On the Wings of a Dragon

Welcome to 'Signs of Serenity,' a blog where the essence of adventure intertwines with the spirit of service, creating a tapestry of experiences that I will share throughout my time in Bhutan. This blog isn't solely about travel; it's about the transformative power of volunteering, an exploration of Bhutanese cuisine – think chilies and even more chilies, and the untold stories that unfold in the heart of the Himalayas.

Our journey begins on the wings of a dragon as we board a flight from Bangkok to Paro on Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines. The approach to Paro International Airport is awe-inspiring. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the aircraft skillfully weaves through the mountain valleys, revealing the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas. As a former Army Officer, I have experienced tactical flying in robust aircraft, but doing so aboard an Airbus A320 attests to the skill and expertise of Drukair's pilots, who are among the world's finest.

Stepping onto the tarmac of Paro International Airport, suddenly everything feels very real. Although it may not be the busiest, its charm is in the genuine hospitality of its immigration officials, whose smiles warmly welcome us. And just like that, I stand at the threshold of a new adventure, ready to spread my wings and soar through the Land of the Thunder Dragon as volunteer with Australian Volunteers International.

So join me as we delve into living and learning in Bhutan. Through this blog, I aim to share the experiences of my time in this kingdom where tradition blends with modernity, and I hope to find opportunities for growth and understanding by volunteering with the Bhutanese Deaf community.