It’s wedding season here in Nepal, so brass bands and brightly decorated cars process the streets regularly.  I’ve already identified my favourite street in the city -  it’s a regular back street and the first time we walked down it it was very dark and filled with candles -  14 hour a day power cuts here (Nepal sold its electricity to India -  that’s what recession is doing here..!) but it really is exemplary of every day life.  Children play freely in the street, mothers chat in the doorways of their houses and shops -  calling out to sell their wears as you pass – which can be anything from momo’s (local delicacy made of wet pastry filled with meat or vegetables), cooked chicken, spices and seasonal vegetables.

Basant and his team here have been so incredibly kind and attentive, they have settled us in really well, showing us where best to buy Nepali SIM cards and kitting Nina and I out in Kurtas – traditional dress for women which we will wear at school.  Our Nepali language class this morning was a great introduction - we have a lot to learn!

Anyone who knows me knows I don’t really like having anything on my feet - am happiest bare-footed, but last night I couldn’t have been more grateful for my cosy bed socks and down sleeping bag!