Bhutan

Bhutanhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutanBhutanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/bhutan-food-and-healthBhutan belly, altitude sickness and other diseases can strike down any traveler. Here's what you can do to stay healthy and safe while traveling in Bhutan.2019-04-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/bhutan-food-and-healthhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#vaccination"> Vaccinations for Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#treatment"> Medical Treatment in Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#disease"> Mosquito-Borne Diseases </a></li> <li><a href="#rabies">Rabies </a></li> <li><a href="#food"> Chili in Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#diarrhea">Bhutan Belly </a></li> <li><a href="#women"> Women's Health </a></li> <li><a href="#car"> Car Sickness </a></li> <li><a href="#altitude"> Altitude Sickness </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vaccination">Vaccinations for Bhutan</h2> <p>As always, check your routine vaccinations are up to date including tetanus and diphtheria. Hepatitis A and typhoid are another two important shots to get regardless of whether your itinerary is low-key or more off the beaten track as both are easily transmitted by contaminated food and water.</p> <p>Rabies is another vaccination you may want to think about getting if you're planning to spend a considerable amount of your trip in rural areas or outdoors in general.</p> <h2 id="treatment">Medical treatment in Bhutan</h2> <p>There are numerous hospitals and smaller basic health units scattered across the country however the main medical facility is the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, located in Thimphu. Basic treatment and care at the hospital is free, even for tourists (this is where part of your daily spending goes). The standard of care and hygiene varies with some travelers experiencing minimal to no hygiene in facilities outside Thimphu. </p> <p>If your condition is serious, contact your travel insurance provider immediately as it's likely that you will need to be evacuated to Thailand or India due to the lack of emergency-level facilities in Bhutan.</p> <p>If your ailment is minor, it can be easy to treat yourself so it's worth packing a travel first kit and any <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/medications-and-travel">medicines you take</a> (along with a doctor's letter outlining the medication and its use). Pharmacies are in various towns however not all medications may be available for purchase or the quality may not be to the standard you obtain at home.</p> <h2 id="disease">Mosquito-borne diseases</h2> <p>Yellow Fever is not found in Bhutan however if you are entering the country from a yellow fever-endemic country you will require proof of vaccination upon arrival.</p> <h3>Malaria</h3> <p>Overall, the risk to travelers is low. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Thimphu, Gaza, Paro and Bumthang are malaria-free but areas below 5577ft (1700m) near the India border are <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/malaria">prone to malaria</a> so if you are crossing into Bhutan from India, it's worth taking those antimalarials and <a href="/travel-safety/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">covering up</a> to prevent bites.</p> <h3>Dengue fever</h3> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/what-you-need-to-know-about-dengue-fever">Dengue fever</a> is unfortunately endemic in Bhutan and there is no vaccination available to reduce the risk of catching this mosquito-borne disease. <a href="/travel-safety/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">Bite prevention</a> is your only way to minimize your chances of contracting it. The mosquitos which carry the disease are active during the day and tend to thrive more in urban areas such as towns and cities. Avoid standing water such as pools, ponds and containers where mosquitos will breed. As dengue exhibits many symptoms similar to other conditions such as diarrhea, headache and skin rash, it's best to seek medical so you can be treated correctly.</p> <h3>Typhoid</h3> <p>You are likely to encounter typhoid out of the urban centers where sanitation levels are likely low or poor and there is a risk of food and water contamination. Along with getting a vaccination, always observe good hygiene practices. Drink only treated or boiled water. That travel mantra of "boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it" applies here. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products too.</p> <h3>Ticks</h3> <p>Ticks tend to be a problem if you are planning to head out of town into more rural locations. So if you're hiking or walking; wear long-sleeved clothing, tuck your pants into your socks and apply a repellent. Stick to the middle of the trails and avoid going off the track. Always bathe and check yourself over when returning to your accommodation in case any have decided to take up residence in your skin, particularly in areas such as the groin, armpits and behind your ears. Check your gear over too. </p> <p>Should you find a tick, remove it using fine-point tweezers to grab it as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting as you pull it out. Clean the area thoroughly with an iodine scrub or soap and water, following that with rubbing alcohol including your hands. Do not crush the tick with your fingers as you risk injecting venom and leaving the head in your skin.</p> <h2 id="rabies">Rabies</h2> <p>Bhutan has made significant progress to hopefully eliminate rabies by 2020, however, it does still exist in some parts of the country with dogs and monkeys carrying the disease. So as cute as the street puppies may be, resist patting them even if they appear healthy. If you are bitten, contact your travel insurance emergency assistance immediately and seek medical help as post-bite treatment must occur within 24 to 48 hours as left untreated, rabies can be fatal. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water and apply an iodine-based antiseptic treatment.</p> <h3>Soil-Transmitted helminths</h3> <p>Also known as parasitic worms, they are transmitted via poor hygiene practices and contaminated food or water. Seek medical treatment if you feel unwell and experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, vomiting or nausea.</p> <h2 id="food">Chili in Bhutan</h2> <p>With more tourists visiting the country each year, the variety of cuisines available in Bhutan has also increased. Not only will you find places serving the local dishes, but other foods we enjoy at home such as Chinese, Indian and even burgers. But that's not the reason you're in Bhutan.. you're there to try the local delights.</p> <p>Walking through the capital Thimphu and many other towns, one thing stands out and that's chilies. Piled up at the markets, drying on rooftops and strung from windows; the Bhutanese embrace chilies from an early age. They use them in a number of different ways in cooking and they dominate meal times. </p> <p>However, the locals are becoming conscious of their love for chili and eat it in moderation due to health concerns, especially digestion-related conditions such as stomach ulcers.</p> <p>Chilli is used like a vegetable more than a spice and is often eaten fresh. So if you don't want to experience the burning ring of fire, make it clear to the waiter or chef. Plenty of eateries are making traditional dishes these days to the Western palette.</p> <p>But for those who like it hot, try drinking the local cool-down beverage, <em>dhachhu</em>, which is similar to buttermilk with your meal.</p> <h2 id="diarrhea">Bhutan Belly</h2> <p>Unless you have a cast iron stomach, it's highly likely you will get at least a bit of an upset tummy and <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/travelers-diarrhoea-health-tips">diarrhea</a> at some point.</p> <p>Avoid drinking the local tap water, unless you are staying somewhere that has water filters or purifiers installed. Otherwise, make sure <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/bottled-vs-filtered-water">your water is boiled or treated</a>.</p> <p>Even a salad that has been rinsed and has water on it or drinks with ice cubes should be avoided unless you know it's safe.</p> <p>Fruits and vegetables that can be peeled, as well as packaged snacks, are always a safe option.</p> <p>If you do get mild diarrhea, reach for the over-the-counter medicine you probably should already have in your first aid kit. If your condition gets worse including fever, seek medical help as you may need antibiotics unless you have brought some with you.</p> <p>Rehydration is a must when combating traveler's diarrhea. If you can't find an electrolyte drink like Gatorade or Powerade, you can supplement with the salt/sugar/water ratio for oral rehydration: 1 tsp salt, 8 tsp sugar, for 1 liter of water.</p> <h2 id="women">Women's Health</h2> <p>Sanitary products are easily obtained in the urban centers of Bhutan however they are pretty much non-existent outside of town, so pack what you need before going.</p> <h2 id="car">Car Sickness</h2> <p>While you may normally not get car sick, pack some motion sickness tablets anyway. Bhutan's roads aren't that flash, particularly outside the major towns where it can sometimes be rough and windy along with hairpin bends.</p> <p>Some short trips which would take you next to no time on upgraded roads may take you 2 hours or more as many roads across the kingdom are being upgraded so road works and conditions may slow the journey a bit. Thankfully, most Bhutanese drivers are courteous and patient, especially on the high windy mountain roads.</p> <h2 id="altitude">Altitude Sickness</h2> <p>Bhutan has plenty to offer all levels of adventurers, with soaring mountains and trails to cliff-top temples.</p> <p>If you plan to hike in mountainous areas, you should familiarize yourself with the dangers of <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/how-to-deal-with-altitude-sickness">altitude or mountain sickness</a>.</p> <p>The condition occurs as you go higher the density of oxygen in the air decreases, meaning you're getting less with every breath.</p> <p>You can get altitude sickness regardless of your physical fitness level or age. The key thing is to ascend slowly and acclimatize. If you do experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, stop and let your body adjust.</p> <p>Symptoms include headache, fatigue, stomach illness, dizziness, and sleep disturbance. If you are experiencing any or several of these, you should reassess your plans and seek medical assistance.</p> <p>Make sure you rehydrate thoroughly as dehydration occurs faster at higher altitudes.</p>iStock/Theerapong28 0616090252 iStock Buddhist prayer flags in Thimphu, Bhutan

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/bhutan-crime-and-happinessBhutan is the only country in the world to measure the happiness of its citizens and this investment into their people's wellbeing translates to low crime rates.2019-06-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/bhutan-crime-and-happinesshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure the happiness of its citizens and to use the data as an indicator of the economy. Authorities measure the "Gross National Happiness" of the population using a sophisticated survey instrument.</p> <p>It aims to show that quality of life cannot be measured by a country's gross domestic product, instead, Bhutan prioritizes its Buddhist spiritual values over its economy.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#crime">Crime in Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#drugs">Drug Crime </a></li> <li><a href="#terror">Terrorism in Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ Safety </a></li> <li><a href="#women">Women's Safety </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="crime">Crime in Bhutan</h2> <p>Given this emphasis on people rather than profit, it won't surprise you to learn the crime rate in Bhutan is extremely low.</p> <p>It's highly unlikely you will encounter any crime while you are traveling in Bhutan. Incidents of petty crime are rarely reported and violent crime is very uncommon. On average, 21 homicides are reported across the country annually.</p> <h2 id="drugs">Drug crime</h2> <p>While there are some cases of drug crime reported, incidences of drug trafficking are low. Until television was introduced in 1999, marijuana plants were considered a weed that was simply fed to pigs to fatten them up! Cannabis consumption and trafficking are illegal and penalties range from fines to hefty prison sentences. </p> <h2 id="terror">Terrorism in Bhutan</h2> <p>The chances of a visitor being caught up in terrorist activities in Bhutan are very low, with events occurring in the border regions between Bhutan and India and Bhutan and China.</p> <p>The most serious threat to Bhutan's security is terrorism carried out by different dissident groups from India illegally camped in the nation. There have been kidnappings from communities near the border region. Most tour companies don't go to remote areas within Bhutan where insurgent activity has occurred and it's advised for safety reasons to avoid those areas.</p> <h2 id="lgbtq">LGBTQ+ safety</h2> <p>Same-sex relationships were decriminalized in Bhutan in June 2019 after a long legal battle by the local LGBTQ+ community. There is no noticeable gay scene in Bhutan, however, there are several tour operators who can assist LGBTQ travelers with their holiday arrangements. <br /><br />Locals are generally accepting of the LGBTQ community even in rural areas, however, if you are unsure, play it safe and be<span> discreet.</span></p> <h2 id="women">Women's safety</h2> <p>Bhutan is probably one of the safest places to travel for women travelers. Take the usual precautions you would as if you were heading out at night back in your home country.</p>iStock/leezsnow 0458600343 iStock Thimphu, Bhutan

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/laws-and-customs-bhutanConsidered to be the world's last Shangri-La, the small Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan tightly controls tourism. Here's what you need to know about laws, etiquette and visas.2019-04-02T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/bhutan/laws-and-customs-bhutanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Bhutan started to welcome tourists in 1974, when the government decided it was a good idea to promote the country's natural beauty, culture and rich traditions to the outside world. </p> <p>Since the first 287 tourists arrived in this ancient kingdom, numbers have steadily risen each year however the government has maintained tight controls to ensure tourism is not just sustainable but regulated to the benefit of the country.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#happy"> Health and Happiness </a></li> <li><a href="#visas"> Visas </a></li> <li><a href="#laws"> Local Laws in Bhutan </a></li> <li><a href="#etiquette"> Etiquette in Bhutan </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="happy">Health and happiness</h2> <p>This is a country that takes the health of its people seriously - instead of worrying about Gross National Product they worry about the Gross National Happiness of their population.</p> <p>The government believes this is achieved via the four main pillars:</p> <ul> <li>Equitable and equal socio-economic development</li> <li>Preservation and promotion of cultural and spiritual heritage</li> <li>Conservation of environment</li> <li>Good governance which is interwoven, complementary and consistent</li> </ul> <p>While this is one of the most isolated countries in the world, Bhutan must be onto something as other countries and the United Nations are adopting this concept.</p> <p>Bhutan was also the last country in the world to introduce television. The internet and TV were only de-criminalized in 1999. The capital Thimpu, still doesn't have traffic lights!</p> <p>At any sign of rising social problems, traditionalists in Bhutan warn of the dangers of the outside world however things don't seem to be slowing down with over 250,000 tourists visiting in the country in 2017.</p> <h2 id="visas">Visas</h2> <p>Pretty much everyone except travelers from India, Maldives and Bangladesh require a visa to enter the country. Visas must be applied for in advance via your tour operator who will process the paperwork and the fee for you. Don't forget to make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity from day of departure from Bhutan.</p> <p>Once the visa has been approved, your tour operator will receive the confirmation number and you'll receive the visa upon arrival into the country.<br />Even the airlines, Bhutan Air and Druk Air can't issue tickets to passengers unless they received the visa confirmation number. So as you can see, things are pretty tightly regulated from the get go.</p> <p>Upon leaving Bhutan, travelers will have to pay a US$20 departure tax. Foreigners (apart from Indian nationals) may only enter or depart the country through certain towns by road such as Phuntsoling, Samdrup Jongkhar and Gelephu; or by air into Paro International.</p> <p>Even if you do gain access to the country, certain areas may only be visited with a special permit that will be obtained by your tour operator. These areas are generally anything outside the Paro and Thimphu Valleys.  Prior authority, (also obtained by your tour operator) is required to visit some of the religious and administrative buildings (dzongs).</p> <p>While Bhutan's strict policies, especially on visitors, might seem onerous they also ensure travelers a truly unique experience in one of the last places on earth touched by the modern world.</p> <h2 id="laws">Local laws in Bhutan</h2> <h3>Traveling within Bhutan</h3> <p>It's difficult to travel independently through Bhutan (unless you have certain visas), so you will need to book all your travel activities via a Bhutanese Government licensed tour operator. Backpacking through the country is prohibited by the government but most tour operators offer some degree of flexibility e.g private tours vs group tours.</p> <p>The Bhutanese Government has imposed a strict minimum spend on visitors to the kingdom – currently between US$200 to $250 a day depending on the time of year. This includes items such as local ground travel, guide services, trekking equipment, meals, accommodation, local taxes and fees.</p> <h3>Don't diss the royals</h3> <p>While Bhutan switched from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy in 2008, the royal family of Bhutan are still revered by their people as they are seen as being closest to the gods.</p> <p>It's also a good idea to avoid talking politics given the country's position between China and India, due to current tensions.</p> <h3>Respecting nature</h3> <p>Nature is an integral part of Bhutanese culture and religion as they believe everything is alive in some way. The Bhutanese also believe it's essential to live in harmony with nature so it's taught from an early age including at school. It's this respect which has seen Bhutan become famous for its pristine wilderness areas.</p> <p>Avoid taking natural things like stones as souvenirs or skipping stones into a lake as they believe they are the home of the deities. </p> <h3>Photography & electronics in Bhutan</h3> <p>If you do decide to make the journey be prepared to have all personal computers, cellular telephones, cameras, or any other electronic devices registered with Bhutanese customs upon arrival.</p> <p>These items will also be checked upon departure, so hang onto that declaration slip they give you upon arrival.</p> <p>Bhutan is a photographer's paradise, but there are some spiritual and government buildings where getting those holiday snaps is a no go including the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.</p> <h3>Importing-exporting goods</h3> <p>You may think that carving or statue would look great in your home but exporting any antiques is forbidden and monitored by the authorities. Ask your guide prior to purchasing who can arrange a check with the government.</p> <h3>Tobacco in Bhutan</h3> <p>You can't buy or sell tobacco in Bhutan due to a ban in 2010, so you will need to bring your own supply (up to 200 cigarettes) for personal use and declare it on arrival where it will be subject to a sales and customs tax. <br /><br />As a result of the ban, tobacco use has increased in the country thanks to the black market and smuggling, with Bhutan now having one of the highest rates of smoking in southern Asia compared to before the ban. Smoking is also banned in public places, restaurants and offices too. Maybe it's just easier (and better for you) to inhale in that fresh mountain air instead.</p> <h2 id="etiquette">Etiquette in Bhutan</h2> <h3>Dress modestly</h3> <p>There are plenty of beautiful temples and other spiritually significant places in Bhutan so if you plan to check them out, it's a good idea to dress respectfully. While temperatures in the summer can nudge 90°F (32°C), it's best not to get around as if you were heading to the beach. Many places require long sleeve clothing in order to enter such as Tiger's Nest Monastery.</p> <h3>Prayer Wheels</h3> <p>If you are visiting a monastery, temple or stupa always walk around the prayer wheels in a clockwise direction. This shows respect for the religion and brings blessings to those who do it.</p> <h3>Tipping in Bhutan</h3> <p>Tipping is largely voluntary in Bhutan however it's a nice gesture to give something in thanks to those who made your stay easier such as your driver, guide, trekking staff etc but also if you are heading to more rural places within Bhutan as most locals who offer homestay experiences earn very little. Place it it in an envelope and hand it to them on the last night of your stay. </p> <p>Hotels and restaurants already have service charges in place so tipping is generally not needed, but give the hotel porter something if they go out of their way to help.</p> <h3>Giving gifts</h3> <p>Like many places around the world, it's generally advised not to bring gifts as it can encourage a culture of begging however if you are visiting a school; a gift of pencils, books or other equipment may be welcomed. Chat with your tour company to find out what is the best option.</p> <h3>Learn the local lingo</h3> <p>The Bhutanese locals love it if you give speaking the local language a go. It's also good to take the time to observe the local ways and greetings. Always ask your guide if you are unsure.</p>iStock/DanLinPhotography 0645878166 iStock The Tiger's Nest in Bhutan