#bhutanese beer

[dailybhutan]

7 Benefits of Cordyceps: Harnessing the Power of Traditional Medicine | Dailybhutan

Discover the age-old secrets of Cordyceps, prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and herbalism. Uncover the multitude of health benefits linked to this remarkable fungus. Explore the natural wonders of Cordyceps and its potential to enhance your well-being

[irithnova]

it’s my headcanon that mongolia may have once conquered china, but china knows that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.

so china begins cooking (let him cook)

and mongolia becomes addicted to chinese cuisine lmaooo (and mb even the cook himself)

Hahah interesting headcanon, I quite like it myself.

Historically, Yuan Dynasty court food was still mainly Mongol/Mongol influenced! Contrary to what some may believe, the Mongols of the Yuan were not sinicized, and this is seen even through the food they ate.

When the Mongols conquered China, they established their own court cuisine as a demonstration of power and authority. This aligns with the long-standing tradition across Chinese and other court societies of using food as a symbol of respect, dominance, hierarchy, and power.

It is reasonable to assume that the Mongols cuisine their pre-imperial ventures were similar to other central Asian trends .

Historical records mention feasts among Central Asian "barbarians" and their use of food in state ceremonies and hospitality. Rather than adopting China's classic cuisine, the Mongols built upon their own traditions, incorporating diverse international influences while also maintaining their steppe eating customs and foods.

This display of cultural preservation, despite the availability of Chinese alternatives, is seen as a testament to their determination!

Further, the Mongols established their capital in North China, which had already been under non-Chinese rule for over a century and had its own distinct cuisine. The Chinese food in the north was already influenced by Central and West Asia since the Han Dynasty.

Even before occupying China, the Mongols had vast imperial ventures and so they had opportunity to absorb culinary traditions from various regions.

Because or this, they didn't feel the need to adopt Chinese cuisine of the time, which was based on ingredients not readily available in the north. The Mongols were influenced by their Turkic officials and the cuisine they encountered in Beijing had already been influenced by previous dynasties.

Mongol feasts became increasingly diverse with the foods as the Mongols conquered more land, thus gaining access to more typed of foods.

The historian George Lane shares what a meal at the Mongol imperial court might have included:

"Appetizers might have included momo shapale with sipen mardur sauce, delicate steamed Tibetan mushroom ravioli smothered in a creamy, spicy yoghurt sauce. A salad of Bhutanese chilli and cheese might have followed. The main course, shabril with dresil, comprised Tibetan meatball curry with nutted saffron rice, honey, and currants. Himalayan steamed bread with turmeric and barley beer with honey would have accompanied the main food, and also as a dessert, Chinese chestnut mound with cream and glazed fruit would have found favour. "

The Yinshan Zhengyao is a 1330 CE book written by Hu Sihui, which served as a guide for the Mongol imperial court. It contains various recipes and cooking techniques. Some of the dishes include:

1) Roast Wolf Soup

2) Mountain oysters

3) Detoxifying Dried Orange Peel Puree (for hangovers)

While the Mongols definitely retained their cuisine (and culture), I do think Mongolia definitely did try traditional Chinese cuisine! There's no way he stayed there for (almost) a century and didn't try it.

He most likely then tried Song Dynasty food! The last Chinese dynasty to the South before the Yuan completely took over.

During the Song dynasty, Chinese cuisine reached new heights in terms of variety and nutritional value.

In fact, in 1998, the American "Life Magazine" listed the top 100 influential events of the past 1,000 years. One of them was the rise of restaurants and snacks during the Song Dynasty, which came at 56!

During the Song, people started eating three meals a day instead of two. This change gave them more time to explore and experiment with different cooking methods and flavours.

In Hangzhou, the capital of the Song Dynasty, cooks tried out a variety of herbs and spices brought from different parts of Asia. The noblemen hosted banquets that would last for days, serving dishes named "Dragon Meets Phoenix" and "Seven Stars Encircle the Moon." Hangzhou impressed Marco Polo so much that he described it as a place of abundant pleasures, akin to paradise!

Some song dynasty foods that China might have prepared for Mongolia (to prove this his cuisine is ~superior~)

1) Orange stuffed with fried crab

2) Plum blossom soup

Here's a website I found which talks more about Song Dynasty food:

The Song popularised foods that are even loved to this day like ham, braised pork, hotpot, fried bread stick, rice dumpling, and popcorn. It was a truly revolutionary period for food.

So I speculate that Mongolia tried Song Dynasty food, and yes, he was very impressed by it!

[hotelandresorts123]

Hotel in Thimphu with bar

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Bhutan’s capital, the Lemon Tree Hotel in Thimphu offers a perfect blend of contemporary comfort and traditional Bhutanese charm. Whether you’re a business traveler, adventurer, or someone seeking a serene retreat, this hotel provides all the amenities needed for a memorable stay. One of its standout features is its well-stocked bar, offering a delightful experience for guests looking to unwind with a drink in hand while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

A Warm Welcome to Thimphu Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, is a city that perfectly balances modernity with rich cultural heritage. As you arrive, you’re greeted with cool mountain air, vibrant prayer flags, and striking architecture that echoes centuries of Buddhist influence. Situated in the heart of this dynamic city, the Lemon Tree Hotel provides easy access to key landmarks, including the iconic Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, and Memorial Chorten. Whether you're exploring the cultural sites or simply enjoying the tranquility of the Bhutanese landscape, the hotel serves as an excellent base for all your adventures.

Elegant Accommodations The rooms at Lemon Tree Hotel in Thimphu are designed with a blend of elegance and comfort in mind. Each room is meticulously furnished with modern amenities, ensuring that every guest enjoys a seamless experience. Expect soft bedding, well-appointed bathrooms, and a cozy ambiance that helps you relax after a long day of exploring the city. Large windows offer picturesque views of the mountains and the cityscape, bringing nature into your room. The interior décor reflects subtle Bhutanese influences, with warm hues and traditional motifs that enhance the cultural experience.

Hotel in Thimphu with a Bar: A Place to Unwind One of the most popular features of the Lemon Tree Hotel in Thimphu is its stylish bar, where guests can unwind after a day of sightseeing or business meetings. This bar offers a wide selection of international and local beverages, including premium wines, spirits, and classic cocktails, all served by friendly and professional staff. The bar’s cozy ambiance, coupled with the hotel’s scenic surroundings, makes it an ideal place to relax and socialize. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening drink or a place to enjoy Bhutanese craft beers with friends, the bar is sure to impress.

Culinary Delights to Savor Beyond its bar, the Lemon Tree Hotel in Thimphu also boasts an excellent on-site restaurant offering a range of delicious culinary options. Guests can enjoy a variety of international and local Bhutanese dishes, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For those interested in experiencing authentic Bhutanese cuisine, the menu includes traditional dishes like Ema Datshi (a spicy cheese and chili dish) and Jasha Maroo (a hearty chicken stew), alongside international favorites. The hotel’s attentive service and beautifully set dining area create a memorable dining experience.

Business and Leisure Amenities For business travelers, the Lemon Tree Hotel offers well-equipped meeting rooms and event spaces that are perfect for conferences, meetings, or small gatherings. The hotel’s professional staff is always on hand to ensure that your event runs smoothly, providing everything from audio-visual equipment to tailored catering options. High-speed Wi-Fi and other business amenities make it convenient for those who need to stay connected during their visit.

On the leisure side, the hotel offers a range of services to enhance your stay. From a well-equipped fitness center to spa treatments, guests can rejuvenate after a long day. The staff at the hotel are knowledgeable and can assist in arranging tours around Thimphu, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Whether you're planning a hike through Bhutan’s pristine nature reserves or a visit to nearby monasteries, the hotel’s concierge service has you covered.

https://www.lemontreehotels.com/lemon-tree-hotel/thimphu/hotel-thimphu

[wanderons-blog]

Journey Through the Soul of Bhutan: Top Things to Do in Bumthang

Bumthang, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, is a region where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Known for its sacred temples, vibrant festivals, and stunning landscapes, Bumthang offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. Here's a guide to the top things to do in this enchanting region, perfect for anyone considering a Bhutan tour package.

Unveil History at Jakar Dzong

Start your journey with a visit to Jakar Dzong, also known as the "Castle of the White Bird." This fortress, built in 1667, stands majestically on a ridge overlooking the Chokhor Valley. Explore its massive courtyards and corridors, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Bhutanese history and architecture. Visiting Jakar Dzong is one of the essential things to do in Bhutan, providing a rich cultural experience in a stunning setting.

Seek Blessings at Kurjey Lhakhang

Kurjey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's most sacred monasteries, is where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on a rock. The complex comprises three temples and is surrounded by 108 chortens (stupas). The serene environment and stunning architecture make it a spiritual haven. Visitors can also explore the lush surrounding forests, which are ideal for peaceful walks and meditation. The annual Kurjey Tshechu festival held here attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists, offering a unique insight into Bhutanese religious traditions. Kurjey Lhakhang is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual enrichment and cultural immersion in Bhutan.

Sample Local Brews at Red Panda Brewery

Red Panda Brewery, Bhutan's first microbrewery, offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts. Taste their popular Weiss beer and learn about the brewing process, enjoying the local flavors in a relaxed setting.

[brookston]

Holidays 2.11

Holidays

American Hospital Day

Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution (Iran)

Armed Forces Day (Liberia)

Assault on Copenhagen Day (Denmark)

Be Electrific Day

Burt Reynolds Day

Couch Grass Day (French Republic)

Day of Revenue Service (Azerbaijan)

Don't Cry Over Spilled Milk Day

Don’t Shoot Your Friend in the Face While Hunting Day

Evelio Javier Day (Philippines)

Flash Appreciation Day

Forest Animal Feeding Day (Poland)

Get Out Your Guitar Day

Ghost Day

Giorno della Conciliazione Day (Italy)

Grandmother Achievement Day

Gratified Being Single Day

Guðfriðr's Day (Aedeland)

Hug a Tall Person Day

International Day of Women and Girls in Science (UN)

Islamic Revolution Day (Iran)

Janet Jackson Appreciation Day

KISS Day (South Carolina)

Leslie Nielsen Day

Make A Friend Day (a.k.a. Make A New Friend Day)

Meaning of Life Day

Meringue Memorial Day

National Ava Day

National Emergency Number Day (Finland)

National Guitar Day (a.k.a. Get Out Your Guitar Day)

National Marc Day

National Inventor's Day

National Shut-In Visitation Day

National 211 Day

National Van Day

Nelson Mandela Day (South Africa)

112 Day (EU)

Promise Day

Pro Sports Wives Day

Satisfied Staying Single Day

Shaheed Day (Bangladesh)

Weiberfastnacht (Germany)

White T-Shirt Day (a.k.a. White Shirt Day)

Whitney Houston Appreciation Day

World Day of Medical Women

World Day of the Sick (Roman Catholic)

World Unani Day (India)

Youth Day (Cameroon)

Food & Drink Celebrations

National Latte Day

National Pork Rind Appreciation Day

National Roast Day

Peppermint Patty Day

2nd Sunday in February

Autism Sunday [2nd Sunday]

Daytona 500 Race Day [2nd Sunday]

International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome [2nd Sunday]

International Flirting Week begins [Sunday before Valentine’s Day]

Man Day [Sunday before 14th]

Mother’s Day (Norway) [2nd Sunday]

National Preacher’s Kid Day [2nd Sunday]

Quinquagesima Sunday [Sunday before Ash Wednesday]

Race Relations Sunday (Methodist Church) [2nd Sunday]

Racial Justice Sunday (UK) [2nd Sunday]

Sour Sunday [1st Sunday of SF Beer Week]

Super Bowl Sunday [2nd Sunday] (a.k.a. ... 

Bud Bowl Day

National Bring Back Marching Bands Day

National Homegating Day

National Popcorn Day

National Pork Rind Day

NFL Day

Neo-Prohibitionist’s Complaining Day

Puppy Bowl Day

Rene Descartes Memorial Day

Suberb Owl Day

Super Bowl of Caring [ website ]

Super Chicken Wing Day

World Marriage Day [2nd Sunday]

Independence & Related Days

Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution (Iran)

Foundation Day (Japan; 660 B.C.E.)

Honduras (Declared; 1922)

Independence Proclamation Day (Norway; 1814)

Vatican City (Lateran Treaty signed with Italy, 1929)

New Year’s Days

Hindi New Year (Hinduism) (a.k.a. ... 

Dangpa Losar (Bhutanese New Year; Bhutan) [2024: Year of the Male Wood Dragon]

Gyalpyo / Gyallo Loshar (Nepal)

Hari Raya Nyepi Tahun Brau Saka (Indonesia)

Losar (Sikkim, India)

Losar (Tibetan New Year)

New Year's Celebration, Day 2  [Lunar Calendar] (a.k.a. …

Chinese New Year Holiday, Day 2 (Bhutan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan)

Public Sector Holiday (East Timor)

Second Day of the lunar New Year (Hong Kong, Macau)

Tet Holiday (Vietnam)

Festivals Beginning February 11, 2024

Carnival of Aalst (Aalst, Belgium) [thru 2.13]

Carnival of Binche (Binche, Belgium) [thru 2.13]

Carnival of Maastricht (Maastricht, Netherlands) [thru 2.13]

Fastelavn (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Gasparilla Carnival (Tampa, Florida)

Panama Carnival (Panama City, Panama) [thru 2.14]

Paris Carnival (Paris, France)

Feast Days

Adolph (Christian; Saint)

Benedict of Aniame (Christian; Saint)

Blaise (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

Bounce on the Bed Day (Pastafarian)

Cædmon, first recorded Christian poet in England, c. 680 CE (Anglicanism)

Carlo Carrà (Artology)

Feast of Our Lady’s Miraculous Apparitions (Christian)

Festival of Ptah (Ancient Egyptian God of Creativity; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Gobhnat (Celtic Book of Days)

Gobnait (Christian; Saint)

Gregory II, pope (Christian; Saint)

Hide Under the Bed Day (Pastafarian)

Jane Yolan (Writerism)

Lazarus of Milan (Christian; Saint)

Lucius (Christian; Martyr)

Our Lady of Lourdes (Christian; Saint)

Overindulgence Festival (Church of the SubGenius)

Paschal I, pope (Christian; Saint)

Pattern Day (Ireland)

Phidias (Positivist; Saint)

Pilgrimage Day (Lourdes, France)

Saturninus Dativus, and others (Christian; Martyrs)

Severinus (Christian; Saint)

Sol (Muppetism)

Tachychardia Week (Church of the SubGenius)

Tales of Kelp-Koli (Shamanism)

Theodora, Byzantine Empress (Anglo-Romish)

Tiresias’s Day (Pagan)

True Parents Day (Unification Church)

Ume Matsuri begins (Plum Blossom Festival; Atami, Japan)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Fortunate Day (Pagan) [7 of 53]

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Tycho Brahe Unlucky Day (Scandinavia) [8 of 37]

Premieres

The Beach (Film; 2000)

Between the Buttons, by The Rolling Stones (Album; 1967)

Black Spring, by Henry Miller (Novel; 1936)

Born This Way, by Lady Gaga (Song; 2011)

Bosko in Person (WB LT Cartoon; 1933)

The Bourne Supremacy, by Robert Ludlum (Novel; 1986)

Box-Office Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1991)

Bride & Prejudice (Film; 2005)

The Captains and the Kids (MGM Cartoon; 1939)

Cedar Rapids (Film; 2011)

Death on the Nile (Film; 2022)

Dirty Snow, by Georges Simenon (Novel; 1948)

Donald’s Happy Birthday (Disney Cartoon; 1949)

Elvis (TV movie; 1979)

Gnomeo & Juliet (Animated Film; 2011)

The Grocery Boy (Disney Cartoon; 1932)

Happy Together, by The Turtles (Song; 1967)

Hitch (Film; 2005)

Hoppy Daze (WB LT Cartoon; 1961)

I Lombardi alla Prima Crociata (The Lombards at the first Crusade), by Giuseppe Verdi (Opera; 1843)

Inviting Anna (Film; 2022)

Just Go with It (Film; 2011)

La Fille du Régiment (The Daughter of the Regiment), by Getano Donizetti (Opera; 1840)

Linger Awhile and Mobile Day, recorded by Rex Stewart & His Orchestra (Song; 1940)

Lovesick Blues, by Hank Williams (Song; 1949)

The Magic Christian (Film; U.S. 1970)

Memories of the Future, by Sigizmund Krzhizhanovsky (Short Stories; 1989) [Written in 1920]

The Might Celt (Film; 2005)

The Moose and the Monster or Nothing But the Pest (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 255; 1964)

Mutiny on the Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1950)

Nurse to Meet Ya (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1955)

Our Cartoon President (Animated TV Series; 2018)

The Piano (Film; 1994)

Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (Animated Film; 2005)

The Quetong Missile Mystery (Animated TV Show;Jonny Quest #22; 1965)

Robin Hood Makes Good (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

R.U.R., by Karel Čapek (TV movie; 1938) [1st Science Fiction program]

Scrappy Birthday (Andy Panda Cartoon; 1949)

Self Control (Disney Cartoon; 1938)

Simon Says, Be My Valentine, Parts 1 & 2 (Underdog Cartoon, S3, Eps. 17 & 18; 1967)

Smash and Grab (Pixar Animated Short; 2019)

Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, by Anton Bruckner (Symphony; 1903)

Testing 1, 2, 3, or Tape a Number (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 256; 1964)

Thieves Like Us (Film; 1974)

The Tigger Movie (Animated Disney Film; 2000)

The Violins of Saint-Jacques, by Patrick Leigh Fermor (Novel; 1953)

Walking After Midnight, by Patsy Cline (Song; 1957)

Weasel Stop (WB LT Cartoon; 1956)

Today’s Name Days

Anselm (Austria)

Marija, Mirjana (Croatia)

Božena (Czech Republic)

Euphrosyne (Denmark)

Teri, Terje (Estonia)

Iisa, Isabella, Talvikki (Finland)

Lourdes (France)

Maria Lourdes, Theodora, Theodor (Germany)

Avgi, Theodora, Vlassis (Greece)

Bertold, Marietta (Hungary)

Dante, Durante, Eloisia, Lourdes (Italy)

Laima, Laimdota, Laimrota (Latvia)

Adolfas, Algirdas, Algirdė, Liucijus (Lithuania)

Ingve, Yngve (Norway)

Adolf, Adolfa, Adolfina, Alf, Bernadetta, Dezydery, Eufrozyna, Łazarz, Lucjan, Maria, Olgierd, Świętomira (Poland)

Teodora, Vlasie (Romania)

Dezider (Slovakia)

Lourdes, Pedro (Spain)

Inge, Yngve (Sweden)

Ulas (Ukraine)

Adolfo, Adolph, Adolpha, Alva, Alvarita, Alvaro, Lourdes (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 42 of 2024; 324 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 7 of week 6 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Luis (Rowan) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 1 (Bing-Yin), Day 2 (Yi-Si)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025)

Hebrew: 2 Adair I 5784

Islamic: 1 Sha’ban 1445

J Cal: 12 Grey; Fryday [12 of 30]

Julian: 29 January 2024

Moon: 5%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 14 Homer (2nd Month) [Phidias)

Runic Half Month: Sigel (Sun) [Day 3 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 53 of 89)

Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 21 of 28)

Calendar Changes

Shaʿbān [شَعْبَان] (Islamic Calendar) [Month 8 of 12]

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 2.11

Holidays

American Hospital Day

Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution (Iran)

Armed Forces Day (Liberia)

Assault on Copenhagen Day (Denmark)

Be Electrific Day

Burt Reynolds Day

Couch Grass Day (French Republic)

Day of Revenue Service (Azerbaijan)

Don't Cry Over Spilled Milk Day

Don’t Shoot Your Friend in the Face While Hunting Day

Evelio Javier Day (Philippines)

Flash Appreciation Day

Forest Animal Feeding Day (Poland)

Get Out Your Guitar Day

Ghost Day

Giorno della Conciliazione Day (Italy)

Grandmother Achievement Day

Gratified Being Single Day

Guðfriðr's Day (Aedeland)

Hug a Tall Person Day

International Day of Women and Girls in Science (UN)

Islamic Revolution Day (Iran)

Janet Jackson Appreciation Day

KISS Day (South Carolina)

Leslie Nielsen Day

Make A Friend Day (a.k.a. Make A New Friend Day)

Meaning of Life Day

Meringue Memorial Day

National Ava Day

National Emergency Number Day (Finland)

National Guitar Day (a.k.a. Get Out Your Guitar Day)

National Marc Day

National Inventor's Day

National Shut-In Visitation Day

National 211 Day

National Van Day

Nelson Mandela Day (South Africa)

112 Day (EU)

Promise Day

Pro Sports Wives Day

Satisfied Staying Single Day

Shaheed Day (Bangladesh)

Weiberfastnacht (Germany)

White T-Shirt Day (a.k.a. White Shirt Day)

Whitney Houston Appreciation Day

World Day of Medical Women

World Day of the Sick (Roman Catholic)

World Unani Day (India)

Youth Day (Cameroon)

Food & Drink Celebrations

National Latte Day

National Pork Rind Appreciation Day

National Roast Day

Peppermint Patty Day

2nd Sunday in February

Autism Sunday [2nd Sunday]

Daytona 500 Race Day [2nd Sunday]

International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome [2nd Sunday]

International Flirting Week begins [Sunday before Valentine’s Day]

Man Day [Sunday before 14th]

Mother’s Day (Norway) [2nd Sunday]

National Preacher’s Kid Day [2nd Sunday]

Quinquagesima Sunday [Sunday before Ash Wednesday]

Race Relations Sunday (Methodist Church) [2nd Sunday]

Racial Justice Sunday (UK) [2nd Sunday]

Sour Sunday [1st Sunday of SF Beer Week]

Super Bowl Sunday [2nd Sunday] (a.k.a. ... 

Bud Bowl Day

National Bring Back Marching Bands Day

National Homegating Day

National Popcorn Day

National Pork Rind Day

NFL Day

Neo-Prohibitionist’s Complaining Day

Puppy Bowl Day

Rene Descartes Memorial Day

Suberb Owl Day

Super Bowl of Caring [ website ]

Super Chicken Wing Day

World Marriage Day [2nd Sunday]

Independence & Related Days

Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution (Iran)

Foundation Day (Japan; 660 B.C.E.)

Honduras (Declared; 1922)

Independence Proclamation Day (Norway; 1814)

Vatican City (Lateran Treaty signed with Italy, 1929)

New Year’s Days

Hindi New Year (Hinduism) (a.k.a. ... 

Dangpa Losar (Bhutanese New Year; Bhutan) [2024: Year of the Male Wood Dragon]

Gyalpyo / Gyallo Loshar (Nepal)

Hari Raya Nyepi Tahun Brau Saka (Indonesia)

Losar (Sikkim, India)

Losar (Tibetan New Year)

New Year's Celebration, Day 2  [Lunar Calendar] (a.k.a. …

Chinese New Year Holiday, Day 2 (Bhutan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan)

Public Sector Holiday (East Timor)

Second Day of the lunar New Year (Hong Kong, Macau)

Tet Holiday (Vietnam)

Festivals Beginning February 11, 2024

Carnival of Aalst (Aalst, Belgium) [thru 2.13]

Carnival of Binche (Binche, Belgium) [thru 2.13]

Carnival of Maastricht (Maastricht, Netherlands) [thru 2.13]

Fastelavn (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Gasparilla Carnival (Tampa, Florida)

Panama Carnival (Panama City, Panama) [thru 2.14]

Paris Carnival (Paris, France)

Feast Days

Adolph (Christian; Saint)

Benedict of Aniame (Christian; Saint)

Blaise (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

Bounce on the Bed Day (Pastafarian)

Cædmon, first recorded Christian poet in England, c. 680 CE (Anglicanism)

Carlo Carrà (Artology)

Feast of Our Lady’s Miraculous Apparitions (Christian)

Festival of Ptah (Ancient Egyptian God of Creativity; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Gobhnat (Celtic Book of Days)

Gobnait (Christian; Saint)

Gregory II, pope (Christian; Saint)

Hide Under the Bed Day (Pastafarian)

Jane Yolan (Writerism)

Lazarus of Milan (Christian; Saint)

Lucius (Christian; Martyr)

Our Lady of Lourdes (Christian; Saint)

Overindulgence Festival (Church of the SubGenius)

Paschal I, pope (Christian; Saint)

Pattern Day (Ireland)

Phidias (Positivist; Saint)

Pilgrimage Day (Lourdes, France)

Saturninus Dativus, and others (Christian; Martyrs)

Severinus (Christian; Saint)

Sol (Muppetism)

Tachychardia Week (Church of the SubGenius)

Tales of Kelp-Koli (Shamanism)

Theodora, Byzantine Empress (Anglo-Romish)

Tiresias’s Day (Pagan)

True Parents Day (Unification Church)

Ume Matsuri begins (Plum Blossom Festival; Atami, Japan)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Fortunate Day (Pagan) [7 of 53]

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Tycho Brahe Unlucky Day (Scandinavia) [8 of 37]

Premieres

The Beach (Film; 2000)

Between the Buttons, by The Rolling Stones (Album; 1967)

Black Spring, by Henry Miller (Novel; 1936)

Born This Way, by Lady Gaga (Song; 2011)

Bosko in Person (WB LT Cartoon; 1933)

The Bourne Supremacy, by Robert Ludlum (Novel; 1986)

Box-Office Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1991)

Bride & Prejudice (Film; 2005)

The Captains and the Kids (MGM Cartoon; 1939)

Cedar Rapids (Film; 2011)

Death on the Nile (Film; 2022)

Dirty Snow, by Georges Simenon (Novel; 1948)

Donald’s Happy Birthday (Disney Cartoon; 1949)

Elvis (TV movie; 1979)

Gnomeo & Juliet (Animated Film; 2011)

The Grocery Boy (Disney Cartoon; 1932)

Happy Together, by The Turtles (Song; 1967)

Hitch (Film; 2005)

Hoppy Daze (WB LT Cartoon; 1961)

I Lombardi alla Prima Crociata (The Lombards at the first Crusade), by Giuseppe Verdi (Opera; 1843)

Inviting Anna (Film; 2022)

Just Go with It (Film; 2011)

La Fille du Régiment (The Daughter of the Regiment), by Getano Donizetti (Opera; 1840)

Linger Awhile and Mobile Day, recorded by Rex Stewart & His Orchestra (Song; 1940)

Lovesick Blues, by Hank Williams (Song; 1949)

The Magic Christian (Film; U.S. 1970)

Memories of the Future, by Sigizmund Krzhizhanovsky (Short Stories; 1989) [Written in 1920]

The Might Celt (Film; 2005)

The Moose and the Monster or Nothing But the Pest (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 255; 1964)

Mutiny on the Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1950)

Nurse to Meet Ya (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1955)

Our Cartoon President (Animated TV Series; 2018)

The Piano (Film; 1994)

Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (Animated Film; 2005)

The Quetong Missile Mystery (Animated TV Show;Jonny Quest #22; 1965)

Robin Hood Makes Good (WB MM Cartoon; 1939)

R.U.R., by Karel Čapek (TV movie; 1938) [1st Science Fiction program]

Scrappy Birthday (Andy Panda Cartoon; 1949)

Self Control (Disney Cartoon; 1938)

Simon Says, Be My Valentine, Parts 1 & 2 (Underdog Cartoon, S3, Eps. 17 & 18; 1967)

Smash and Grab (Pixar Animated Short; 2019)

Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, by Anton Bruckner (Symphony; 1903)

Testing 1, 2, 3, or Tape a Number (Rocky & Bullwinkle Cartoon, S5, Ep. 256; 1964)

Thieves Like Us (Film; 1974)

The Tigger Movie (Animated Disney Film; 2000)

The Violins of Saint-Jacques, by Patrick Leigh Fermor (Novel; 1953)

Walking After Midnight, by Patsy Cline (Song; 1957)

Weasel Stop (WB LT Cartoon; 1956)

Today’s Name Days

Anselm (Austria)

Marija, Mirjana (Croatia)

Božena (Czech Republic)

Euphrosyne (Denmark)

Teri, Terje (Estonia)

Iisa, Isabella, Talvikki (Finland)

Lourdes (France)

Maria Lourdes, Theodora, Theodor (Germany)

Avgi, Theodora, Vlassis (Greece)

Bertold, Marietta (Hungary)

Dante, Durante, Eloisia, Lourdes (Italy)

Laima, Laimdota, Laimrota (Latvia)

Adolfas, Algirdas, Algirdė, Liucijus (Lithuania)

Ingve, Yngve (Norway)

Adolf, Adolfa, Adolfina, Alf, Bernadetta, Dezydery, Eufrozyna, Łazarz, Lucjan, Maria, Olgierd, Świętomira (Poland)

Teodora, Vlasie (Romania)

Dezider (Slovakia)

Lourdes, Pedro (Spain)

Inge, Yngve (Sweden)

Ulas (Ukraine)

Adolfo, Adolph, Adolpha, Alva, Alvarita, Alvaro, Lourdes (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 42 of 2024; 324 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 7 of week 6 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Luis (Rowan) [Day 22 of 28]

Chinese: Month 1 (Bing-Yin), Day 2 (Yi-Si)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025)

Hebrew: 2 Adair I 5784

Islamic: 1 Sha’ban 1445

J Cal: 12 Grey; Fryday [12 of 30]

Julian: 29 January 2024

Moon: 5%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 14 Homer (2nd Month) [Phidias)

Runic Half Month: Sigel (Sun) [Day 3 of 15]

Season: Winter (Day 53 of 89)

Zodiac: Capricorn (Day 21 of 28)

Calendar Changes

Shaʿbān [شَعْبَان] (Islamic Calendar) [Month 8 of 12]

[the-himawari]

A3! Magazine Interview Translation - 2D☆STAR Vol. 11 (2/2) [Spicy Cuisine Research Society]

Their main activities are mixing spices, finding delicious restaurants, and eating!

5 members from the “Spicy Cuisine Research Society”, a club for like-minded people within MANKAI Company, have convened! Let’s listen in on their fired-up talk on how they first got hooked on spices, and the unexpected methods of using spices they’ve been secretly wanting to try out!

“Chikage’s blend is a toxic substance. No one can eat it.”

*Please read disclaimer on blog

---

——This time, everyone within the “Spicy Cuisine Research Society” from MANKAI Company have gathered! What was it that made you first interested in spices?

Omi: I guess it was when I joined the Theatre company and noticed that Director subtly changed the spice mixture every time she made us curry.

Chikage: Director has a pretty good tongue, doesn’t she? Her sense for choosing spices isn’t bad either.

Tsumugi: A sense for something like that exists too, huh… I was interested in edible flowers, so I was invited to join.

Citron: For me, spices are the arch of my national flag*! I love spicy food!

Tsumugi: Could it be you mean “taste of your homeland”? The kingdom of Zafra has many spicy dishes and they were all delicious.

Chikage: I seriously considered permanent residency there.

Omi: Ahaha, Chikage-san stocked up on a lot of spices in Zafra, right?

Kumon: (Autumn Troupe’s) Sakyo-san asked if he was a vendor!

Chikage: I suggested adding “Mankai Company’s Specially-Made Red Sauce” to our goods but I was rejected instantly on the spot.

Citron: Chikage’s blend is a toxic substance. No one can eat it.

Chikage: I wonder if I should prepare the proper documents and hold a full-scale presentation next time.

Omi: You’re serious about this, huh…

Tsumugi: I guess it’s time for the trading company employee to show his true abilities…

Kumon: Rather than interested, I think guys who mix spices are kinda cool…!

Citron: It’s like making an original drink at the drink bar of a family restaurant, right!

Kumon: Yeah, yeah! You can get a taste of how it feels to become an alchemist~.

Tsumugi: Didn’t (Spring Troupe’s) Itaru-kun say something like that too…?

Chikage: In other words, that’s what a chuuni…

Kumon: UMMM! I think everyone would rather hear Chikage-san’s story over mine~!

Omi: Well, you do think of Chikage-san when you mention spices. I’m also curious how Chikage-san became interested in them.

Chikage: It’s a long story though…

Tsumugi: Keep it brief here.

Chikage: I've always liked spicy things from the start, and I thought that if it was spicy, then all foods were generally the same. But then at one point, the chicken masala I ate at a restaurant in a certain country was shockingly delicious… And not only that, but also the yukgaejang, mapo tofu, chili con carne… No matter what I ordered, everything was exquisite.

Omi: That restaurant served a lot of multinational dishes, huh…

Kumon: All of them sound tasty! I wanna try them…

Chikage: So, when I thought about what made them different from other restaurants, the answer was quite simple. That’s right. The spice mix they used was perfect. With just the difference of a few milligrams of a single spice…

Citron: Too long. The word limit will be used up with just Chikage’s story.

Chikage: I haven’t even finished telling half of it yet.

Tsumugi: We’ll listen to the rest when we get home.

——(Haha). What type of activities does the Spicy Cuisine Research Society usually do?

Tsumugi: A lot of the time we eat the dishes Omi-kun made for us using the spices Chikage-san prepared.

Kumon: Ah, but we went out to eat recently, didn’t we? At that mysterious restaurant Citron-san found!

Chikage: It was a Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine restaurant, right? It felt strange when the là zǐ jī and phở were served together.

Omi: Haha. The restaurant’s appearance and owner felt a bit shady, but the food there was pretty delicious, right? The cilantro was nice to eat and I learned a lot.

Citron: Omi is eager to learn, huh! I’m expressed**!

Kumon: Expressed?

Chikage: Could you possibly mean “impressed”?

Citron: That’s it!

——Do you have any spicy dishes which you actually secretly want to try out or eat right now?

Tsumugi: It’s summer, so it’s the season you want to eat spicy food, right?

Omi: That’s true. If you have any requests then let me know. If you want, I’ll make them for you.

Kumon: Me, me! I wanna eat some mildly spicy braised pork!

Chikage: Braised pork that’s dyed bright red… Sounds nice.

Tsumugi: He said mildly spicy, Chikage-san…

Citron: I heard shichimi*** is tangy and apparently goes well with beer!

Omi: That’s true. It seems like it can be enjoyed as a side dish with alcohol.

Kumon: Beer, side dishes … That’s so adult…! So cool!

Citron: I want to eat atchizo**** made with red chili peppers!

Omi: Ajillo? Braised pork and ajillo are both simple, so I’ll make them tonight.

Kumon: Seriously!? Woohoo! I’ll tell (Summer Troupe’s) Tenma-san over LIME!

Citron: How eggciting~! I’ll make (Winter Troupe’s) Azuma bring out the good wine!

Omi: Tsumugi-san and Chikage-san, do you two have anything you want to eat?

Tsumugi: Actually, I think it might taste good to pour sweet chili sauce over ice cream.

Omi: Oh, I see. That sounds like it’s worth giving a try. I was just coming up with a dessert for Chikage-san.

Chikage: I told you that you didn’t have to worry about me. But well, thanks. I’ll look forward to it.

Citron: Omi’s a bother***** after all, hm~.

Tsumugi: It’s mother.

Kumon: Does Chikage-san have one? A spicy dish you want to try.

Chikage: Hmmm… Ah. The other day when I went to an escape game with (Autumn Troupe’s) Banri, we received a shaved iced making machine for some reason as an extra prize for clearing it.

Omi: Ahh, that’s why (Autumn Troupe’s) Taichi and them were fired up about making shaved ice.

Citron: Ohh! Japanese summer! I want to make shaved ice too!

Kumon: That sounds super fun! Melon syrup’s the only choice for me!

Chikage: Speaking of syrup for shaved iced, the classics are Melon, Strawberry and Blue Hawaii, but I…

Tsumugi: I have a bad feeling about this.

Chikage: I think habanero sauce would go well with it, don’t you?

Omi: Would that… taste good? I feel like that would just be spicy ice water…

Chikage: Wouldn’t the flavour depend on the sauce?

Kumon: I don’t think that’s the point…

Citron: Chikage’s exclusive dessert has been decided here.

——It was fun getting to understand everyone’s love for spices.

Tsumugi: Thank you very much.

Kumon: Ah~ I got hungry while we were talking. Why don’t we grab a bite and then head home?

Omi: Well there’s still some time before dinner. I guess we can have a small, pre-meal snack.

Citron: I have a restaurant I want to visit!

Tsumugi: What type of cuisine does the restaurant serve this time?

Citron: Indian & Bhutanese food!

Chikage: Heh, I’m a bit interested. It seems I’ll be able to eat some interesting dishes.

Omi: More like where do you find a shop like that...?

---

*Citron originally says "国旗のアーチ" (kokki no achi: arch of my national flag), which Tsumugi corrects as "故郷の味" (furusato no aji: taste/flavour of your homeland) **Citron originally says "バッチンバッチン" (bacchin bacchin), which Chikage corrects as "感心、感心" (kanshin, kanshin: impressed) ***Shichimi is a common spice mix in Japan which contains 7 ingredients ****Citron originally says "アッチーゾ" (atchizo[?] I'm not actually sure if that’s a real word), which Omi corrects as "アヒージョ" (ajillo: spanish-style garlic shrimp) *****Citron originally says "ヤカン" (yakan: kettle), which Tsumugi corrects as "オカン" (okan: another way of saying "mother" in the Kinki dialect)

Summer Troupe |

[belardtheworld]

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  Sure you’d bring wine and whiskey home. But what if I told you I brought rice and chili home too?

Before you judge my choice of souvenirs that I took back from Bhutan, I would to make my case. Our guide Kelley, provided very compelling arguments on why alcohol, chilli and rice are their best produce – they are all locally and very organically grown.

Read until the end to get more details on where to pick them up from!

What Bhutan Souvenirs to get

1. Beer (USD1) or Whiskey

Alcohol, for one, is cheap. Enough said.

2. Peach wine (USD4)

Peach wine was a wild guess when I bought it. When I tried it, it tasted surprisingly sweet and tangy. If you’re into dessert wines, this is a good choice.

3. Rice

Rice is their staple food, and everywhere we go, we see rice fields. Even by the airport! Since their rice produce are so fresh and organic, I thought to let my folks back home be the judge for themselves. So yes, I brought back sacks of rice (plural), and in kilograms. They have different types of rice, depending on the extent of hulling. So you have the option of choosing from a range of brown-almost red rice to white rice.

4. Chilli

Since chilli goes with everything, and I mean everything, here, from mom (chinese dumplings) to rice, vegetables and meat, how could I pass up the offer to bring a slice of spice home?

I took back dried whole chilli on top of grounded chilli powder.

5. Yak cheese

Yak cheese are commonplace, especially around the food markets and food stalls. You’ll notice bits of white block hanging from a piece of string at the stands of food stalls – and you’ll wonder what it is that’s so damn hard. That’s yak cheese.

How can cheese be so hard? Beats me. Try it at the expense of your teeth.

6. Betel nut

Betel nut is a snack that you’ll notice every Bhutanese chew on. Sometimes you’ll see splats of red on the ground – that’s the juice being spat out.

Betel nut is usually wrapped in a betel leaf with flavourings such as cardamom, cinnamon and tobacco. I was apprehensive to try it initially, but I had to uncover the mystery as to why every Bhutanese would be willing to risk oral cancer and having permanently black/ red teeth for it.

Betel nut sold in packets in the farmer market

So I put the betel nut to the test. When I first sunk my teeth into it, it was as hard as a rock! Still, I continued chewing to hopefully break it down. The juice that came from the betel nut + leaf combination filled my mouth with such a strong acrid taste that no matter how much I chewed, the betel nut wouldn’t ever break down. In fact, the flavour just became more pungent and unbearable. I eventually had to spit it out. (Don’t tell my guide!)

7. Lemongrass

8. Cordyceps

Cordyceps and lemongrass are the 2 single most popular items sold to tourists in Bhutan. Cordyceps are expensive, partly because of its healing properties and wide use by the Chinese traditional medicine. Also, the difficulty it takes in procuring it makes it valuable.

A visit to the National Museum (Ta Dzong) in Paro explains how cordyceps are formed. Cordyceps are formed when the fungus attacks moth caterpillars, infecting it with spores. Over time, the fungus completely kills and mummifies the caterpillar, resulting in the long slender body shape. Not too cool hearing that the expensive cordyceps is made of fungus and dead caterpillar aye?

9. Customised stamps

What’s interesting is that you can choose to put your own image on the stamp in the Post Office in Thimpu!

Here’s how mine looks:

Postcards are less than a dollar in Bhutan, so grab a few copies to mail them to your friends and family – even to yourself! Immortalise your memory in Bhutan with a letter written by you, for you.

Your guide will probably bring you to make your own stamps in Thimpu, but otherwise if he doesn’t, request to make a visit to the Post Office!

9. Books by local artists

I got a book written by the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, herself, titled “Treasures of the Thunder Dragon”. Through the book, I learned more about the history and stories of Bhutan that my guide probably wouldn’t have covered in my short time there.

For instance, I learned that the Dochula Pass’ 108 chortens that Her Majesty The Queen built was not built for fun.

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Chortens (or stupa in Sanskrit) are receptacles for religious offerings or sacred relics. They are built for a variety of reasons – to honour a great king, saint or lama, to commemorate a departed soul, to ward off evil spirits or danger, or to mark an important event or a great victory. You are supposed to walk around a chorten in a clockwise direction – not anticlockwise or you’ll get bad luck!

The 108 chortens built on the Dochula Pass was built as a way of protecting the country and the King at a time when they were faced with the threat of a war by their neighbouring country. They were symbols of her prayers for the safe return of the King and their soldiers.

108 is an auspicious number for Buddhists, representing the number of prayers that make up a complete cycle. The string of beads that many believers and monks use to chant their prayers are also made up of 108 beads!

I also never knew that chortens have symbolic offerings, such as grains and a bronze vessel filled with butter put into it. Sacred objects such as deities, prayer bells, clay stupas, prayer books, medicinal herbs and incense, precious stones and jewellery are also sometimes also tied on a pole which are installed into the chorten.

Looks are deceiving! Who would have known that a chorten is worth so much spiritually and physically just by looking at its physical appearance?

10. Acorns

This is a bit of a queer souvenir to take home but as we were driving along the roads from one town to another, I noticed a lot of fallen acorns on the ground. They make great decorations for the house and so I asked if I could take some of them back.

My guide and driver very promptly started being on the lookout for big, fat, wholesome acorns to pick along the way. They would stop in the middle of the long mountain roads and start bush-smashing their way to pick up acorns for me. I was so touched by their help, and also overwhelmed with acorns after their little acorn cleanup session.

Where to find these Bhutan souvenirs

Centenary Farmers’ Market in Thimpu

We bought most of our foodstuffs from the Centenary Farmers’ Market in Thimpu. Thimpu’s weekend Centenary Farmer’s Market is the biggest in the country.

Be on an olfactory overload, and assault your nostrils. This is where you’ll find fresh food produce such as vegetables, fruits, honey, lemongrass, tea, cordyceps, rice, yak cheese, and just about any other fresh food.

Wet market section

It is the market that the locals go to to get their groceries. They are sectioned according to which region they procured their produce from. Different parts of Bhutan have different climates and thus grow different food. There is also a section where you can find food (mostly meat) imported from India.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Small Line” line_alignment=”default” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default” animate=”yes”][vc_column_text]So you see, if you’re keen on the foodstuffs to take back home (provided your local airport security allows), make sure to pack a whole lot of luggage space for it! That’s not to say you need a big-ass luggage though (please don’t!), you simply have to learn the art of packing light!

 [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_text_separator title=”Read other useful posts about Bhutan!”][recent_posts style=”slider_multiple_visible” category=”bhutan” columns=”2″ button_color=”Accent-Color” hover_shadow_type=”default” order=”DESC” orderby=”date” posts_per_page=”2″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][nectar_flip_box image_url_1=”19409″ text_color=”dark” icon_color=”Accent-Color” text_color_2=”dark” h_text_align=”left” v_text_align=”top” flip_direction=”horizontal-to-left”][mailchimp][/nectar_flip_box][/vc_column][/vc_row]

10 Surprising Bhutan Souvenirs To Bring Home Sure you’d bring wine and whiskey home. But what if I told you I brought rice and chili home too?

[singhpix]

Something that stood out about Bhutan when we visited two years ago, besides its stunning natural beauty and happy people, was the Bhutanese love for reading – contrary to the modern trend when mobile phones and other electronic gadgets have taken over lives. That was evident at many places, including at a few coffee shops we went to as well as at random places around Paro and Thimpu, the two towns we spent most of our time exploring. What was also striking was groups of children happily walking to school each morning and walking back home. We came away with the thought that we would keep visiting the “happiest place on the planet” and explore more. The Coronavirus pandemic, however, put paid to all those thoughts. Of course, we are looking forward to going back at the earliest available opportunity keeping in mind the newly set-up health (quarantine) protocols. I am now not surprised that my good friend Dheeraj Chettri @bhutan_infinite_tour__treks has opened a book café in Paro town to cater to people’s love for books that they can enjoy over a tea or a coffee or, since it’s Bhutan, a glass of beer! “The tourists are not back yet and it may take a while for that to happen so I have set up this cozy place,” he says. “Going by the initial response, I think I took the right decision.” #bookcafe #bookstagram #book #kitab #englishbooks #bookland #bhutan #tourism #happiness #tourists #people #paro #thimpu (at Paro, Bhutan) https://www.instagram.com/p/CWtZTfdsZrU/?utm_medium=tumblr

[dailybhutan]

Everything You Should Know About Alcohol Consumption in Bhutan | DailyBhutan

Explore the intricacies of alcohol consumption in Bhutan with our comprehensive guide. Discover the cultural nuances, regulations, and social aspects surrounding drinking in this fascinating Himalayan kingdom. Stay informed with DailyBhutan.

[junctionbookstore]

Deliberately Framed 2017 partnered with #bhutanese #beer #buythisbeer #uff #goodbeer 😁

[tookmehere]

Places to Enjoy Nightlife in Bhutan: A Unique Blend of Culture and Celebration

When thinking of Bhutan, one typically envisions serene monasteries, majestic mountains, and tranquil valleys. However, there's another side to this enchanting kingdom that comes alive after sunset. While Bhutan may not be known for its nightlife in the conventional sense, it offers a unique and vibrant experience that combines traditional celebrations and modern entertainment. For those looking to experience the cultural richness of this Himalayan paradise after dark, here are some top places to enjoy nightlife in Bhutan. Notably, some of these venues also offer an insight into the "Festivals In Bhutan," adding to the overall experience.

Thimphu: The Heartbeat of Bhutanese Nightlife

As the capital and largest city of Bhutan, Thimphu is the epicenter of nightlife in the country. The city boasts a variety of pubs, clubs, and bars that cater to both locals and tourists. Some of the must-visit spots include:

1. Mojo Park: Mojo Park is arguably the most popular nightclub in Thimphu. Known for its live music scene, this club features local bands and musicians who play everything from rock to traditional Bhutanese music. The relaxed atmosphere and vibrant crowd make it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy Bhutan's nightlife.

2. Space 34: This modern club offers a lively ambiance with its stylish decor and energetic music. Space 34 is known for its DJ nights, where local and international DJs spin a mix of contemporary and traditional beats. The club is a favorite among young Bhutanese and tourists looking for a night of dancing and fun.

3. Vivacity: Located in the heart of Thimphu, Vivacity is another hotspot for nightlife enthusiasts. The bar offers a variety of cocktails, wines, and local drinks, along with a dance floor that gets crowded as the night progresses. With its vibrant setting, Vivacity is perfect for those who want to experience a modern twist to Bhutanese nightlife.

Paro: A Blend of Culture and Relaxation

Paro, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, also offers a few notable spots to enjoy the evening.

4. Namgay Artisanal Brewery: For beer lovers, a visit to Namgay Artisanal Brewery is a must. This brewery produces a range of craft beers using local ingredients. The cozy taproom provides a perfect setting to relax, sample different brews, and enjoy the scenic views of the Paro Valley.

5. Paro Town: While Paro may not have the bustling nightlife of Thimphu, it has a few bars and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a quiet evening. Local eateries often serve traditional Bhutanese dishes along with local drinks like Ara, a fermented rice drink that’s a staple in Bhutanese celebrations.

Punakha: Serene Evenings with Cultural Flavors

Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, offers a more subdued but equally charming nightlife experience.

6. Zomsa: Located in the Punakha Valley, Zomsa is a community gathering space that often hosts cultural events and performances. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance, making it a great way to experience Bhutanese culture after dark.

7. Riverside Cafes: The riverside cafes in Punakha provide a serene environment to unwind. These cafes offer stunning views of the Punakha Dzong and the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect setting to enjoy a peaceful evening with a drink in hand.

Experiencing Bhutanese Festivals at Night

In addition to these venues, one of the most unique aspects of Bhutanese nightlife is the opportunity to participate in local festivals. Many "Festivals In Bhutan" extend into the evening, offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural traditions.

8. Tsechu Festivals: Tsechu festivals, held annually in various regions, are grand religious celebrations featuring masked dances, music, and rituals. These festivals often continue after sunset, with vibrant performances and community gatherings that provide an immersive cultural experience.

9. Losar: Losar, the Bhutanese New Year, is another major celebration where locals gather to celebrate with music, dance, and feasting. The festivities often last late into the night, offering visitors a chance to join in the joyous occasion.

Conclusion

Bhutan’s nightlife, though distinct from the bustling scenes of more cosmopolitan destinations, offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and modern entertainment. From lively clubs in Thimphu to serene evenings in Punakha and the festive spirit of local celebrations, there are numerous places to enjoy nightlife in Bhutan. Whether you’re dancing to live music, sampling local brews, or experiencing the magic of Bhutanese festivals, the Land of the Thunder Dragon has something special to offer after the sun goes down.

[col-life23]

Bhutanese beer crosses the Himalayas into India

Bhutanese beer crosses the Himalayas into India

Bhutanese brewery Ser Bhum is behind Kati Patang, a beer sold by Delhi-based Empyrean Spirits. Launched in Zesty Amber and Snappy Wheat variants in 2018, Kati Patang prides itself on being “brewed with the happiest water on earth”.

Photograph: Courtesy, Ser Bhum Brewery on Facebook

In many parts of Bhutan, beer — or any form of alcohol, for that matter — is drunk in copious amounts. The intent…

[bigyack-com]

Monsoon By Café Lota Is Celebrating Regional Delights With A Quirky Spin

The culinary scene all around the globe has been pretty revolutionising in the recent times, to say the least. With interesting fusions, crossover of regional cuisines and what not, this seems to be the time for the food scene to bloom further. But, what has actually caught the attention of chefs and food connoisseurs around the world is the modern Indian cuisine. It has not only taken the centre stage but has also paved the way for several Indian regional cuisines to shine and inspire a host of restaurants to experiment. Delhi, especially, has seen some of the finest regional gems in the recent years with Nepali, Andhra, Kashmiri and more cuisines being added to the menu of restaurants. Joining the list is another eatery - Monsoon by Café Lota at the new glittery party hub, Aerocity.If you've been to the iconic Café Lota at the crafts museum, you'll know what to expect at Monsoon, in fact, it is all the more better. One look at the restaurant will transport you to the calming first rain of the monsoon season and the joy it brings with it. With hanging light bulbs, yellow dewy walls, louvered windows and modern wooden furniture, Monsoon stands out from its neighbouring restaurants for its spacious yet cosy vibe.The menu boasts of some of the most unusual dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, which would definitely make you wish you had a huge appetite to try it all. Right from the moth-watering podi idli to succulent kala chana kebabs or the khapli (wheat) bandel cheese salad, Monsoon offers a host of appetisers in its vegetarian fare. And, if you are biased towards seafood, you simply cannot miss the Mulakittathu fish which comes laced with Kerala-inspired spices cooked over tandoor. But, if you though it was just about the southern flavours, wait till you see the prawn momos served with fiery Sichuan pepper chutney or the keema gujiya. Monsoon fried chicken takes away the cake with its juicy, tangy flavour that shines through its mint-coriander marination. Also, if you wonder what to pair the amazing appetisers with, Monsoon dishes out interesting concoctions like elderflower spritzer, kiwi ka panna among others, besides a fantastic bar, stocked with everything from Belgian, German, Bosnian to Bhutanese beer along with all sorts of wine.Trust Cafe Lota for thinking the undoable and you wouldn't be disappointed. With the main course of Monsoon on the table, don't be surprised if you find an avid non-vegetarian noshing up on the creamy walnut paneer or the heavenly tinda matar curry, Yes, tinda! - what we might avoid at home, but here it is magnificently stuffed with cottage cheese and cooked in tandoor in a luscious yogurt curry.For non-vegetarian food, look no further than the delicate Tamarind fish that has the tilapia fish coated in a delish tamarind and oyster glaze in moilee sauce paired with appams. For meat lovers, the Jau and meat stew is surely going to satiate the taste buds with an interesting blend of goat meat, cereal and lentil. And if you thought this was it, we couldn't have a better end to the meal with salted caramel kheer on the table. A delightful kheer topped with caramel and a hint of salt was a divine closure to a content spread.So, whether you are looking for a dating spot with an unconventional setting and an innovative menu, or are looking to go out for dinner with family, Monsoon by Café Lota can be on your list. Make sure you have a huge appetite, an empty stomach and an experimental palate!About Aanchal MathurAanchal doesn't share food. A cake in her vicinity is sure to disappear in a record time of 10 seconds. Besides loading up on sugar, she loves bingeing on FRIENDS with a plate of momos. Most likely to find her soulmate on a food app. Read the full article

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Bhutan-June 2017

In June this year, Sama and I took a trip to Bhutan. We had been discussing about taking a trip together for quite some time now and we eventually made it happen this year. We had narrowed our choices to Thailand and Bhutan, but the mountains ruled over the seas! 

Travel to Bhutan: Once we had blocked the dates, we proceeded to book our tickets. Now, there are a couple of options to get to Paro:

Druk Air operates between Delhi-Paro, Mumbai-Paro, Kolkata-Paro and Bagdogra-Paro. However, the flights do not operate everyday and you will have to coordinate your travel plans accordingly.

Bhutan Airlines also operate a flight from Kolkata to Paro

Tip: While travelling from Mumbai or Delhi to Paro, request for a window seat on the left (right for the return flight). The flight crosses by the Himalayan range and offers a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest! Sadly, despite securing window seats, we could not get a glimpse of the Everest due to bad weather :(

Travelling by flight though, is a little on the expensive side. Sama and I didn't have too many days at hand and owing to her motion-sickness, we chose to fly. The road option is less expensive, but consumes more amount of days. 

One can take a flight to Bagdogra and then travel to Jaigaon/Phuentsholing border by road (4 hours) and then to Thimpu (5 hours)

You can take a train to Siliguri from Kolkata. Siliguri to Phuentsholing is another 5 hour drive. From here, it is another 5 hours drive to Thimpu.

Many choose to stay overnight at Phuentsholing and then continue their journey. While the travel sounds tedious, the drive is said to be extremely picturesque! Phuentsholing is also where you have to take an entry permit to cross into Bhutan if you are travelling by road.

Most tourists cover Thimpu, Paro, Punakha and Haa Valley. Sama and I had time constraints and hence decided to stick to just Thimpu and Paro. 

Thimpu: We landed at Paro international airport and proceeded to Thimpu, via pre-paid cab that we hired at the airport. While we had initially decided to explore public transport in Bhutan, we realised the transport facilities are minimum. The drive to Paro was about 45 mins and extremely beautiful. Our driver Jempal was warm and welcoming and despite empty roads, drove at a steady speed of 65kms/ph. 

At Thimpu, we had booked our stay at Osel. This is a relatively new hotel, right in the middle of Thimpu. That evening, we strolled around Thimpu town square and explored the area on foot. The great thing about Bhutan is the roads are fantastic with wide footpaths. The pedestrians have right of way and everyone diligently follows traffic rules. 

While there is a mix of old and new structures, by royal order, all buildings, be it monasteries, hotels or apartments need to have sloping roofs,multi-coloured wooden facades and windows with small arches. This gives a sense of uniformity to the entire country.

On our second day at Thimpu we hired a cab for some sightseeing. You need to haggle a bit with the cab drivers or you will find that the cab rides can possibly burn a hole in your pockets. We visited the Buddha Dodernma statue, a nunnery that we encountered along the way, Bhutan post office and the museum. The massive Buddha statue is 169 feet in height and definitely a treat to your eyes.

In the afternoon, we enjoyed some traditional Bhutanese cuisine and some local beer.  What you see in the picture are red rice (chummap), white rice with corn (chumkap and kharam), potatoes (kiwa), cabbage (kopi), pickled radish (lafu), cheese (datsi), cheese and chilly (naki-datsu), red chilly chutney (izzi) and yellow lentil soup which they call daal. Naki-datsu is the staple food of Bhutan and quite spicy! Generally, each place/city has its own distinctive smell. By the end of our trip Sama and I realised that Naki-datsu is Bhutan’s peculiar smell that follows you everywhere you go! 

The Taschicho Dzong was about 2 kms from our hotel and we decided to walk that distance, soaking in the beautiful scenery. This Dzong is the seat of Bhutan government and houses various departments and administrative units. The pictures below show the exterior and interiors of the Dzong.

Paro: On our third day we headed to Paro. The drive was extremely lovely! We had made our reservations at the Gangtey Palace and we weren't disappointed! This beautiful palace hotel is situated on a hill overlooking the entire town of Paro. We were so in love with the place, that we decided to just spend that evening on the deck overlooking the town, sipping on multiple cups of tea and then beer! 

Meanwhile, Chandru, one of the hotel staff volunteered to give us a tour of the palace and educate us about the history of the place. To be honest, he thought we were sitting at the hotel out of boredom and not personal will and volunteered out of pity! It was really nice to see how aware Chandru was about the culture, religion and politics of Bhutan and answered all our questions with ease. He even demonstrated the correct manner in which one prayed in the temples there! (Sama and I often remember Chandru and his shennaigans!)

This was the view from Gangtey Palace hotel :) 

Tiger's Nest Monastery/ Tatsang Lakhang: We reserved our fourth day solely for the trek to Tatsang Lakhang popularly known as Tiger's Nest Monastary. We set out early in the morning and headed to the base. Our cab driver played some melodious and soulful Bhutanese music in preparation to our trek. 

You need to purchase a ticket at the counter at the base to step inside the monastary on top. Tip: If you are trekking up to the monastery, ensure that you take a walking stick on rent which is available at the base. They were such saviours! 

Many tourists choose to do the journey till the cafeteria on horses. The cafeteria also serves as a view point from where the Monastery is seen. Some climb up till this point, have a quick bite and then head back. After the cafeteria one has to cover some distance and then you are greeted by 700 steps! 

We decided to do the entire trek on foot. For a non-trekker like me, it was quite tedious. I huffed and I puffed but I made my way up! Sama was a like a goat, and ever so motivating- “Look Tanzu, that 75 year old grandmother just crossed us!” 

We met some lovely people along the way; a couple from Indonesia who were taking a series of "follow me to" photographs and offered us some honey ginger mint, an American who was picking up litter along his way, a couple from India with their two kids who didn't seem to get tired at all! 

As challenging as the trek was, the satisfaction of making it to and fro in one piece was fantastic! As you climb down the stairs you can see the gushing waterfall adjacent to the monastery. The Monastery is beautiful and one can only wonder at the way in which it must have been built at that height, considering the only means of transportation is on foot.

On our final day in Bhutan we did some sight seeing in Paro, visited the Drukgyal Dzong, Kyichu Lakhang, Paro Dzong and spent our time at a quaint little cafe in Paro town. 

These are the ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong in Paro. The dzong was destroyed in a fire in the 1950s and is now being restored.

This is the new Drukgyal dzong, presently under construction.

Kyichu Monastery is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th Century. The temple has a beautiful orange tree in its compound which bears fruit perennially.

This is the orange tree in the vicinity of Paro Dzong. The Paro Dzong is lit up beautifully at night and we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of it from our hotel.

Tip: When you visit a monastery, ensure that you are fully clothed with full sleeves shirts/jackets. They do not allow people in with t-shirts. We sadly lost out on monastery that way :(

Bhutan is a beautiful country; scenic, peaceful and culturally alive. More importantly, the people there are warm and affectionate. Whether Thimpu or Paro, Jempal or Chandru, everyone and every place is tied together by a common thread- a sense of unyielding contentment and happiness. 

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Do you ever find yourself in a place, whether it is somewhere in nature or a spiritual space, and you just take a deep breath, feel your heart fill with gratitude and smile at the wonder that is the earth we live on?

Bhutan will give you that feeling. Every. Single. Day. Probably even several times a day.

This tiny country tucked into the Himalayan mountains, squashed between China and India, is home to the last surviving Buddhist kingdom on earth. It is special for so many reasons, we’ve tried to list just a few…

1. There’s a feeling of peace, calm and happiness

The Bhutanese people are continually ranked as the happiest nation in Asia, and the 8th happiest in the world. They are so happy, in fact, that they measure the success of their country by their Gross National Happiness – the only country in the world to do so.

We hear statistics like these all the time, but what does that mean when you’re on the ground? The Bhutanese people are warm, welcoming, and incredibly calm. The things they focus on in their day-to-day life (spirituality, kinship, enjoying the moment) are forgotten values in many Western cultures.

Bhutan’s spiritual focus and lack of modern distraction makes for a perfect opportunity to slow down. After a few days, your inbuilt need for constant forward motion will be stilled, and the true beauty of Bhutan will be revealed to you; the peacefulness.

Perhaps you’ll start to see how enjoyable it is to live this way. You might just bring that new perspective home with you.

2. Bhutanese people are eco warriors

The environment is considered one of the most important parts of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness and Bhutanese people take great care to protect it. When you travel in this country, you’ll frequently see signs reminding people of this:

“Global warming- we have a solution, stop pollution”  

“Our pristine environment is our most priceless gift, preserve it forever!”

“Preserve our natural rich heritage…remember nature is the source of all happiness”.

Bhutan is the only country in the world that is carbon negative. This means that they remove more CO2 from the atmosphere than they create. Over 70% of the country is forested and law mandates it cannot drop below 60%. The forests are rich in flora and fauna and creates a healthy habitat for lots of rare animals. This makes for an amazing experience for lucky visitors.

Bhutan has also banned plastic bags and tobacco. This helps to keep the country clean and feeling “untouched”.  If you’re searching for a travel destination where you won’t find plastic bottles and cigarette butts discarded on the roadside, Bhutan is your haven.

3. You’ll leave feeling healthier

You won’t find McDonald’s in Bhutan, and you’ll be glad. Processed food is harder to come by, and your meals will consist of a large variety of delicious vegetable dishes, local red rice, and a meat dish (shocking, we know).  There is a strong focus on cheese and chilli (yum), and influence from bordering India and China, there are some truly delicious dishes you’ve got to try. Most produce is farmed organically, and in 2013 the government pledged to be the first country to be 100% organic.

Buddhism teaches that it is wrong to kill animals and there are no slaughterhouses in Bhutan. Any meat in Bhutan is imported from India. As a result, a large percentage of the population enjoy a meat free lifestyle, which means there is an array of delectable vegetarian options at any restaurant you might find yourself in.

Combine the nutritious meals with regular hikes and you’ll have never felt better!

4. It feels like stepping back in time

Bhutan has preserved much of its ancient traditions and culture. Having resisted globalisation up until recently, visiting this tiny country is like stepping back in time. The landscape is dotted with vibrant monasteries and temples, like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (pictured below), which has been perching precariously on a cliff face since the 8th century.

You’ll hear the myths and legends of the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”.  These stories guide how people live and explain the incredible landscape. It’s said that violent storms ripped through the Himalayan mountains long ago, and were thought to be an omen of the thunder dragon. To this day the mythical creature remains a significant part of Bhutan’s identity and appears on their National Flag. From rugged, steep mountains, to sub-tropical forests and bamboo jungles, when you see the landscape for yourself you’ll understand why they believe in magic.

Check out our video on what it is like to hike up to the Tiger’s Nest.

5. Bhutan is considered one of the highest quality travel experiences

In order to protect their cultural heritage, natural environment, local businesses and authenticity, Bhutan regulates tourism using a policy of ‘high quality, low impact’. This means the number of tourists is restricted and there is a fixed daily rate of $200-290USD that tourists must pay to enter Bhutan. This is a deterrent for many budget backpackers. However this isn’t as steep as it first seems. This amount is directly credited to your accommodation, guide, activities and transport. When booking with Stray, it is included in your Bhutan Explorer Journey price. In fact, once you’ve got your flights, paid your $50 visa, and booked your Stray pass, you will only need a little extra cash for tips, drinks, snacks and souvenirs. It really is an all inclusive trip!

Bhutan is safeguarding the unique cultural experience you get as a visitor now, and in the future. Their unique tourism policy helps to ensure the country remains a traveller’s diamond in the rough, and weans out tourists whose focus is on cheap beer and parties.

Want to explore Bhutan together? Check me out! 

  The post 5 Reasons Why Visiting Bhutan is a Life Changing Experience appeared first on Stray Asia - Southeast Asia Adventure Travel.