i think skins are good, but unless you plan on using them alot afterwards, the $75 cost is hardly worth it when there are alternatives for 1/2 the prices. I took 1 pair with me but never wore them, better used for sport later then trashed on kokoda. stuck to the $30 – $40 option and even then. 1 pair walking the track and 1 pair if at all every…

no problems with your bags and valuables here at the Gateway Hotel.

just back and started with 4 pack of AA extra long life batteries that lasted the whole trip and still going good. sadly my 1GB card was full 3 days from the end and had to delete a few and rely on others in the group for photos. Also i was able to walk those 5 days with my camera around my neck the entire time.

i agree with Karen, i used my left glove and lent the right to another treker. still in good enough condition to use back home and they save the hands.

just back from the 8 night trip and besides another guy using his tent 3 nights and myself once, everyone else chose the huts along the route. plus we had 5 seconds of rain and spent more time covering our packs then it did rain. use some scotchgard on the top and just go with a rain cover. cheap and easy to soruce from good camping stores or internet.

I also just got back yesterday, used vaseline well daily and had only 1 blister. related? not sure, but worth the try anyway.

Since I'm still at the Gateway thought I'd comment on this one. in the 5 days staying here I've walked up to the airport 3 times and during the day for exercise and have no problem with it. It's about 15 mins walk and in a pinch i would even with my pack. But why would you when they have a free shuttle.I might add also I've walked twice into…[Read more]

Sounds to me a gratuity payment made to your porters isn't made at the end of the trek then, but more then likely at the presentation afterwards. unlike when i did the inca trail last year when we dug deep into our pockets on the last night of the trek. Personally i prefer afterwards, i didnt like having to carry all that money with me.