry any wet utensils or plates. Be very careful with food sold from vendors on the street, and with uncooked fruit and other foods. Fruit that you peel yourself is usually safe. Insects Besides mosquitoes, you may also encounter a variety of biting insects like gnats and midges. We recommend that you bring and use an insect repellent, preferably containing DEET at 30-35% strength. You may also wish to consider an anti-itch or after bite gel. In addition to insects, there are also leeches, which tend to be more active after it rains. But never fear they are harmless, and are easy to remove with a dab of salt. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 10

11 Health Electricity Supply A constant electricity supply cannot be guaranteed during overnight stays. There is no electricity in your room in Annapurana, at the Seti River tented camp, or in Chitwan. These places run on solarpowered generators, with very limited access to electricity. In Annapurana and Chitwan, you will be able to charge camera or phone batteries, but that is about it. And at the Seti River camp, you won t be able to charge anything. Travelers dependent on electricity supply for health reasons (as in the case of those with sleep apnea) are strongly advised to consider a different OAT adventure. Altitude Illness (optional extensions) If you are taking one or both of the optional extensions, you will probably feel some effects from the high altitudes. (This is less of an issue on the main trip as we stay below 6,000 feet.) Even if you've been to high elevations previously, you could have a different reaction this time. For most people, the symptoms are mild, and will pass in a day or so. The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are lightheadedness, shortness of breath, headache, nausea, sleeplessness, and loss of appetite. You should take it easy, avoid smoking and alcohol, and drink plenty of fluids. We suggest taking a rest of a couple hours when you first arrive to acclimate yourself. Some people take a prescription medication starting when they arrive or one day before. Don t take sleeping medications, as they suppress respiration. Even though you may experience a decreased appetite, force yourself to eat soups and other light foods. If these normal altitude symptoms become unmanageable, it is critical that you inform your Trip Leader. Please let the Trip Leader know if you experience any of the following: serious difficulty breathing, mental confusion, a severe and unremitting headache, continued difficulty breathing after a period of rest, or poor physical coordination (ataxia). NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 11

12 Money Matters 3. Money Matters How to Carry Your Money The overall recommendation for this trip is: Bring a reserve of U.S. cash as small bills in good condition because ATMs and places that accept credit cards are far more limited than in the U.S. A cash reserve is especially important for the optional extensions; you should assume that you will not be able to use a credit card or ATM card in most of Tibet and not at all in Bhutan. Cash We recommend that you bring some cash with you on this adventure. Cash has a few advantages over other forms of payment. It is more widely accepted than any other form of payment, and sometimes commands a better exchange rate. In Nepal, it would be a good idea to bring a reserve of cash because ATM and credit cards are really only useable in Kathmandu and Pokhara. So we know that bringing cash is a good idea does that mean U.S. dollars or local currency? There is no need to obtain local currency before your trip. In fact, your bank may not be able to change U.S. dollars into Nepalese rupees because the strict trade laws on these currencies. You can change money when you arrive at banks, most hotels, and money exchange offices. Please note torn, dirty, or taped U.S. bills may not be accepted for exchange. For more information on what type of currency can be used on this trip, see the Currency section. ATMs On this adventure, PLUS, Cirrus, and other international ATM networks are only available in large towns or cities, such as Kathmandu and Pokhara in Nepal, or Lhasa during the extension to Tibet. But in all the countries we visit on this itinerary, the number of ATMs is more limited than in the U.S. There are no ATMs in rural Nepal or rural Tibet, and only limited availability in Bhutan. Your Trip Leader will advise you on ATM availability and locations during the trip, but because ATMs are scarce, it is best to bring a cash reserve large enough to pay all expenses. Some ATMs in this region will not accept U.S. cards, so check with your bank before you depart. Using a local ATM on an international network will allow you to withdraw money from your U.S. account in local currency; your bank at home will calculate the conversion rate and charge you in U.S. dollars. However, many banks charge a fee ranging from $1 to $5 for every time you use a foreign ATM. Others will charge you a percentage of what you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart. You ll also want to notify your bank that you ll be out of the country that way when they see foreign ATM withdrawals, they won t put a fraud alert on your account. Lastly, don t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys they only display numbers.) NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 12

13 Money Matters Credit Cards Credit and debit cards are somewhat accepted in Kathmandu, Nepal for major purchases, but will be rarely accepted in the countryside. You are more likely to be able to use a credit card in shops associated with the tourist trade (souvenirs, museum gift shops, etc.) than smaller shops or restaurants. In Bhutan and Tibet credit cards are rarely accepted. In these countries cash is the preferred form of payment, especially for small amounts. If you are taking the optional trip extension to Bhutan and/or Tibet, be forewarned that it is safest to assume that you will not be able to use any credit cards. It is best to bring extra U.S. cash. Even if you do not plan on using them, we suggest you bring one or two credit or debit cards as a backup or for optional tours. We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is now accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc. TIP: Many credit card companies have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges such as charges from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don t assume you can use the number printed on the back of your card most numbers don t work outside of the U.S.! And speaking of credit cards, please keep in mind that optional tours with OAT can only be purchased with a credit or debit card (if it has a credit card logo and allows you to sign for purchases). Because our headquarters are in Boston, charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as "OPT Boston" (depending on your credit card company). NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 13

14 Money Matters Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to our website your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper. Bhutan The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Indian currency in denominations up to 100 rupees can also be used in Bhutan, but larger Indian bills, such as the 500-rupee or 1000-rupee notes will not be accepted. Bills come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Ngultrum Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 In India The official currency of India is the rupee, which is divided into 100 paise (singular: paisa). Bills come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupees Coins come in denominations of 50 paise and 1, 2, 5, and 100 U.S. dollars are not widely accepted in India; the local currency is preferred. (Occasionally you might find a tourist-related business or a street vendor who will take U.S. dollars, but generally it is rupees all the way.) In Nepal The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (Rs), which is divided into 100 paise (singular: paisa). Bills come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupees Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 paise; and 1, 2, 5, and 10 rupees U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Nepal. Because dollars are accepted and costs are low, a mix of small denomination U.S. bills ($1, 5, and 10) can be very useful. TIP: Our Trip Leaders recommend bringing at least one dollar bills. Some businesses will also take Indian rupees, but the 500 and 1000 Indian rupee bills will not be accepted. In Tibet In Tibet, Chinese currency is accepted. The currency in China is called the renminbi ( people s money ), abbreviated RMB. It is based on the yuan, which is divided into 100 fen. Ten fen make a jiao (pronounced as mao). Bills come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, and 100 yuan Coins come in denominations of 10 and 50 fen; 1 yuan Be careful bills for small amounts, like 20 or 50 fen exist, but are rarely used except for confusing unwary visitors. Check that your change is in RMB bills or try to use exact change if possible. U.S. dollars are not widely accepted in Tibet; Chinese currency is preferred. In United Arab Emirates The official currency of U.A.E. is the dirham, which is divided into 100 fils. Bills come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 dirham Coins come in denominations of 25 and 50 fils, plus 1 dirham. U.S. dollars are not widely accepted; the local currency is preferred. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 14

15 Money Matters Tipping Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. Listed below are our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price. All tips are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars. Do not use personal or traveler's check for tips. OAT Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal "thank you" to your OAT Trip Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 per person per day. Pokhara and Chitwan hotel staff: $1-2 per room, per night Waiters: Your Trip Leader will tip waiters for included meals. If you are dining on your own, usually a 10 % service charge is included in the bill. Taxi drivers: If you are taking a taxi by yourself, keep in mind that tipping is not common practice, but many people simply let the driver keep the change by rounding up the fare to the next whole number. It is better to negotiate the price with taxi drivers before you get in. Your Trip Leader will give you a general idea about the fare. Your tour price includes gratuities on the main trip and optional extensions for local guides, drivers, lodge and camp staff, and luggage porters that may assist you during the scheduled activities on your adventure. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 15

16 Money Matters Shopping It is Overseas Adventure Travel's goal to identify and provide you with shopping opportunities that highlight unique, locally-produced products with good value from reliable vendors. For this reason there may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor s terms of purchase. Overseas Adventure Travel cannot be responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases. Crafts & Souvenirs Nepal: Popular buys include locally made textile objects such as lopsided topis (caps), knitted mittens and socks, and cotton scroll paintings called mandala or thanka. Contemporary Nepalese art, saranghi (a small, four-stringed viola played with a horse-hair bow), papier mâché dance masks, Buddhist statuettes and filigree ornaments, woodcarvings, bamboo flutes and other folk objects are also popular. While in Nepal, you can also pick up items from Tibet Tibetan dresses, woven shawls, Tibetan multicolored jackets and men s diagonally fastened shirts, Tibetan tea bowls, and so forth. Bhutan: Popular Bhutan souvenirs include postage stamps, lovely hand-woven fabrics, carved masks, woven baskets, thangkas, wooden bowls, handmade paper and finely crafted metal objects. In Bhutan, the buying and selling of antiques is strictly forbidden. Tibet: In Tibet, locally made thangkas, Tibetan costumes, carpets, jewelry, and gold and silver wares can be found in many shops. In Lhasa, you ll also find many merchants from Nepal and inland China selling their handicrafts, and jewelry. Bargaining Large stores have fixed prices, but bargaining is the norm in Nepal and Tibet when dealing with street vendors and smaller shops. If this is your first experience at bargaining, don t worry you ll quickly find your own style. Your opening offer should be well under the asking price. The only rule is that, if you make an offer, you should be prepared to buy at that price. And remember, whatever price you pay is okay, as long as the item is worth that price to you. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 16

17 Money Matters U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at The top three points to know are: At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees. Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need to arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties. It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. If You Have a Problem with a Purchase The best way to address a problem with a purchase is to not have one in the first place! So don t forget to examine merchandise before paying for it, check contracts or agreements before signing, and review your receipt before leaving the shop. For major purchases, don t hesitate to ask in advance about the return policy local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up. But what if you do discover an issue with an item later on? In that case, your best recourse is to contact the vendor directly. For this reason we recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop s contact information. Expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. due to delays in communication, the complexities of international shipping/customs duties, and even cultural differences in how business is conducted. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 17

18 Climate: A Word About the Weather 4. Climate: A Word About the Weather Climate by Location Nepal Nepal s weather is generally predictable. There are two seasons the dry season from October to May and the rainy, monsoon season from June to September. About 80 percent of the rain falls during the rainy period, so the remainder of the year is relatively dry. Spring and autumn (March, April, and October) are the most pleasant seasons. Starting in late October, winter sets in and doesn t let up until March. In winter temperatures are very cold especially from December through February, when they can drop to freezing and the mountains get a lot of snow. (The one exception to the winter freeze is at Chitwan National Park, which is near the border with India; it can still be pretty warm there in winter.) The hottest time of year is late spring and summer, when temperatures range from 83º in the hill regions to more than 104º in the Chitwan region. Humidity is generally high year round, comparable to Atlanta or San Francisco. The highest humidity is usually coincides with the rainy season from June or July through September. Optional extensions Bhutan: Bhutan has a wide range of climactic conditions, with areas at lower elevations including Punakha and Wangdi having cool, dry winters and hot, wet summers. Areas at higher elevations, such as Thimphu and Paro, will be the coldest places you visit on this trip, with both summers and winters much colder than in lowland areas. From December-February, the temperatures are especially cold. Like most of Asia, Bhutan is affected by monsoons. Annual precipitation ranges widely in various parts of the country. Western Bhutan is particularly affected by monsoons that bring between 60 and 90 percent of the region's rainfall. The summer monsoon season lasts from late June through late September with heavy rains from the southwest. The monsoon weather brings heavy rains, high humidity, flash floods and landslides, and numerous misty, overcast days. Tibet: Tibet, due to its unique geographical characteristics, is cold in winter, cool in summer and generally dry, receiving only 18 inches of rain or snow a year. Sunlight is extremely intense. The thin air neither blocks nor holds heat, so sunshine feels warm, shadows are chilly, and temperatures can vary greatly within a day, exceeding 84 F in summer, and plunging below 40 F the same night. Lhasa's nighttime lows in winter are around 16 F. The higher you go the colder it gets, and the winds in winter are ferocious. It is cold in Tibet from late October through March, but the coldest months are December-February, when temperatures can be below freezing. If you are traveling to Tibet in the months of November, December, January, February or March it is important to bring warm winter clothing. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 18

19 Climate: A Word About the Weather Climate Charts The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. As your departure approaches you may wish to monitor current weather conditions online. Here is the official data from the weather observation stations closest to our destinations: EXTREME High/Low Temperatures ( F) As taken at an average location (Kathmandu), the hottest location on this adventure (Chitwan), and the coldest location (Tibet). Extremes in the mountains of Nepal and in Bhutan will be like Tibet. MONTH KATHMANDU, Nepal CHITWAN PARK, Nepal Highest Recorded Temp. Lowest Recorded Temp. Highest Recorded Temp. LHASA, Tibet Lowest Recorded Temp. JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 19

20 Climate: A Word About the Weather AVERAGE Daily High/Low Temperatures ( F), Humidity, & Monthly Rainfall MONTH KATHMANDU, Nepal BIRGANI (for CHITWAN PARK), Nepal Temp. Average High-Low Average % Relative Humidity Average Monthly Rainfall Temp. Average High-Low Average % Relative Humidity Average Monthly Rainfall (inches) (am-pm) (inches) (avg) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC MONTH NEPALGUNJ (near SETI), Nepal Temp. Average % Average Relative High-Low Humidity Average Monthly Rainfall (inches) (avg) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 20

21 MONTH Climate: A Word About the Weather AVERAGE Daily High/Low Temperatures ( F), Humidity, & Monthly Rainfall Temp. Average High-Low THIMPHU, Bhutan* (optional extension) Average % Relative Humidity (am-pm) Average Monthly Rainfall (inches) Temp. Average High-Low LHASA, Tibet (optional extension) Average % Relative Humidity (avg) Average Monthly Rainfall (inches) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC *No climate data was available for humidity. Online Forecast Monthly temperature averages for the countries you will be visiting, plus a current 10-day forecast, are available online through the My Account feature of our website NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 21

22 Packing Just What You Need 5. Packing Just What You Need Your Luggage & Locks Luggage Suggestions Checked luggage: One duffle bag or suitcase. Due to space limitations on our motor coaches, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, built-in wheels, and a heavy-duty lockable zipper. Please do not bring a rigid (plastic shell) suitcase. TIP: Consider bringing a second, empty, lockable bag folded into your main suitcase, with a luggage tag and small lock. Use this to carry souvenirs home. Also, when traveling with a companion we recommend cross-packing, i.e., pack 2 outfits of your clothing in your companion s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed. Complimentary OAT bag We will be sending a complementary overnight bag approximately one month prior to your trip; please bring it with you. You could either use it as a carry-on or pack it into your main suitcase. Please bring a luggage tag and small lock as well. You will need this bag during your main trip because there will be a couple times when you will not have access to your main luggage for 2-3 days at a stretch (once during the trek and once during the rafting). If you reserved your Nepal trip less than 40 days prior to departure, please contact OAT Traveler Support immediately to obtain your OAT overnight bag. Carry-on bag You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be used as both a carry-on bag for your flight and to carry your daily necessities water bottle, camera, etc. during driving excursions and walking trips. Consider a backpack or waistpack that keeps both hands free and distributes the pack s weight onto your back or hips. Locks To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words TSA or TSA-approved on the lock s packaging.) Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 22

23 Packing Just What You Need LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS In addition to the international flights, you will also take regional flights on your main trip. The luggage limits on these flights might be less than the average allowance for international flights. This means that even if your international airline offers a larger weight limit, you will need to pack according to the lower restrictions, as indicated in the following chart. Main trip only Pre-trip extension to Bhutan Post-trip extension to Tibet Number of Pieces Type of Luggage Weight Restrictions Special Size Restrictions? One checked Duffle bag or softsided Checked Standard airline size: checked bag and one luggage. Please luggage: luggage should not exceed 62 carry-on per do not bring a hardsided 44 lbs total linear inches (length+ width + person (clamshell) Carry-on: depth) and carry-on should not suitcase. 11 lbs total exceed 45 linear inches Same Same Same Standard airline size for checked luggage; carry-on is limited to 17.5 x 13.5 x 8 inches maximum. Same Same Same Same as the main trip Remarks and Suggestions The Dirty Harry luggage rule: The limits in the chart above are based on the airlines published restrictions. The enforcement of luggage limits is a matter of airline corporate policy. It may not be consistent in all situations and may include random spot checks, especially for carry-on luggage. Airline penalties and fines, however, will probably be immediate when and if enforcement occurs. Before you choose to go above the airline s published restrictions, you should first ask: Do I feel lucky? (And if the answer is yes, then you should accept that you might be charged a fee by the airlines.) Complimentary OAT bag: We will be sending a complementary overnight bag approximately one month prior to your trip; please bring it with you. (Or if you prefer, bring one of your own.) You could either use it as a carry-on or pack it into your main suitcase. Please bring a luggage tag and small lock as well. You will need this second bag during your main trip because there will be a couple times when you will not have access to your main luggage for 2-3 days at a stretch (once during the trek and once during the rafting). If you reserved your Nepal trip less than 40 days prior to departure, please contact OAT Traveler Support immediately to obtain your OAT overnight bag. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 23

24 Packing Just What You Need Carry-on size for Bhutan: Frequently the aircraft for our flight to Bhutan is a small plane with no room for American-sized carry-ons. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict which aircraft will be used. (The airline doesn t tell us in advance.) But as long as you follow the airline's own rule of using a smaller bag, you will be fine no matter what aircraft is used. Of course, this means that you might bring the small bag and then have a larger plane after all. But the point is to be prepared no matter what. You are allowed to bring a personal item, such as a lady's purse, an overcoat, an umbrella, or a walking stick in addition to your carry-on. TIP: Our regional staff suggests bringing your coat or jacket on the plane for the flight to Bhutan and wearing your sturdiest shoes. That way you have these items even if your checked luggage is lost or delayed, but they don t take up room in your small carry-on. Checked luggage for Bhutan: The airline is generally strict about enforcing weight limitations. If you are caught bringing excess baggage it will cost you at least $4 for each additional kilogram (2.2 pounds). There are no left luggage facilities for you to leave extra luggage behind during your extension. On the post-trip trip extension to Tibet: As with Bhutan, we recommend that you bring/wear a warm jacket and sturdy shoes on the plane, just in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Remember, these limits can change. If the airline(s) notifies us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet. You should also confirm both luggage restrictions and luggage fees directly with your U.S./international airline a week or so before your departure. Doing so will keep you up-to-date on any last-minute changes, new security measures, or new fees. Most airlines are now charging fees for checked luggage, even on some international flights. These fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website under the FAQ section. Style Hints and Dress Codes This is an active adventure with hiking, trekking, and rafting activities; clothing should be functional and casual. You will be on your feet often, and for long periods of time, so sturdy comfortable shoes with great support are a must. Any footwear you bring should be broken in before you leave home. Your dress should be somewhat conservative, to be respectful of the local culture. Sleeveless tops for ladies are acceptable in the larger cities, like Kathmandu, but are not appropriate in the small villages or less sophisticated cities and communities, or in temples. We recommend you keep a light jacket, sweater or wrap with you when going sleeveless, to cover up when necessary. Shorts above the knee (on men or women) and skirts above the knee are considered inappropriate, and will draw unwanted attention. Shorts of any length are usually not allowed in public places in Bhutan. Since the cow is a sacred animal in the Hindu religion, many Nepalese do not wear leather. It is OK for you to wear leather in Nepal, and small leather items (belts and wallets) will usually be allowed in Hindu temples. However, temple attendants my ask that you leave large leather items such as handbags at the entrance, so consider bringing a cloth or canvas bag instead. NEL.NEP 16 11/02/15 24