Our 30-year-long dream to visit the lovely Kingdom of Bhutan (a.k.a., the “Happiest Country in the World,” advocating for Gross National Happiness rather than GNP) finally came true! Our 7-day stay in Bhutan encompassed Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro in the western part of Bhutan, involving outdoor activities such as hiking and river rafting, but also visits to Bhutanese families, the local farmers’ market, archery tournaments (Bhutan’s national sport), the national museum, and many temples and fortresses. Each day our guides arranged safe travel, delicious gourmet food, and accommodations that were both attractive and comfortable. The explanations of Bhutan’s culture were always thoughtful and insightful. The highlight of our adventure was a pilgrimage through the snow to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery. We immensely appreciated the opportunity to deepen our understanding of why this small but beautiful Himalayan country and its people are called the happiest country/people in the world. Thank you, Pema, Sonam and their super Bhutan Walkers & Leisures TEAM.
Best wishes Mr. Kurt Tong, U.S. Consulate General to Hongkong and Macau