Bhutan has been on my short-list for a while. It's been tough to swing it back to Asia since we've been in Africa and need to get as much as we can out of this continent while where are here, but someday...And you've certainly helped keep it fresh and inviting and in mind until I get the chance. Thanks for writing.
What an opportunity to take part in these ceremonies! Tibetan Buddhism, which includes the schools practiced in Bhutan, has a particular atmosphere that I've never seen anywhere else. There is a sense of peace to it that would serve well elsewhere in the world.
Yes, we were so incredibly fortunate to have these experiences! I learned so much about myself while I was there and am eternally grateful. And as you say, we could all benefit from more of Bhutan's peacefulness.
Great piece Erin, a place that has always intrigued me. The country seems largely to have escaped much of the worlds darker energies and toxicity but I wonder did you get a sense of that or see evidence of that playing out among the people? Do you feel kind of different or separated from the chaos there, like a kind cultural oasis? Is it expensive and easy to get around? Can you go there solo? Lots of questions, sorry 😁
Bhutan is expensive. The government has a "low volume, high quality" tourist philosophy, so less than 50,000 visitors a year.
Part of the expense is a $100/day tourism fee, so for my 11-day trip it was $1,100. Also, flights are expensive because so few fly there, about $1k RT from Bangkok. So before you even spend anything in-country, you're dropping a pretty penny.
That said, the $100/day is discounted from $250/day, and the price is supposed to go back up in late 2027 -- so better to go sooner than later.
You also need a local guide to visit any of the monestaries, parks, museums. Most people only go for 4-5 days.
It is a cultural oasis. For instance, there are no stop lights in the entire country. And cell phones were only let in about 5-10 years ago.
It is, however, in flux and about to experience big change. I'm writing about it's vision for the future and how it's undergoing transformation in next week's post. Stay tuned!
Bhutan has been on my short-list for a while. It's been tough to swing it back to Asia since we've been in Africa and need to get as much as we can out of this continent while where are here, but someday...And you've certainly helped keep it fresh and inviting and in mind until I get the chance. Thanks for writing.
You are welcome, Nick! My desire to go to Bhutan pulled me back to Asia after nearly a decade.
Now I'm enjoying exploring new spots in Thailand and Indonesia. And maybe-possibly planning another trip to Bhutan! 🤫
What an opportunity to take part in these ceremonies! Tibetan Buddhism, which includes the schools practiced in Bhutan, has a particular atmosphere that I've never seen anywhere else. There is a sense of peace to it that would serve well elsewhere in the world.
Yes, we were so incredibly fortunate to have these experiences! I learned so much about myself while I was there and am eternally grateful. And as you say, we could all benefit from more of Bhutan's peacefulness.
So interesting Erin, it was lovely that you got to experience the ceremonies. So peaceful.
I'm a 🐓 rooster. And the traits are super accurate. 🤣
Nice! What are your rooster characteristics?
As a goat, supposedly I'm "gentle, compassionate, creative, and nurturing." Mostly, I'd say. But definitely a fire / red with lots of energy! 💃
Efficient, capable, smart, ambitious, competive, punctual to name a few.
And this: Roosters are complex people who seem strong but, deep down, need validation from loved ones.
Sounds spot on! Good thing you have your emotional support teddy. 💕
Yes! He's here for me. As is Seamus for the next while - to him I hung the moon.
Great piece Erin, a place that has always intrigued me. The country seems largely to have escaped much of the worlds darker energies and toxicity but I wonder did you get a sense of that or see evidence of that playing out among the people? Do you feel kind of different or separated from the chaos there, like a kind cultural oasis? Is it expensive and easy to get around? Can you go there solo? Lots of questions, sorry 😁
Happy that you enjoyed the piece, JJ!
Bhutan is expensive. The government has a "low volume, high quality" tourist philosophy, so less than 50,000 visitors a year.
Part of the expense is a $100/day tourism fee, so for my 11-day trip it was $1,100. Also, flights are expensive because so few fly there, about $1k RT from Bangkok. So before you even spend anything in-country, you're dropping a pretty penny.
That said, the $100/day is discounted from $250/day, and the price is supposed to go back up in late 2027 -- so better to go sooner than later.
You also need a local guide to visit any of the monestaries, parks, museums. Most people only go for 4-5 days.
It is a cultural oasis. For instance, there are no stop lights in the entire country. And cell phones were only let in about 5-10 years ago.
It is, however, in flux and about to experience big change. I'm writing about it's vision for the future and how it's undergoing transformation in next week's post. Stay tuned!
Looking forward to it Erin