bt10 thurmanbhutan itn

13
Updated January 29, 2010 Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon With Dr. Robert Thurman A Special Departure Benefitting the Tibet House by Geographic Expeditions 13 Days of Moderate Touring May 10 – 22, 2010

Upload: perraka71

Post on 16-Feb-2016

19 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

buthan trip

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Updated January 29, 2010

Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon

With Dr. Robert Thurman

A Special Departure Benefitting the Tibet House by Geographic Expeditions

13 Days of Moderate Touring

May 10 – 22, 2010

Page 2: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 1

“The diminutive Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is a spiritual sanctuary, enriched by the thoughts and actions of generations of Buddhist practitioners and their enduring intensity of faith; an ecological enclave, where geographical circumstance and human humility have united to preserve an abundant, multi-layered, undistracted environment; a secluded land, occupying a precarious niche in a fast encroaching modern world.” – John Jigme

oin scholar and author Dr. Robert Thurman on this journey to the last remaining Tibetan Buddhist Kingdom - Bhutan. On our travels we explore sacred temples and monasteries, enjoy active day hikes, and take time for daily meditation and teaching with Dr. Thurman.

Throughout the trip, we examine Bhutan’s unique cultural, religious, and environmental positions and its efforts at continuation and preservation. The trip is co-led by Brent Olson, former Director of Bhutan Programs at Geographic Expeditions. Brent has traveled to Bhutan over 40 times in the last 20 years.

Days 1 & 2

Monday & Tuesday, May 10 & 11 U.S. TO BANGKOK Depart your home city for Bangkok, arriving the following day after crossing the international dateline. International airfare and en route stopovers are not included in the Geographic Expeditions trip price. Geographic Expeditions is happy to assist you with your trans-pacific travel and hotel stay in Bangkok. Most airline schedules necessitate an overnight in Bangkok en route. For this overnight, we recommend the Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. If your schedule permits, you may appreciate an extra night or two in Bangkok to recuperate from your long flight.

Hotel on your own

Day 3 Wednesday, May 12

ARRIVAL IN PARO (7,400 feet) Today we fly to Paro, Bhutan on Druk Air from Bangkok. If the weather is clear for the flight, we may see Kangchenjunga, Mt. Everest, and Chomolhari, Bhutan's most sacred mountain. On arrival in Paro, pass through customs and immigration to meet our Trip Leader and staff directly outside the Customs Hall. Our first stop is Ta Dzong, a circular

fortress that once protected this valley from Tibetan invasion. The impressive watchtower sits above Paro Rimpung Dzong, commanding sweeping views of the valley. Bhutan’s dzongs originally served three purposes: as a fortress, an administrative center of local government, and a residence and focus for the monks' religious activity. The watchtower now houses a National Museum featuring costumes from different regions of Bhutan and a wonderful collection of thangkas (thangka loosely translates as “something that can be rolled up”), religion paintings depicting buddhas, bodhisattvas, or aspects of the Buddhist wheel of life.

J

Page 3: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 2

The afternoon is free for individual exploration of Paro. Enjoy the opportunity to stretch your legs and explore before our festive welcome dinner at the Zhiwaling Hotel.

Zhiwaling Hotel (L, D) Day 4

Thursday, May 13 EXPLORING PARO We have a full day to enjoy the sites of Paro. This morning we visit Kyichu Lhakhang (lhakhang means “temple”), where a special prayer ceremony has been arranged for our group. Kyichu is one of the two oldest temples in Bhutan (the other being Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang) built circa 750 by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. The king pledged to build l08 temples to the Buddha during his lifetime and Kyichu is believed to hold down the left foot of an ogress whose body covers Bhutan and most of eastern Tibet. In the afternoon, Dr. Thurman will present an introductory seminar on Buddhism and the meditation practice that will be a daily part of our journey.

Zhiwaling Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 5 Friday, May 14

PARO / PUNAKHA (4,400 feet) This morning we set out for central Bhutan. Our drive begins by following the Pa Chu (chu means “river”) downstream to its confluence with the Wang Chu, then turning up-valley to Thimphu, the capital. As we enter the Thimphu Valley we pass Simtoka, the dzong built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (the man who unified Bhutan). Simtoka is the oldest of the dzongs and now houses a language school where scholars of all ages study Dzongkha, the national language.

We continue east across the Dochu La (la means “pass”) at 10,300 feet. In good weather, 200 miles of Himalayan summits are visible. The pass is marked by a forest of colored prayer flags and 108 newly constructed chortens. (108 is one of the most auspicious numbers in Tibetan Buddhism.) If the weather at the pass cooperates, we stop here for a short meditation before continuing our drive westward. Descending the pass, we notice a dramatic change in vegetation. At the lower elevation of the valley floor, cactus, banana plants, poinsettia, and other semi-tropical plants dominate the landscape. After a few hours, we come to the green terraced fields of Punakha Valley, where red rice and winter wheat are the staple crops. Upon arrival, we visit the impressive Punakha Dzong. The massive fortress sits at the confluence of the Po (male) and Mo (female) rivers. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built it in 1647 and it is the winter home of the Central Monk Body. The monks move from Thimphu to Punakha for winter as the lower elevation creates more temperate climes.

Meri Puensum Lodge (B, L, D)

Page 4: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 3

Day 6 Saturday, May 15

PUNAKHA / PHOBJIKHA (9,800 feet) From Punakha it is a 3-4 hour drive to reach the Phobjikha Valley. Following the Dang Chu toward its source, we climb steadily through semi-tropical vegetation. Banana plants and cactus eventually give way to pine forests and then to an alpine environment of rhododendron and dwarf bamboo. Look for grey langur monkeys, often spotted on this portion of the drive. Near the summit of Pele La, we turn down a side road leading to this stunning glacial valley. Considered another one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan, it is encircled by pine-covered mountains. The Black Mountain National Park (of which Phobjikha is a part) links up with Royal Manas National Park to the south creating a territory of alpine, temperate, and subtropical ecosystems. The combined reserve is home to a wide array of species including tiger, red panda, Himalayan black bear, gaur, leopard cat, wild pig, and varieties of birds including monal pheasant and four sub-species of hornbills. The area is equally famous as the winter home to the very rare black-necked crane. Experts estimate that fewer than 6000 cranes exist in the wild. The cranes arrive in mid- November and stay through March. After arriving in Phobjikha, we will visit a local family at a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse in the valley. As in most of Bhutan, many families here live much as they have for centuries, and houses reflect that traditional lifestyle. The first floor is generally dedicated to livestock, the second floor to living areas and an altar room, and the attic to storage of food and other goods. Those with energy can also take a short hike through the pine forest just above our lodging before settling in for the evening.

Dewachen Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 7 Sunday, May 16

PHOBJIKHA Rising from a small ridge stands one of the oldest and wealthiest private monasteries in Bhutan – Gangteng Gompa. The monastery has undergone a complete renovation after years of arduous reconstruction and meticulous restoration by local artisans and woodworkers. Today we stop to visit the magnificent gompa and spend time with the resident monks. Head lama of Gangteng Gompa, Tulku Rinpoche, is the ninth incarnation of the body of Pemalingpa, a famous 14th-century blacksmith andone of Bhutan's most revered saints. We may have an opportunity to meet with him if he is in residence. After our visit, we will take a scenic hike down into the valley and back to our accommodation.

Dewachen Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 8 Monday, May 17

PHOBJIKHA / CHUZOMSA (4,400 feet) After a leisurely morning, we may return once more to the gompa or choose to go for a short hike before heading out to Chuzomsa. Upon arrival, with time permitting, we will visit the market town of Wangdiphodrang and the local dzong.

Chuzomsa Resort (B, L, D)

Day 9 Tuesday, May 18

CHUZOMSA / THIMPHU (7,700 feet) An early morning departure takes us back across Dochu La for a second chance to view the Bhutanese Himalaya (if the weather is clear). By early afternoon, we arrive in Thimphu.

Page 5: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 4

As Bhutan’s largest city, with a current population of approximately 70,000, Thimphu is Bhutan’s “Big Apple.” It is the seat of the Royal Government of Bhutan, the home of the Royal Family, and the main center for most international aid organizations. As the only true “city” in Bhutan, it is a unique mix of Himalayan and Western sensibilities.

We begin our exploration with a visit to the Bhutan Heritage Museum. This wonderful museum provides an opportunity to step inside a typical Bhutanese household and experience first hand the intimacy of daily life in Bhutan. It features utensils used in farming to those used in cooking, religious ritual, and everyday life. Time permitting, we may also make a visit to the nearby traditional school of the arts, where students learn thangka painting, metalwork, sculpture, and other

Bhutanese arts. This evening, we host a festive dinner with our Bhutanese friends and local dignitaries.

Taj Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 10 Wednesday, May 19

THIMPHU / PARO This morning we visit the massive Tashichho Dzong, the “fortress of the glorious religion.” This vast building, constructed totally by hand and without a single nail, is home to government offices, the King's audience chambers, the Je Khempo - head of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage of Mahayana Buddhism in Bhutan, the National Assembly, a multitude of temples, and many, many monks. Depending on group interests (and time available), we may also visit:

• The Textile Museum • The Royal Silver and Goldsmiths and the handmade paper factory • The Handicraft Emporium • Game enclosure overlooking Thimphu to view takins • The Drubthob Gompa Nunnery • The Archery grounds (where you might catch an archery match) • The Indigenous Hospital (which dispenses traditional Tibetan medicine)

On each previous visit to Bhutan, Dr. Thurman has given a public talk that has been broadcast throughout Bhutan and attended by a wide cross section of Bhutanese society. This afternoon, we are planning another public talk and group members are welcome to attend. Late this afternoon, we return to Paro.

Zhiwaling Hotel (B, L, D)

Page 6: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 5

Day 11 Thursday, May 20

PARO / HIKE TO TAKTSANG This morning we embark on a pilgrimage to one of the most important religious sites in the Himalaya: Taktsang Lhakhang. Also known as The Tiger’s Nest, this magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 2000 feet above the valley floor. The legend of Taktsang dates back to 747 AD when Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed to have arrived at this site on the back of a tiger to subdue the evil spirits in the region. We drive to the trailhead and begin hiking up the mountain for a closer view of the temple. In approximately one hour we reach a small tea house with a wonderful panoramic view of the temple. For those interested, you may hike another hour (each direction) to reach the small chorten directly across from the temple. Those not interested may relax at the tea house and enjoy the view. This evening we enjoy a festive farewell dinner to celebrate our time in Bhutan.

Zhiwaling Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 12 Friday, May 21

DEPART BHUTAN This morning we depart the Land of the Thunder Dragon for Bangkok. Geographic Expeditions land arrangements end upon arrival in Bangkok. (The Geographic Expeditions staff can assist with booking any necessary en route hotel stopovers.)

Day 13 Saturday, May 22

BANGKOK TO U.S. OR ONWARD TO MONGOLIA Depart Thailand for the U.S., or onward to Mongolia via Seoul or Beijing for those joining Dr. Thurman in Mongolia.

Page 7: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 6

REDUCED LAND COST (based on double occupancy)

$7995 (10 – 15 participants) $7295 per person (16 or more participants)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

$1450

DRUK AIR: Bangkok / Paro / Bangkok (fares are subject to change by the airline)

$820 (economy class seating)

REDUCED DONATION TO TIBET HOUSE $1000 per person

(This tax deductible contribution should be a check made payable to TIBET HOUSE and sent to Geographic Expeditions along with your application.)

Included in Land Cost • All hotel and guesthouse accommodations in Bhutan • All ground transportation with experienced drivers • All meals and sightseeing (as outlined in the day-to-day itinerary) while in Bhutan • Services of Dr. Robert Thurman as Trip Lecturer and Brent Olson as Trip Leader • Services of local Bhutanese guides and staff • Bhutan visa fee • The services of a Geographic Expeditions trip leader • Geographic Expeditions’ Medical Insurance and Assistance Plan

Not Included in Land Cost • A $1000 contribution to Tibet House • International airfare round-trip to Asia and en route stopovers • Hotel and meals in Bangkok (or other stopover point) • Druk Air fare round-trip to Paro (noted separately) • Hotel accommodations and meals in any stopover point (e.g. Bangkok or Delhi) • Excess baggage charges and airport taxes • Passport & visa fees (for countries other than Bhutan) • Medical immunizations prior to departure • Items of a personal nature such as liquor, laundry, mail, phone calls, emails and faxes • Trip cancellation, travel delay, and baggage insurance (highly recommended; may be purchased

through Geographic Expeditions) • Hotel and Bhutanese personnel charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of

Geographic Expeditions or our operators

Page 8: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 7

Why Geographic Expeditions?

The travel business—the world’s largest industry—is intensely competitive, and the modern traveler is increasingly sophisticated. We’re proud that the readers of Travel & Leisure have consistently voted us one of the world’s Top Ten Tour Operators and that Conde Nast names us one of the Top Travel Pros, but laurels are not to be rested on. Here are some of the reasons we think GeoEx should be at the top of the list of companies you consider: Personal Service. GeoEx has earned its spurs as a company that puts personable, individualized service first and foremost. We know discerning travelers expect it, and we expect it of ourselves. And because of our commitment to service, well over half of our business consists of Private Journeys, which demand persnickety attention to detail and the continual ability to meet and anticipate our travelers’ unique needs and desires. Passion. We know, we know: everybody these days has to be passionate about what they do, including the guy who changes your oil. But it’s a strong word, still a good one, and it’s accurate. We’re a company, top to bottom, of travel enthusiasts, of map browsers, book readers, and dreamers. There’s nary a nook or worldly cranny we haven’t explored, with eyes-open gusto. And when we return we get to work at sharing those sublime places with our travelers. Experience. We’ve been at this great task for a long and fruitful time, growing from a little start-up into an industry leader. Our eyes are still full of stars, but they’re also clear; we’ve encountered problems and solved them again and again; though it might be self-serving to say it, there is no substitute for experience, and we’ve got it. Innovation. More than a quarter century ago GeoEx pioneered travel to the newly opened hinterlands of Tibet and Central Asia. Since then we’ve been at the forefront, charging ahead (carefully, intelligently), bringing travelers to places like Tuva, the Empty Quarter, Iran (we were the first American company to run trips to that country after its revolution), the backroads of Cambodia and Kenya, to long-sequestered areas of northern India, to the South and North Poles and just about everywhere in between. We design our trips from the ground up, incessantly looking for new delights and new ways to experience time-honored destinations. Responsibility. We stand by our commitment to careful, mindful, and environmentally and culturally responsible travel. Once again, this is something most every travel company is careful to trumpet. Bottom line: as travel enthusiasts, as fans of the human species, we detest going to places that have been subject to touristic predation, conscious or unconscious. We will not add to that predation. Doing it thoughtfully and sensitively is a little harder than doing it willy-nilly, but well worth the effort, ethically and economically. Safety Net. We maintain 8,760 hour per year emergency logistical support for our travelers in the field. (You got it: 24 x 365.) Our automatically included insurance program—$50,000 medical expense, 24-hour medical assistance, and $75,000 evacuation insurance for every trip member, with optional and recommended trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage insurance—is tops (a claim we’re more than happy to back up). We think you’ll come away convinced that GeoEx is utterly committed to our travelers’ safety and peace of mind from beginning to end. Comfort. We’re not fans of discomfort for discomfort’s sake, so we carefully pick the most salubrious accommodations, from hotels to in the major cities to little inns along the way. Our boats around the world are built for comfortable exploration rather than floor shows and costume balls. Our treks are frankly luxurious, with all the cooking, cleaning up, portage, and camp setting up done by our rigorously trained staff.

Page 9: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 8

Important Note

While we endeavor to make the itinerary as accurate as possible, it should be considered as an approximate schedule of activities rather than a rigid schedule of events. Trip itineraries are subject to revision due to weather, road and trail conditions, government restrictions and other factors beyond our control. Advance reconnaissance sometimes presents opportunities for superior routing with minimal advance notice - we always do our best to select the safest and most beautiful routes. Terms and Conditions for this trip are contained in the Travelers Information section of the catalogue insert and on the Limitation of Liability agreement supplied in the trip preparation packet. Final approval of the trip roster and an individual’s participation on the trip will be made by Dr. Thurman.

Refunds for Unused Portions of the Trip No refunds can be made for any accommodations, services or features not taken. If cancellation occurs while the trip is in progress, there will be no refund for any unused portion.

Single Supplements Costs are based on double/twin occupancy. We do not like to charge an additional amount for the single traveler and - upon request - will make attempt to match such travelers with a suitable roommate. If no one is available to share, the single supplement charge will apply. Single accommodations can not always be guaranteed in Bhutan. If you want a single room, we will make the request, but you may be asked to share for one or two nights if rooms are tight (in which case a portion of your single supplement will be reimbursed).

A Note Regarding Tier Pricing Land costs are based on a full- or almost-full group. As you can imagine, our per-person expenses are higher with smaller groups than full ones. The higher land cost will be noted on your initial invoice and then reduced 30 days prior to your departure if the group has reached the larger size. If for any reason the group falls below the minimum number of participants a small group surcharge may be applicable (we find that travelers usually prefer to pay a bit more as opposed to having their trip canceled). Trip physicians, lecturers, or Geographic Expeditions staff traveling with the group are not included in determining trip price.

Druk Air Tickets Druk Air tickets must now be paid for and issued at the time of your deposit. If you cancel your trip 31 days or more prior to departure, there will be a $50 per person cancellation penalty for the Druk Air tickets in addition to the normal cancellation charges for land cost noted in our terms and conditions (Traveler’s Information). If you cancel 30 days or less prior to departure, the Druk Air ticket cost is non-refundable.

Trip Grade: Moderate Touring with Optional Day Hikes There are certain factors one must consider and prepare for when traveling to Bhutan. First of all, attention must be paid to the elevations reached on this trip. The majority of the time, the average elevation will be approximately 8,000 ft. There are pass crossings up to 12,000 feet (by vehicle) and some excursions on foot at these higher elevations. All hikes included in the itinerary are optional and average about 2 – 4 hours at elevations below 10,000 feet. Anyone with a history of medical problems, particularly cardiac or respiratory, should consult a doctor before considering this trip.

Page 10: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 9

In many places we are delighted with the wonderful hotels and guesthouses where we stay. It is our policy to use the best available accommodation in each location. Although service and accommodation have improved tremendously in recent years, in some places hotels are best described as “rustic”. During your trip, you may encounter shared bathrooms, primitive plumbing, and fickle hot water. Electricity can also be limited, so it is a good idea to pack a flashlight or headlamp. Third, this tour entails some long drives on narrow, windy, mountainous roads. These drives can take up to 7–8 hours, depending on road conditions. Bathroom facilities during these drives are frequently non-existent and limit your options to a nearby tree or rock. Anyone who would be uncomfortable in such a situation should not consider this trip. Finally, this trip will involve daily meditation instruction with Dr. Robert Thurman. While there is no required prerequisite level of Buddhist study required, we do ask that all participants are aware of the meditational aspect of this journey and take part in the sessions. We welcome all levels of interest: from those just beginning to learn about Buddhism to dedicated practitioners. Through the mediation sessions and Dr. Thurman’s engaging teaching style, each trip participant has the opportunity to experience Buddhism in the thriving culture of Bhutan. Every participant needs to be fully aware of these conditions before the trip. Flexibility and a sense of humor are essential.

Pre-Departure Packet After you sign up on the trip, a detailed packet of information on health and safety, travel documents, clothing, background information and suggested reading will be sent to you.

Trip Lecturer: Dr. Robert Thurman, Ph.D. Robert A.F. Thurman is the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies in the Department of Religion at Columbia University, President of the Tibet House U.S., a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan civilization, and President of the American Institute of Buddhist Studies, a non-profit affiliated with the Center for Buddhist Studies at Columbia University and dedicated to the publication of translations of important texts from the Tibetan Tanjur. Professor Thurman also translates important Tibetan and Sanskrit philosophical writings and lectures and writes on Buddhism, particularly Tibetan Buddhism; on Asian history, particularly the history of the monastic institution in the Asian civilization; and on critical philosophy, with a focus on the dialogue between the material and inner sciences of the world's religious traditions. The New York Times recently said Thurman "is considered the leading American expert on Tibetan Buddhism." But it's Thurman's unique take on the relevance of Buddhism to American culture and politics and his wit and creativity in weaving ancient Buddhist wisdom and popular Western ideals that make his knowledge entertaining and useful as well as informative. Professor Thurman's scholarly and popular writings focus on the "inner revolution" that individuals and societies successfully negotiate when they achieve enlightenment. He defines this inner revolution as accurate insight into the true nature of reality and determined compassion for the suffering beings. He also works toward what he terms a "Second Renaissance," which he sees currently taking place as Western culture goes beyond the 14th century European discovery of the natural sciences of the ancient Greeks that catalyzed the "first renaissance" to discover and apply in practice the advanced "inner

Page 11: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 10

science" of ancient Indian culture. Popularizing the Buddha's teachings is just one of Thurman's creative talents. He is a riveting speaker and an author of many books on Tibet, Buddhism, art, politics and culture, including Circling the Sacred Mountain, Essential Tibetan Buddhism, The Tibetan Book of the Dead, Wisdom and Compassion: The Sacred Art of Tibet, Worlds of Transformation, and, most recently, Infinite Life: Seven Virtues for Living Well. He is credited with being at the forefront of making Tibetan art accessible and understandable in the West and, with distinguished art historians, he collaborated in curating several important traveling exhibitions, including "Wisdom and Compassion," "Mandala," and "Worlds of Transformation," which set a standard in the art world.

Geographic Expeditions Trip Leader: Brent Olson Brent Olson is one of the few Westerners to have lived in Bhutan (he worked with its government in the creation of a photographic archive of the country's rich artistic heritage). A veteran of 30 (and counting) trips to the remote Himalayan kingdom, member of the advisory board of the American-Bhutan Council (in addition to a number of Bhutan-related board memberships) he is unquestionably one of the United States' ranking experts on Bhutan. Brent has presented numerous slide shows and talks on Bhutan around the country, including a slide presentation for the Smithsonian Institution seminar on Bhutan at the Textile Museum in Washington, DC.

Raised in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Brent began his life of travel soon after graduation from Iowa State University, roaming extensively in Europe and the Middle East, working on an archeological dig in Jerusalem, eventually discovering his deep personal connection with Bhutan. Settling in San Francisco, Brent brought his extensive knowledge of Bhutan to Geo Ex in 1985. Since then, Brent has created and led numerous treks and tours all over the kingdom, and forged close friendships with a wide variety of Bhutanese, from villagers to the royal family. His devotion to Bhutan is mirrored in the unique quality of his itineraries, which are designed to highlight and support the country's determination to maintain its proud culture. Due to Brent's unique and comprehensive knowledge of the kingdom, GeoEx has been successful in planning and operating trips to Bhutan for such prestigious organizations as The Asia Society, The Textile Museum of Washington, DC, Dr. Robert Thurman and Tibet House, The California Academy of Sciences, The Society for Asian Art, The Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology, The World Wildlife Fund, The Museum of Comparative Zoology at Harvard, The National and Pacific Crest Outward Bound organizations and the American Museum of Natural History to name a few.

International Airfare and En Route Stopovers Your land cost does not include roundtrip international transportation from your home city to Bangkok. Geographic Expeditions has a full-service, in-house, air ticketing department with many years of experience arranging complex travel to remote destinations. Unless you are working with a travel agent or specify otherwise, we will assume that you want us to make all domestic and international air reservations according to the trip itinerary.

Page 12: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Questions? Call Geographic Expeditions at (800) 777-8183 Page 11

We will try to secure the best possible fare for you and request that you notify us immediately of any pre- and post-trip extension plans. Our air department will be happy to assist you with these arrangements and with any other additional extensions you may wish to add to your trip itinerary. Early reservations ensure the most desired airlines, routings, seating, and departure times. If you are not using Geographic Expeditions for your air travel (including using frequent flyer tickets), it is essential that you give us your air schedule at least 60 days prior to your departure, so that we may confirm your arrival and departure hotels. Geographic Expeditions has negotiated tour fares with United Airlines for passengers flying round-trip in coach class from many cities in the U.S. to major destinations in Asia - including Bangkok. Seats are limited due to capacity control by the airline and are sold based on availability at the time of reservations. Please contact Herbert Fong in our air department soon to reserve your space or for further air information.

Operating Standards The staff of Geographic Expeditions is dedicated to preserving the character of the lands and cultures we visit. We invite you to call us for a description of the steps we are taking to promote environmental and cultural preservation.

Page 13: BT10 ThurmanBhutan ITN

Additional Questions? Please call (800) 777-8183

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Pacific Time

Geographic Expeditions

1008 General Kennedy Avenue PO Box 29902

San Francisco, California 94129-0902

(415) 922-0448 (415) 346-5535 fax [email protected] www.geoex.com

California Seller of Travel License Number: 1006401-10

© 2008 Geographic Expeditions Printed on Recycled Paper