For many of us, the best travel experiences involve exploring a different culture, meeting new people, and having unique stories to tell about our personal encounters. We like to ‘get up close’. But we must recognise that in countries with
Travel Tales of Bhutan: a tribute
It was a tragic event for Bhutan when, in 2013, fire destroyed the Wangduephodrang Dzong, a fortified monastery built in 1638. The King walked sadly among smouldering ruins where salvage operations had managed to save many historic treasures and holy relics.
Travel Tales of Bhutan: the Colour of Happiness
Bhutan is no Shangri-La, but it seems to have a better grasp of happiness than the rest of the world. So what does colour have to do with it? The first thing you notice when you arrive in Bhutan is that colour
Travel Tales of Bhutan: Love the Boots!
Could you walk past these boots? Shopping in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, I could not resist them. It wasn’t my fault. I was egged on by the approving smiles and nods of local men and women in the shop. When the
Travel Tales of Mogpog 3: Behind the Mask
What lies behind the masks of Mogpog? It was me behind this one; carved for me to wear as a penance during Moryonan – the Easter week re-enactment of the Longinus legend. If you have been following these tales, you