Heading back toward Thimphu we stopped for tea at the 108 stupas, sporting some 10,000 feet above sea level. We keep hoping our bodies adjust to the daily ups and downs in altitude but still some of us struggle, feeling nauseous, winded or fatigued after walking just a few meters to the cafe. There is…
After three weeks, three countries, 40 miles of trekking through the Himalayas, and being on the go sunup to sundown, I decided some self care was in order so I stayed at the hotel to rest today while the group went on their excursion. Our lodging, Hotel Pema Karpo in Wangdue, was a lovely respite…
On this day 10 years ago I was a Peace Corps volunteer teaching sustainable agriculture and beekeepingin Paraguay. Winter had begun and, while “winter” in Paraguay is usually two weeks of cool weather in the 50s, that year it lasted two months with temps frequently in the 30s and 40s, even snow flurries! And we…
On your way from Thimphu to Punakha, head to Kuenselphodrang Nature Park where you will see the world’s tallest (169 feet) Buddha statue. Made of bronze, the Buddha Dordenma, Vajra Throne Buddha sits high on the hill, is visible from the valley, and contains a monastery inside. It has taken 10 years to build and…
A portion of our group flew to Bhutan today with two new friends from the US! On the way, we flew along the Himalayas and were blessed with extraordinary views of Mt Everest! Wow! Words are inadequate. Did you know the only airport in Bhutan (in the city of Paro, at 2100 meters above sea…
Our accommodations last night were in a newer Nepali mountain hotel which provides fun group meals, great views, and real toilets (squat toilets are common here), but no heat. At elevation it gets cold when the sun goes down so down jackets are needed sundown to sun up and bringing your own linens means a…
If you visit Nepal, you will need a visa on arrival. Choose 15, 30, or 90 day durations. I highly recommend completing your application online in advance. The line can be long and you’ll be ready to not be in an airport longer than necessary. Print the completed application or take a photo of the…
I forgot to tell you about the motorcycle ride we took last night around the base of the mountain that you’ve seen in many of my photos. I’ve spent little time on motorcycles and never at night but the temperature was perfect for taking the long way home, balmy and smooth like butter, and with…
I woke to the sound of gongs from the temple down the street, matching a memory rhythm of gliding on a swing as a child, and I swear my body, breath, and mind synced to the pace at this moment. What a wonderful way to greet the day. We found a filling breakfast of rice,…
My friend and guide was released from the hospital after days of monitoring a punctured lung. We are so glad to have him back on his feet. After yesterday’s visit to the old temple, I learned it is between 300-400 years old and part of the old Langchiang Province, formerly known as “1 million elephants…
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