1. Our three-member BBC team were welcomed by Samdrup end-march when we went to cover the first ever democratic elections in Bhutan. Having visited Bhutan for the first time, I should reitererate how helpful the Bhutan Free Spirit team were in guiding us through a country we were not very familiar with. From handling accommodation and meals to media accreditation and press passes, Samdrup and his team were diligent in fulfilling all our needs and requirements. There were many long nights and last minute requests that needed to be taken care of, and Sam definitely executed them with the best of his abilities – always making sure to keep our happiness index at a high!
I definitely recommend Sam’s travel company to other media and press organisations as I think post-our trip they have a new outlook to customizing Bhutan trips for media personnel.
Muska Najibullah
Producer/Researcher
BBC
South Asia
Covered the first general elections in Bhutan (20th March – 26th March)
2. Though not exactly a tourism trip, our stay in Bhutan was satisfying, enjoyable and generally good for the soul. Samdrup and his group of guides were friendly and sincere, though they had to be reminded now and then that we were on a journalistic assignment and not a tourism trip. It used to be musical chairs with guides, with Samdrup pitching in now and then. Over days, the group understood our needs. So, from “Not possible”, we progressed to “We can try”. Another thing that changed along the way was the meal timings. From a fixed time that would be announced at the beginning of the day, we were given a range of couple of hours for meals. With our work uncertain, there was no way we could have stuck to fixed timings.
The guides kept up a grueling schedule along with us, staying up late if needed. Our work was smoother as the driver and the guide knew where exactly to take us. Our food preferences were kept in mind and accommodated well. Besides work, we managed to squeeze in some sightseeing. That’s when the guides and Samdrup came into their own, showcasing the Chari monastery, the Paro Tsechu and the Takin. Just being in Bhutan is so relaxing as the place has its own sweet pace. To top it, the views are not bad at all. Its perfect for the soul.
Special thanks to Samdrup, guides Chencho and Sonam and driver Tsering for a memorable trip.
Shivani Rawat
Correspondent
Associated Press
New Delhi
India
Covered the first general elections in Bhutan (20th March – 27th March)
3. We went on a 6 day Bhutan Free Spirit tour in March 2010. We needed our time in Bhutan to fit in with other travel plans, so with a customized tour we were able to achieve this. During the organization process, Samdrup was always available to answer any questions we had. He often responded in the same day the questions were asked! Quotes….Flight & Visa details, an itinerary was provided immediately following our inquiry.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a friendly, enthusiastic and professional team who made every effort to ensure our comfort and enjoyment. Accommodation and food provided through out the trip was always of excellent quality and the itinerary showcased the natural beauty and rich culture of Bhutan, while also including activities which suited our personal interest.
We fell in love with Bhutan and at the end of the trip we didn’t want to leave – this was made all the more difficult due to our newfound friendship with Samdrup and our Guide Kunzang. We can’t stress enough how much Bhutan is an essential destination for any traveler, and we most highly recommend Bhutan Free Spirit to help you make your experience in a best possible way.
Emily & Cris
March 3rd – March 9th, 2010
Australia
Testimonials
1. Our three-member BBC team were welcomed by Samdrup end-march when we went to cover the first ever democratic elections in Bhutan. Having visited Bhutan for the first time, I should reitererate how helpful the Bhutan Free Spirit team were in guiding us through a country we were not very familiar with. From handling accommodation and meals to media accreditation and press passes, Samdrup and his team were diligent in fulfilling all our needs and requirements. There were many long nights and last minute requests that needed to be taken care of, and Sam definitely executed them with the best of his abilities – always making sure to keep our happiness index at a high!
I definitely recommend Sam’s travel company to other media and press organisations as I think post-our trip they have a new outlook to customizing Bhutan trips for media personnel.
Muska Najibullah
Producer/Researcher
BBC
South Asia
Covered the first general elections in Bhutan (20th March – 26th March)
2. Though not exactly a tourism trip, our stay in Bhutan was satisfying, enjoyable and generally good for the soul. Samdrup and his group of guides were friendly and sincere, though they had to be reminded now and then that we were on a journalistic assignment and not a tourism trip. It used to be musical chairs with guides, with Samdrup pitching in now and then. Over days, the group understood our needs. So, from “Not possible”, we progressed to “We can try”. Another thing that changed along the way was the meal timings. From a fixed time that would be announced at the beginning of the day, we were given a range of couple of hours for meals. With our work uncertain, there was no way we could have stuck to fixed timings.
The guides kept up a grueling schedule along with us, staying up late if needed. Our work was smoother as the driver and the guide knew where exactly to take us. Our food preferences were kept in mind and accommodated well. Besides work, we managed to squeeze in some sightseeing. That’s when the guides and Samdrup came into their own, showcasing the Chari monastery, the Paro Tsechu and the Takin. Just being in Bhutan is so relaxing as the place has its own sweet pace. To top it, the views are not bad at all. Its perfect for the soul.
Special thanks to Samdrup, guides Chencho and Sonam and driver Tsering for a memorable trip.
Shivani Rawat
Correspondent
Associated Press
New Delhi
India
Covered the first general elections in Bhutan (20th March – 27th March)
3. We went on a 6 day Bhutan Free Spirit tour in March 2010. We needed our time in Bhutan to fit in with other travel plans, so with a customized tour we were able to achieve this. During the organization process, Samdrup was always available to answer any questions we had. He often responded in the same day the questions were asked! Quotes….Flight & Visa details, an itinerary was provided immediately following our inquiry.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a friendly, enthusiastic and professional team who made every effort to ensure our comfort and enjoyment. Accommodation and food provided through out the trip was always of excellent quality and the itinerary showcased the natural beauty and rich culture of Bhutan, while also including activities which suited our personal interest.
We fell in love with Bhutan and at the end of the trip we didn’t want to leave – this was made all the more difficult due to our newfound friendship with Samdrup and our Guide Kunzang. We can’t stress enough how much Bhutan is an essential destination for any traveler, and we most highly recommend Bhutan Free Spirit to help you make your experience in a best possible way.
Emily & Cris
March 3rd – March 9th, 2010
Australia