gross [inter]national happiness
The Tiger's Nest (aka Taktsang Palphug Monastery), Bhutan |
One of the inspirations for our decision to go away travelling was an article entitled 'Find a Kingdom of Happiness' in Colors magazine about a small Himalayan country called Bhutan. It introduced us to a country that uniquely bases its policy-making and measures its success on Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than Gross National Product (GNP).
Suitably inspired by this wonderful piece of fresh thinking, and more than a little depressed by the state of the economies of the western world, we decided it was a fine time to jack it all in and head east in search of mysterious cultures, beautiful scenery, friendly people, peace and quiet, hustle and bustle, new flavours, sights and smells... and our very own slice of happiness.
We departed the UK on 18th October 2012 and returned on 4th June 2013 having visited Nepal, Bhutan, India, Burma, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
We hope you enjoy reading about our adventures.
Duncan & Jo