Travel in Style 14th Edition by Exotic Voyages by Exotic Voyages

Why Is Thailand the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination? Pamper Yourself at Aava Resort & Spa

From Cambodia to Maldives, the Best in Seafood Dining Why I Travel Alone as a Married Woman

Why Hollywood Went to Vietnam to Film Kong: Skull Island GREETINGS

Greetings from Exotic Voyages! Welcome to the newest issue of Travel in Style, your guide to the sights, sounds, and flavours of Asia! Heading into spring, this is a wonderful time to start planning your next vacation. Ready to embark? Here is what you can explore in this edition of Travel in Style: • Find out what drew Hollywood director Jordan Vogt-Roberts to Vietnam’s unspoiled forests, caves, and shores to film Kong: Skull Island and how you can explore those same breathtaking destinations. • Planning a honeymoon? Discover why Thailand is the ultimate romantic destination for couples and how you can celebrate your journey as a couple by taking a trip to the Land of Smiles. • Discover the Premier Village Danang Resort in Vietnam, a sun-soaked seaside sanctuary where you can rent your own private villa with the beach right in your backyard. This is the perfect luxury accommodation if you are travelling with a family! • Explore Aava Resort & Spa, an award-winning Scandinavian-owned hotel along the secluded Nadan beach of South Thailand. With spotless sand for miles, pink dolphins playing in the waves, gourmet cuisine and rejuvenating spa treatments, it is the ultimate resort for pampering. • Find out exactly where to eat when you’re visiting Cambodia and Maldives—and what it is like to dine at a world-class underwater restaurant. • Discover six amazing reasons to visit Bhutan, the spiritual heartland of the Himalayas. • Travelling solo while married? It’s more common than you might think—and can pay off in unexpected ways. Turn the page to get started on this quarter’s issue. If any of these stories inspire you to plan your own trip to Asia, please give us a call at +1 (888) 497-0068. We can’t wait to help you set up the tour of your dreams!

GREETINGS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Travel in Style Why Hollywood Went to Vietnam to Film Kong: Skull Island Rest in the Lap of Luxury at the Premier Village Danang Resort Why Is Thailand the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination? Stay at Anantara Angkor Resort, feel the spring my way Pamper Yourself at Aava Resort & Spa

CONTENT

5 6 10 14 20 24

Food Experiences From Cambodia to Maldives, the Best in Seafood Dining

31 32

Asia Insight Give Me One Good Reason to Visit: Bhutan The story of Sri Lanka in pictures

37 38 44

Women with Travel Why I Travel Alone as a Married Woman

49 50

TRAVEL I N S T Y L E Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about NEW! New hotels. Hot destinations. Trendy activities and experiences. Be inspired by our latest travel ideas and inspirations

Why Hollywood Went to Vietnam

to Film Kong: Skull Island

f you happen to catch Kong: Skull Island in theaters this month, you’ll be blown away by the visual appeal of the film— in particular, its remarkable location. There is a lot of CG in this film, but it remains firmly grounded in the real world thanks to director Jordan Vogt-Roberts’ decision to film the franchise reboot as much as possible in real locations. To that end, the film team headed to northern Vietnam, visiting a number of extraordinary locations including: • Hạ Long Bay in the Quảng Ninh Province: This UNESCO World Heritage Site features 1,600 islands and islets set in the Gulf of Tonkin. The mirror waters here reflect the karst pillars and an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna. • Tam Cốc in the Ninh Bình Province: Located near the city of Ninh Binh, this remarkable and unusual landscape features dramatic rock formations soaring abruptly out of flat, bright green fields. It is home to a system of natural caves which tourists can explore by boat, as well as the beautiful Bích Động pagoda complex. • The Tú Làn Caves System: This system of ten caves boasts GREETINGS

underground rivers and waterfalls, stunning stalagmites and stalactites, and remarkable karst formations. Skull Island is a unique film in the King Kong franchise in that it takes place almost exclusively on the island. Previous films only visited Skull Island briefly before moving the story to other locations. So Kong: Skull Island is a chance to cinematically explore King Kong’s home in-depth, and really take viewers on a mythical journey into another world. As Vogt-Roberts told Channel News Asia in an interview, it was important to find locations which captured a primordial essence, but which didn’t “look like Jurassic Park … I wanted it to look fresh … People have shot in Thailand before and it seemed like an easy fit, but I was like, ‘No!’ … And then I landed in Vietnam, looked at these landscapes, and just fell in love.” Vietnam’s rugged beauty has a sense of otherworldly remoteness to it. Even though the regions used in the filming receive plenty of visitors each year (especially the fantastic karst formations and tranquil waters of Hạ Long Bay), they convey a sense of a land untouched by time or human influence. The actors who filmed Kong: Skull 8

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Island have commented in interviews that it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and that they loved exploring the natural settings and small villages where they filmed— but also that they enjoyed exploring Hanoi and getting to know the people of Vietnam. As actor John Goodman said, “They were very accommodating to us. And they wanted us to feel welcomed.” Vogt-Roberts is hopeful that Kong: Skull Island will help to drive tourism to Vietnam, saying “I hope [viewers] go and explore Vietnam … I want them to fall in love the way I did.”

“For King Kong fans who want to explore all the amazing sights featured in this stunning film, Exotic Voyages is now offering the brand new Kong: Skull Island Tour. Take the trip of a lifetime with 10 days and 9 nights exploring Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Quang Binh Province and Saigon. Step into another world, and experience an adventure you will remember forever. Give us a call today at +1 (888) 497-0068 to book your tour!

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Rest in the Lap of Luxury at the Premier Village Danang Resort

f you are in search of a sun-drenched seaside holiday in Vietnam where you can bathe in luxury, look no further than the Premier Village Danang Resort in My An Beach, managed by AccorHotels. Situated right up against the water, this lavish resort is perfect for individuals, couples, groups and families who want to experience the best of what Vietnamese hospitality has to offer. At the Premier Village Danang Resort, you get to stay in your own villa! You can choose a villa which includes a garden view or a view of the ocean. Some villas even offer direct access to the beach. Every includes a luxury suite complete with a full kitchen and a large private pool. Rooms come with free wi-fi, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and electric in-room safes for your valuables while you are out and about. The location is amazing; while there is plenty to see and do right on the resort grounds, you are only a short distance from the picturesque Ba Na Hills, the Cham ruins at My Son, and the historical town of Hoi An.

indulge in the finest traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The Beach Club meanwhile is the perfect place to grab a bite right on the beach. The resort also offers a unique dining option called In-Villa BBQ. For an added fee, you can have your own private chef come and cook for you right at your villa, preparing a customized menu personalized to your taste.

The rooms are beautifully appointed with contemporary furniture and décor. And thanks to large windows and glass doors, they are flooded with sunlight, offering astonishing views of the glittering white sands and coconut trees. While you are staying at the Premier Village Danang Resort, you can book a table at any of the resort’s three restaurants: the Lemongrass Restaurant (open all day), the Nautica Beach Club, or the Cá Chuồn Cồ Seafood Restaurant. At Cá Chuồn Cồ, you can taste the catch of the day at a breezy balcony table overlooking the beach. Dine indoors or outdoors at the Lemongrass, and 10

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Ready to get active? Endless opportunities for beachside fun abound. Head to the warm sands to splash in the water, or rent bicycles to ride along the safe, tranquil lanes between the villas. For parents who need a break, the Kids Club is there to look after children, offering a perfect opportunity for a romantic drink on the balcony or a private stroll along the beach. At the end of a long day playing hard at

the beach, make sure to take time to visit the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spa, where you can book a massage or take a dip in the public swimming pool. There is also a steam sauna where you can relax. If a beach vacation in Vietnam is your ideal, you really are not going to find a more relaxing, luxurious place to stay than the Premier Village Danang Resort. After a few days in your lavish suite, your private seaside villa will start to feel like a home away from home!

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Why Is Thailand the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination?

hinking of booking your honeymoon in Bora Bora, the Caribbean or Hawaii? Think again. While these might be some of the most popular and timeless honeymoon destinations, they are also some of the most crowded. Nor are they necessarily the most romantic! Your honeymoon should be like the journey of your relationshipâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a venture off the beaten path to discover a world that is intimately yours. And for that, it is hard to match the beauty and allure of Thailand. Here are just a few reasons why Thailand is the ultimate destination for a romantic and unforgettable honeymoon.

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1. Matchless Luxury You really cannot equal Thailand when it comes to luxury resort packages. If you are looking for the ultimate romantic stay, you will have your pick of sumptuous accommodations—everything from lavish resorts with ocean views right on the beachfront to hideaways deep in the jungle. Many Thai resorts serve world-class cuisine and offer incredible amenities: beautiful private beaches, pools and gardens, relaxing spa packages, cooking classes, libraries, and more. 2. Secluded Natural Beauty When it comes to natural beauty, Thailand has it all. While the country is famous for its flawless golden beaches, it also is home to incredible parks like Khao Yai and Doi Inthanon. Here you can explore Thailand’s natural grandeur with your beloved, hiking along nature trails and enjoying amazing close encounters with elephants and other wildlife. Imagine a romantic night camping out in total privacy near the majesty of a hidden waterfall under the stars with your beloved—that is something it is hard to do in a more crowded location like Hawaii! 3. Amazing Nightlife Of course, immersing yourself in the crowds in Thailand can be part of the fun! Stay in a luxury hotel like Andara Resort and Villas, and you can hit the famous bars and clubs of Phuket to experience Thailand’s out-of-this-world nightlife. Be sure to book a table at a private rooftop bar where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail surrounded by a sea of lights!

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6. Incredible Weather 4. Culture and History For couples with a passion for history, culture, and spirituality, Thailand is a land with no equal. From the golden opulence of the Grand Palace to the all-wood Sanctuary of Truth, there are so many beautiful, exotic, and fascinating locations to explore. Setting out on this journey together is a wonderful way to discover the wonders of Asia—and take some amazing honeymoon photos along the way! 5. Idyllic Gardens What could be more romantic than strolling together hand-inhand with your beloved through some of the most captivating gardens on the planet? While visiting Thailand on your honeymoon, be sure to stop by Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden in Pattaya. You will feel like you have journeyed together to an otherworldly paradise, surrounded by fragrant blooms in every color of the rainbow. Pack a picnic for a heavenly meal you will never forget.

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Finally, one more reason to consider Thailand for your honeymoon is the weather. This is a country which is beautiful to visit year-round, with temperatures in Bangkok ranging between around 79 and 87 degrees Fahrenheit. That is perfect weather for sunbathing on the beach, heading out on a yacht, or exploring Thailand’s gardens, national parks, temples and palaces. No matter when you book your trip, you can bask together in the balmy climate and the bliss of your love. So while Thailand may not be the first destination you think of when you are planning your honeymoon, it should be! Skip the crowds and well-worn routes of the cliché honeymoon destinations, and book a trip to Thailand for the ultimate luxury honeymoon getaway. If you need help planning the romantic trip of your dreams, be sure to give us a call at +1 (888) 497-0068.

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till shrouded by darkness, a gentle voice delivers my wakeup call; tea will follow. I roll out of bed, eyes weary but an underlying bout of anticipation kept me from sleeping deeply anyway. I’ve travelled too far to miss this day, and while the comfort of my suite at Anantara Angkor Resort is all too welcoming, today’s itinerary presents itself but once a year. It’s the spring equinox which means the sun will rise directly over the centre tower of the magnificent Angkor Wat, referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. The solar event happens also at the autumn equinox within the wet season, which can also offer a splendid battle of sun and clouds. I’ve opted to visit Siem Reap and the resplendent temples of Angkor in spring, with guaranteed sunshine, off-peak crowds and still bearable temperatures both day and night.

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Stay at Anantara Angkor Resort, feel the spring my way My smiling and all too bright Experience Butler Ly Fong greets me at reception with a much-needed cup of hot tea. He smiles at the way I’ve tied my kroma, a traditional Khmer scarf made either of cotton or silk, which will serve first as a neck warmer. We climb aboard our chariot and make the way into the Park, anticipation building. We’re just one of several flickering lights, dancing over the bumpy tarmac in a drove of thousands, seemingly each traveller representing a year of the temple’s age. The traffic snakes together in and out of the jungle like an iridescent dragon chasing the dawn.

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Angkor Wat is but one of Hindu temples within Angkor Archaeological Park to which between two and three million visitors voyage every year. The ubiquitous time to see it is at sunrise, and it is truly a spectacle to behold. All the colours of the rainbow could not prepare you for this sight. Most of the visitors abandon their early rise mentality and retreat back to the hotels for a breakfast regroup, but Ly Fong and I have come prepared and we journey deeper into the temple; the best opportunity of climbing to the top. The local knowledge of the resort’s Experience Butlers, like Ly Fong, is second-to-none curated through the Discovery Guidebook, offering a first-glance of the several itineraries already on offer. For those looking to build their own adventure, over 100 possibilities in half or full day excursions can be personalised. Such specialty experiences have not yet been seen or experienced at a luxury hotel in Siem Reap. Angkor’s jungle-clad temples can still be enjoyed without a soul in sight; handed a crisp glass of bubbles as gibbons “hoo” in the canopies

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above. Salute sunrise over the spectacular Angkor Wat, heralded as the Eighth Wonder of the World. A private car whisks you to a picnic breakfast in a hidden temple, a tuk-tuk as your chariot to relive Khmer Empire legends with a passionate local guide. Craving adrenaline? Fly across the jungle on the famed “Flight of the Gibbon” zip line, or take it literally and hop into an ultralight or helicopter for lesser-seen aerial view of the Angkorian temples. Rush into natural thrills as you zoom through rice paddies on quad bikes to arrive at a barbeque set only for you. Or meander along rural tracks on mountain bikes to meet the locals and village temple monks. The ultimate escape, you’ll be ticking items off your bucket list all week long. Anantara Angkor now offers journeys of high adrenaline adventure or relaxing rendezvous pleasures, curated exclusively by Experience Butlers. At any time of the year a myriad is on offer, but spring is an especially auspicious time to go and celebrate new beginnings.

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Pamper Yourself at Aava Resort & Spa

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s you walk along Nadan beach in the Nakhon Si Thammarat province of South Thailand, the only sounds you’ll hear are the whisper of the wind in the palm trees and the soft roar of the ocean. The white sands are spotless, the clear blue skies reflecting in the turquoise waters below. There isn’t a soul in sight—except the rare pink dolphins of Khanom, breaking to the surface of the waves to splash and play.

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What is a day like at Aava Resort & Spa? First, you wake up in your room, which might be a Deluxe Bungalow, a Superior bungalow, a Poolside Villa or a Family Villa. You have all the amenities: coffee, tea and a mini-bar, an LCD television screen, and even a safety box. You take a shower in the beautiful modern bathroom, get dressed and step outside. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just come back from the sleepy village of Khanom, and now youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to relax and indulge your senses at Aava Resort & Spa. Aava Resort & Spa is unique among Thai resorts because it is Scandinavian-owned. That means that it unites the best of two worlds: the inviting affability of Thailand and the beautiful design sensibilities and eminent spa treatments of Scandinavia.

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The resort and spa was designed by the number one Finland interior designer, dSign Vertti Kivi & Co. Both indoors and outdoors, minimalist qualities pervade a fusion of Thai and Scandinavian styles which fit perfectly against the backdrop of unspoiled white beaches.

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Maybe you take a dip in the swimming pool before heading to the beach. As the Hidden Paradise of South Thailand, Khanom is an extraordinary location, truly one of a kind. Visiting the village down the shore, you can immerse yourself in traditional Thai living. This is also one of the only places on earth where you can spot rare pink dolphins. The dolphins are very sociable, so if you are taking a tour with local fishermen aboard a traditional long tail fishing boat, you might see a few up close. You can also book a tour to go snorkelling, or you can visit one of the nearby national parks: Khao Sok National Park or Khao Luang National Park and Krung Ching Waterfall. Explore the dense forests and enjoy the music of Thailand’s diverse bird population against the backdrop of falling water.

If you fall in love with the food (and you will), be sure to take a cooking class at Aava. You can also enjoy other daily wellness classes three times per day, six days of week, including yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Meditation, Thai Boxing, stretching, and Pranayama. The resort’s trainer Khun Check was a senior instructor at the famous Kamalaya resort in Koh Samui, and brings years of experience and dedication to the job. In fact, Aava hosts big retreats for wellknown international instructors at least twice a year.

Visit Aava Resort & Spa, and discover why this coastal retreat has been named one of the best hotels on the planet by so many different hospitality experts. For those who are looking to truly pamper themselves and relax in the

finest luxury accommodations, Aava Resort & Spa offers a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s more crowded destinations and an oasis from everyday life.

Finally, don’t forget the “spa” in Aava Resort & Spa! Here you can enjoy both traditional Thai and Scandinavian massage therapy alongside holistic massage and other rejuvenating treatments such as foot reflexology and body wraps and scrubs. All products used in the spa are made entirely from natural organic ingredients.

Returning to the resort, you book a table at the romantic beachfront restaurant Aalto. Winner Over recent years, Aava has gained a significant of the World Luxury Restaurant Awards in global following and has received recognition 2016, this restaurant reflects your surroundings, through many prestigious awards, including: combining both Asian and European flavours into delicious fusion dishes. The world class • Hospitality Asia Platinum Award – HAPA chefs come from many different backgrounds, Resort of the Year 2016-2018 which reflects in the diversity of the menu. • World Luxury Hotel Awards – Winner Best Coastal Resort 2016 Order anything from Thai food to wood fired • World Luxury Restaurant Awards – Winner pizzas, hamburgers, or salads. Everything is made Best Asian Cuisine 2016 from only the finest ingredients, including fresh- • TATLER Travel Guide 2013 – One of “101 caught local seafood. Make sure on Wednesday Best Hotels in the World” nights you don’t miss Thai Night, which features • Trip Advisor – Certificate of Excellency 2012, Thai dancing shows and traditional cuisine. 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 On Friday, plan to attend the Beach BBQ with live reggae. On Saturdays, enjoy wine pairings recommended by the chefs. 28

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FOOD E X P E R I E NC E S Taste the world in your way Dining experiences by gourmet travelers. Sharing addresses for good food and authentic gastronomy.

From Cambodia to Maldives, the Best in Seafood Dining Having recently returned from a tour of Asia, I can already tell you what I miss the most: fresh-caught seafood.

actually live along the west coast USA, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not like fresh-caught seafood is something I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get around here. But the flavours of Asia are an ocean away, and I find myself craving the many mouthwatering dishes I enjoyed on my vacation on an almost daily basis.

dropped by a tiny seaside resort area known as Kep. Kep is a sleepy world of tranquil waters, butterflies, and brightly painted boats. There is no prominent sandy strip of beach here, so that seems to prevent it from becoming a major tourist magnet. It was by far one of the most relaxing days I spent in Cambodia.

In particular, there are two dining experiences which stand out to me above all the rest: the Kep Crab Market in Cambodia, and the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in Maldives

For lunch, I wandered over to the Kep Crab Market, which was where pretty much everyone was telling me to eat.

Best Lunch Spot in Cambodia: The Kep Crab Market While in Cambodia, I 32

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You can eat either directly at the market, or you can order from one of the restaurants which are right there next to it. FOOD EXPERIENCES

The market is a busy place. You’ll encounter a lot of different vendors pulling their crabs directly out of the water. You can point at the crabs you want and select them, and they will be cooked right there. Many of the crabs are small, so you need to order quite a few of them, but they are amazingly inexpensive. Many of the vendors sell dips, side dishes, and other seafood as well. Make no mistake—this isn’t just food, this is an experience, and it is a messy and challenging one in some ways. You have to pull the crabs apart to eat them yourself, and if you’re not an expert like the locals, it can take some figuring out. That said, I loved every minute—and every bite. There is nothing quite like watching your food come right out of the sea and then biting into the most delicious fresh-caught seafood you are ever going to taste. Try finding crab that good or that affordable anywhere else in the world!

Dining Beneath the Waves in Maldives: the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant Now for a completely different experience. Maldives is an enchanting land of delicate coral islands which is being gradually reclaimed by the sea. Here you are surrounded by the ocean— quite literally, if you sit down to dine at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. “Ithaa” means “mother-of-pearl.” You’ll find the restaurant 16 feet underwater. It’s a small dining area which can only seat 14 people at a time, so you need to reserve well in advance. The transparent roof provides you with a 270° panoramic view of the water. While you are dining on unforgettable gourmet cuisine (I had lobster carpaccio and saffron champagne risotto), you can watch as schools of fish swim in the luminous blue waters. There really are no words for an experience like this—it is absolutely magical. The food was some of the most exquisite I had ever tasted, flavourful but with a nuanced subtlety that only comes with the finest gourmet. But I was mesmerized at every moment by the silvery shimmer of fish darting just on the other side of the glass walls and ceiling. The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is the ultimate experience in atmospheric dining.

I can say is that I can’t wait until the next time I manage to plan a vacation back to Cambodia and Maldives to revisit these special food experiences. Until then, I will content myself to dream of fresh-caught crab and magical dining under the waves!

It has been months since my trip, and still at some point almost every day I find my mind drifting back to my experiences at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant and the Kep Crab Market. Both were quite literally a taste of paradise. All 34

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ASIA INSIGHT Dive deep to listen to the sounds, catch the sights and feel the soul of Asia. A close-up look into Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local life, sharp insight of customs, religion, culture and the rhythm of life and spirit

ASIA INSIGHT

GIVE ME ONE GOOD REASON TO VISIT: BHUTAN 38

ASIA INSIGHT

I won’t just give you one good reason—I’ll give you six. For just one of these, I’m sure Bhutan will be on your bucket list. For all six? I’m sure you will be planning your trip itinerary in no time. 1. Bhutan’s landscape and weather are beautiful year-round. Bounded by the Himalayas, this landlocked country is a land of imposing, dramatic summits, and fertile green valleys. As you might guess, the climate varies tremendously depending on your elevation. Southern Bhutan is tropical, while the highlands have a climate which is almost polar in nature. In the north, there is snow throughout the year. There are actually five seasons in Bhutan: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. Monsoon season is heaviest in the west, while hot summers and cool winters prevail through the rest of the country. The valleys however are in a comparatively mild climate zone, and make for a wonderful destination during any season. No matter what time of year you visit Bhutan, you’ll be blown away by its natural beauty. 2. The Buddhist culture creates a sense of peace inside and out. When you are planning a trip to Asia, Bhutan probably is not the first destination that springs to mind. It’s a bit off the beaten track. Chances are good you think first of India or Thailand or China and their well-known tourist attractions. So why consider a vacation to Bhutan instead, the smallest Himalayan state in all of Asia?

With such extraordinary landscapes, it is no wonder that Bhutan has become a spiritual heartland. Buddhism first came to the country clear back in the 7th century AD, and since then it has blossomed into a core part of the nation’s identity. FOOD ASIA EXPERIENCES INSIGHT

The most iconic symbol of spirituality in the country is certainly the Tiger Monastery, known more formally as Paro Taktsang. The monastery sits perched high along a sheer cliff-side, looking down on the spectacular Paro valley. Constructed in the late 17th century, it is a legendary site where it is believed that the Guru Padmasambhava meditated for three years. As a mythical figure, he is the one credited with bringing Buddhism to the country. While you are making the pilgrimage up the cliffs to visit the monastery, you will be surrounded by nature and the deep sense of peace that pervades this mystical land. Immersing yourself in the Buddhist traditions of Bhutan, you can internalize some of that tranquility and take it with you when you return home. Like the memories of your experiences, it can become a part of your life forever after. 3. Here you can participate in the most colourful long-standing festivals in the world. The cheerful people of Bhutan never say â&#x20AC;&#x153;noâ&#x20AC;? to a chance to celebrate, which is why there are traditional festivals lined up year-round. No matter when you visit, you should be able to add one to your itinerary. Head to the capital during Thimphu Tshechu to join the Bhutanese people dressed in dazzling colourful finery, or discover the culture of nomadic herders in the Haa Valley at the Haa Summer Festival. Watch 17th century battle re-enactments at Punakha Drubchen, or take part in Jambay Lhakhang Drup, which honours Guru Rimpoche.

ASIA INSIGHT

4. Bhutan is an evergreen land. The pure atmosphere and climate of Bhutan means that many parts of Bhutan are covered in dense evergreen foliage. So even if you arrive in the middle of winter, you will be surrounded by beautiful, colourful trees. 5. Bhutan is abounding with luxury experiences. Even though Bhutan is a deeply spiritual

country, let it never be said it isn’t a worldly one as well. There are many boutique and luxury hotels throughout Bhutan, offering serene retreats amid the rich foliage of the kingdom’s evergreen forests. Imagine opening your drapes in the morning to look out over breathtaking views of lush valleys and Himalayan peaks. There are many unique and exciting tours and activities you can book while staying in luxury accommodations. When you return, you can indulge in delicious traditional Bhutanese cuisine at your hotel’s restaurant. 6. You can experience the joy of looking into the happily smiling faces of the Bhutanese people. In 1999, the king of Bhutan introduced the idea of “gross national happiness.” Sure, it was great marketing, but that doesn’t mean that was all it was. While visiting Bhutan, you will be amazed by the smiling, welcoming faces you see everywhere. And no wonder—when you get away from the rush of modern life and take a more spiritual approach, you can truly appreciate all life has to offer. Even when you get back to the rush of your own everyday life, your experiences in Bhutan will linger, reminding you to slow down every once in a while, surround yourself in the glory of nature, meditate, and celebrate. So take a trip to Bhutan, and bring back the experience that will greatly enrich your own happiness.

ASIA INSIGHT

The story of Sri Lanka in pictures W

hile we can and will tell you all the good reasons why Sri Lanka should be your next destination, sometimes a pictures say more than any wordy article of us ever could. So with that, we give you these Sri Lanka photos that will make you want to travel this country immediately!

ASIA INSIGHT

WOMAN & T R AV E L Travel tips & Ideas exclusively for travelling women around the world

ASIA INSIGHT

WHY I TRAVEL ALONE AS A MARRIED WOMAN

I’ solo one.

m planning to take a two-week trip to Vietnam in a couple of months. It will be my third vacation to Asia in the nine years I’ve been married, and my second

That’s right—it’s just me travelling on my own. My husband will be staying at home. When I mentioned this to one of my coworkers a couple of weeks ago, she did a double take, and then gave me a very dirty, judging look, turning her mouth down and widening her eyes in shock. She didn’t say anything, but I could hear it all the same: “What do you mean you’re travelling on your own? Is something wrong with your marriage?”

WOMEN & TRAVEL

I told another of my friends later that day, thinking I’d feel better, but I didn’t. She responded, “How did you get him to let you do that?” So I find myself needing to answer this question publicly. Why do I travel alone as a married woman? In all frankness, the answer is simple: because that’s what I did when I was single. I’m not saying marriage doesn’t change how you live your life—it does, and in so many important ways. In fact, travelling solo now is very different in some ways than it was then. It means a lot more preparation and communication. But the reality is, there are a lot of things marriage doesn’t change. I still feel the desire for independence—I still thrive on the challenge of navigating a new situation and exploring a different culture on my own. In fact, doing that is even more important to me now that I am married. I lean on my husband for a lot of things, as he does with me. Sometimes I need to remind myself I can solve problems on my own and embark on adventures because I want them.

own is an experience in discovering more about myself and growing as an individual. It allows me to explore different interests and to focus on different aspects of the experience. It may mean I go on a zipline that’d scare him (he has a fear of heights). It might mean I drive with the windows down and my music at full blast. Or it might mean I get time to sit in silence and think more about who I am at a monastery on a mountaintop. To my friend who asked how my husband “lets” me do this, my response is that he doesn’t “let” me do anything. I do this because it is something I love, that lifts me up, that makes me feel alive—that makes me a better person. I return home to him that better person, one who has been renewed and enriched by my experiences travelling solo. At the end of the day, my husband and I support each other fully, and that’s all there is to it. Travelling solo is something I am passionate about; he has activities which he also loves to do on his own. But both of our solo activities make us the versions of ourselves, and ultimately that makes us better for each other too.

My husband and I do travel together, and it’s a wonderful experience. We plan our itineraries around our shared interests, and we have an amazing time. In fact, travelling on my own doesn’t replace travelling with my husband, because it is just a completely different experience with different rewards. Travelling with my husband is an experience that brings us together, but travelling on my 52

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A: Suite 226, 33B Pham Ngu Lao, Hanoi, Vietnam T: (844) 39 33 62 60 F: (844) 39 33 62 61 E: inquiries@exoticvoyages.com W: www.exoticvoyages.com 54

GREETINGS