Holiday in Nepal?

[Parsonwoodforde]

Hello everyone - advice being asked for! I'm 65, male, type 1, on insulin 52 years, well controlled, no serious complications. My wife's 8 years younger and does a lot of walking and running, has done marathons and half marathons. She's interested in joining an organised party going to Nepal for a week this time next year to do a marathon walk and spend a week there. It'd be great if I could go with her, though I wouldn't be walking. Questions - has anyone of my sort of age and condition been to Nepal? How did you cope with insulin storage and with very non-Western food? Even more important, what was it like trying to get health insurance and was it insanely expensive? Would be great to hear from anyone who's done it, thanks!

 

[Antje77]

Sounds wonderful!

Insulin is fine outside the fridge for 28 days, unless it's very hot where you are. In that case you could use a frio bag. Take all your diabetes essentials in hand luggage. You can buy new underwear and a toothbrush just about anywhere, diabetes supplies is something different.
With the unusual food it's not much different from eating at friends places or in restaurants. It has a gambling part on the insulin dosage, so more testing and correcting.
Do you usually count carbs to determine your insulin dosage?

Have a wonderful time!

 

[DCUKMod]

Hello everyone - advice being asked for! I'm 65, male, type 1, on insulin 52 years, well controlled, no serious complications. My wife's 8 years younger and does a lot of walking and running, has done marathons and half marathons. She's interested in joining an organised party going to Nepal for a week this time next year to do a marathon walk and spend a week there. It'd be great if I could go with her, though I wouldn't be walking. Questions - has anyone of my sort of age and condition been to Nepal? How did you cope with insulin storage and with very non-Western food? Even more important, what was it like trying to get health insurance and was it insanely expensive? Would be great to hear from anyone who's done it, thanks!

Hi Parsonwoodforde. I'm a great believer in doing exciting things in one's life, and your proposed grip sounds fab. That said, I'm not T1.

I see my colleague @Antje77 has already made comment about your medication and food. I'm assuming with all those years of T1 under your belt you're on a basal + bolus regime, or pumping, and experienced in adjusting your nsulin doses to reflect what you're eating or have eaten?

For travel insurance, you could request a quote to get an indication of the costs involved. I couldn't venture to even speculate about that - especially as it will depend on how well you are (sounds like you're doing fine), but also other conditions you might have and/or any medications you may be taking.

I do hope you manage to go with your wife. It's good to share these big adventures.