I met with Deepok today to go over the marketing plan and try and gather additional information. I am going to meet with the founder on Wednesday and want to be prepared. There is a lot of work to do, but I am very concerned that Tewa does not have the resources to complete the action plan.
The electricity is constantly going off. We get 10 hours of electricity a day… usually in the middle of the night. Therefore, we have to rely on compressors, which sometimes work and sometimes not. It makes it difficult to work. At Tewa, they use networked computers, not laptops, so they are totally at the mercy of electricity availability. It makes for a non productive workforce. Can you imagine only 10 hours of electricity available in the U.S. There would be an uprising.
My allergies are really getting bad. Not sure how to handle the situation. I take Claritin daily, but it is not working. To think I complain about the Santa Annas in California! The dust is everywhere. Also, Tewa is very cold inside. I have to go outside in the sun to warm up. I am running out of layers to put on. I am waiting to get a cold or sinus infection.
After work I went with one of the staff to an Italian restaurant. I had Spaghetti Putenesca and it was excellent. Just as good as in Italy. Who would have thought!!! It was great to have a “normal” meal. I have mostly eaten Nepali food. Although I love it, I crave a good old fashion hamburger.
Namaste
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
On the Way to the Bus
Today was a very productive day at Tewa. I made major headway in the marketing plan and need to meet with the management team to get it complete. I have three weeks to complete the plan before I leave on April 2nd.Since there isn’t much to talk about, I thought I would share some of the sights on the way to my Tewa bus every day. You can see a donut shop, a tailor shop, a grocery store, a meat market, a shoe factory, and the bathing area.
Namaste
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Buddhist Workshop
It is Saturday and I was going to sightsee on my day off, but decided to take a workshop on Death and Rebirth at the Himalayan Buddhist Foundation. I was anxious to go to this foundation because they also have meditation classes, Tai Chi, and Yoga.I had to walk to the foundation, which was next to the Tibetan Camp a few miles away. On the way to the workshop I took a major fall with the uneven pavement. I have been so careful to always watch my feet, not sure what happened. I landed on my one leg and the muscles in the leg were bruised. Now I would have to sit crossed legged for 4 hours on the floor with a very hurt leg… I was taking Aleve, but it was very difficult.
The workshop was given by a Buddhist monk. Although he was very good, he rambled and sometimes was very confusing. Here is what I learned: Die at the best mental point in your mind during your life… when you are happy and compassionate about the world.. Don’t die when you are angry at something or depressed. The state at of your mind at death has a major impact on the level of your rebirth – Heaven or Hell – This gives new meaning to a “good death” of peacefully dying in your sleep.
The summary of the workshop was to lead a “compassionate” and peaceful life ALL the time through meditation so that can reach Self-actualization or reach Nirvana in this or you next life. One good thing is that if you do go to hell, which is the lowest of the RAMs, you do have an opportunity to move up in the next life through good deeds and a good mind at death, for those that are concerned about Hell.
I met with a couple people and tried to go to the movies, but we went to the wrong theater and the movie was playing too late. Remember I have a 9:30pm curfew; I won’t make the mistake of forgetting that again.
Namaste
Friday, February 25, 2011
The River Village
Today I went with the volunteers of Tewa to visit one of the Grantees. This organization is a village in the hills with no plumbing and very difficult to reach. Our bus almost went over a few times.The ladies presented to the group (in Nepalese of course) about their flour plant. The meeting was held
in the flour plant. The grant was used to buy equipment so that they could process the wheat locally, rather than have to carry the large bundles of wheat on their back to another village. With the money they make, they fund other enterprises in the village and reinvest in the community as a whole.They were so enthusiastic about their accomplishments and some of the community attended to discuss how much of an impact it has made on the village life for everyone. You could tell that the community takes pride in their village because it does not have all the trash laying around that you see in many areas.
The major issue is that their water comes from the river, which does have a lot of
trash and all the sewage runs down into the river. I am not sure how they stay healthy. You can imagine how cautious I was in drinking their tea and eating in the local restaurant…. I am still alive this morning so I guess it did not kill me.
I was really exhausted after the trip because of the dust. My throat is really hurting so I went to the pharmacy to get lozenges. I don’t think I will ever get over the pollution in Kathmandu. I am anxious to go to Pokhara for a vacation the end of March.
I will have to work Sunday to make up for the loss of work on Friday. There is a lot to get done and I have three weeks to do it. It is difficult to write a marketing plan for a startup business with no resources. I am hoping we can put some actions together that will make a real impact on Tewa.
As a side comment, yesterday morning one of the ladies asked if I was safe getting back from the hotel after the movie. I said I walked for a ways and then a taxi offered to take me for free. They were so upset that I actually got in this taxi. I did find it strange that he was talking to me and asking about if I had family with me and where I was staying. Oh well, another lesson learned. Again, I am alive and safe.
Namaste
The major issue is that their water comes from the river, which does have a lot of
trash and all the sewage runs down into the river. I am not sure how they stay healthy. You can imagine how cautious I was in drinking their tea and eating in the local restaurant…. I am still alive this morning so I guess it did not kill me.I was really exhausted after the trip because of the dust. My throat is really hurting so I went to the pharmacy to get lozenges. I don’t think I will ever get over the pollution in Kathmandu. I am anxious to go to Pokhara for a vacation the end of March.
I will have to work Sunday to make up for the loss of work on Friday. There is a lot to get done and I have three weeks to do it. It is difficult to write a marketing plan for a startup business with no resources. I am hoping we can put some actions together that will make a real impact on Tewa.
As a side comment, yesterday morning one of the ladies asked if I was safe getting back from the hotel after the movie. I said I walked for a ways and then a taxi offered to take me for free. They were so upset that I actually got in this taxi. I did find it strange that he was talking to me and asking about if I had family with me and where I was staying. Oh well, another lesson learned. Again, I am alive and safe.
Namaste
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Goddess
Today I met with the National Democracy Foundation. I am very impressed with their work and what they have accomplished. I believe there may be opportunity to work with them, but probably not on this trip. It is difficult to offer services for only a one month period. They just completed a study to determine what services government of Nepal would like from them. The actual implementation of those services will not happen for a few months. I will be attending their National Women’s Day celebration on March 8th.
Since the meeting only took a few hours, I had the rest of the afternoon to see some sights and shop. My first stop was the Royal Palace. The tour was interesting. The inside of the palace was very old looking. The furniture was filthy and there was dust all over. The outside was worse; the grounds were left to ruin. I can only imagine how beautiful it was in the Monarchy period. Not sure what they do with the 500 Rupees to enter, but It is not on upkeep of the palace.
I fought a few store keepers to get my price and ended up with one pair of pants for 600Rupees or around $8. They are nice to wear around the hotel because they are comfortable. I did find out the location of a shopping mall and movie theater. Most movies are US and in English. Another evening event!!!
I finally saw the Goddess. She only stayed at the window a moment, but at least I got to see what she looks like. She is six years old and will probably stay the Goddess for another six years (until puberty). I cannot take pictures, so you will have to imagine what a Goddess looks like.
In the evening I went to a Documentary on the class distinction in India; although it is also present in Nepal. It was an excellent story (yes, it had subtitles). I plan on going to a couple more films. This is part of a series playing close to my hotel.
I went with Razenna and a couple of her friends. They are in their 20’s and most went to college in the USA. One gentleman is starting “Groupon” internet shopping for Nepal. Apparently it is really big in India and you can purchase the program from India. Anyone up for some entrepreneurship to start it in other countries?
Namaste
Since the meeting only took a few hours, I had the rest of the afternoon to see some sights and shop. My first stop was the Royal Palace. The tour was interesting. The inside of the palace was very old looking. The furniture was filthy and there was dust all over. The outside was worse; the grounds were left to ruin. I can only imagine how beautiful it was in the Monarchy period. Not sure what they do with the 500 Rupees to enter, but It is not on upkeep of the palace.
I fought a few store keepers to get my price and ended up with one pair of pants for 600Rupees or around $8. They are nice to wear around the hotel because they are comfortable. I did find out the location of a shopping mall and movie theater. Most movies are US and in English. Another evening event!!!
I finally saw the Goddess. She only stayed at the window a moment, but at least I got to see what she looks like. She is six years old and will probably stay the Goddess for another six years (until puberty). I cannot take pictures, so you will have to imagine what a Goddess looks like.
In the evening I went to a Documentary on the class distinction in India; although it is also present in Nepal. It was an excellent story (yes, it had subtitles). I plan on going to a couple more films. This is part of a series playing close to my hotel.
I went with Razenna and a couple of her friends. They are in their 20’s and most went to college in the USA. One gentleman is starting “Groupon” internet shopping for Nepal. Apparently it is really big in India and you can purchase the program from India. Anyone up for some entrepreneurship to start it in other countries?
Namaste
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
SWOT workshop
This is wedding season in Nepal and I went to my second wedding. The bride was beautiful and it definitely was given by a wealthy family. The wedding was held at the army post. The army has opened its facilities as a party venue and can hold three parties at a time. I tried all the food and most was delicious. I ate the wild boar, which was served cold and looked like cubed lunch meat. I didn’t like it, although it is considered a delicacy.
I met most of the board of Tewa. They are very nice women and anxious to work with me. Everyone at Tewa is committed to making it successful. The staff is paid very little. Most do it for the cause and not the money.
I wore my long skirt and at least I didn’t feel completely out of place. The outfits at this wedding were spectacular and very colorful. I spent some time watching all the Tewa ladies getting ready. It really is an art to putting a Sari on. Some of the younger girls (mid to late 20’s) still do not know how. You start wearing a Sari when you are marrying age and then it is not expected until you are married.
I am going to buy one before I leave and wear it at a special occasion. I am sure people will stare at me in the states. It won’t be the first time.
Namaste
I met most of the board of Tewa. They are very nice women and anxious to work with me. Everyone at Tewa is committed to making it successful. The staff is paid very little. Most do it for the cause and not the money.
I wore my long skirt and at least I didn’t feel completely out of place. The outfits at this wedding were spectacular and very colorful. I spent some time watching all the Tewa ladies getting ready. It really is an art to putting a Sari on. Some of the younger girls (mid to late 20’s) still do not know how. You start wearing a Sari when you are marrying age and then it is not expected until you are married.
I am going to buy one before I leave and wear it at a special occasion. I am sure people will stare at me in the states. It won’t be the first time.
Namaste
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Shopping in Nepal
I am finally getting comfortable in the hustle and bustle of Nepal. I notice when I walk down the streets, I automatically go on the left, rather than the right. I seem to be able to cross the street without panicking that I will be hit by a motorcycle. I am getting somewhat used to the noise, pollution, and poverty.
After spending a day at TEWA, I went shopping for some clothes. Now I love to shop but this was very difficult. I am going to an event after work tomorrow and need something more than jeans. Who told me not to bring many clothes because you can buy everything cheap in Nepal???
Most stores in Nepal are not the traditional type stores in USA . Most of the ones I visited were little open rooms off the street. When I say room, it is more like a large closet. But they seem to get a lot of clothes into that little shop. Everyone was very helpful, but I am sure they were not pleased that I did not buy anything after showing me so many outfits.
If you try and buy USA style clothes, they are expensive and the quality is poor. It is mostly H&M brand clothes for more money than we would pay. If you want to buy a Nepali style, the choices are endless. The problem is that the Nepali clothes are very different from my style and I cannot tell which is nice or not nice. I could end up looking ridiculous and not even know it (it wouldn’t be the first time, ask my daughter). In the end I decided to wear a long casual skirt that I brought from home. I definitely will not fit in, but better than jeans. Hopefully I can find someone to go shopping with me.
The marketing project is off to a slow but good start. I tried to do a breakeven analysis today. I had minimum amount of data, but will review it with the finance manager tomorrow. I also developed lists of potential customers and will review it with Meena tomorrow. We will have our brainstorming session with all the program managers in the afternoon. Should be interesting in that only a few speak English!!
Nameste
After spending a day at TEWA, I went shopping for some clothes. Now I love to shop but this was very difficult. I am going to an event after work tomorrow and need something more than jeans. Who told me not to bring many clothes because you can buy everything cheap in Nepal???
Most stores in Nepal are not the traditional type stores in USA . Most of the ones I visited were little open rooms off the street. When I say room, it is more like a large closet. But they seem to get a lot of clothes into that little shop. Everyone was very helpful, but I am sure they were not pleased that I did not buy anything after showing me so many outfits.
If you try and buy USA style clothes, they are expensive and the quality is poor. It is mostly H&M brand clothes for more money than we would pay. If you want to buy a Nepali style, the choices are endless. The problem is that the Nepali clothes are very different from my style and I cannot tell which is nice or not nice. I could end up looking ridiculous and not even know it (it wouldn’t be the first time, ask my daughter). In the end I decided to wear a long casual skirt that I brought from home. I definitely will not fit in, but better than jeans. Hopefully I can find someone to go shopping with me.
The marketing project is off to a slow but good start. I tried to do a breakeven analysis today. I had minimum amount of data, but will review it with the finance manager tomorrow. I also developed lists of potential customers and will review it with Meena tomorrow. We will have our brainstorming session with all the program managers in the afternoon. Should be interesting in that only a few speak English!!
Nameste
A Regular Work Day
Today was a normal work day. I spent the day at TEWA discussing the Marketing Plan Project. It is difficult to communicate with the Marketing director, given I do not speak Nepalese and she only speaks a few words in English. I believe the language barrier will be an issue in all my projects. About 20% of the population speak English.
The challenge is everyone is busy at TEWA with their everyday job. The marketing plan is really essential to increase rental of the facilities. The goal is to have the rentals cover the administrative cost of the organization. There is a large investment in the facilities.
This is definitely a new concept for TEWA and they do not have anyone on staff with marketing or sales experience. I am excited about what I can accomplish, but must realize that I have to consider culture, resources, and backgrounds in moving forward. Tomorrow we will be doing a SWOT analysis as part of the marketing plan.
I believe I was dismissed from ABC (even volunteers get fired). I knew that I would offend them when I left the girls hostel; I really had no choice. The staff of ABC owns the hostel. Although I believe they are doing a lot of good helping the women in transit, I was not impressed with how dirty the children were that were staying at the hostel. I never had a chance to visit the hostel, so I did not get to see it firsthand. Without seeing it, I would feel uncomfortable asking for donations. My project was to developing a funding source from local non-profits in the US. I can still do this with another NGO.
I finally found a great restaurant in Patan. In fact, the street was filled with really nice restaurants. They are not cheap. A pizza and wine was $22. Compared to simple Nepali food, this is expensive. Given my budget, I will treat myself once a week; otherwise it is Momos (steamed dumplings) or cookies for dinner. I get lunch at TEWA and breakfast at the hotel.
Nameste
The challenge is everyone is busy at TEWA with their everyday job. The marketing plan is really essential to increase rental of the facilities. The goal is to have the rentals cover the administrative cost of the organization. There is a large investment in the facilities.
This is definitely a new concept for TEWA and they do not have anyone on staff with marketing or sales experience. I am excited about what I can accomplish, but must realize that I have to consider culture, resources, and backgrounds in moving forward. Tomorrow we will be doing a SWOT analysis as part of the marketing plan.
I believe I was dismissed from ABC (even volunteers get fired). I knew that I would offend them when I left the girls hostel; I really had no choice. The staff of ABC owns the hostel. Although I believe they are doing a lot of good helping the women in transit, I was not impressed with how dirty the children were that were staying at the hostel. I never had a chance to visit the hostel, so I did not get to see it firsthand. Without seeing it, I would feel uncomfortable asking for donations. My project was to developing a funding source from local non-profits in the US. I can still do this with another NGO.
I finally found a great restaurant in Patan. In fact, the street was filled with really nice restaurants. They are not cheap. A pizza and wine was $22. Compared to simple Nepali food, this is expensive. Given my budget, I will treat myself once a week; otherwise it is Momos (steamed dumplings) or cookies for dinner. I get lunch at TEWA and breakfast at the hotel.
Nameste
Sunday, February 20, 2011
A Living Goddess
Today I walked for six hours touring the center of Kathmandu. Kathmandu can be exhilarating but also very tiring with the people constantly coming up to you wanting something and the traffic beeping at you. I had to find a 
store and buy a bottle of wine at the end of the day. I guess this is as good of an excuse as any.Central Kathmandu is where Thamel and Durbar Square are located. It is filled with Temples, shops, hotels, restaurants and people. This is where most of the tourists stay. I am very happy I am in Patan.
I finally conceded and hired this gentleman to take me around the temples. He was very interesting, although hard to understand. I was able to visit many of the back roads where some unusual temples were hidden. I have included a picture of the most unusual statue (can’t remember any of their names now).
All the shops are getting to look alike; I refrained from buying anything
today. After I ate I was not ready to fight the crowds and cycles back, so I found a place to have a massage (good excuse). I love to get massages in Asia. It was a wonderful hour massage for $20. Actually it is more expensive than other places I have been but much cleaner.Now totally relaxed I had a little more patience with all the people selling me things. I had to rush back to see the living Goddess in the temple in Durbar Square, but she was not there. The living Goddess is a young girl from 4 to puberty that has been selected as the Goddess (the real goddess chooses to reside in her body). Once a girl bleeds, she can no longer be the Goddess and goes back to normal life; a new Goddess is selected. A Goddess is housed in a Temple until that time. There are three Goddesses around Kathmandu.
Back in Patan I was finally successful in getting a phone, after three attempts. I now can contact people within Nepal so I will have fewer issues.
You can imagine how tired I was, so my dinner was wine, almonds, and cookies. I was in bed by 8pm. Tomorrow is TEWA to discuss the marketing plan project.
Namaste
Saturday, February 19, 2011
A Sightseeing Day
Today I visited a city inside the Kathmandu Valley. It was an amazing city with numerous temples. The most exciting thing was that it was up in the mountains and, therefore, no pollution. It was wonderful to breathe fresh air for a short time. There were a lot of shops. Surprise! Surprise! I bought a few things and not even sure if I wanted them. I think I am getting good at negotiation, but I could be very wrong and these guys are laughing at a sucker. I will definitely need another, hopefully small, bag before I leave.
There was a political rally in one of the temple squares. Nepal is definitely a very volatile political country. I did read a paper and it was interesting that they viewed the status of the US as more positive than our papers view it.
After getting home I wandered to find a pharmacy to cure all my ills. The pharmacies look like little store fronts and there are many of them. I have no idea what I bought or am taking. I am sure I will survive.
Namaste
An Exciting Day
Today was a very exciting day. I spent the day visiting a remote village and meeting with a Micro Finance company run by 605 women members and a group requesting funding to train on pig raising. The goal of the Micro Finance is to finance women projects at a very low interest rate. These are projects that a bank would not consider financing. The Micro Finance Company is membership based and receive funds from the membership and interest and grants.
TEWA is considering a grant to the Micro Finance company to fund a pig training project that the “Untouchables” , a low level class in Nepal, are considering to raise money. We met with the women from the Micro Finance and the Untouchables to discuss the project. Although it was in Nepali, it was interesting to watch the communicati
on.
on. To get there we took a taxi, which could not make it up the hill. So we ended up walking with a group of school children for a couple miles. They were excited to practice their English. I am definitely an “item” when I travel into these villages. It is interesting that these kids and all the people walk a long ways every day to get to town.
After a wonderful day, Razzina took me back to her parent’s hotel and we ate dinner and chatted until almost 10pm. I definitely lost track of time because my hotel closes doors at 9:30pm. I was panicked in the taxi to get back. The taxi had no idea where my hotel was, so he dropped my off at Durbar Square. I was totally lost and it was very dark. It took around 10 minutes of panic to get my bearings. I finally was able to figure out how to get to my hotel. I walked very fast……….
Obviously the hotel was locked when I arrived. Luckily, when I pounded on the door, one of the staff was there to let me in. They realized that I had not arrived back at the hotel. This is the nicest hotel I can remember staying at. I will have to give them a gift of thanks.
One side note of the day is that I am battling a stomach issue (won’t go into more detail) and an eye infection. I have been eating everything… today I had fried cottage cheese and it was wonderful… my stomach is trying to adjust (or not). With all the pollution, my eye has a closed duct and I have this large bag under my eye…now I know what it is like to have bags..not looking good. Any homeopathic advice would be great.
Namaste
After a wonderful day, Razzina took me back to her parent’s hotel and we ate dinner and chatted until almost 10pm. I definitely lost track of time because my hotel closes doors at 9:30pm. I was panicked in the taxi to get back. The taxi had no idea where my hotel was, so he dropped my off at Durbar Square. I was totally lost and it was very dark. It took around 10 minutes of panic to get my bearings. I finally was able to figure out how to get to my hotel. I walked very fast……….
Obviously the hotel was locked when I arrived. Luckily, when I pounded on the door, one of the staff was there to let me in. They realized that I had not arrived back at the hotel. This is the nicest hotel I can remember staying at. I will have to give them a gift of thanks.
One side note of the day is that I am battling a stomach issue (won’t go into more detail) and an eye infection. I have been eating everything… today I had fried cottage cheese and it was wonderful… my stomach is trying to adjust (or not). With all the pollution, my eye has a closed duct and I have this large bag under my eye…now I know what it is like to have bags..not looking good. Any homeopathic advice would be great.
Namaste
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A Multi-dimensional Day
First the good news - no rain! Next the bad news, I am freezing because of the cold and dampness. There is NO heat. More good news… I was able to keep my big room. I thought I had to move to a smaller single room. What a value!!!
I spent the day at TEWA. It was a wonderful organization, filled with friendly people. My first hour was determining their needs. It soon became apparent that they needed help in marketing. The company has typically been an NGO focused on Fund Raising and Grant distribution. They decided to build a complex with large conference rooms, a cafeteria, a theater, beautiful lawns, and an office building with stores on the ground floor. Their goal is to rent out these buildings / facilities to cover the overhead cost of the organization to assure the sustainability of TEWA.
Meena, the marketing director, is chartered to increase the sales of the facilities, but she has no experience. She is excited to have help developing a marketing plan. Tomorrow I will present an outline of what I hope to accomplish during my 1 ½ months and get approval from top management.
We left early today because one of the chief managers is getting married tomorrow. In her culture, the reception is the night before and the groom does not attend. Everyone got dressed at the office and it was a beautiful sight. All the women were wearing their colorful cotton sari (Guniu). I was in my jeans and two scarves and a sweater and a jacket. They invited me to the wedding dressed like that. I refused because I was not dressed, but they insisted and I went to my first Nepali wedding reception in jeans.
The bride was beautiful. We walked in and they were sitting on a couch as a reception area. After formal greetings, we sat in chairs and they brought food around… lots of food… all kinds of food… and I ate. So much for my upset stomach… I am going to regret it tonight. I thought that this was the meal because I did not see anything but chairs. I was wrong. There was a full buffet. So I ate again. Finally was brought back to the hotel on the back of a motorcycle.
I return tomorrow but for now am happy to be under three layers of covers in my bed.
Namaste
I spent the day at TEWA. It was a wonderful organization, filled with friendly people. My first hour was determining their needs. It soon became apparent that they needed help in marketing. The company has typically been an NGO focused on Fund Raising and Grant distribution. They decided to build a complex with large conference rooms, a cafeteria, a theater, beautiful lawns, and an office building with stores on the ground floor. Their goal is to rent out these buildings / facilities to cover the overhead cost of the organization to assure the sustainability of TEWA.
Meena, the marketing director, is chartered to increase the sales of the facilities, but she has no experience. She is excited to have help developing a marketing plan. Tomorrow I will present an outline of what I hope to accomplish during my 1 ½ months and get approval from top management.
We left early today because one of the chief managers is getting married tomorrow. In her culture, the reception is the night before and the groom does not attend. Everyone got dressed at the office and it was a beautiful sight. All the women were wearing their colorful cotton sari (Guniu). I was in my jeans and two scarves and a sweater and a jacket. They invited me to the wedding dressed like that. I refused because I was not dressed, but they insisted and I went to my first Nepali wedding reception in jeans.The bride was beautiful. We walked in and they were sitting on a couch as a reception area. After formal greetings, we sat in chairs and they brought food around… lots of food… all kinds of food… and I ate. So much for my upset stomach… I am going to regret it tonight. I thought that this was the meal because I did not see anything but chairs. I was wrong. There was a full buffet. So I ate again. Finally was brought back to the hotel on the back of a motorcycle.
I return tomorrow but for now am happy to be under three layers of covers in my bed.
Namaste
A Rainy Day
Today it was very rainy and cold to the bones. I walked about a mile in the rain to meet the TEWA bus. I waited 45 minutes and never was picked up. Deepak called me later and asked where I was. Not sure how I could have missed the bus at Namaste Supermarket.
Once I left the bus stop I walked in the rain for about an hour and finally I could not take the wet and cold any more. I am enjoying my warm bed and the Nepali background music for the garden. I love my hotel. It is a beautiful place with wonderful people and a suite for only $20 per night including breakfast. Life is wonderful.
I have been exploring all the possibilities of working with the NGO’s. Mark suggested I also contact the Asia Foundation, who focuses on trafficking. So I sent an email out today. I am meeting with Mark at NDF and his staff next week to follow up on how I can work with his team. I am putting together a plan for ABC in fund raising in the US. The biggest challenge is my limited time in Nepal, but I realize that I can do activities from the US and return when needed (you can see I am already planning a return trip).
Namaste
Once I left the bus stop I walked in the rain for about an hour and finally I could not take the wet and cold any more. I am enjoying my warm bed and the Nepali background music for the garden. I love my hotel. It is a beautiful place with wonderful people and a suite for only $20 per night including breakfast. Life is wonderful.
I have been exploring all the possibilities of working with the NGO’s. Mark suggested I also contact the Asia Foundation, who focuses on trafficking. So I sent an email out today. I am meeting with Mark at NDF and his staff next week to follow up on how I can work with his team. I am putting together a plan for ABC in fund raising in the US. The biggest challenge is my limited time in Nepal, but I realize that I can do activities from the US and return when needed (you can see I am already planning a return trip).
Namaste
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
A Broken Down Day
This morning I met with the National Democracy Foundation and was very impressed. This is an organization dedicated to promoting democracy around the world. The Nepal office works with Parliament to educate and offer guidance where needed. They have specifically worked with the women in Parliament. I hope to be able to work with them in some capacity, but again it is difficult given my short time in Nepal. One area that was suggested was coaching in conflict management.
After meeting with Mark at the NDF, I went with three of the college students on a real adventure. Since they do not have much money, we were going to take a bus to a village at the top of the mountain overlooking Kathmandu. First, this bus was amazing. It was very colorful but also very old. After waiting one hour for the bus to take off, it went two yards and hit another bus… not sure how this could happen.
Now the amazing thing is the Nepali people just sat in their seats. No one seemed to get up to see what was going on and how it would impact our trip. If this was the US, we would all be out of our seats yelling about the situation. Crowds were gathering outside and I kept saying that this could be serious. Again, we sat. Finally after 45 minutes (yes, I was trying to be patient), we asked about the situation and found they were fixing the bus and should be done in 15 to 20 minutes. Now this is a very steep and winding road. The bus was already old… what if it breaks down. I convinced the group to take a taxi.
We negotiated with 5 taxis, before finding one at a reasonable price (or what we thought was reasonable - $18 for a three hour trip). This was an off road type of road with rocks and ruts and a very little, low riding taxi. The taxi made it half way before we had to get out and push because it overheated or was stuck in the road. And every time we had to push, we would have to walk up the hill to the flat area to get back in the taxi. We did this three times.
We finally reached to top and the air was so bad that we could not see much. Oh well, it was an interesting day. I think I may stick to Lonely Planet for my sightseeing adventures next time.
Tomorrow I will be spending the day at TEWA, another NGO that I will be working with.
Namasti
After meeting with Mark at the NDF, I went with three of the college students on a real adventure. Since they do not have much money, we were going to take a bus to a village at the top of the mountain overlooking Kathmandu. First, this bus was amazing. It was very colorful but also very old. After waiting one hour for the bus to take off, it went two yards and hit another bus… not sure how this could happen.
Now the amazing thing is the Nepali people just sat in their seats. No one seemed to get up to see what was going on and how it would impact our trip. If this was the US, we would all be out of our seats yelling about the situation. Crowds were gathering outside and I kept saying that this could be serious. Again, we sat. Finally after 45 minutes (yes, I was trying to be patient), we asked about the situation and found they were fixing the bus and should be done in 15 to 20 minutes. Now this is a very steep and winding road. The bus was already old… what if it breaks down. I convinced the group to take a taxi.
We negotiated with 5 taxis, before finding one at a reasonable price (or what we thought was reasonable - $18 for a three hour trip). This was an off road type of road with rocks and ruts and a very little, low riding taxi. The taxi made it half way before we had to get out and push because it overheated or was stuck in the road. And every time we had to push, we would have to walk up the hill to the flat area to get back in the taxi. We did this three times.
We finally reached to top and the air was so bad that we could not see much. Oh well, it was an interesting day. I think I may stick to Lonely Planet for my sightseeing adventures next time.
Tomorrow I will be spending the day at TEWA, another NGO that I will be working with.
Namasti
A busy day in Kathmandu
Today was definitely a walking day. Thanks to our walking group, I am up for the task. I now am able to walk to ABC on my own (a lot of windy streets with NO road signs). It is only about 3 miles one way, but I am carrying a backpack with my laptop and my purse. The walk is thru a local town and I definitely stand out, since it is not a tourist area. It is one of the regions inside the Kathmandu valley.
I see all the children walking to school in their uniforms. It is sad to see some walking to school and others watching them walk; obviously they do not go to school and must work instead. This is a middle class area (in Nepali standard) but there is a spread of wealthy and not wealthy as in any country.
I find the initial shock of Nepal wearing off and now I can see that, although it is dirty with dust and trash, the people are extremely friendly and many areas are beautiful. The hardest thing to see is the babies and children of the poor so dirty.
I worked at ABC for a short time on defining my project. I will be developing a donor program in the states, where individuals and/or groups sponsor the education/medical/food/and shelter of rescued girls. Yes, I may be hitting you up for a donation!!!!
In the afternoon I scheduled my meeting with the National Democracy Foundation and TEWA, the other NGO focused on trafficking. I was able to take a quick nap before I was off sightseeing with a couple of the students from the university I met at the hostel.
I finally made it to Thamal, the center of Kathmandu. People and cars and cycles were everywhere. The temples and palaces in central Kathmandu are beautiful. Since I was with other people, I could not shop; definitely will be back to see what deals are to be had.
It is hard to believe that I have only been here for three days. There is a lot to see and I hope to get to the other areas of Nepal at the end of my stay.
Namaste
I see all the children walking to school in their uniforms. It is sad to see some walking to school and others watching them walk; obviously they do not go to school and must work instead. This is a middle class area (in Nepali standard) but there is a spread of wealthy and not wealthy as in any country.
I find the initial shock of Nepal wearing off and now I can see that, although it is dirty with dust and trash, the people are extremely friendly and many areas are beautiful. The hardest thing to see is the babies and children of the poor so dirty.
I worked at ABC for a short time on defining my project. I will be developing a donor program in the states, where individuals and/or groups sponsor the education/medical/food/and shelter of rescued girls. Yes, I may be hitting you up for a donation!!!!
In the afternoon I scheduled my meeting with the National Democracy Foundation and TEWA, the other NGO focused on trafficking. I was able to take a quick nap before I was off sightseeing with a couple of the students from the university I met at the hostel.
I finally made it to Thamal, the center of Kathmandu. People and cars and cycles were everywhere. The temples and palaces in central Kathmandu are beautiful. Since I was with other people, I could not shop; definitely will be back to see what deals are to be had.
It is hard to believe that I have only been here for three days. There is a lot to see and I hope to get to the other areas of Nepal at the end of my stay.
Namaste
Monday, February 14, 2011
Meeting with ABC Group
Still jetlagged from a long journey and a restless night, today would be my first day at ABC. I was looking forward to the meeting, but also concerned on how I would tell them I would not be staying at the hostel. After a night of trying to use the bathroom in the dark (I already shared my thoughts on the bathroom) and still cold while sleeping in a down sleeping bag, I was sure the next 1 ½ months would be too difficult living at the hostel. I still hadn’t taken a shower because of the lack of hot water and the cold water is VERY cold in the morning. I also would be getting two roommates and with my sleep hours it would be difficult. I definitely would miss the girls, who pop into my room all the time.
The ABC office is a 30 minute walk from the hostel through a maze of streets. One of the girls from the hostel walked me to the office. The office is a nice three floor building with a large conference room on the second floor. The Transit Home is a block from the ABC office.
When I arrive, I was introduced to the staff. They are all very nice; most of them have degrees in social work. I also met the founder / president, who reminded me of some of the founders of our non-profits back home. I didn’t know that ABC has been around since 1987. It is an amazing organization with three transit homes and offices in many of the cities throughout Nepal.
I was fortunate in that they were having a board meeting and I was introduced to all the board members. All the women are either social workers or teachers on the board. A brief note for the women reading the blog: their outfits were so beautiful and colorful. Their professional work attire consisted of a sarong and beautiful shawl. Wouldn’t it be great to be able to wear such beautiful clothes, rather than suits!
For those of my friends that are on non-profit boards, it seemed like a typical board meeting; although it was entirely in Nepalese, so I am not sure what they were saying. They passed around their Annual Report and discussed the current projects. There was a lengthily discussion about the issues at the transit facility (don’t know what they are). We had a great meal of a “flat rice” dish (I think it was called bitran) and some curry dishes. All I know is the dish had chicken, potatoes, and peas in it. I tried everything and finished only certain foods.
After the meeting five of the children from the transit home, ages from approximately 4 to 8, visited the office and had lunch. I did not know that they had children so young at the transit home. Apparently they rescued them from abusive environments. The Transit home is also used in cases where there is violence in the home. The children will stay at the transit home until they complete their schooling. I was surprised that they were not put in orphanages, rather that the transit home. I hope to understand more tomorrow.
There are 28 women/girls at the transit home. Most attend good schools in the area with the generosity of many donors. The donors are mostly Nepal people and other NGO’s (non government organizations) and INGO’s (international non-government organizations). In most cases, the girls are rescued from India or at the border of India and Nepal. The Indian police rescue them and hand them over to the Nepali police. The Nepali police pay to have ABC to help house and educate them. Some of the girls are beyond attending school, so the transit finds other occupational work, like two of the girls started a bakery and are doing very well.
Trafficking has been a major problem in Nepal, because the Nepali women are considered more beautiful that the Indian woman, according to one of the staff. What is happening today is that the traffickers set up a fake wedding, so the parents believe that their daughter is going with her husband. Once a girl is married, she can no longer return to her home, so these women have no alternative than to stay with their “husband”. It is also easier for a man to take a wife over the boarder without questioning, than it would someone unrelated. I hope to visit the transit home tomorrow.
I am still unsure of how I can be of help to ABC. I definitely want to make a difference but the question is how. We had a long discussion about this, but have not clearly defined a project. I know they would like to leverage my contacts to get donations to support the education of the girls in the transit home, but I am not sure how that would work. I am thinking through my role and hope to have a clearer picture in the next couple days. I also will be teaching English to the girls, but they are in school most of the days. Nepal schools are six days a week, with Saturday is their only holiday.
Regarding my living accommodations, I found a wonderful hotel not far from the women hostel and also the TEWA offices. I moved to Newa Chen Hotel this evening. It is in a 3xx year old renovated home. My room is amazing for $20 per night, which includes breakfast. I FINALLY TOOK A SHOWER!! It was a sad farewell and gave all my information to the girls, in hopes they would visit often.
Namaste
The ABC office is a 30 minute walk from the hostel through a maze of streets. One of the girls from the hostel walked me to the office. The office is a nice three floor building with a large conference room on the second floor. The Transit Home is a block from the ABC office.
When I arrive, I was introduced to the staff. They are all very nice; most of them have degrees in social work. I also met the founder / president, who reminded me of some of the founders of our non-profits back home. I didn’t know that ABC has been around since 1987. It is an amazing organization with three transit homes and offices in many of the cities throughout Nepal.
I was fortunate in that they were having a board meeting and I was introduced to all the board members. All the women are either social workers or teachers on the board. A brief note for the women reading the blog: their outfits were so beautiful and colorful. Their professional work attire consisted of a sarong and beautiful shawl. Wouldn’t it be great to be able to wear such beautiful clothes, rather than suits!
For those of my friends that are on non-profit boards, it seemed like a typical board meeting; although it was entirely in Nepalese, so I am not sure what they were saying. They passed around their Annual Report and discussed the current projects. There was a lengthily discussion about the issues at the transit facility (don’t know what they are). We had a great meal of a “flat rice” dish (I think it was called bitran) and some curry dishes. All I know is the dish had chicken, potatoes, and peas in it. I tried everything and finished only certain foods.
After the meeting five of the children from the transit home, ages from approximately 4 to 8, visited the office and had lunch. I did not know that they had children so young at the transit home. Apparently they rescued them from abusive environments. The Transit home is also used in cases where there is violence in the home. The children will stay at the transit home until they complete their schooling. I was surprised that they were not put in orphanages, rather that the transit home. I hope to understand more tomorrow.
There are 28 women/girls at the transit home. Most attend good schools in the area with the generosity of many donors. The donors are mostly Nepal people and other NGO’s (non government organizations) and INGO’s (international non-government organizations). In most cases, the girls are rescued from India or at the border of India and Nepal. The Indian police rescue them and hand them over to the Nepali police. The Nepali police pay to have ABC to help house and educate them. Some of the girls are beyond attending school, so the transit finds other occupational work, like two of the girls started a bakery and are doing very well.
Trafficking has been a major problem in Nepal, because the Nepali women are considered more beautiful that the Indian woman, according to one of the staff. What is happening today is that the traffickers set up a fake wedding, so the parents believe that their daughter is going with her husband. Once a girl is married, she can no longer return to her home, so these women have no alternative than to stay with their “husband”. It is also easier for a man to take a wife over the boarder without questioning, than it would someone unrelated. I hope to visit the transit home tomorrow.
I am still unsure of how I can be of help to ABC. I definitely want to make a difference but the question is how. We had a long discussion about this, but have not clearly defined a project. I know they would like to leverage my contacts to get donations to support the education of the girls in the transit home, but I am not sure how that would work. I am thinking through my role and hope to have a clearer picture in the next couple days. I also will be teaching English to the girls, but they are in school most of the days. Nepal schools are six days a week, with Saturday is their only holiday.
Regarding my living accommodations, I found a wonderful hotel not far from the women hostel and also the TEWA offices. I moved to Newa Chen Hotel this evening. It is in a 3xx year old renovated home. My room is amazing for $20 per night, which includes breakfast. I FINALLY TOOK A SHOWER!! It was a sad farewell and gave all my information to the girls, in hopes they would visit often.
Namaste
Sunday, February 13, 2011
An Amazing First Day
I finally arrived in Nepal after over 30 hours in transit. I was met at the airport by one of the program directors for ABC, Kalpana, and her daughter. Kalpana owns the hostel where I am staying. I will be going to ABC tomorrow to determine how I can be of assistance to them. They definitely will take care of me, so no worries about my safety.
Nepal is a real culture shock; and I thought I was a world traveler. I am staying at a women’s hostel with 16 college students. They are really nice, but the hostel is very rustic and dirty. I will be sharing a room with two other students. I met all the college students and they are all very warm and friendly. I really enjoy their company.
Nepal is a real culture shock; and I thought I was a world traveler. I am staying at a women’s hostel with 16 college students. They are really nice, but the hostel is very rustic and dirty. I will be sharing a room with two other students. I met all the college students and they are all very warm and friendly. I really enjoy their company.
Let me try and describe my surroundings. It is a four level home with two bathrooms (only one shower works and only one bathroom has an actual toilet). I guess that makes it one bathroom!! There is NO hot water in the shower and I have not taken a bath in 30 hours, since I was in transit. The water is very cold out of the faucet, so I am not going to attempt to take a shower this evening. I am giving myself a baby wipe bath tonight and will search for hot showers tomorrow.
There are three to four rooms on each floor with multiple people in each room. My room consists of three wood platforms (one for each resident) with a thin mattress on top. I am very thankful I brought my sleeping bag.
I asked one of the students how you use the toilet (no toilet paper in sight). They use a little water with their hand and then wash their hands. Not sure exactly how to handle the situation. Any ideas?? The baby wipes will be getting a lot of use.
Meals are on the top floor and consist of tea/coffee and biscuit for breakfast, a vegetarian meal at 9:30am, and a bowl of Nepal’s form of rice for dinner. I needed to shed a few pounds and I am confident that I will be much lighter, when I return. Or because of all the rice, I could end up gaining weight… stay tuned.
All around the area is construction or trash. Since I haven’t seen the heart of the Kathmandu yet, I am not sure if this is normal or just in the vicinity of the hostel. We are not really in Kathmandu, but a city on the outskirts. I am anxious to go into the city but I start work at ABC tomorrow. I am not sure when I will have time.
I went to the market with Jodi, one of the students, to buy a towel and some other essentials, like toilet paper. I bought some water shoes… my feet will never touch the floor of the bathroom… and cookies (in case I get hungry) and a lot of baby wipes and Kleenex. Although this was supposed to be a very small market, it was amazing.
There were temples everywhere in the market. One area use to be the kings palace and temples. It was really a magnificent sight. I am hoping to go back with my camera.
The traffic is everywhere with horns blowing. It isn’t safe walking in the streets with the motorcycles. The cars and motorcycles cause major pollution. I couldn't even talk after a few miles. I bought some lozenges
After I returned, I had four girls in my room wanting to talk. I am exhausted. It was really an amazing day and I cannot keep my eyes open. I am really going to try and make this work. If it was a little cleaner, I would be more confident. It definitely will be an interesting 1 ½ months.
Namaste
There are three to four rooms on each floor with multiple people in each room. My room consists of three wood platforms (one for each resident) with a thin mattress on top. I am very thankful I brought my sleeping bag.
I asked one of the students how you use the toilet (no toilet paper in sight). They use a little water with their hand and then wash their hands. Not sure exactly how to handle the situation. Any ideas?? The baby wipes will be getting a lot of use.
Meals are on the top floor and consist of tea/coffee and biscuit for breakfast, a vegetarian meal at 9:30am, and a bowl of Nepal’s form of rice for dinner. I needed to shed a few pounds and I am confident that I will be much lighter, when I return. Or because of all the rice, I could end up gaining weight… stay tuned.All around the area is construction or trash. Since I haven’t seen the heart of the Kathmandu yet, I am not sure if this is normal or just in the vicinity of the hostel. We are not really in Kathmandu, but a city on the outskirts. I am anxious to go into the city but I start work at ABC tomorrow. I am not sure when I will have time.
I went to the market with Jodi, one of the students, to buy a towel and some other essentials, like toilet paper. I bought some water shoes… my feet will never touch the floor of the bathroom… and cookies (in case I get hungry) and a lot of baby wipes and Kleenex. Although this was supposed to be a very small market, it was amazing.
There were temples everywhere in the market. One area use to be the kings palace and temples. It was really a magnificent sight. I am hoping to go back with my camera.
The traffic is everywhere with horns blowing. It isn’t safe walking in the streets with the motorcycles. The cars and motorcycles cause major pollution. I couldn't even talk after a few miles. I bought some lozenges
After I returned, I had four girls in my room wanting to talk. I am exhausted. It was really an amazing day and I cannot keep my eyes open. I am really going to try and make this work. If it was a little cleaner, I would be more confident. It definitely will be an interesting 1 ½ months.
Namaste
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Next Adventure: Nepal
It seems like years since my Italy adventure, although it has only been 9 months. For those that followed my blog through the organic farms of Italy, welcome back! The last nine months of retirement have been interesting with trips to Esalen to be certified in Tai Chi, Pennsylvania to visit my parents, a trip to my second home in Bozeman, Montana, and just everyday life in California.
Retirement has not been dull, but I really believe that without looking forward to my 3 month adventures, I would be easily bored. I guess I just haven’t decided what I want to be when I grow up yet….
It took some time for me to decide what I wanted to do during my next trip. I believe that by putting it out to the universe, my direction would magically appear and it did. I started reading articles on violence against women in the newspapers and books. I had no idea that such abuse was happening around the world. When I was reading “Half the Sky” on one of my plane trips, a professor sat down next to me and I found out he was publishing a similar book and his stories were amazing.
So I made a decision to go to Asia to work with non-profits that are trying to help abused women and girls. I started networking (many thanks to my friends) and doing internet searches. I finally narrowed it down to two nonprofit organizations in Nepal: TEWA and ABC. I will be helping TEWA write a business plan and I will be working with ABC to teach English to the women in transit.
It will be interesting to teach English, since I cannot speak a work of Nepali. And I thought Italian was a challenge!! I am not sure a business plan in Nepal is similar to a business plan in the US, but I am confident that I will at least give them something to talk about (or is it laugh about).
I also will be meeting with Madeleine Albright’s organizations, the National Democratic Institute, to see if I can be of assistance, but my main focus is helping abused women and girls.
I believe that I am a more knowledgeable planner for this trip. I will be going from very cold to very hot temperatures with a vacation in Cambodia at the tail end of the trip. Unlike Italy, I can buy inexpensive clothes in Nepal. My suitcase is half full with 3 pairs of pants and 5 long sleeve shirts and a couple light sweaters. The rest of the suitcase is filled with shoes: hiking boots, winter boots, sandals, hiking sandals, and everyday shoes. It is obvious I have a shoe fetish.
As for my hair, I have definitely abandoned the idea of going grey; I am just not ready. I am trying to bring the hair color my hairdresser uses and do it myself. It will be interesting. I doubt that there are beauty parlors in a third world country. But I am hopeful that I will have a massage once a week.
I will be staying at a women’s hostel in Kathmandu, Nepal, which ABC suggested. It is $10 per night (in my budget) and only 25 minute walk to the ABC offices. I believe my exercise will consist of walking, since Nepal has beautiful trekking routes and most mode of transportation is by foot.
Although this adventure is very different from my trip to Italy, I am confident that it will offer an experience of a lifetime.
Namaste
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