Whenever I return from a trip abroad I am usually saddened by the mundanity of our country.  Houses are usually beige, white, blue, etc. Cars are single color tones of silver, tan, black, and maybe the occasional red or green.  But not in Nepal.

Hotel in Liwang, Rolpa District, Nepal

Houses were emblazon with bright colors of pink and purple.  Even in the most unlikely place of Rolpa, the epicenter of the Maoist uprising where the effects of the war can still be felt, there were beautiful brightly colored buildings.  It was from one of these buildings children threw purple flower petals down on us, a blessing.

Buses are marked with elaborate murals of Hindu gods and goddesses. Or funny sayings in English like “Kiss Me Goodbye” or “Miss You” or “Relax.” There horns are even colorful tooting songs that could give “La Cucaracha” a run for its money.

Tail light on our beloved bus

Craftsmanship and creativity are badges presented to the world. From the metal lining the luggage racks on our bus to the common shawls and hats worn by the Nepali, everything has a intricate design showcasing talent and individuality.  Even the most simple mud huts we saw had beautiful designs of flowers and elephants worked into the mud.

I wish more folks here in the US had the courage to paint their cars with tigers and snakes (although we do have the Trans-Am hood chicken). Or decorate their houses with intricate tile mosaics.

Bus in Rolpa