So, you have been walking for an hour, not after climbing a whole lot, approximately 450 metres or so, you round a bend, and there is a lovely little ‘house’ where you can get some nibbles.  All at 2100 metres. Very impressive.

It was an interesting experience, made even moreso by listening to the poor waiter explain several times to a potential customer that no, they could not take credit card, due to the fact that there was neither phone signal or electricity to run a credit card terminal available in the Tea House. Cash, was indeed, king.

After the Tea and sandwiches (Cucumber and cheese never tasted so good). I sought out the lavatory before we continued on our way. There was a member of staff standing outside the toilet wearing gloves,  ear-protectors, and a handheld radio.  When I enquired he informed me I had about 5 mins as the helicopter was on its way up to bring up an empty 40 gallon drum, and take away one of the full ones (I’ll leave it to your imagination).  I quickly did my business and headed up the trail for a good view of the exchange.

Due to the wind, the helicopter had to make a few attempts before managing to drop the empty drum and collect a full one, much to the relief of other customers of the Tea House I daresay.