I doubt there is anyplace in the world I could go that has more friendly people. Scenery is breathtaking, political and educational systems so very interesting and admirable. Leader and driver excellent and safe.

I have been on this program twice, it is marveleous for the person who can climb many stairs, hills and will sit on a bus for many hours, looking at the wonderful views. In over 50 pro- grams I have never had such a well done program. The sponsor and the main guide Phuntsho Norbu does everything possible to meet everyones needs and desires including spontaneous activities.

Go to Bhutan and experience heights: of the Himalayas; of an old but rapidly changing culture; of an indigenous and welcoming people; and a growing self awareness and development!

Our recent trip to Bhutan has been a goal for several years so finally getting there was magical. Once the plane lands in Paro, you instantly know you are in a very different culture on the basis of the architecture, attire of the people, and the relaxed pace. This is an experience in an emerging country that is trying its best to modernize without losing its cultural identity (good luck!). The infrastructure (roads, electricity, water, sewage) is still being developed. Though the country is small, it takes a long time to get from one point to another due to the narrow, winding, and often unpaved roads (The roads are an adventure in themselves. Fortunately we had an outstanding driver!). We loved the hikes and thought the progression of the hikes took into consideration our acclimization to the higher altitude. The trip is loaded with field trips and Fin, the trip leader, was superlative in providing facts, stories, and personal accounts that helped us learn and fall in love with the country jand its Buddist based culture. The food is local and well prepared; there is rice and/or noodles at almost every meal in addition to vegetables, fruit and some meat. I am a "picky eater", but I didn't starve (well, it would have been nice to have had a daily dose of chocolate :)). We had a group of 14 people and it was a congenial and adventurous group. The trip leader and his staff of three were consistently gracious,helpful,flexible, and informative. We highly recommend this trip, but suggest you go before the country gets "Westernized".

This country is unbelievable. The ideology and the scenery are beautiful. The people from the small children to the elderly are the most amazing thing about the trip. Everyone is so wonderfully friendly and pleasant. It restores faith in humanity. Buddhism is fascinating. ....But be ready to roll with the punches, do some real hiking, and to use nature and your tissue package often.