I know it has only been a few days since my last post, however I feel compelled to describe the things that I am seeing and the moments that I am experiencing before they become part of my everyday life and loose their luster (although I do not see that happening!)
I arrived in Bhutan on a clear day… not only was this desirable for flying but it allowed me to see the beautiful land below. … As we flew over Nepal, the captain came on the intercom and instructed all passengers to look to the left… I did as I was told and as I peered out the small frosty windows, looking back at me was Mount Everest and the Himalayan mountain range… so close I felt as though I could reach out and touch it. Its majestic beauty and snow covered tips reflected in the sun and it appeared as if it was made of platinum and diamonds. The rolling green hills below provided a beautiful contrast which only magnified the mountain’s appeal… I thought to myself… what a great way to continue my journey….
We were greeted at the Paro airport by a man named Sanjay who would then take us to Thimphu City were we would be staying (for the most part) during our time in Bhutan. For those who have spoken to me already since arriving, this next description may be repetitive, although so great I don’t mind reliving it over and over again….
As we drove to Thimphu City, we followed a snaky, ever-changing road and seemed to cut right through the mountains…. I can only describe what I saw by comparing it to the landscape of fairy tales or stories of Narnia…. Rolling green hills, rivers as clear as glass flowing along the roads, waterfalls emerging from the mountain side…. farmers herding their cattle, school children dressed in their traditional kira and ghos walking home from school….And as if this wasn’t enough, you look up and see hundreds of brightly coloured prayer flags of blue, green, red and yellow blowing in the wind, sending prayers and dreams to the Gods above….
 |
| "Harmony Village"...our hostel |
We are staying at the Youth Hostel here in Thimphu until our apartment is ready (2 weeks). I would consider myself a seasoned traveler and have stayed in many hostels throughout and don’t have an issue with the living conditions that one offers… however, I will say that this stay has required me to remain more flexible and is forcing me to (at times) appreciate that I have this wonderful opportunity! We have very modest accommodations… a platform (note: not a bed) to sleep on. There are communal bathrooms that are on the third floor. They offer very little and when there is water available it is usually cold (at best)… we have adjusted and have learned to take very (very) quick bucket “showers” and wash our hair separately in the sink, so that we don’t freeze to death! I should note that being in Asia doesn’t mean festering heat and humidity… instead the weather here is very dry and cold and there are no heating systems… so as you can imagine how our cold bucket showers can be a daunting task!!
We have ventured into ‘town’ a few times to have a meal and enjoy one of two local cafes that offer free Wi-Fi and ‘western’ style snacks…. Although as many travelers know… things are not always as they appear and a ham and cheese sandwich or an order of French fries can be suspect on many levels!!
 |
| Thimphu City |
 |
| My new office! |
I have started work and am slowing getting my head around things here. It seems that in addition to my research I will be also working with street and drug addicted youth here in the capital…. I will write more about that when I have completely immersed myself in it… stay tuned!!
No comments:
Post a Comment