Tag: Asia

Jordan in photos

by Anna Powaska, posted in Asia, Jordan, Photography, Travelling

Such a cool place in the Middle East. Famous for Petra, the Dead Sea, and the desert vibes of Wadi Rum. Amazing mix of history and landscapes!

Bedouins are nomadic Arab tribes who traditionally lived in the deserts of the Middle East, known for their hospitality, resilience, and deep connection to the land.

The Bedouins know the Wadi Rum desert, which covers about 720 km², like the back of their hand. They told me they recognize the paths across the desert, and at night they navigate by the stars.

Their food is simple but full of flavor. One of the most famous dishes is zarb, meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. Too bad I didn’t take a photo, but they showed us how it’s done. Evenings with them by the campfire were amazing, they were so honest when we asked questions.

Bus from Damascus to Amman

by Anna Powaska, posted in Amman, Damascus, Jordan, Syria, Travelling

My Experience end of 2025 – Summary

✔️ Departure: Buses leave from the station here starting around 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM.

✔️ Companies & Prices: There are several operators and prices vary — usually up to $20, depending on the company. I personally paid 15 JOD (21 USD) for a round trip Amman–Damascus–Amman.

✔️ Arrival: In Amman, buses typically arrive at the International Bus Station mostly. My bus stopped at here, and it was very convenient.

✔️ Duration: The journey takes about 8 hours, mainly because of long border procedures — around 6 hours of passport checks, searches, and scans.

I arrived very early, before 7:00 AM, and that turned out to be a great decision. At the station, I was directed to the first office on the right here exacly. I handed over my ticket and passport, and from what I understood, they told me the Jett bus wasn’t running that day. Instead, they pointed me to another bus. They took my ticket and passport, showed me the bus, and surprisingly it left at 7:15 AM. Just before departure, we got our passports back. I didn’t have to pay anything extra — my Jett ticket was accepted, though I still have no idea how that worked. Honestly, I was a bit stressed because I don’t like leaving my passport anywhere, but everyone had to do it for border control data collection. And off we went.

For the info on the bus from Amman to Damascus, click here.

✅ Where it departs from

The bus from Damascus to Amman departs from the bus station here. When I arrived, I was directed to the first office on the right after entering. I handed over my ticket and passport

✅ Timing

I had a Jett ticket for 8:00 AM, but arriving early (before 7:00 AM) was the best decision. Online sources say that buses from different companies usually leave between 7:00–7:30 AM. So I strongly recommend being there before 7:00, even if your ticket says 8:00. In my case, the alternative bus left at 7:15 AM.

✅ Price

I didn’t have to pay anything extra — my original Jett ticket was accepted, even though I ended up on a different bus. I purchased my return ticket at the Jett office in Abdali, Amman for 15 JOD (21 USD) for a round trip Amman–Damascus–Amman. More about this in my post here.

Prices can go up to 20 USD, depending on the company.

✅ Stops on the way

The bus made a few stops between Damascus and the border to pick up additional passengers.

✅ Border experience

At the border, our passports were checked around 8 times, the bus was searched twice, and all bags were scanned like at an airport. The whole process takes time. We had two stops of around 30 minutes each: one to stamp out, and another to get a visa in the office. Just follow the crowd or ask the border officers — they will guide you.

On the Jordanian side, go first to the cashier to pay for your visa or to activate your Jordan Pass. They will give you a receipt, and with that you can join the queue for your entry stamp.

Important: There is no exit tax when leaving Syria.

For Jordan VISA:

I had a Jordan Pass, so my visa was included. If you plan to visit Petra, it’s much cheaper to get the Jordan Pass, as it includes both the visa and major attractions.

Otherwise:

1) Single Entry – Visa 40 JOD Valid for 1 month. Available on arrival at most borders and airports

2) Double Entry – Visa 60 JOD Valid for up to 3 months. Not available on arrival — must be obtained at a Jordanian embassy

3) Multiple Entry – Visa 120 JOD Valid for up to 6 months. Also only available at an embassy

Jordan Pass options (all include visa if you stay min. 3 nights):
  1. Jordan Pass Wanderer – 70 JOD (1‑day Petra) + entry to 40+ attractions (Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, etc.)
  2. Jordan Pass Explorer – 75 JOD (2‑day Petra) + entry to 40+ attractions (Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, etc.)
  3. Jordan Pass Expert – 80 JOD (3‑day Petra) + entry to 40+ attractions (Jerash, Wadi Rum, Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, etc.)

How to book hotel in Syria here

Bus from Amman to Damascus

by Anna Powaska, posted in Asia, Jordan, Syria

My Experience end of 2025

With 2025 coming to an end, I decided to take a journey: traveling by bus from Amman (Jordan) to Damascus (Syria). For Damasus – Amman bus click here. Here’s how it went:

✅ Booking the bus ticket
I booked my ticket on the official JETT website: https://www.jett.com.jo. There’s technically a round-trip option online, but I could only snag a one-way ticket (Amman International → Damascus) for 10 JOD (about 14 USD). The return? That’s where the plot twist happens: the full round trip costs 15 JOD (around 21 USD). Instead, you stroll into the JETT office on the day you’re heading to Damascus, flash your original ticket – they hand you the return for just 5 JOD extra.

The Abdali office opens bright and early at 6 a.m., so even if you skipped buying the ticket online, don’t panic. You can grab one on the day of departure—my bus had a few empty seats,

✅ Getting to the Abdali bus station
I stayed in the city center, and from there, I took an Uber to the JETT Abdali Office for just 1.25 JOD.

✅ Important departure time details
The bus departs every day from the JETT Abdali stop (right here) at 8:00 a.m. and possibly at 1:00 p.m. The website says 7:00 and 12:00 (see below), but in reality, from Abdali, it’s 8:00. I asked at the office, and they confirmed that 7:00 is from a different station (not sure which one). So, the only time I can personally confirm from Abdali is 8:00 a.m. The afternoon departure is likely 13.00, but officially the site still lists 12:00.

Important: the stop is around the corner from the Abdali office here, not where domestic buses to Petra, for example, leave.

The website lists several other stops, but in my experience the bus only made one stop after Abdali, around 8:15 a.m.

The bus was already waiting from 7:30 a.m., and it departed exactly at 8:00 a.m.

✅ Border crossing
This was the most interesting part!

  • Passports were checked six times (three times on the Jordanian side, three times on the Syrian side). Two full 30-minute stops to stamp out of Jordan and stamp into Syria.
  • I read that leaving Jordan (exit tax) by land costs 10 JOD, but I paid nothing.
  • On the Syrian side, my visa was supposed to cost 75 USD (official info from the Syrian embassy in Poland), but I paid only 50 USD, the option I happily accepted. Cash or card is OK. Getting it in advance for a land border crossing is no longer possible, but make sure to check before you travel—rules can change.
  • I was the only tourist, so the process was quick: pay for the visa, get the receipt, then the stamp. Everyone was extremely polite and helpful. Very curious about my visit to Damascus.
  • Though it is no longer required, I had a printed reservation for the hotel. I have been asked about the purpose of my visit and whether I know anyone in Syria. I said that I didn’t know anyone, and that was not a problem for border control.

Time at the border
We spent about 3 hours there because of passport checks and a full bus inspection. The return Damascus-Amman was 6 hours at the border!

✅ Arrival in Damascus
The bus arrives at the Damascus bus station here (where return buses also depart). From there, I took a taxi to the city center for 15 USD — four times more than what it was supposed to be, but I didn’t mind since I saved 25 USD on the visa and 10 JOD (approx. 14 USD) on the exit tax.

Tips for Travelers

  • Book a bus ticket online for convenience, but ask for the return tickets at the JETT office (if you’re going back). No need to print, they will email you the ticket straight away.
  • Just in case, bring cash (USD and JOD) for visas.
  • Be patient at the border — checks are thorough but friendly.
  • If you’re the only tourist, like I was, expect extra attention (in a good way!).
  • You can exchange your money at the border and also buy a SIM card there.
  • There is also a duty‑free zone that many Syrians make use of. They may ask you to carry something across the border for them — I agreed.

How to book hotel in Syria here

Delhi–Agra Express & Delhi–Varanasi Sleeper: Complete Train Guide 2025

by Anna Powaska, posted in Asia, Delhi, India, train

My Train Booking Experience in India

You can technically buy tickets through IRCTC, the official Indian Railways website. But full KYC (KYC stands for Know Your Customer, it is a verification process used by banks, financial institutions, and online platforms like IRCTC or PayTM to confirm a customer’s identity and address) is now required for certain IRCTC features, especially bookings.

Instead, I switched to 12go.asia, which I can honestly recommend. The tickets are about 20% more expensive, but the process takes just two minutes: instant confirmation, and the actual ticket arrives a few days later.

Once you receive your ticket, it’s important to double‑check the departure time the day before. Go to the IRCTC website or ConfirmTkt , enter your PNR number (found on the ticket) and travel date, and you’ll get the updated schedule. That part works flawlessly – no glitches at all.

Railway stations – you can also buy tickets directly at the station. Expect queues, a bit of chaos, and sometimes limited English, but it works. For foreign travelers, there’s often a Foreign Tourist Quota counter at major stations like Delhi, Agra, or Varanasi.

⚠️ Be Aware of Scams at Indian Railway Stations

When you arrive at the station, you might encounter people approaching you with “helpful” advice. They’ll say things like:

  • “You need to come with me to a special counter for foreigners.”
  • “There’s a different queue for non‑Indians.”
  • “You can’t enter without my assistance.”

All of that is a lie.

Once you have your ticket, you don’t need anything else. You simply go to the platform and board the train exactly the same way as Indian passengers. There is no special cashier, no separate queue, no mandatory guide.

Taj Express → My Delhi to Agra Train Experience

On September 1st, 2025, I took the Taj Express (Train No. 12280) from New Delhi Main Station (NDLS) to Agra Cantt (AGC). The train departed at 06:55 and arrived at 09:25, covering 195 km in just under 2.5 hours. I booked a Second Sitting (2S) seat – confirmed, window side, and perfectly comfortable for a short morning ride. Return train was delay around 1h.

Booking Details

  • The train departed on time at 06:55 from Platform 13
  • Ticket fare: ₹110 + fees (total ₹128.66)
  • Coach/Seat: D1/54 – window side, confirmed (CNF status)
  • Once you receive your ticket, double-check the departure time the day before using your PNR number. I recommend ConfirmTkt – it works smoothly and updates are reliable.

Travel Notes

  • The train coach stopped exactly where the platform screen indicated – no chaos, no guessing. Just follow the signs and you’ll be right where you need to be (see the photos below).
  • My coach was packed – it was crowded, noisy, and absolutely wonderful.
  • I shared a tiny seat with a lady.
  • I ended up talking to almost everyone around me – it felt like a rolling living room full of stories and smiles.
  • No AC, but the windows were open and the breeze was enough.

Delhi → Varanasi Sleeper 3A class– My Overnight Train Experience

On September 2nd, 2023, I boarded the Swatantrata Senani Express (Train No. 12562) from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Varanasi Junction (BSB). The train departed on time (21.15 in my case) at night from Platform 13, just like my Taj Express to Agra. The coach stopped exactly where the screen said it would – no chaos, no guessing.

My Experience

  • I had a confirmed sleeper berth 3A class in coach B2, and it was surprisingly comfortable. Bedding and pillow are provided.
  • I paid 1 469 INR ₹ (15 $) at 12go.asia.
  • I slept 8 full hours – no interruptions, no noise, just the gentle rhythm of the train.
  • The coach had AC, and charging sockets everywhere – both regular and USB.
  • There was an option to order meals, tea, coffee, which made the journey even smoother.
  • At night, everyone respected each other’s space – no loud talking, no chaos. Just quiet, shared rest.
  • On the return trip, it was exactly the same – peaceful, punctual, and respectful.

Booking & Practical Tips

  • This train is in high demand, so book well in advance – especially if you want a confirmed sleeper berth.
  • Use 12go.asia. It is much easier for foreign cards and no Indian numer needed.
  • Always check your PNR status the day before – ConfirmTkt is your best friend or IRCTC site.
  • Platform 13 again – same as Agra, and again the coach stopped exactly where the screen showed.

Most Popular Trains on the Delhi–Varanasi Route

  • Shiv Ganga Express (12560): Fast (~11 hours) and always in high demand.
  • Kashi Vishwanath Express (14034): Slower, but considered a classic choice.
  • Swatantrata Senani Express (12562): My pick – a traditional overnight sleeper.

Ticket Price Range

  • Sleeper Class (SL): from ₹743 ≈ $9
  • 3AC (Air‑Conditioned, 3‑tier): ₹1,200–1,500 ≈ $15–18
  • 2AC (Air‑Conditioned, 2‑tier): ₹1,800–2,200 ≈ $22–25
  • 1AC (Air‑Conditioned, 1‑tier): ₹3,000+ ≈ $35+

How to Travel from Almaty to Bishkek by Bus

by Anna Powaska, posted in Uncategorized

If you’re planning a journey from Almaty to Bishkek by bus, here’s all you need to know:

  1. Departure Point – Sayran Bus Station (mine was from stand 1) In Almaty, the buses to Bishkek depart from the Sayran International Bus Station. Known locally as “Avtovokzal Sayran,” this terminal is the main hub for long-distance travel. You can reach the station conveniently by local buses, a taxi, or ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go (very very cheap “central Asian uber”).
  2. Ticket Price and Schedule
    • Cost: A one-way ticket typically costs around 3,280 KZT Webside(Kazakhstani Tenge), which is approximately 7.50 USD.
    • Web: https://ma-sairan.kz/
    • Frequency: There are usually several departures a day—with typical departure times at roughly 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, and 18:00. (Keep in mind that schedules may vary, so it’s wise to check ahead or purchase tickets online.)
  3. Journey Duration and Border Crossing The bus covers approximately 320 km and the journey generally takes about 5 to 6 hours. This time frame includes the drive and the process of crossing the Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan border at Korday. Make sure to have all your travel documents handy, as border formalities might add a little extra time. Go troug two border checks and fallow the people to wait for the bus (3 mins walk to the parking – you will know). I waited 20 mins only.
  4. You will arrive at New Bishkek Bus Terminal here: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bishkek+Avtovokzal./@42.9421615,74.6437023,18z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x389eb90012ab8659:0xf94abeb39d7fbcfb!8m2!3d42.942506!4d74.6444121!16s%2Fg%2F11vrrq0rs_?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQxNi4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D You can take a bus or taxi to the center (no cash machine at bus terminal, but the driver can stop at cash point on the way).
  5. Additional Tips
    • Ticket Purchase: You can buy your tickets online directly through the Sayran Bus Station website or in person at the station. Purchasing in advance is advisable if you plan to travel during peak times and you can pick a nice sit :).
    • Plan Ahead: Allow extra time around departures, and be prepared for slight schedule variations or delays, especially at the border.

This comprehensive guide should help you confidently plan your bus trip from Almaty to Bishkek. If you need more details about the route, tips on navigating the border, or any other travel insights, feel free to ask!

Finding some peace in Pokhara

by Anna Powaska, posted in Asia, Nepal

 Arriving, even trough a tiny roads between Himalayas and wild rivers, from a busy streets of Kathmandu to a calm and peaceful Pokhara almost seemed like a way to nirvana for me. You can find there everything that`s missing from the capital. Not overcrowded streets are surrounded by a beautiful mountain range with deadly Annapurna looking at you from every single corner, yet seems like she gives your mind a great piece of a rest.

  Pokhara is located 200 kilometers west of the capital. Could be a surprising fact to learn that by occupying the area of 464.24 km2 this city stands as larger than Kathmandu, 18 times larger than Lalitpur and 2.5 times larger than Bharatpur. Because of its popularity and it​s touristic nature, as of many available activities to choose from, this area is packed with hotels, hostel, restaurants, travel agencies, and anything visitors really need. It’s well known mostly as a gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, a popular trail in the Himalayas to hike. However, when it comes to the city, it is not only about the highest mountain range in the world. Pokhara`s landscape consist of a beautiful and the second largest lake of Nepal, called Phewa, with clear green waters that is an absolutely stunning thing to enjoy. On a sunny day when the sky is clear, you can even see surrounded range as a reflection on a smooth surface of the lake. Inviting waters, apart from being the main resource for fishing, offers load of activities from kayaking to just lazy ride on the boat through the lake. Or how about just simple walk around where you can sit and enjoy in one of restaurants, coffee shop or a smoothie making stands. That could be an option as well, wouldn`t it? This seems like a popular thing to do, as there are always loads of tourists along with locals around the shore too.

Cycling around the area, even up to the top of the Sarangkot, seems like a very popular activity. Alternatively, you can hire a scooter or motorbike to discover the area a bit further and see more lakes, as name “Pokhara” means the valley of the lakes itself (derived from “Pokhari” which literally means a lake). There are eight of them in total. Apart from the most popular inside the valley, previously mentioned Phewa, others are: Begnas, Rupa, Maidi, Khaste, Gunde, Dipang and Kamal Pokhari. Phewa, Begnas and Rupa are definitely three lakes worth visiting. Apart from beautiful calm surface of them, surely is wort experiencing a wilder nature of waters as rivers and waterfalls, which Pokara is famous for. The Seti River is much popular among the tourists. It runs through deep channels in the conglomerate rocks from Bagar to Sita Paila, and in some places it flows through the narrow gorge. Going through by the river sides below the hills, we can see several beautiful and dashing waters falling downhill and finally flowing to the rivers. You can even enjoy them just by passing the highway to Baglung that consist few of them on the way. The city itself also has a beautiful waterfall, and it is known as Davis Fall (In Nepali: Patale chango).

It truly is a breath-taking experience just looking at the Davis Fall in Chorrepatan. The water flowing in this fall comes from Fewa lake, and the fall is worth visiting during the rainy seasons as it possesses its maximum velocity. But lets not get stuck there for too long, there is way more to see around. Absolutely magnificent cave is just two minutes walk from there. Basically the whole Pokhara valley is rich in cave system, and it almost seems like a vision of a city hidden under the ground. Mahendra Cave, for example, is located in the city of Pokhara and can be easily accessed by the visitors in just walking distance (few kilometers), taxi ride or just by public buses. It is named after the late king Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. The cave itself is amazing and you can witness many natural shapes and images of the various Hindu gods and goddesses on the stone made of the lime. Literally just a ten minutes walk from this cave there lies another one named the Bat Cave. In Nepali language it is also called Chameri Gufa. You can guess correctly who residence inside, the name suggests it well. It is called after the habitats of the bats over the cave’s wall and the ceilings. Above all caves you can find a dense forest with a stream flows, ending as a sparkling waterfall tumbling into a mysteriously hidden world of darkness. In total Pokhara is renowned for ten mystical caves. Nevertheless, right now, only nine of the caves can be visited as the Eastern Power Station cave has been badly damaged and buried, as it is under a huge landslide, leaving its beauty only for few lucky one.

  Near by Sarangkot hill is a must hike place as well. It is very popular to cycle or just walk all the way up, however, bus, taxi and scooter is an option too. Once there, you can enjoy absolutely outstanding panorama of the surrounded valley underneath and the magnificent view of the mountains. In to the northern direction we can see Dhaulagiri in the far west. Annapurna range is visible when the weather is clear on the same side. On the southern direction the village overlooks the city of Pokhara and its lake on the north-western outskirts of the city. Sarangkot is only 5 km from lake side, Pokhara, and is the highest view-point for a sunrise at just 1592 m high, but the temperature drops already 5 degrees cooler than the city. The hill can be done easily by 45 minutes car ride to the top from Pokhara and then 45 minutes hike up to the main view-point. Many tourists come to Sarangkot for sunrise view and go back after few hours, but it will be good if you will get a chance to stay there for one night and enjoy the way city light outshine from there. Paragliding is a very popular activity that can be done from that area too. You can book that at one of many agents in Pokhara, or one at the top. 

Paragliding is a good way to start with when it comes to more adventurous side of this area. The city offers everything from ultralight flying, skydiving and ziplining to a bungee jumping, developing a complete holiday package for a perfect vacation to all kind of tourists. But there is a last, but not least, thing worth mentioning. Remember to also visit the old side of the city where you will be able to experience and feel cultural side of Nepal along with all old temples, statues and buildings around. Old Town is a real treat for the people who love to discover a new place from its roots and history. Best explored on foot, Old Town in Pokhara offers an unmatched view of the new parts of the city in the morning, before the traffic and daily chores take over the landscape. Once there, you will come across a marketplace selling locally produced items; Bhimsen Temple, an old shrine dedicated to the Newari god of trade and commerce with Bindhya Basini Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga. You can find a good range of delicious street food as well. Its is a place to observe locals on a daily life too, getting on their daily routine. Thought, not so overcrowded as Kathmandu, you will meet loads of Nepalese to chat to, talk to. You wont be disappointed with the way they will interact towards you.

  At the end I would like to mention that I arrived to Pokhara from Kathmandu, where I was during the earthquake. I spend 48 hours at the ground, sleepless, wet, tired. I did not only found a peace, but a shelter. I felt safe there, as aftershocks were hardly noticeable, and the whole city did not get damaged as a capital. It will always stay as a very special place for me. But for you guys, I think it enough to know that it is a magical, adventurous place you just can not miss while in Nepal!

Few days in vibrant Kathmandu

by Anna Powaska, posted in Asia, Nepal

   It’s amazing how well I always knew what kind of areas in the world I would like to see in the future. Nepal was on my list as a very first country to visit since I was very young. Something was always telling me that it is probably one of the most fascinating and astonishing places in the world. What I wasn’t sure about was the wonder, if I will ever be able to go there. Fortunately, I did get a chance to visit this truly diverse land with the highest mountain range in the world. I wasn’t mistaken at all, as I found there everything, I always imagine I would find. Even that I was in Kathmandu during the earthquake didn’t change my experience in any way. I witness how Nepalese truly helped each other during and after the disaster. For this, and loads of other reasons, I consider Nepal as a small Asian country with the big-hearted people.

Kathmandu

Landing in Kathmandu and getting around

  When it comes to the international airport, it is probably one of the oldest and smallest I’ve ever seen, but then the size makes it easier to find your way around. I arrived in April from not so warm Europe, so the heat struck me straight away. After 2 hours in the long queue to get a visa, I was finally able to see the other side. I picked my bag from the floor somewhere, and I left happy and glad it didn’t get missing. Stepping outside, I quickly spotted how overcrowded and chaotic this city is. This helped me to make a quick decision on not trying to work out how buses run, but just to take a taxi. The situation on the road can be really shocking for someone who has never been in Southeast Asia before. The jam, noise, unclear driving rules and no traffic lights makes you wonder how on earth Nepalese getting around on a daily basis there. The car or motorbike can drive everywhere where it fits, even through a tiny tiny streets, so better have your eyes around your head. Watch out also for what locals transport on their motorbikes or bikes, as It can be something four times of a vehicle size, so be aware of the situation around you to avoid being knock down by something. I wouldn’t recommend walking while listening to your music either to avoid any accidents. I would definitely suggest to get your accommodation in Thamel. It is the most touristic area in Kathmandu. I am always trying to stay away from this kind of places, but there is just way different. You can meet loads of amazing backpackers, trekkers, travelers and volunteers to talk to, to share your experience with. Locals are very friendly too, so you definitely won’t get bored or lonely there. Shops and restaurants are on every possible corner, but always have cash with you. It’s very unlikely to pay by card, maybe just in posh hotels and restaurants. Also if you will see a cash machine, use it. There’s not so many of them around. Some of them may not work and some may not accept your card. I’ve had a Visa and MasterCard, and I wasn’t always able to use the first one, but with the second I’ve had a better luck. 

Kathmandu

Food

  Try to sample as many new things as you can. For me everything was very delicious and packed with wonderful flavors. It is a heaven for Asian cousin lovers, like myself. People who sell meals on the streets really mastered their cooking skills. They make it very local, very unique, always fresh, and usually made in front of you. I have to add that I’ve met few travelers that complained about experiencing some stomach problems after, but not me. So maybe try to find a golden line between cleanliness and vibe of authentic local street food. Momo`s are definitely must eat there. They are very traditional and you can have them with many different fillings and sauces.

I am from Poland, and they do remind me of our dish called pierogi. I wonder if that’s how they came to us through the Russia first.  Apart from them, rice and noodles are probably most popular. It’s like a fusion of Indian and Chinese food. They all come in good vegetarian range too. If you like a late meal you will get even a better choice, as loads of street stands are open only in the evening. It’s good to have a supper around that time, as you will meet loads of travelers around. The only problem there is lack of the streets light, so visibility depends only on shops and restaurants neons. It could be a problem sometimes, as often on some streets, I’ve had to walk in total darkness….alone…brrr.

Kathmandu

Transport

  If there are loads of things you want to see in one day, hire a motorbike. It really is very cheap, around 10£ for a day, and can save you loads of time. You can get a bike too, but it can be difficult to ride it on all these small streets full of people. Otherwise, not much for me to say about public buses in capital, as I haven’t used it at all, relying just on my private transport – my legs. However, three main bus station are present with buses that connect cities and towns in Nepal. All a little bit chaotic, but by keep asking, you should eventually find the one you need. No worries if you will take a wrong one, everything is worth seeing in Nepal :D. More or less, Nepalese are good with English and always happy to help! First bus station (also called the Kathmandu Bus Terminal, or simply ‘new bus park’) is located at Ring Road, Balaju. It is basically for all long-distance buses, including the one to Pokhara and destinations in the Terai. Kantipath bus station (if you can call it like that, as buses are just parked on the side of the street) seems less confused (but still a bit!), and is located very close to the Thamel area on Tridevi Marg Kantipath, the main road running north-south at the junction where the Garden of Dreams is. There`s not so many buses leaving from there, so makes it easier to find your way around. I took my bus from there to Pokhara that leaves everyday around 7 am. You do not need to book in advance, but can be busy sometimes, so you may, just for the peace of your mind. This bus station is only in use early morning. Later in the day there is zero buses around. Green Line Bus station is a private company that provides better comfort at higher price. Usually they operate minivans with aircon and include a meal. Terminal can be found at Greenline bus park opposite the Garden of Dreams on the edge of Thamel.

  If you are looking for some trekking experience or any other trips, you can find all you need in Thamel that is packed with agencies. You can book your bungee jump, see some caves, discover the area around Kathmandu Valley, book a plane to see some of the 8000 high peaks. I did buy few, but they all been cancelled after the earthquake. Especially I am sad that I`ve missed a fly around the Himalayas. If you have a few spare days, go to see the Chitwan National Park, a World Heritage site since 1984. Its is a jungle with rich range of fauna and flora species, also a Bengali tiger. Loads of Nepalese, I’ve met, were pointing this wildlife area as a number one to see. You can stuck up on proper gear too there. If you like a good brand staff, they are a little bit cheaper in less touristic areas.

  For more about what to see in Kathmandu please click here, otherwise pack your back, book your fly, and off you go!

Azerbaijan, few photos and thoughts

by Anna Powaska, posted in Azerbaijan

   It felt like all odds were against me. Though, meeting so many obstacles during my Azerbaijan-Georgia trip did not reflect on my opinion on these two countries I adored, especially Georgia, but can`t lie that I am disappointed of not seeing many things, I planned in advance, for different reasons that were out of my hands. Here a good advice is that the best time to visit this area is during the summer time, as connections are probably better and most of the places are open. I am sure it may spare you the disappointment, I have experienced. So what have I missed? Okatse Canyon in Georgia (was closed as of low season time), mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan (car got stuck in the mud, so we couldn’t reach the area), Armenia (yes, I supposed to go there, but road to Kazbegi, in Northern Georgia, was closed three times due to the heavy snow, so I’ve lost precious time and was simply lacking extra days to visit), fellow travelers (I was always alone in hotels) and that tragicomedy moment when I slipped in the hotel`s bathroom, destroying a toilet seat and hurting my back so much, I could not walk…but hey, at least nobody saw it! But please, don`t get me wrong, I truly enjoyed it, but It was just a first time when I haven’t done all I planned.