ASHUTOSH TIWARI FOR NEPALI EYES ONLY: Poster campaign to end open defecation, practiced by 14 million Nepalis across the country daily, Tundikhel

Bald statements of fact are sometimes the only way to get the message across, whether it is to raise awareness about appropriate outlets for physical necessities or for that matter, political necessities. The difficulty lies in distinguishing fact from fiction, and commitment from lies. When all the parties were cajoled into signing a pledge to desist from activities likely to harm tourism during Nepal Tourism Year 2011, probably no one really believed we would enjoy a strike-free year.

But few might have anticipated the haste with which the Maoist-affiliated All Nepal Tourism Workers Union (ANTWU) subsequently delivered an ultimatum to trekking agencies right in the middle of tourist season. In ordering trekking agencies to stop sending out trekking staff affiliated to the union, ANTWU claims it is merely pressing for implementation of the Travel and Trekking Regulations. But the methods and timing are awry, and risk a backlash not just from tourists but also union members.

The trouble with inbound tourism, however, has in recent times been mirrored by a surge in outbound tourism. Nepalis are travelling more than ever, and not just for a degree or a job.

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