Category Archives: Travel & Health

(Continued) We spent our first night at the Zhiwa Ling hotel, which is an entirely Bhutanese-owned and managed five-star property and quite unique in its style. The name means “place of peace,“ which is fitting. Every part of the hotel […] Read more »

(Continued) During our three-day stay in Punakha, we had plenty of opportunities to visit the massive dzong, explore the lovely valley and attend the famed Wangdiphodrang festival, which was not as grand but every bit as colorful as the one […] Read more »

(Continued) Photography is not allowed inside temples and shrines. Other than that, taking still photos is usually not a problem, but the use of video cameras may be prohibited or require special permits in some locations. Bring all your equipment […] Read more »

(Continued) Health and safety issues The food and drink served at hotels, resorts and restaurants is generally safe. Although, according to the government, 80% of the Bhutanese people have access to clean drinking water, I would still recommend using only […] Read more »

Bhutan has a rich tradition of ritual dances, which are performed at the many festivals, or tshechus, that take place in every part of the country. Usually, tshechus are celebrated in the courtyards of dzongs and monasteries. They are both […] Read more »

Nepal is a must-see destination for visitors of the Himalayas. Wedged between China and India, Nepal is geographically one of the most amazing places on earth. Eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, including Mount Everest, and altogether more than 240 […] Read more »

(Continued) Our final destination for the next few days was the Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, a comfortable boutique resort, situated on a hilltop ridge, about half an hour’s drive outside Pokhara proper. We chose this place mostly for the panoramic views […] Read more »

(Continued) Health and safety issues The cities are densely populated and, unfortunately, quite polluted. Air quality can be poor and tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water only, including for brushing your teeth. Make sure the seal […] Read more »

A place of mystery and wonder India has long been on my list of must-see destinations. There is no such thing as a short visit to India. To explore this vast sub-continent, one needs plenty of time. There is not […] Read more »