Here are some travel tips that you will find helpful while traveling in Bhutan. We have discussed specific information separately in this section such as visa information, custom rules and health precautions. Some other things to keep in mind to keep yourself safe and secure in Bhutan and enjoy your trip fully are:
- Altitude Sickness can be avoided if you take proper precautions while trekking and going to higher altitudes and give your body time to adjust to the climatic conditions and rarified atmosphere there. It is known as acclimatization.
- Always wear proper sun protection including sun block, sunglasses and hat.
- Avoid handling animals such as snakes, monkeys, dogs and cats to avoid bites.
- Bhutanese and mostly all Asians in general believe that sexual orientation or sexual preference of a person is a very personal and private matter and discussing such topics in public is considered a taboo. So, it is best not to display affection in public for it may attract negative feelings from Bhutanese people.
- Bhutanese respect elders and senior citizens very much but senior identifications may not be helpful in attracting special rates and discounts for senior travelers in Bhutan.
- Bhutanese women have same rights as men and women are not subject to harassment in Bhutan. So, solo women travelers do not need any special precautions in the country. Bhutanese are more likely to help a woman in distress than a man but young men do have a liberal attitude towards women and if you do not want any misunderstandings, it is best to make your intentions clear from the very beginning.
- Disabled travelers may not find Bhutan a very agreeable place despite the fact that Bhutanese people are eager to help them because roads are rough and sidewalks may have steps or holes. Hotels and toilets may not have wheelchair access too and thus, people with physical disabilities are more prone to accidents here.
- Kids may find Bhutan boring because of the lack of entertainment, access to TV and long monotonous drives. However, Bhutanese kids and families eagerly accept new kids and welcome them warmly.
- Salt water is safer to swim than fresh water.
- Seniors are advised to travel in groups and have ample supply of their medicines that may not be available in Bhutan.
- Take recommended precautions to keep yourself safe from insect bites.
- The risk of contacting plague is very small for travelers though because of the short duration of their stay.
- Wash and peel fruits and vegetables yourself, if you are eating them raw.
