Tokyo, Japan
January 13
Category: John & Sandy
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Hong Kong, China
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Kong Kong, China, in Southeast Asia.
HONG KONG, CHINA
A GREAT VARIETY OF CULTURAL AND ENTERTAINING SIGHTS
Many elaborate temples add a tranquil element to Hong Kong’s whirr, and Tin Hau temple has a surprisingly urban
location, considering its dedication to the Goddess of the Sea. It did once occupy the shorefront, but the city’s growth
saw land reclaimed from the sea around it, leaving the temple marooned inland.
Having been leased to the British for 99 years, milky tea is a revered tradition here – enjoy your cup with a serving of
local dim sum. While it’s easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of today’s Hong Kong, you need only walk or
board a tram for the short jaunt west into Western to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditionally Chinese
but no less high-energy.
You’ll discover actual Hong Kong east of Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and beyond. Amid the residential towers are restaurants, shopping malls, bars, convention centers, a nice smattering of museums, and – depending on fate and the horse you wager on – one of Hong Kong’s luckiest or unluckiest spots, the Happy Valley Racecourse.
LAN KWAI FONG
You will find the trendiest restaurants in Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s most popular dining area. This is the place to come, especially at night. Dining on the open-air patios lining the sidewalks and watching the crowds stroll by is a must-do in Hong Kong. You can find cuisine from around the world.
SIGHTS
- Peak Tram
- Dragon’s Back Hike
- Sky100
- Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
- Hong Kong Museum of History
Today’s Excursion – Classic Highlights of Hong Kong
We explored some of Hong Kong’s most popular historic landmarks.
Victoria Peak
From Garden Road, the brand-new tram took us for the eight-minute ride uphill to the 1,300-foot Victoria Peak. We took spectacular views and photos of Hong Kong and Kowloon.
Aberdeen
A sampan boat provides a fascinating look at this floating settlement. Gliding along the city’s oldest harbor, our cruise takes you past houseboats, fishing sampans, and floating restaurants.
Stanley Market
Once a fishing village, Stanley Market has earned a reputation as a paradise for bargain hunters and for its exciting scenery. The narrow lanes are lined with small shops selling the latest in fashion clothing, such as overruns of designer jeans and sportswear and leather and silk clothing in Western sizes. In addition, a good selection of souvenir items can be found here.
Dinner was on the pool deck, and a laser light show was on Hong Kong Victoria Bay.
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW – NED KELLY BAND
Ned Kelly’s Last Stand is a famous Hong Kong pub named after Australia’s greatest folk hero. It is reputed to be the oldest jazz pub in Hong Kong, and regulars affectionately refer to Ned Kelly’s as “Neds.”
Colin Aitchison & The China Coast Jazzmen have been the resident jazz band at the pub since 1997, and they perform as The Ned Kelly Band. In between, they are in demand at special events and jazz festivals, including Sacramento Jazz Festival, USA, and Macau Jazz Festival, Macau, and the Southbridge Jazz Club, Singapore.
Tonight, they performed three sets in the Panorama Lounge, where we enjoyed some foot-tapping Dixieland and swing jazz, plus a little Latin.
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Check out today’s Chronicle.
Tuesday, April 2, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Hong Kong, China
Where in the World Are We?
We sail from Chan May, Vietnam, to Kong Kong, China, in Southeast Asia.
Today’s activities include:
- Bridge lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Welcome to Hong Kong – Explore an incredible city and the surreal landscape on which it was built. Take the iconic Star Ferry and ride the funicular to the Peak for world-class views of the city and surrounding islands.
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Carole Klein: Hong Kong on the Horizon: Join Hong Kong Specialist Carole Klein for an informal chat and Q&A to help plan your perfect day exploring “Asia’s World City.” See the shopping guide below.
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Marc Ginsberg: Tales from the Diplomatic Woods—From Congress to the Coalition for a Safer Web… join me as I discuss world leaders and events encountered in my career in politics and diplomacy.
Captain’s Farewell and Crew Parade –
Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri and the crew of Silver Shadow wish you a fond arrivederci!
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant.
Fresh Lobe of ‘Rougie’ Foie Gras · Salt · Pepper · Sugar · Cognac · Madeira Wine Toasted French Spice Bread · Forest Berry Compote · Guérande Sea Salt · Mignonette Pepper
with Lemongrass and Roasted Coconut
Lobster Stock · Lobster Chunks · Cream · Brandy
with Spring Onions and Oyster Dressing
with Prawn Mash, Vegetables Fricassee , Avocado and Coriander Salsa
Yeast Cake · Pastry Cream · Whipped Cream · Rum
CASINO – THE MOST ICONIC CASINO ENTERTAINMENT OF ALL TIME
It features the music of Elvis Presley, The Rat Pack, and James Bond. Tonight’s performance celebrates the most iconic Casino Entertainment of all time.
Join your Silversea Vocalists and the Silversea Dancers as we bring this Casino
experience to life. Enjoy familiar hits such as Viva Las Vegas, Come Fly with Me, and Goldfinger, enhanced with modern choreography to entertain you!
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Monday, April 1, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Chan May, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Chan May, Vietnam, in Southeast Asia.
CHAN MAY, VIETNAM
BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE, AND RICH CULTURE
Experience the rich imperial past, stoic resilience, and blissful beaches of central Vietnam as you delve deep into this
fascinating country’s past and present. The sheer beauty and vitality of the scenery will amaze you as you explore the
stories this now tranquil land has to tell – all the while surrounded by rolling rice paddies, freely grazing water buffalo, and soaring limestone scenery.
Cut in half by the evocatively named Perfume River and home to a spectacular sprawling citadel; Hue is an authentic
experience for the senses. Vietnam’s timeless beauty outshines the shadows of its past, but Hue still bears the heavy
scars of war – whether it’s from American bombs or harrowing events like those of Hue Jungle Crevice – where the Viet
Cong pushed 3,000 civilians to their deaths.
Hue’s Old City was once the jewel of Vietnam, standing proudly as its Imperial Capital. Lotus flowers now twirl
peacefully in the grand moat around its mighty walls, which encase a spectacular array of charred palaces, temples
and regal residences.
Danang’s Marble Mountains rise dramatically close by, scattered with Buddhist shrines and plunging caves. While an endless treasure trove of rich cultural experiences is waiting here, it’s hard to resist the call of Danang’s idyllic beaches, where white sand gives way to a fringe of palm trees.
The undulating humps of the city’s Dragon Bridge soar across the wide River Han, and this ambitious structure comes
alive at night, when strobing light illuminates its flowing form, and the bridge’s dragon head rasps fire into the
dusk.
LANG CO BAY
Lang Co Bay is among the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. It has smooth white sand and is known for its pristine natural beauty. Not yet widely known because of the popularity of beaches in Da Nang and Hoi An, it’s a real hidden gem.
SIGHTS
- Marble Mountains
- Me Cung Cave
- Cat Ba National Park
- Cannon Fort
- Hai Van Pass
Today’s Excursion – The Streets of Hoi An
Vietnam’s culture and heritage fascinate all who visit. We explored the streets of Hoi An, Vietnam’s treasure chest of history. This picturesque river town has remained unchanged for centuries. Initially an important trading port, Hoi An boasts some of Vietnam’s most historic architecture, colorful temples, and old community houses. We visited the Hoi An Museum, experienced a guided walking tour of the town, and enjoyed a traditional lunch.
Marble Mountian and Showroom
We enjoyed some shopping time and the opportunity to take photos at Marble Mountain.
Hoi An
Hoi An is a pretty river town that has earned a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Our walking tour begins along its colorful streets, which have remained unchanged for centuries before we entered the Hoi An Museum. Housed in a traditional merchant’s house, this museum is known for its fine collection of objects relating to the town’s heyday as an important trading port. We view the ancient silk-making process.
Phuoc Kien Temple
Next, we visited the Phuoc Kien Temple, a structure built in honor of Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing and beautiful of Hoi An’s sights is the Japanese-covered bridge. Built in 1593 over a stream, it is a lovely amalgamation of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese architectural characteristics. It connects
Hoi An’s Japanese and Chinese districts. At the center of the bridge stands a small temple.
More pictures from the streets of Hoi An.
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH COMEDIAN DARRELL JOYCE – CONTRARIAN
A native of Columbus, Ohio, this 30-year veteran of the comedy circuit and finalist in the Aspen and Montreal Co Festivals appears to effortlessly deliver his cutting style. He is guaranteed to leave audiences doubled over and rolling in the aisles with laughter. This young, up-and-coming comedian is set to be the next breakout star on the comedy scene.
Appearing in colleges and comedy clubs across America, Joyce knows precisely what it takes to get a room rocking. “I like to think of my show as comedy therapy,” Joyce points out with his smirky smile and uncanny stage presence. Darrell is a comedian who will be seen and heard in the coming years and is just getting started.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Sunday, March 31, 2024 – Photo of the Day – at Sea En Route to Chan May, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Ho Chi Minh City to Chan May, Vietnam.
Today’s activities include:
- Bridge
- Dance Class
MEET DESTINATION LECTURER MICHAEL DISPEZIO
From hosting National Geographic broadcasts to shepherding the Discovery Channel to its first Emmy nomination, Dr. Michael DiSpezio is a renaissance educator, TV host, and science author.
A former marine biologist who worked as a research assistant to a Nobel Prize winner, he left the laboratory and his instructor role at Boston University to celebrate his passion for education as a K-12 classroom teacher for ten years. Returning to graduate school, he completed his doctorate in education.
Michael has written over 25 trade books and coauthored over 60 textbooks. His latest science program, Into Science, is published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
In addition to his work with leading print publishers, he has developed materials for Google, Disney, the Discovery Channel, PBS, Children’s Television Workshop, MTV, Scientific American Frontiers, and the US Department of Education.
After over four decades of globe-trotting, integrated with an understanding of communication pedagogy, Michael has become a master teacher and presenter. His talks are not merely lectures but interactive experiences supported by captivating visuals, movies, and animations. He facilitates an entertaining journey that explores and illuminates the voyage ahead.
Destination Lecture with Michael DiSpezio:
Chan May – Gateway to Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue
Travel from Chan May to discover the wonders and rich history of the picturesque streets of Hoi An, the cosmopolitan environs of Da Nang, and the historic
citadel of Hue
Enrichment Lecture with Carole Klein: Shopaholics Anonymous – Crafting Your Perfect Day in Hong Kong
A Tale of Two Cities—Part 2: Shopaholics and gourmands. Join Carole Klein to discover how to make the most of your time in Hong Kong. Carole will share her in-depth knowledge of Hong Kong, focusing on the two favorite pastimes of Hong Kong residents—shopping and dining. In Part 2, get oriented with Hong Kong Island, from reimagined heritage sites and gentrified neighborhoods to antiques, contemporary art, street markets, and world-class dining.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Saturday, March 30, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in Southeast Asia
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
A PLACE WHERE OLD MEETS NEW WITH STRIKING CONTRAST
A chaotic, enchanting swirl of sensory stimulation – Ho Chi Minh City is a place of incense-infused temples, colonial
architecture, warm people, and delicious street food. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was affectionately labeled the
Pearl of the Orient by the French.
Afternoons here drift by lazily on the gentle chaos of the River Saigon as taxi boats and motor canoes flit up and down
and parks fill out with locals playing jianzi kicking shuttlecocks back and forth. You’ll also find the celebrated Ho Chi Minh Post office erroneously credited across the road as a Gustav Eifel creation. In reality, the architect was another Frenchman, Alfred Foulhoux.
Taste the street food to get under Ho Chi Minh City’s skin with humble restaurants serving up rich flavors – from the
Vietnamese take on the baguette a banh mi sandwich – to the local staple of pho, a delicious noodle soup.
The Tortoise Pagoda is a tranquil escape and a serene place of worship for Vietnamese who practice Buddhism and
Taoism, while the Vietnamese medical museum has a fascinating collection of remedies and potions – some dating
back to the Stone Age.
Journey to learn more about the Vietnam War at the Remnants Museum and Cu Chi tunnels. Offering a vivid glimpse
of conditions and the ingenuity and resilience of the soldiers you’ll learn of the guerrilla war campaign raged from
within this claustrophobic 70-mile network of war tunnels.
FITO MUSEUM
The first Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (FITO) is in a beautiful old five-story building framed by bamboo. It’s worth a look for anyone interested in alternative medicine. The museum displays thousands of items related to traditional Vietnamese medicine from the Stone Age to the present day.
SIGHTS
- Thiên Hau Temple
- Reunification Palace
- Saigon Square
- Ben Thanh Market
- Museum of Vietnamese History
Today’s Excursion – Saigon Discovery
This excursion provided an introduction to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly named Saigon, a vibrant and exciting city.
History Museum
Start with a visit to this outstanding museum, which is considered the best place to get acquainted with Vietnam’s history. Housed in a building from the early 1900s, the museum displays artifacts from the Bronze Age to the early communist presence in Vietnam. Other exhibits feature Cham art, ceramics, and traditional costumes.
Next was the Notre Dame Cathedral, distinguished by its imposing twin spires, the Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the elegant Saigon City Hall.
Saigon Market
In the Saigon Market, we visited the large marketplace in central Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh. A short stroll through Ben Thanh market offers a kaleidoscope of colors and a hive of activities.
Thien Hau Temple
Next, proceed to this beautiful temple built in 1825 and dedicated to the cult of Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea and Protector
of Sailors.
Lacquer Factory
The last visit is to one of Saigon’s best-known establishments for an introduction to the making of the city’s renowned lacquer
ware. Browse through the showrooms, where a fascinating array of items tempts even the most jaded shopper.
Departing street and river scenes.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Friday, March 29, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in Southeast Asia.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
FORMERLY KNOWN AS SAIGON – THE ECONOMIC HEART OF VIETNAM
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, has a rich and complex history that dates back centuries. The city has been
influenced by many different cultures and empires, including the Khmer, the Champa, the Chinese, and the
French, among others.
During the 19th century, Ho Chi Minh City became an important center for commerce and industry under French
colonial rule. The city underwent a period of rapid modernization and expansion, with new infrastructure and
buildings, including the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, built in the late 1800s.
During the 20th century, Ho Chi Minh City played a crucial role in the Vietnam War. In 1954, following the defeat of the
French at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, the city became the capital of the Republic of Vietnam, supported by
the United States. The city was heavily bombed during the war, and many of its buildings were destroyed.
After the end of the war in 1975, Ho Chi Minh City became the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The City
has since undergone a period of rapid development and growth, with new infrastructure, businesses, and tourist
attractions being built.
Today, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and cosmopolitan city home to over 8 million people. It is a hub of commerce, culture, and tourism, with a rich history and a bright future.
CU CHI TUNNELS
This vast 250-kilometer-plus network of tunnels served as the base for the Viet Cong’s military operations during the Vietnam War. Soldiers used the excruciatingly cramped tunnels as hiding places, hospitals, communication bases, supply routes, and even living quarters.
SIGHTS
- War Remnants Museum
- Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Mekong Delta
- Saigon Opera House
- Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
Today, we traveled from Bangkok, Thailand, to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW – VAN ANH FUSION BAND
Van Anh Fusion is a Vietnamese folk fusion band formed in Ho Chi Minh City in 1996 under the name “Huong Sen” by artists Van Anh and Dru Nam while they were touring around the world.
Huong Sen changed its name to the “Van Anh Fusion” band in 2016, with 100 new members and over 20 years of growth.
VAF combines Vietnamese folk and modern music (rock, jazz, blues, country, etc.).
VAF manager is Ms. Van Anh – a director of Van Anh Event and a famous “Dan bau” (monochord) Artist from the South of Vietnam. The band leader is Mr. Dru Nam – an energetic drummer with many different playing styles and techniques
from folk to modern.
View a video of Mr. Dru Nam playing a bamboo percussion instrument.
View a video of Mr. Dru Nam playing a stone xylophone
View a video of a Vietnamese Hat Dance.
Dinner was in The Restaurant
Fried Seafood Spring Rolls · Spicy Dip
Hanoi Beef and Glass Noodle Soup · Egg Drop · Fresh Mint · Basil
Pork Strip Stir-fry · Spring Onions · Roasted Garlic . Fish Sauce . Soy Sauce . Garlic Fried Rice
Dark Chocolate · Walnuts · Vanilla Pod · Cream · Almond Flour
Hazelnut Cake · Dark Gianduja Mousse · Creamy Hazelnut Praline · Gianduja Ice Cream
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Thursday, March 28, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Bangkok, Thailand
Where in the World Are We?
We left Paro, Bhutan, and flew to Bangkok, Thailand.
Today’s Excursions – We enjoyed a sumptuous Thai dinner and a classical dance performance at your hotel.
This evening, we concluded our seven-day overland excursion in grand style with a sumptuous Thai set menu dinner accompanied by a classical dance performance at the Shangri-La Hotel’s Salathip restaurant.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Paro, Bhutan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Paro, Bhutan, in the Himalayas in South East Asia
Today’s Excursion – Paro, Bhutan
National Museum, Farmhouse lunch, Paro Dzong, Farewell Bhutanese Dragon Tent Dinner and Dancers
We explored the kingdom’s rich culture and heritage at the National Museum of Paro, where an intriguing collection of artifacts provided an excellent introduction. Unfortunately, photos were not allowed inside the museum. The sections included paintings of different Buddhas, Mandellas (which show the way to Nirvana and Enlightenment), bronze statues, clothing from the ages, tools and farm implements, and weaponry. The museum’s purpose is to preserve Bhutan’s culture and heritage.
Tour the fortress of Paro Dzong, featured in Keanu Reeve’s film Little Buddha
Our tour continued with a visit to the Paro Dzong. Built to defend Paro from the Tibetan invasion, this fortress is also known as Rinpung Dzong, the ‘Fortress of a Heap of Jewels.’ This fine example of Bhutanese architecture now serves as the Paro District’s central monastic and administrative seat. In 1993, the Paro Dzong had its first Hollywood appearance when the Keanu Reeves film Little Buddha was partially filmed here.
Visit the local farmer’s market
Farmhouse Lunch
Our guide took us to a traditional farmhouse to enjoy a traditional lunch. He told us that 62% of Bhutanese are farmers. They raise their rice, vegetables, fruit, and livestock and are self-sufficient, leading a simple life. Plowing, planting, and growing crops were all manual or with a water buffalo. They had no running water, sat and slept on mats and cushions, and had one light bulb per room. They lived off the grid in a primitive, ancient civilization. Bhutan is the only country in the world that is carbon-positive. They have a model to follow if you want a green, carbon-neutral, positive environment.
FOREST & FORTRESS FAREWELL DINNER
Amidst the pine forest and the calming sounds of the brooks and streams flowing through the forest, we took this opportunity to dine under an intricately embroidered, traditional Bhutanese Ceremonial Tent. The Bhutanese Dragon tent is gently lit with stringed lights and numerous flickering lanterns across the forest. Warmth and ambiance are created with many candles and traditional Bhutanese music.
A traditional dance performance by a musical troupe with Amankora signature cocktails and canapés while enjoying a traditional Bhutanese dinner prepared by the in-house Bhutanese chef.
Roasted Soup, Garlic, Olive Oil
Home-made Bread and Bumthang Butter
Salads
Roasted Beetroot, Hazelnuts, Orange Segment,
Greens, Feta Cheese, White Wine Vinaigrette
Mains from the Grill
Garlic Rosemary Beef Tomahawk
Thyme Marinated Chicken Breast
Garlic lemon Farm Trout
Grilled Tiger Prawn, Lime, Parsley
Grilled Shitake Capsicum, Asparagus, Zucchini,
Broccoli, Eggplant
Sauce
BBQ Sauce
Chimichurri Sauce
Dessert
Chocolate Fondu
Hot Chocolate with Seasonal Fruits
View a video of the farewell dinner dancers
Check out today’s Chronicle
Tuesday, March 26, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Paro, Bhutan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Paro, Bhutan, in the Himalayas in Southeast Asia.
Today’s Excursion – Eagle’s Nest
We drove to the base of Taktshang Goempa (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most revered monuments. It hangs off the face of a cliff approximately 2,950 feet above the valley floor. Legend states that Guru Rinpoche flew into Bhutan on a mythical tigress and meditated in a cave before bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Taktshang Goempa is built around the cave. The complete hike takes five hours. Sandy & I stopped about halfway due to the altitude and steep terrain. Our fifteen-year younger and better shape friends made the entire trip. They provided the closeup photos of the Eagle’s Nest.
View our friend’s video of their approach to the Eagle’s Nest.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/9Gd5Zj1NvAA
View a video of the mountain stream at the Prayer Wheel Temple.
We dined on a private barbecue lunch in a lovely riverside meadow at the base of the Tiger’s Nest. Following our challenging hike to the most revered and iconic symbol of Bhutan, we proceeded for a private barbecue lunch in a lovely riverside meadow at the base of the Tiger’s Nest. Our Amankora Resort prepares a selection of grilled meats, vegetables, and other specialties, with a bar set up with our choice of refreshing beverages.
Roasted Soup, Garlic, Olive Oil
Roasted Beetroot, Hazelnuts, Orange Segment,
Greens, Feta Cheese, White Wine Vinaigrette
Garlic Rosemary Beef Tomahawk
Thyme Marinated Chicken Breast
Garlic lemon Farm Trout
Grilled Tiger Prawn, Lime, Parsley
Grilled Shitake Capsicum, Asparagus,Zucchini,
Broccoli, Eggplant
After lunch, we visited one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples in the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang. The Tibetan saint Thangthong Gyelpo built the temple in 1421. It is the only temple in the form of a stupa.
At the temple, we lit 108 Butter Lamps, or karme, which represent the dispelling of the darkness of ignorance. Lighting butter lamps is an offering of light to the deities and is one of the most common means of increasing one’s merit. It also helps to focus the mind, aid meditation, and bring wisdom and compassion to our lives. Next, we went shopping in downtown Paro, returned to Amankora Resort, explored the area, and hiked to a nearby Dzong.
View a fast video overview of our Butter Lighting.
That evening, a Monk helped us make Prayer Flags with ink and a stencil.
Check out today’s Chronicle.
Monday, March 25, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Paro, Bhutan
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Paro, Bhutan, located in Southeast Asia
About Paro
The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture, scenic beauty, and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum, and the country’s only international airport. The approximately 23,996-foot-high Mount Chomolhari reigns in white glory at the valley’s northern end, and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form the Paro Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.
Today’s Excursion – Paro Festival and Paro highlights
The Paro Tshechu, or spring festival, is a five-day festival in Paro, Bhutan. The festival at Rinpung Dzong features masked dances, music, and other sacred rituals. Mask dances are performed inside the courtyard, and the courtyard outside the dzong hosts the festival the following days. Families attend in their best clothes.
Our next stop was a textile weaving where we saw the detailed hand weaving of colorful textiles. These complex patterns are passed down from generation to generation and are memorized by the women.
After the Festival, we checked into the Amankora Paro Resort and had dinner.
Join us on a tour of Amankora’s Paro Lodge, nestled within the pristine forests of Paro Valley, Bhutan. This remote sanctuary promises a unique cultural and wellness experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s profound spirituality. Discover once-in-a-lifetime adventures, such as hiking up to Tiger’s Nest or a breathtaking helicopter ride over the Himalayas, revealing sacred valleys, lakes, and awe-inspiring peaks.
Check out today’s Chronicle.