Patricia Lawrence review 4 May 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The scenery was overwhelming, giving the feeling of being on top of the world. The forested mountains seemed to go on forever. The highlight had to be the hike up to the Tiger's Nest, an amazing experience. My guide and driver were so solicitous, anxious to do anything to enhance my holiday, as were all the hotel staff, extremely courteous and happy. What a contrast to service in a UK hotel.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Try to get fit to adapt to the altitude. Take plenty of layers to cope with different temperatures travelling across the country. Take plenty of memory cards and spare camera batteries.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
It gave employment to the local people and the high tourist tax is hopefully funding health services and education as well as providing electricity to all areas. I was concerned about the amount of petrol being used for just one person but was assured that this was offset by the oxygen produced by all the trees.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Certainly the best I have ever had. The scenery was superb, it was really interesting to learn about the Buddhist culture and experience the effect this has on the Bhutan people. They were all charming and helpful.
Julie Puttgen review 15 Oct 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Climbing up to the Tiger's Nest on our last full day in Bhutan WAS pretty great - but I think my prize goes to seeing big pink orchids growing on the side of the road - and having the leisure to go photograph them, thanks to our wonderful driver.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Spend at least one week in Bhutan - you need time to get familiar with the way things work & to get to know people well. Don't be afraid of butter tea! It's quite delicious, and pink to boot.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I was very glad to see how well-treated and respected our guide and driver were - and felt hotel staff & shop-keepers enjoyed a high standard of working conditions. Definitely a better feeling about this than I have had in many other Asian countries. Also good to find out that Bhutan distributes tourism income equitably around the country. Cars a slightly less happy picture - ours was very comfortable, but I would love to see Bhutan get more hybrid vehicles to reduce fossil fuel use on long driving tours.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A truly memorable and problem-free trip to a wonderful part of the world!
