This tiny Buddhist country is squeezed between China and India, at the base of the Himalayas and has only been open to tourists for about 20 years. It was the last country in the world to get television (back in 1999) and is the only one without traffic lights. You don’t need a reason to go to Bhutan, if you have the opportunity and cash then GO – you’re unlikely to meet anyone else that’s been! It’s the world’s last great travel destination as it has a pristine environment and a culture that’s remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Some important Bhutan titbits: 1. You are no one in Bhutan unless you have a giant penis painted on the outside of your house. The Bhutanese believe that the phallus does everything from ward off evil spirits to bringing fertility, (the rather life like wooden ones also make good souvenirs!)
2.You can’t have a kingdom without a king and Bhutan’s Jigme Singye Wangchuck is something of a national hero. Apart from looking like a movie star and having four wives (all sisters) – the king has declared that Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product. And it seems to be working – I can honestly say the whole country seems to always be in a good mood.
3. If you really want to taste Bhutan then grab a serve of Ema Datshi (chilli cheese). It’s literally large cut up bits of chilli – seeds included – fried up with cheese. The Bhutanese eat it as a part of every meal, even breakfast. I wouldn’t normally give Tobasco sauce a spot in my shopping trolley but the Ema Datshi in small doses keeps you warm (and regular).
Some important travel facts:1. Only one airline can get you there – Druk Air: Royal Bhutan Airlines. There’s only one airport in Bhutan and no matter which direction you come from the flight over the snow capped Himalayas is amazing.
2. You must be part of a tour group to enter Bhutan – no backpackers allowed! The daily cost for a visit to Bhutan starts at US$200/day, but that package price includes all accommodation and food plus a driver and guide. With all your needs taken care of the only extra daily costs are drinks (soft drinks and alcohol) and souvenirs. You can use US dollars and Indian Rupees everywhere or convert to local currency – the Ngultrum (1BTN = 28 AUD approx), I can’t remember excatly how much a can of coke cost, maybe like $1? So it’s not cheap as chips cheap but it’s not expensive.
3. Don’t worry about learning the local lingo (Dzongka) because English is the second language – but if you do want to utter a phrase then never say goodbye – instead try “Tashi Delek” – which roughly translated means “good luck”.
4. Dress respectfully at all times, no cleavage, no shoulders, no shorts or skirts above the knee – always wear long pants and sleeves when you go to a Dzong or a monastery. (Dzongs are elaborate buildings that have a dual purpose – for religion (monks) and for administration (the government)).