asia – Wander with Fernandez

You know that feeling when you walk into a place and it just clicks? That was Bhutan for me. The moment I stepped in, I felt at peace—like I had just hit the mute button on the noise of everyday life. No honking, no chaos, just fresh mountain air and the friendliest people ever. Coming from Mumbai’s madness, this was a whole new world, and I was loving it.

Crossing Into Bhutan: Instant Zen Mode

Picture this: You’re at the India-Bhutan border in Phuentsholing, with all the usual Indian hustle and bustle around you. Then you step across, and boom—silence. No blaring horns, no rush, just calm streets and a 50 km/h speed limit that everyone actually follows (mind-blowing, right?). It’s like someone flicked a switch, and suddenly, life is slower and way more peaceful.

My Route: A Quick Breakdown

Flight from Mumbai to Bagdogra
Car ride to Phuentsholing
Off to Thimphu for two nights
Paro for two more (spoiler: LOVED it)
Back to Phuentsholing for the last night

Tiger’s Nest Hike: Sweat, Struggle & Pure Magic

If there’s one thing that defines my Bhutan trip, it’s the Tiger’s Nest hike. I won’t lie—this hike was brutal for a non-hiker like me. Every step felt like a battle for survival. But something about that climb made me feel like a total badass. Huffing, puffing, questioning my life decision that led me to this moment. Reaching the mid-point itself felt like an achievement—I was literally fighting for my dear life. But I kept telling myself, You can do this. And guess what? I DID! The moment I reached the monastery clinging to a cliffside like it was straight out of a fantasy movie, I felt an overwhelming sense of achievement, like I could conquer anything if I put my mind to it. It was a big deal for me, a moment of pure self-belief. And the way down? Absolute piece of cake… except for my trembling legs that had officially turned to jelly. Huge shoutout to my roommate, who stuck by my side the entire way—support like that is priceless. The hike was tough, but reaching the top? Totally worth every aching muscle.

Bhutanese People: Too Nice to Be Real

Bhutanese folks are the best. So warm, so welcoming, and somehow, they all know about Indian cinema! Our guide was fun, but our bus driver, Mr. Dorji, stole the show. The sweetest human ever. Also, nobody honks here. I repeat, NOBODY HONKS. It’s freaky at first but trust me, you’ll love it.

Food: Datshi & Redemption

Okay, so my first Bhutanese dish was Yak Datshi, and let’s just say… it was not love at first bite. But then I tried Shamu Datshi in Phuentsholing, and whoa, my taste buds had a party. Creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Also, Bhutanese Chowmein and Thukpa? 10/10 would eat again.

The Cost: Surprisingly Affordable!

People think Bhutan is expensive, but I did my trip with TripHawker for ₹32,000, airfare was ₹13,000, and with food, shopping, and random splurges, I spent around ₹50-52k. Not bad for a week of mountain magic, right?

Would I Go Back? Duh.

Bhutan, I’m not done with you yet. Next time, I want to explore the non-touristy side and live like a local. Maybe milk a yak? Who knows. But one thing’s for sure—Bhutan is pure magic, and I’m already dreaming about my return trip.

Vietnam was a dream I held onto for a decade—my first international trip, a place I had manifested (unintentionally) visiting for years. And let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

The people? Warm and welcoming.

The food? Mind-blowing.

The ease of travel? Unbelievably smooth.

From bustling city streets to quiet mountain escapes, Vietnam just made life feel effortless.

First Impressions: Vietnam is Just… Easy!

You know how some places feel difficult and overwhelming? Vietnam wasn’t like that. Everything just clicked.

Need food? It’s literally at every corner. Transport? Super simple with Grab taxis and bikes. Accommodation? Airbnb was a breeze. Even the people were so chill and helpful—it felt like the whole country was on my side, making sure I had the best trip possible.

Food That Lives in My Dreams

Vietnamese food isn’t just good—it’s life-changing. Sitting on a tiny stool in Hanoi, eating the best Bun Cha of my life, I knew I’d never forget this country. And then there was Banh Mi in Hoi An—crispy, fresh, ridiculously delicious. I still dream about it.

Now, not everything wowed me. Egg coffee? Meh. I know people love it, but it just didn’t do it for me. (Sorry, egg coffee fans!)

Budget-Friendly, Comfort-Approved

One of the best parts? Vietnam is crazy affordable. My husband and I wanted private stays instead of hostels, and Airbnb delivered! The R2 Room in Hanoi’s Old Quarter was our top pick—the host was an angel, and the stay was super comfy. The host went a step ahead and helped us book our overnight bus and our Ha Long Bay Cruise too.

For getting around, we took overnight sleeper buses to save on accommodation and time . If you’re tall, beware—it might get a little cramped, but for us with average height, it was perfect. And Grab bikes? SO fun. Super cheap, and you get to zip through traffic like a local.

Scenic Views & Once-in-a-Lifetime Moments

Vietnam is a country that constantly takes your breath away. From the misty mountains of SaPa to the golden-lit lanterns of Hoi An, it was a feast for the eyes.

One of my favorite experiences was hiking Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. The views were surreal, but it was freezing! We had to turn back before reaching the summit, and that’s my one regret. Next time, I’m conquering that mountain.

And then there was Ha Long Bay—kayaking through caves, hiking up to panoramic views, and just floating between towering limestone cliffs. It felt like stepping into a postcard.

Would I Go Back? In a Heartbeat!

Vietnam is one of those places that sticks with you. It’s fun, it’s easy, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s full of little surprises that make you fall in love over and over again.

If you’re even thinking about visiting—DO IT. You’ll leave with a happy stomach, an even happier heart, and a million memories you’ll cherish forever.

Tag: asia

Bhutan: A Trip That Felt Like a Warm Hug