Sometimes the best experiences are found in unexpected places, even on the side of a dusty road.

​

It’s common to see people walking along the quiet back roads of Bhutan. But when the figure is a 70‑year‑old monk, seemingly with miles ahead, it feels different. He didn't expect us to stop, nor would most guides and drivers, it simply isn’t done. Yet how could we not?

​

We backed up, opened the door, and in he squeezed. We learned he was on his way to a doctor’s appointment and the short ride was filled with laughter, conversation and indeed much bewilderment.

 

We dropped him at the main road where he would usually catch a lift, then carried on in the other direction — our day already brighter from that simple unexpected yet joyful encounter.

​

Mark