Enticing India - Life inside the Palaces- Forts

Journalism isn't only about writing, I hope you like the latest video I have put together on one of my popular destinations - India

Crowdfunding Teaser for TRAVIALIST SWITZERLAND

 WOW this is great short and sweet but love the effects

THE HARAJUKU FESTIVAL JAPAN

              

The grey clouds drift back and forth with the threat of more snow. People bustle about through the ancient gingko trees adorned with the lingering snow.  Tiny buds struggle free from the constant chill in search of warmth that the changing seasons bring. The distant pulsing of drums draws attention to the gates of the Meiji Jingu Park as crowds wait in anticipation of the biggest drum we have ever seen.

The scene is one of laughter and celebration for the National Foundation Day Festival on February 11 marking the accession of Jimmu the first Emperor of Japan to the throne in 660BC.

Japans Festivals or Matsuri, number in the hundreds each year but originally one of the four largest Festivals, National Foundation Day was abandoned after World War II but re-established in 1966.

But there are more exhilarating things to behold as we walk further into the Japanese crafted tree lined  gardens. The main gates to the park open with a walkway of melting snow and rows of Sake Barrels. To one side three rows of barrels made of the Yoshino Sugi wood – give off a hint of cedar while larger barrels a little further on are wrapped in rope tied rice paper featuring various Japanese language symbols. As locals bustle by chatting rapidly and laughing like giddy school girls, it is a delight to be swept up in the atmosphere of their National Day holiday.

 

One of the most spontaneous events that one can witness in Japan is a procession of Shinto Priests but it is very much right time right place. Today the gods smiled on us as approaching on our left in a perfectly spaced procession are the very priests that we have longed to encounter. 

My heart races as the Shinto priests approach my position in the garden. Dressed in the joe- pure cloth- made of cream linen, a peaked cap – tate eboshi- and ballooning trousers, they glide in uniformity like birds sweeping along behind their leader. Their feet are wrapped in traditional two toed white socks that have been wedged into sandals. Made of a flat piece of wood on two slats, they are designed to keep the Yukata or Kimono from touching the ground. A black cover is added during the wet seasons.

An armed guard prevents onlookers from getting too close as the sweep by. Some managed a quick smile for the onlookers while the younger ones seemed more focused on getting the steps right.

This is in stark contrast to what lies outside the walls of the park. Modern Japan looms all around with shopping malls decorated with pop dolls and brightly coloured neon signs. It is such a mix of old and new, tradition and progress. Out in the narrow streets more drums sound out the call of celebration. A parade of artisans begins the slow march to the gates of the park in readiness for the evenings festivities.

The Omikoshi carriers are a blend of traditional colours with others respendant in bright and colourful dress. 

Entering the Temple surrounds we are thrilled to find a wedding about to take place. It is said that Japanese marry in the Shinto faith and are cremated in the Buddhist faith. The Shinto religion considered to be the oldest in Japan is as revered today as it was at its inception in 660 BC. There is no leader, no book, and no direct concept of religion- just a belief in harmony with nature and “Magokoro” a sincere heart. As the wedding procession is shielded by umbrellas to protect the bride from the drizzling rain, we move to a better vantage point. Suddenly the procession of priests enters from a shielded building to preside over the ceremony so we feel they are not the only ones to be blessed.

A comedy involving a Japanese couple and a camera begins to unfold around us as we become bemused by their gestures and antics. My brother it seems has been mistaken for Sean Connery. With much bowing and smiling, he is the most photographed person in the park at that moment. Were they not aware of the wedding that was taking place?

As local school bands each uniquely clothed in group colours begin to enter the park, we press ourselves against the roads edge believing the procession to be at an end. The children seem to delight in the celebrations even with the temperature sitting at just 4 degrees. The drums- they are still pounding- follow the drums. For all of our excitement the Festival has not yet begun.

Back at the entrance to the park, Omikoshi – portable shines- are still gathering. Women and men alike are taking turns to carry the heavy wooden structures to the bridge and over into the archway of the Meiji Jingu Park. It is hard to say just what was the highlight of the visit -the drum to beat all drums - the parade of the Shinto priests - or witnessing a traditional Japanese wedding. When all is laid out it is evident that all of the events have created incredible memories of a day out of the city. 

ENTICING BHUTAN

Passion and Palaces of India

Perfect Holidays at the Taj

NEPAL AND TIBET-TOUCH THE TOP OF THE WORLD AND THE FRIENDSHIP HIGHWAY

     

 The shops have them everywhere, printed T-shirts that have the slogan 'I survived the Friendship Highway”. Several times I commented, 'I wonder what that is referring to. It didn't occure to me to ask our Tibetan driver the meaning of the slogan thinking instead that it must be some kind of joke. I quickly found out the joke was on me.

But I will rewind to how we ended up on this 'enlightened' highway. Landing at Kathmandu in the swealtering heat was as we expected - buzzing with people all clustered like bees in a hive waiting to take people to the city. 'Taxi mam - taxi sir' . Thankfully we were in a group with transport to Thamel pre-arranged.  

We spent 3 days in Kathmandu to acclimatize before our next flight into Lhasa Tibet. As we passed over Mt Everest I became aware of a tingling sensation in my fingers and toes, my colleagues seemed unfazed by this so I realised that this was my introduction to altitude. It excited me to be presented with the white silk scarf (Khata) representing greetings well wishes and gratitude. This is a sign that you are in a buddhist country and are welcomed in a most honourable way.

POTALA PALACE

      Tibet is a country of many faces not the least of which is presented in the shape of snow covered peaks and glaciers. Here the stark contrast of the treeless ranges is never more evident. as we depart the capital Lhasa we find ourselves driving through arid landscapes on gentler climbs to Base Camp at Mt Everest. It is easy to believe that all of the terrain will be of a similar nature as we cross gently flowing streams trickling milky white water- the result of melting snow running over limestone. The “trek” into Chomolungma National Park is a gradual one as we stop to picnic alongside smaller streams of ice cold water amidst lush green pastures. The story of Tibet is for another time but suffice to say it remains one of the highlights of my life to date.
     
As we depart  Mount Everest for our journey towards Nepal we become aware of subtle changes in the terrain . Our introduction to the Tibetan landscape has been slow and gentle so it is reasonable to think that the return journey would be similar. We were surprised when the landscape changed so rapidly and quite dramatically.

      The last town before the border crossing ZHANGMU or DRAM (known by two names) comes as quite a shock. Our hotel is referred to as “simple” but pleasant with brilliant views. As we enter our twin room, my first thought is to seek out the amazing view. As I pull back the curtain I become aware of movement in the wall - which isn’t surprising as most of the lining under the window is missing. I believe this is so that the mice have free entry to come and go as they please – which they did. That night I feel movement on my bed clothes and know without a doubt it is one of the little visitors checking out the new travellers. The next morning reveals a mist that has enveloped the mountain to obscure the view of the valley below like a shroud over the landscape to hide what should not be seen.

THE FRIENDSHIP HIGHWAY

       A surprisingly hearty breakfast is prepared but it is with some disappointment that we are now ushered out quickly to join our drivers for the final leg of our descent into the unknown. It does not take long to realise that the road is not built for two way traffic. Champa - our Tour leader, tells us that we are “breaking the rules” by travelling down through the valley at the wrong time of day. The government has placed a “curfew” on vehicles going up and down. This means one way traffic only and we are outside the curfew hours for – going down. He surreptitiously tells us that if we are lucky the guard will still be asleep at his post or better still in the lavatory so we can sneak through. Luck is on our side today, the guard is nowhere to be seen. With hurdle number one dispensed with, all that remains now is a pleasant trip through lovely scenery with a spattering of cascading waterfalls and lots of lush growth along the way. I may not have taken into account the sheer drop on one side. The road is so narrow that if another vehicle or worse a truck did by chance come in the opposite direction, we are going to be in serious trouble. How could we possibly reverse back up a mountain as steep as this?

     
      We are extremely happy to reach what we are advised is the halfway point. Having only encountered a few smaller vehicles which squeeze past by pressing themselves against the mountainside, we stop at a wider section of road for nature calls. I am  reflecting at the strength of the women of the villages who cart rocks on their lower backs to help stabilize landslides. Small in stature but strong in will, this is how I will always remember them. They look up and smile as we pass - or was it a grimace, yes maybe the latter is more the case.

      We are all grinning like Cheshire cats as the steep decent seems to be a little less threatening and we begin to- level out. The mist has lifted to reveal monkeys running through the brush which seems to be as wild as those who inhabit it. The flatter country is short lived as we take to our vehicles for more exhilarating and bumpy downhill adventure. It pays to think of the scenery and not look down. The journey we are on will change in the future, that is evident by all of the hard work we see along the way. We are informed that transport trucks which swap in Kodari on the Nepalese border will be the ones mostly to use this road after a new one has been built by the Chinese Government. There is now a rail link from Lhasa to Zhangmu making life a little safer for tourists. As much as this is a positive outcome, there is something to be said about the adventurous nature of what we are doing. For all of the nervous moments travelling the Friendship Highway, there is nothing quite like it for excitement.

      
       I am amazed at how rapidly the road has deteriorated as we near the check point on the Nepalese border.
The buildings go from moderately built and clean to almost shanty style in construction. The contrast is confronting. The roadside stalls are dilapidated and ramshackle in comparison to Tibet’s simple yet solid constructions. The road is rough and unkempt, the customs office – loosely described- is hot and very disorganised. As we sadly say goodbye to our Tibetan guides, it is time to begin the drive by bus back to Kathmandu. A few more memories to make before our return to the Western world.

                                                      www.enticingbhutan.com

INDIA EVER A CELEBRATION OF LIFE - RAJASTHAN

INDIA and the magical Golden Triangle – a classic and unforgettable introduction to the Northern State of Rajasthan. Delhi the capital of India presents a vast panorama of fascinating images. It is a city where forts, tombs and magnificent ruins share the skyline with high-rise buildings. I know for many they have a preconceived idea of Delhi as being big smoggy and containing all too many people. While some of this is true there is another side to this metropolitan city that is incredibly exotic. For centuries it has attracted rulers, invaders poets, painters from around the world and to this day is a business hub that sees many empires rise and fall.

AMER FORT 

 It was at the famous Red Fort that the Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the flag that signified the end of British rule in 1947. Today some of the most exquisite luxury hotels can be found here. The Red Fort is one of the most visited places in Delhi along with the Qutab Minar tower of victory built in 1193. There are five distinct stories – the first three are made of red sandstone – the fourth and fifth of marble and sandstone. The first mosque built in India lies at the base. Many with relatives who fought in India visit the INDIA GATE, built to commemorate the 70,000 Indian soldiers killed during World War I. It is not unlike the Arc De Triomphe in Paris. The Akshardham in New Delhi epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture. It is one of the most breathtaking structures which showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture.

TAJ MAHAL

BHARATPUR

AGRA- the ancient city came to light during the Mughal (Mongal) reign. Made famous by the iconic TAJ MAHAL one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it is situated approximately 200 kilometres from Delhi. One of the most exquisite marble tombs Itmad-Ud-Daulah was built from 1622 to 1628 by Queen Nurjahan in memory of her father and is entirely made of white marble then inlaid with semi-precious stones. There is a strong Persian influence in the design. Agra Fort built by the Emperor Akbah precedes the Taj Mahal by nearly a century. It is a magnificent structure in its own right with fascinating outer buildings such as the Jahangir Mahal – built for women and the Moti Masijid Mosque. A wonderful time to be in Agra is during a festival and one such – the Taj Mahotsav is held in February for 10 days. This is where you will see classical dance, an incredibly colourful display of arts and crafts and the most sumptuous Indian cuisine.

BAZAARS OF JAIPUR

JAIPUR – it conjures up a romantic notion in the name alone. Known as the ‘Pink City’ it is the Holy Grail of Indian Tourism. The Palace of the Winds, Hawa Mahal and the City Palace will all keep you busy marvelling at the artistic pallet that creates Jaipurs age old charm. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is comparatively young, less than 3 centuries old. At 260 kilometres from Delhi, Jaipur completes the Golden Triangle. The stunning backdrop of Amber Fort built in 1592 is a reminder of the lingering romance and chivalry that made the city what it is today. The inner paradise is a fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles. Hawa Mahal – also known as the Palace of the Winds – is a five story – 593 latticed stone windowed pink sandstone landmark. Built in 1799 featuring 953 niches and windows, it was a royal grandstand for the palace women.

HAWA MAHAL - PALACE OF THE WINDS
www.enticingbhutan.com

BHUTAN LAND OF THE THUNDER DRAGON

KURJEY FESTIVAL JAKAR BUMTHANG

A quote I read while on my recent visit to Bhutan stated that ‘ Bhutan has always held a sense of mystery and mystique for those who know where they are’. For those interested in the Asian destinations they will be aware that the small land locked country is situated at the edge of the Eastern Himalaya Mountains on the border between India to the north and Tibet (China) to the South. Also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon – Bhutan is regarded as one of the most exclusive travel destinations in the world. The Royal Government adheres strongly to its policy of high value and low volume tourism.

It is due to this philosophy that the traveller will find Bhutan one of the most laid back places you could ever wish to visit. The first thing that you glimpse upon the decent into the airport at PARO, is the steepness of the heavily treed mountain ranges. Considered to be the fourth on a list of the most difficult runways in the world, it is easy to see why accuracy is essential. We were extremely fortunate though to meet Bhutans first woman pilot.

The country is the only fully organic society in the world so it seems that they have many ‘firsts’ including striving for ecological sustainability. The recommended forest coverage stands at 60% but Bhutan has reached a coverage of 72%. Ultimately the air is amongst the purest in the world.

Our journey begins in the capital Thimphu.  We arrive at week 2 of an auspicious festival at Buddha Point. Here hundreds of Buddhist followers gather to hear the recital of the life of the great Buddha. Ominously we arrive just as the rain passes leaving a strong rainbow that seems to engulf the monks and followers making the moment one of serenity and purpose. It certainly gave us all a moment to pause and reflect on the introduction to this magical land.

From Thimphu we journeyed north to Punakha. As we wind our way through the pines and wandering rivers we feel blessed to be on such an awe inspiring journey. As we glance across the valley with the sun slowly setting –we glimpse the temple of the Divine Madman. There is much mythology surrounding Chimmi Lhakhang  - the fertility temple. They even have a book filled with photos of those who visited for a blessing to become pregnant and as a result have sent pictures of their success. One of our travelling party received the blessing so I will keep you posted on the outcome.

DOCHULA PASS

The Punakha Dzong also known as Pungtang Dewa chhenbi Phodrang, is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Bhutan. Here we try our hand a rafting through the ‘female ‘ river which is considered to be the gentler of the two converging rivers – the other being the male river – of course. A visit to the ‘Fort’ in Punakha should not be missed.

For this tour I chose a farm stay to enhance my fellow travellers experience. Here in Phobjikha Valley which can only be described as heaven transcending, one night is without a doubt and experience like no other- just be prepared for a day without a shower. Living with a local allowed us to get a true feeling in the day to day life of a Bhutanese farmer. The endangered black neck crane said to be heavenly emissaries or avatars of long lost ancestors comes here to nest. In a scooped out mountain top one can see the nests perched as if defying anyone to invade their territory. 

PUNAKHA DZONG

Paro is the resting place for those attempting to climb to the famous TIGERS NEST or Taktshang Goemba. Precariously perched in the side of a cliff, it is a challenge to complete the 14 kilometre hike to the monastery. It is however one of the most rewarding journeys we have ever made – with one exception – that of Base Camp at Mt Everest.

I could tell you so much more about the incredible journey but the best way to experience Bhutan is with me on one of my tours with ENTICING BHUTAN. The next tour will be June 2018.

www.enticingbhutan.com              TIGERS NEST

Best time to visit: March to May for the cooler months and June to August for the hot summer months. enticingbhutan.com has many great journeys to Bhutan.

DUBLIN TO ICELAND ON WINDSTAR LEGEND

My first cruise on Windstar was such a great introduction to the company that it left me with a desire to do it all again. So here we are, 4 excited travellers boarding the Star Legend for an 18 day journey from Dublin to Iceland circumnavigating Iceland before our time draws to an end.

Our first day is one spent at sea which enables us to scout the ship for all the great things on offer. As more mature travellers we were not looking for the dazzling shows or the slippery slides and as with all small ships it is more about the feeling of homeliness that we seek. Our suite is large as all are on the vessel, a large sitting room and a sizeable bathroom. The Juliet balcony was a nice touch but with temperatures not terribly high the sliding doors are not a necessity. As I always espouse, you are on deck more than in your cabin. As it will turn out to be I am proved right yet again when it comes to the higher you go on decks the rougher it becomes in a huge sea.

I think I need not mention the meals in great detail as everyone knows it is sumptuous food and far too much of it. Eat your way to your next destination. How to describe this journey is best done on a day by day basis so let's see where we end up.

Our first day has us docking at Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands at the northern most tip of Scotland. Someone forgot to tell them it is summer. Coats scarves and hats in hand we are on a bus which transports us back to a time when Neolithic man walked the earth. Skara Brae – the 5000 year old village was only revealed 150 years ago during a sand storm. Beneath the earth stone houses were revealed giving an in depth view of how man dwelt and existed. The wind is blowing right off the Atlantic and right under my coat. On the grounds of Skara Brae we find Skaill House built in 1620 by the Bishop of Orkney. With low ceilings and small rooms it is still a pleasure to come in out of the cold. An original dinner set belonging to Captain Cook adorns the main dining room. Queen Elizabeth the first visited in her younger days and this has been captured in photos lining the coffee table in the centre of the main sitting room. Canopy beds on the upper levels show the décor of the 1950’s period with the pink and grey (flamingo colours) bathroom centre position. Fascinating and a must see. Our next attraction is the Ring of Brodgar a ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years. The monolithic stones have been buried deep in the ground and protrude upwards marking the site. It is not known exactly their purpose but the site at Stenness is 3 times that of site in the UK.
Into the city and we find the 12th century St Magnus Cathedral built by the Vikings during their 700 year rule. The ruins of the Bishops Palace across the road diming in the clouded light complete our first land excursion.

Day 3 and we are back at sea on our way to Norway. So far the sea has been kind.

Day 4 and here we are in sunny and quite warm Bergen Norway. How lovely it is to see the sun after a week and a half of grey skies – oh yes did I say this is summer.
Bergen was established as far back as 1070AD- yes it really is that old. The surrounding fjords of Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord are famous in the region. The old part of the wharf district known as Bryggen is where the Hanseatic traders lived. The resulting houses on the main street are referred to as the Hanseatic District. We now board the Funicular for the mountain climb to Mt Floyen 320 metres above sea level. Here we play with the mountain goats and listen to their ‘purring’ as we stroke behind their ears. A better view of Bergen cannot be found, just superb. Short sleeves no doubt will be short lived.

Day 5 and still in Norway we now find ourselves in Alesund pronounced Olesund. We have decided that the Hop on Hop bus will suit our needs for this destination. We are heading along the coast to   Mt Aksla where there are remnants of the WWII bunkers set into the rock. As predicted the weather has turned to rain and wind, the 3 days of summer are over. Having viewed the city from on high it is back on the bus and on to our last – and warm – spot, the Atlantic Sea Park, the largest saltwater aquarium in northern Europe. I really like Alesund and would love it even better if we had a lovely sunny day like Bergen. This Art Nouveau town has been voted the most beautiful in Norway and I can see why.

Day 6 and we awaken to an exquisite site, what we expected from Norway as we enter the Geiranger Fjord in style. Cruising slowly to enable photos of the majestic snow capped mountains – we pass the 7 Sisters waterfall and catch a glimpse of the Troll road with 11 hairpin bends. The weather is in the gloomy side yet nothing can dampen our awe at this spectacle. We must dock this morning as the small harbour is not quite deep enough even for our small sailing yacht. The wharf I suspect is also not big enough even for a small ship. We are a group of 6 today with Sheryl and Bob from Florida joining us in the hire of a taxi. It is of course Sunday so nothing is really open as in Hop on Hop off buses. We head up and the further we travel the more majestic the scenery. The UNESCO site has inspired many royals from many nations to make the journey here. The Ornesvingen or Eagles Road is full of twists and turns that reveal a truly spectacular crystal lake - Djupvatn. The summit Mount Dalsnibba sits at 5000 feet above sea level providing the most exquisite view with enough time for a play in the snow. We can see our yacht from Flydalsjuvet view point. Time for a little bit of shopping and wi fi before our return to the ship.

Next stop Molde Norway . The Romsdals Alps create the backdrop to this moderate size city. Sadly it is raining yet again so we opt for another taxi to show us the sites. It is considerable cheaper than the ships shore tours. Nicknamed the town of roses, Molde has a fjord full of salmon, sea trout, cod, mackerel pollock and sea char. It is also popular for rock and ice climbing – not for us today. We visit the little fishing village of Bud (built in 1717) after an invigorating walk along the Atlantic Way. In 1989 a Norwegian engineer constructed a road linking all of the islets. A beautiful scenic drive is completed with the drive to Mount Varden but as the rains increases we are content to return to the town for a little bit of shopping before we head back to the ship. A short interview with a local paper and photos of each of us completes are Molde visit.

Wednesday and day 8 is again at sea – not so smooth sailing but manageable.

TORSHAVN FAROE ISLANDS – oh how I have waited for this. Torshavn is known worldwide for the grass roofs that adorn the homes in and around the city. The 17^th century buildings are in some ways considered quite young. Yet again we are hiring a taxi with a lovely lady named Fare (pronounced fear). Vestmanna village, Streymoy Island, Vagar, the tunnel to Gasadalur  - Vagars remotest village are all within easy reach so provide brilliant photo opportunities. Back in the town we have enough time for more wi fi and a walk around the streets. This city was always going to be a highlight to me as it was a bucket list item that I have very gratefully ticked off the list.

Day 10 – the start of a not so pleasant sea crossing on our way to Iceland. Up to 4 metre swells made our day not so great. No more could be done than staying in our cabin on the bed to cushion the impact of the rolling and pitching, please bring this to an end quickly.

Day 11 has finally arrived and we have docked In Reykjavik Iceland. There are many things that are quite a drive from the city so after arranging a car through the tourist centre, we set off to find the Secret Lagoon for a swim in the hot springs. The Lagoon is the oldest swimming hole in Iceland. Gullfoss waterfall is our priority at this point. The ‘Golden Falls’ as part of the Hvita River are simply magnificent and make up part of the Golden Triangle. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. We come across by luck rather than by design the Geysir Park, a not so spectacular spouter that goes off every 20 minutes. Running late for the ship we scuttle back on board for our next instalment 7 days circumnavigating Iceland. 

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN BHUTAN- HAPPINESS IS A PLACE AND THE LAND OF PROMISE

www.enticingbhutan.com.au

www.enticingbhutan.com

Recently I was presented with a book with the title Green Mandala which asks a rhetorical question - What makes Bhutan and environmental paradise. The tiny landlocked kingdom (38,390 sq kms) that lies on the borders of India, China (Tibet) and Nepal in the Eastern Himalayas could be perceived from an outside perspective to not have a lot to offer. I am reminded at this point of an old cliche' saying that great things come in small packages and this is the Land of the Thunderdragon often referred to as the Land of Happiness. In fact there is a government department known as GNH - the official Gross National Happiness initiative. In 2016 the population was around 798,000 and with a GDP of $2.237 billion US I believe that they are managing to show the world that they are doing quite well.

For a country that only entered the world stage in 1974 one is quickly reminded of the importance that isolation played in preserving the many Dzongs and Temples across the vividly green landscape and high rolling hills of the small Himalayan nation. The Buddhist influenced culture is sometimes likened to Shangri La as noted in the Lost Horizon. However some have forgotten that the elusive mountain retreat was in Tibet. There are many wonderful similarities though that can be seen as you travel across the Dochula Pass – mostly when it is snow covered.

I would like to quote from my treasured book something written by His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck the Fourth King of Bhutan. His opening remarks brilliantly describe the ethos of his people, ' Throughout the centuries, the Bhutanese people have treasured their natural environment and have looked upon it as the source of life. This traditional reverence for nature has delivered us into the twentieth century with our environment still richly in tact.We wish to continue to live in harmony with nature and to pass this rich heritage to our future generations'.

The constitution of the Kingdom states ' Every Bhutanese is a trustee of the Kingdom's natural resources and environment for the benefit of the present and future generations and it is a fundamental duty of every citizen to contribute to the protection of the natural environment, conservation of the rich bio-diversity of Bhutan. To preserve the nation against all forms of ecological degradation including noise, visual and physical pollution through friendly practices is the responsibility of all.

So where does this wonderfully pragmatic belief come from. Being predominately Buddhist the people believe that all beings are part of their own life and that sustainability is essential to daily accomplishments. The philosophy that we cannot go on exploiting our planet to the detriment of future generations is very strong in Bhutan.

Today the Land of the Thunderdragon is the world's only carbon 'sink'. It absorbs more CO2 than it gives out. More than 75% of the country is covered in rich forests and with the cleanest air to be enjoyed it is no wonder that more and more tourists are now familiar with Bhutan and we here less and less the comment - where and what. Apart from the 900 species of butterfly 300 species of medicinal plants and 369 different orchids, there are over 5000 astonishing plants - all growing on the hillsides and the many valleys in harmony with the landscape.

But to me one of the most important facts and one to close on is the unprecedented sharing of habitat between tigers, leopard and snow leopards in an unbroken landscape of 20,000 sq km. Conservationist hope that one day Bhutan could become a 'nursery' for species that are facing extinction - something that the now King His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Fifth King of Bhutan will see to that the legacy continues.

Taj Safaris - Experience the Unparalleled Beauty of the Jungles of India