Media and Communication
Shortwave radio reached all of Bhutan in 1991. It introduced the television in 1999 (the last country in the world to do so). Mobile services started in 2003, and both mobile and internet services are widely available now.The popularity of the mobile devices is evident everywhere. Children playing mobile games in the market; people reading messages, checking the news, weather or watching videos. According to the guide, WeChat app is more popular than WhatsApp.
Souvenir and Purchase
There are many souvenir shops in Paro as it is the final stop before the tourists leave the country.
There are good buys in the weekend market and supermarket as well :- Local honey, red rice, chili powder, dried peppercorn and lemongrass mosquito spray are just some of the local treats we found. Oh, and not forgetting the local woven market :)
Dogs
There are dogs everywhere! Mostly they seem content and happy lying around on the streets. According to the guide, they are not aggressive but to be careful if we intend to go out in the evening as they can become more territorial.The dogs are oblivious to the traffic and pedestrian..
"Had late night chat(howling). Let me sleep." ↓ (in Thimphu)
The dogs at the Tiger Nest look-out point.
"Resting before q-ing for their turn at the lookout?"
The dogs amongst the stalls in the weekend market.
"No worries, I have self-control."
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| Paro Weekend Market |
Final Note
The team
Our trip was enjoyable thanks to our competent guide and driver. Both were experienced, professional and friendly. The car was well-maintained and comfortable.Every morning, the driver, Sonam, washes the car and prepares bottled water in holders for us. While on the highway and in need of a toilet break, the driver stopped by a car repair shop cum cafe and requested the use of the toilets on our behalf. It was a pity that he had to take another assignment and was not able to send us to the airport. Thanks :)
The guide, Chentuo was well-versed with Bhutanese history and culture. Ever helpful, he arranged the evening hot-stone bath, Thimphu market visit (detour while on the way to Paro), bargained for better deals and always helped carry our additional baggage. Thanks :)
The staff at the Druk office was patient and helpful in arranging the flight, visa and tour. He assured that there will be someone to pick us from the airport to start our trip, and ending the tour at the airport departure area. We were given brochures, details of trip and a multi-power charger (we love it) as well. Thanks :)
Happiness
According to the guide, $65 out of the US$200 tourist dollar is used to provide free education and medical care for the locals.The water supply is free, except in the capital, Thimphu.
Not only did I enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds, I also gained a better understanding of the people, their culture and the challenges their country still face. What struck me most about their people was a sense of great respect for the natural environment and a keenly felt mutual respect for one another.
Will I be back? There is a possibility. :)
On the same trip
Bhutan : Thimphu
Bhutan : Punakha
Bhutan : Paro - Climbing the Tiger Nest
Bhutan : Paro, Hot Stone Bath, Weekend Market