Jetstar Asia, the low-cost carrier based in Singapore, has appointed John Simeone as its new CEO. Barathan Pasupathi, the outgoing CEO who led the airline for 12 years, will step down from his role on March 1 to “pursue other opportunities.”
21.12.2023 - 16:01 / lonelyplanet.com
Both offer incredible mountains, deliciously spicy food and unique cultures to discover. But which should you visit?
Be warned: both Bhutan and Nepal are likely to destroy your captivation-o-meter. It will explode at the mountainside monasteries. Clap out on once-in-a-lifetime treks. Shatter on the mere arrival at either Himalayan kingdom. So when it comes to picking either Bhutan or Nepal to visit, which is the best destination for you?
Two Lonely Planet writers put the case forward for each.
Bhutan expert Erin Levi first visited Bhutan more than a decade ago as a guidebook writer, which kept her there for over three months. Her connection to the country now transcends borders.
Long romanticized as the “Last Shangri-La,” Bhutan is the last Buddhist kingdom on Earth and the remote Himalayan neighbor to overrun, oft-chaotic Nepal. Peace is what most people will find here amongst the flickering butter lamps inside temples and colorful prayer flags that adorn the mountain passes. With a giant gilded Buddha looming over the capital Thimphu and monasteries gripping cliffs, this reclusive nation of fewer than 800,000 inhabitants stands resiliently between Communist China and largely Hindu India.
The “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” (Druk Yul in Bhutanese) is a magical place where the rice is red and tigers can “fly” (as can the cannabis-fed pigs, Bhutanese people like to joke). This is where happiness is measured instead of GDP and the progressive royal family is beloved. Fertility issues here are still resolved by the “Divine Madman” and his legendary phallus, which is vividly reimagined everywhere, whether hanging above doors or painted on houses.
Sure, Nepal is the “Top of the World’” thanks to Mt Everest (Sagarmatha) and seven other 8000m-plus (ca 26,250ft) peaks, but Bhutan is home to the highest unclimbed mountain on earth, the 7570m-high (24,836ft) Gangkhar Puensum.
Bhutanese law prohibits mountaineers from climbing any mountain above 6000m (19,685ft) to protect the deities. According to Bhutanese beliefs, mountains are sacred homes to spirits. Following the viral Mt Everest traffic jam photo – a scene captured by record-breaking climber Nirmal Purja – there’s a case for leaving all mountains untouched. That said, if you want a challenge, the 30-day Snowman Trek in Bhutan is among the world’s hardest and longest.
Bhutan is even home to the toughest airport landing. Nestled amid 5500m (18,045ft) peaks, only 24 pilots and two airlines have the skills to land safely at Paro International Airport. That said, once you’re here, Bhutan is one of the world’s safest destinations. Petty crime is uncommon. Violent crime is rare. Guides are mandatory for all excursions beyond Thimphu and Paro – with female guides
Jetstar Asia, the low-cost carrier based in Singapore, has appointed John Simeone as its new CEO. Barathan Pasupathi, the outgoing CEO who led the airline for 12 years, will step down from his role on March 1 to “pursue other opportunities.”
Shanghai Municipal People’s Government launched the beta version of a new online portal (english.shanghai.gov.cn) for expat services on Jan 1.
ONYX Hospitality Group, the prominent management company in Southeast Asia, is expanding its renowned serviced apartment brand, Shama, with five new properties across Asia. The company recognises the increasing demand for serviced apartments, particularly in the post-pandemic era, and is confident that these new additions will meet the needs of business, leisure, and the growing segment of ‘Bleisure’ travellers. The Shama brand is renowned for its commitment to providing contemporary, stylish, and spacious serviced apartments. Acknowledging and responding to the popularity of serviced apartments for both long and shorter stays, across the domestic and international markets, ONYX confidently introduces five new Shama properties: two in China including Hong Kong, two in Malaysia, and one in Thailand, with opening dates set for 2024.
Colorful monasteries, snow-capped peaks, peaceful villages lined with chili farms: the beauty of Bhutan is visible around every turn of its hairpin roads.
Veganuary was inititated by a UK non-profit organisation ten years ago to encourage people worldwide to try vegan for January and beyond. Millions of people have signed up to their one-month vegan pledge since 2014 and the number of vegan food products continues to grow. To make things easier, the organisation offers to send anyone willing to take the challenge their celebrity cookbook, meal plans and recipes – all for free. And here are 15 new food and drink products recommended for anyone going vegan this month and beyond.
China has simplified entry rules for U.S. citizens visiting the country on tourist visas. Starting January 1, tourist visa applicants in the U.S. will no longer be required to submit proof of round-trip air tickets, hotel reservations, itinerary or invitation letter.
With just over two weeks to go for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, the-AFC.com caught up with former Korea Republic captain Koo Ja-cheol to get his thoughts on the continental showpiece. The AFC Asian Cup holds a special place in the heart of the midfielder, whose five goals earned him the Golden Boot at the 2011 edition of the tournament.
Japan will head to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ as the top ranked Asian side. The four-time AFC Asian Cup winners maintained their 17th spot in the latest FIFA World Ranking issued last Thursday.
Merging hospitality with the world’s top Asian destinations, Remote Lands is at the forefront of the luxury travel planning industry. The operator offers itineraries to 38 different countries on the Asian continent, highlighting the cuisine, heritage, and standout features of each. The company has teamed up with hospitality brand Aman to add a personalized element to its trips by jet.
Since opening to tourism in 1974, the Kingdom of Bhutan has long been a place that’s fascinated travelers. The country may be small, but criss-crossing its Himalayan terrain takes time and expertise.
Sometimes you need a break from reality and the fast-paced lifestyle so many of us live. That reset and breath of fresh air is exactly what I found in central Wisconsin this fall as the weather started to change. Looking out of the plane window on my flight in, all I could see were changing leaves and greenery for miles. In Wisconsin, nature and wellness experiences are readily available for all, whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or just reconnecting with yourself.
Seoul is the capital of South Korea, perched on the Han River in the northwestern part of the country. Travelers will encounter contemporary technology like modern skyscrapers and an extensive subway network, blended with well-preserved historical cultural landmarks such as Buddhist temples, palaces, and markets. Top attractions include Namsan Mountain, Seoul Tower, Jogyesa Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Gwangjang Market.