Visit Paro

The dzong at the meeting of two rivers, the old winter capital, with jacaranda in spring.

Visit Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Explore the Tashichho Dzong (a fortress-monastery housing the throne room and government offices), see the Buddha Dordenma statue (a 51-meter bronze statue overlooking the valley), and stroll through the weekend market (offering local produce, handicrafts, and traditional Bhutanese items).

Hike cliffside monasteries, high passes, and pristine valleys of Bhutan

Cliffside Paro Taktsang monastery hike.

Majestic riverside fortress-monastery.

Pass of 108 chortens and Himalaya views.

Masked cham dances in a dzong courtyard, ending with the unfurling of a giant embroidered thangka at dawn.

Visit Amsterdam, capital of the Netherlands. Cruise the UNESCO-listed canal ring (17th-century waterways with over 1,500 bridges), see masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, explore the Anne Frank House (historic hiding place during WWII), and wander the Jordaan district (picturesque streets with cafes and boutiques).