BHUTAN, DAY 1
Wild dogs in Bhutan. After initially going to the wrong airport I caught my flight and made it to Bhutan. Bhutan is another one of those countries with strict visa policies. You are required to sign up to a tour agency which costs around £250/day. It’s not a huge amount of money as all the living expenses are included but it makes it almost impossible to do on a real budget.
THIS GUY WAS PAINTING WITH HIS TOES!
As per usual with me I had a red eye and went via Singapore as there are only a few flights a week direct from Bangkok, I was blind tired when I arrived
WHERE IS BHUTAN?
I had the pleasure of having a guide and a driver for the full 3 days which explains the cost. For accommodation, a car, a driver and a guide I suppose $250 a day doesn’t seem so bad after all.
WATERING HOLE
TALK ABOUT ATTRACTIONS VISITED
BHUTAN….
- Bhutan is known locally as Druk Yul which translates to “Land of the Thunder Dragon.”
- In 2010, Bhutan banned production & sales of tobacco. It can be used in private but fines for use in public can be up to 2 months salary.
- Television and internet access was only established in 1999.
BHUTAN….
- The country has a mandatory dress code.
- The eldest daughter usually inherits her parents property rather than the eldest son.
- Men move into the home of his new wife until he can earn.
SIMPLY BHUTAN
Simply Bhutan is a museum featuring traditional cuisine, demonstrations and performances. It aims to preserve the famous culture and tradition that makes Bhutan so unique. I experienced everything from suja tea, folk and mask dances, hand made ornaments and a guy painting and carving with his toes! If you are into your craft or penises, yes penises, I would recommend a visit as they have these in abundance.
The level of archery on show here is also pretty special. Competitors stand at either end of a 100metre pitch taking it in turns to hit the target. On our way to the archery which is the most popular sport here in Bhutan we walked past the most unique nation football stadium I have seen! Take a look at the stands!
WILD DOGS
One thing I will remember are all the dogs. Wild dogs are everywhere in Asia and none more so than Bhutan. They are nicknamed solar dogs as they do nothing but lay in the sun all day before giving off all their energy at night. I didn’t wonder why the hotel gave me ear plugs but I knew sleeping wasn’t going to be a problem!
NEXT UP
The highlight of anyone’s trip to Bhutan, Tiger’s Nest. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
130/229
This post is part of the Central Asia Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
Question Time
- Have you been to Bhutan, what was your experience like?
- What is your favourite thing to do
- Did you like the locals?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
