Leaving Friday, arriving two days later after three planes and ready to get the old legs working. Himlung was in sight three years late due to well, world events! The team was mustering, last one to arrive was my tent friend, the next pm very posh but one of the hardest workers for such a young man. We came from Australia, Sweden, London and me from my beloved Scotland, all ready raring to go and to meet our knowledgeable leader Stu, our leader, the Mary Berry of walking. His climbing stories of achievements and disappointments kept us all entertained while we talked and played cards in the mess tent. Early starts, 6am, hot water ready for the tea in the morning with breakfast usually of eggs and cereal. Off we went, bleary eyed, into the unknown, with views to die for and banter to keep us going. When I caught up with the group before we stopped for the day at first in tea houses and then onto base camp a field full of tents of all sizes. Our own tents were better than the ones at the World Cup and we paid a fraction of the price! The mess tent was heated which was a great bonus as when the sun goes down it does get a wee bit cold, and not forgetting the shower with hot water but have it while it’s sunny! As for dinner, what can you say miles from anywhere and the meals are fantastic, where they get the cooks I don’t know, food is unbelievable. Fantastic way to spend the evening- cards, story’s from the hills by ‘Mary Berry’ then off to bed. Camp1-a full days hike in ice & snow, using crimpons, climbing by rope, taking our food with us. It was a great experience and even though it was hard work it was also a pleasure and as you would expect our Sherpas worked their socks off. A great bunch of people. Camp two and three was much the same and then the magic day of the ascent. An early start, 1am to set off at 3am-you do need your cups of tea which always starts the day off. Then when, not if, you get to the top of Himlung the views were spectacular and all you’ve been told hits home. Thanks to Stuart and the team, I know who I will call-all together now………..

Di was an excellent guide, very helpful and patient in answering all the questions and also creating a friendly atmosphere and a very united group. The in country team provided an excellent service, both in terms of base camp food, tents and general comfort and also in terms of very good climbing sherpas. The climbing sherpas were very strong, the cook was amazing and the tents and comfort provided was above expectations. The Adventure Peaks office were helpful in clarifying all my questions (both over email and phone) and helping me to choose a 7000m peak. Di was a very good leader, I enjoyed spending a month with her and learned a lot from her. Also, she was very good in creating a family/friendly atmosphere with our sherpa team, but also to manage them and organize them so that we have a smooth and successful expedition. The expedition was the best for me so far and I already miss the group and the beautiful surroundings.