Enchanted Kingdom
See "Chasing myths" (Horizons section, page 3)Lesson by John Ross
Last month Thailand celebrated the King's 60th year on the throne. Many royal guests from around the world came to attend these once-in-a-lifetime ceremonies and events marking this very important occasion. One of the most popular royal guests was Crown Prince Prince Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck of Bhutan. Because of this, people in Thailand have developed a new interest in that country, especially in regards to travel there. So, if you are interested in travel to Bhutan, you will definitely want to read today's story. You will find that it is not as easy to visit Bhutan as it is to visit Thailand or many other countries, but that it is possible. Also, we will look at the reasons for this.
If you are not sure of the location of Bhutan check this map:
map of Bhutan and nearby countries
Read through the story using the vocabulary below and answer the questions to summarise the information about travel to Bhutan.
1) What is the most attractive thing about Bhutan?
2) How does the government try to maintain the attractiveness of Bhutan?
3) Why is it not so easy to visit Bhutan?
3) What is the geography of Bhutan like? What country is it compared with?
4) What are some of the things to do and see there?
After learning about the basic information about Bhutan, role play as a travel agent and a tourist with your friend or classmate. Use these questions to help get you started:
tourist: Good morning. I would like to travel to Bhutan. Can you give me some information about traveling there?travel agent: Certainly. What would you like to know?
tourist: What is the best time to go there?
Where should we go?
What can we do there?
How can we get there?
What is the food like there?
Do I have to get a visa before I go?
VOCABULARY
pickled - preserved, unchanged
intact - undamaged
steeped in - rich in, full of
isolated and remote - alone and far away
pale - are not as good
regulates - controls
customise - make it your own, choose everything yourself
option - choice
advisable - recommended
visible - can be seen
abundant - a lot
key - most important
accessible - can be reached
bends - curves, turns
spectacular - beautiful and exciting to see
glimpse - a quick look
layout - arrangement
winding - not straight
elevation - height
revered - sacred, respected, holy
wise - smart, intelligent
browse - look for
all-inclusive - includes everything (food, accommodation, transportation, etc.) in the cost