‘There was a wonderful sense of calm and happiness everywhere we visited’

Was there anything that surprised you about Bhutan?

Julie: The fact that happiness is taught in schools and the ‘mindfulness’ culture. Bhutan is the only carbon negative country in the world and it was a revelation to see its ‘low-impact, high-experience’ view on tourists. We learnt so much about their way of life from our guides and there was a wonderful sense of calm and happiness everywhere we visited.

John: A bizarre surprise was the complete lack of international brands so no big supermarket chains, fast food outlets or coffee shops. I wasn’t surprised by the scenery, culture, food, quality of accommodation or the people as I had high expectations which were easily met. 

Where did you stay?

John: Six Senses really were outstanding and I would highly recommend. In particular the elevated spectacular locations were a delight.

Andy Hollins: The Six Senses in Punakha was my favourite. I thought the lodge area around the pool was stunning, the rooms were beautiful and the food was outstanding. It was great to spend some time with the GM, Andrew and his wife Jo, they are a lovely couple who really know and understand their hotels and the country of Bhutan. The view that last morning over the pool to the Himalayas in the background was breathtaking – it was the whole setting that made this the stand-out place.

The Six Senses in Thimphu is absolutely beautiful. It was so lovely to just sit on the balcony and relax whilst looking at those amazing views. It is the perfect place to just relax and unwind after the long journey to get to Bhutan. 

Julie: I would also promote the more rural, rustic guest houses on some walking trips, focusing on the villages, hills and valleys.

Which type of clients would you recommend visit Bhutan?

Julie: Adventurous people who enjoy both culture and visiting unusual destinations, combined with walking and trekking. It’s ideal for lovers of natural history, spas, meditation and happiness.

John: I would highly recommend for travellers rather than tourists who want to tick boxes of places to visit. For anyone who is well travelled, used to high quality and looking for somewhere new then Bhutan is the perfect destination. It is reassuringly expensive!

How was the weather? Any packing tips?

Julie: Warmer than we had all expected – I packed far too much! You really just need layers – depending on where you are in altitude and time of year.

John: The weather was excellent and it was pleasantly warm without being too hot. Six Senses offer complimentary laundry service so overpacking not required – pack layers and good walking shoes or boots.

What were your highlights? 

John: The problem with highlights is that they can detract from everything else and Bhutan is a joy throughout. But if I have to give one, then Tiger’s Nest was arguably the highlight as it was a great sense of achievement to get there and back. Breakfast with the young monks at the monastery was also a very rewarding experience. 

Andy: We had some amazing experiences in Paro, but nothing could top the hike up the Tiger’s Nest! This was an amazing experience as well as an incredible feat of endurance on our behalf. If you travel to Bhutan and even think you could possibly do this, you simply must try. The effort required is immense, but the rewards of getting there and the sense of achievement at having done so far outweigh the effort. 

How have you maximised your experience in Bhutan?

Julie: I’ve spoken to several of my regulars who are interested in future trips to Bhutan and I wrote a detailed travel blog which was sent as a newsletter and shared multiple posts on social media (both during the trip and since). I also added two itineraries for Bhutan to my website.

John: I have already confirmed a booking with two or three more in the pipeline. It’s a big advantage knowing first-hand what the destination is like. I have total confidence that all my clients will return invigorated and enriched by such a great destination. The only problem is trying to find other places which deliver the same!