The garden of Dreams

November 27, 2013. 28 years old, a decade ago already. Feels like a lifetime.

         In the beginning, my dream was to fully experience a solo trip to a new and totally different place, very far from where I was … And to heal from a broken relashionship that had lasted eleven years.

The stories I had been reading about Nepal before definitely shaped that dream.

         This breakup made me make the decision to book a flight to Katmandu, landing there alone for the first time with my 15kg backpack as only travelling mate. So exciting.

         I was first attracted to their ancient art techniques and natural pigment colors, their amazing alphabet, majestic natural landscapes and deep spiritual culture.

       I still remember the strong energy that we can feel when we arrive in Tribhuvan Airport. The atmosphere in this late november morning was warm, dusty, noisy.

       After changing my euros, I jumped into a local cab, and asked for "Freak Street". I didn't really know where I was going, but as soon as I arrived in Katmandu's Durbar Square street area, I've been cought by a fellow Nepali local guide, around my age. Very friendly, we started to chat and quickly became friends. Our connection: we were both trying to live from our activities. Him as a guide, me as a photo editor, both freelances.

       This first meeting lead me to several places I definitely wanted to visit. From Freak Street to the historical Durbar Square, ending in the Garden of Dreams, my first visit of Katmandu was taking shape.