An exploration of Bhutan’s ancient culture and way of life awaits, through photo and painting exhibits, loom weaving demonstrations, foods and artisanal crafts
(Singapore, October 2016) – Nestled high in the Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan has always been regarded as one of the most exclusive travel destinations in the world. In reality, this 'Happiest Kingdom on Earth' is an accessible five-hour plane ride away from Singapore.
To give Singaporeans a glimpse into the mystic "Land of the Thunder Dragon", Druk Asia is organizing the “Discover Breathtaking Bhutan Travel Fair” at ION Station at Basement 4, ION Orchard, from 18th – 30th October 2016. A chance to win a 4D3N all-expense paid trip to Bhutan worth $8,600 is also up for grabs!
Calling all avid travelers – from travel junkies with insatiable wanderlusts for off-the-beaten-track destinations, to adventure seekers, to culture vultures and epicurean sojourners; Bhutan beckons as one of the most beautiful yet mysterious places awaiting discovery.
Comprising a photography exhibition that will lead you on a walk in the "kingdom among the clouds", live demonstrations of Bhutanese loom weaving and a showcase of Bhutanese fabric, donning of the Bhutanese national dress for photo-taking, Bhutanese culinary delights available for sample, and a chance to purchase Bhutanese food and handicrafts, this immersive exhibition will be a treat for the senses.
Handloom Demonstrations By A Royal Weaver
18-30 October 2016 daily, 11am -1pm, 3-5pm & 6-8pm
To further understand Bhutanese culture, visitors are invited to attend the live handloom demonstrations of Ms. Tshomo, a Royal Weaver. Bhutanese loom weaving is an ancient art, of which most Bhutanese girls are taught from the age of nine years.
Garments Fit For A King
18-30 October 2016 daily, 10am – 10pm
Replicas of the Royal Garments made for His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck and Her Majesty the Queen Jetsun Pema will exhibit alongside a collection of gho and kira for daily wear. Dating from the 16th century, Gho is a knee-length dress like the Japanese kimono while the kira is an ankle length long skirt-like dress, supported by brooches called koma on the shoulders. Visitors are encouraged to try on the gho and kira and have their pictures taken at a designated photo area.
Indigenous Flavours
18-30 October 2016 daily, 11am –8pm
Food, of course, ranks highly when Singaporeans go abroad, and at the "Discover Breathtaking Bhutan Travel Fair", visitors will have a chance to try Bhutanese specialties prepared by Chef Sonam Tshering. Savour delightssuch as Momo Dumplings (a meat-filled dumpling) served with their special Bhutanese Ezzay chilli compote, steaming savoury porridge commonly sold by street vendors,Buckwheat pancakes served with organic wild strawberry jam and drizzles of Bhutanese honey, and more. Visitors will even be able to bring some tastes of Bhutan home with fresh produce, dried goods, and groceries available for purchase.
Breathtaking Photography & Paintings
18-30 October 2016 daily, 10am –10pm
A photography exhibition will put on show the works ofacclaimed photographers, National Geographic photographer Ciril Jazbec andnomadic film-maker Zuhariz Khuzaimah ,whose works capturethe warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people, as well as the stunning breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscape, and will transport visitors to this beautiful destination. Painting works by respected Bhutanese artist Asha Kama, showcasing his expressive form of contemporary artof Bhutanese subjects and iconography, textures, movements and many symbols in the Bhutanese culture, will also be displayed.
Busy Corner For Kids
Sat & Sun 22-23 October 2016, 29-30 October 2016, 11am –7pm
Little hands will get to get crafty decoratingtheir very own Bhutan landscape magnets, and showcasing their creativity while learning more about the "Happiest Place on Earth"!
Textiles For Good
18-30 October 2016 daily, 10am – 10pm
At the Discover Breathtaking Bhutan Travel Fair, hand-woven textiles, gho and kira garments and accessories are also available for purchase. Proceeds will go to the RENEW Women's Fund, an organization that provides emergency relief and support services to women and girls suffering from domestic and gender based violence and sexual abuse, assisting marginalized women and girls through shelter, counselling, legal services, advocacy and awareness and scholarships.
Druk Asia Travel Packages and Drukair Deals
18-30 October 2016 daily, 10am –10pm
Visit the Discover Breathtaking Bhutan Travel Fair at ION Station at Basement 4, ION Orchardfrom 18thto 30thOctober for travel package deals by DrukAsia –Singapore’s Bhutan Travel Specialist.Allow DrukAsia’s experienced team to help personalize a magical journey through Bhutan, or select from their many packages, covering themes like adventure, cultural, festival, luxury and trekking.
