health issues?

When traveling in Bhutan are there special concerns about the safety of food and water as in some countries? Any specific health issues to be on guard against?

Griffim, USA

health issues?

Hi Griffim,

My wife and I just got back from a 10 day trip to Bhutan. It was fabulous. We ate everything, and found the food to be very tasty. Our guide informed us that the milk is all pastuerized, and we never had any bad meat. The potatoes, rice, and vegetables were generally very fresh and tasty. In general, the chicken was of high quality, but the beef (and yak) was variable. Our guide told us the water was good, but we continued to use either bottled water, soda, or use our portable filter for water. We did not get sick or ill.

Have Fun.

DW

health issues?

how about the ice there?

We stayed away from any ice in our drinks, as we have been advised by a travel health group that ice does not kill all potential pathogens. We did drink copious amounts of tea, and they also offer hot water at most meals...... they keep a kettle of water boiling on a stove at all times for visitors..... the boiled water is definitely safe. At most good outdoor stores you can buy a bottle with a built in micro-filter that can be refilled over and over, we found that useful also.

If you have health concerns, you may want to consult with an out fit called Passport Health, they can answer all kinds of questions.

Radguy:

which immunizations did you get (if any) prior to heading to Bhutan?

my current dates (not yet finalized) are for the second week of september, which is less than 2 months from now. i may not have time to get immunizations that are actually doing their job.

Also, are you guys vegetarioans? is that why you didnt eat meat or was it b/c you felt it to be unsafe?

thanks in advance for taking the time to reply.

cmm3

I would like to advise visitors that it is always safe to eat from tourist approved hotels and restaurants as there is strict control by authorities concerned. Your guide will tell you these hotels and restaurants. In case, you get an invitation from local people consult your guide before eating or drinking anything.In general, Bhutanese people will ensure that clean and fresh food or drink is served to their visitors. In addition, local food or drinks can at times upset your stomach.

Mr. Tenzing

Samtse -Bhutan

I would like to advise visitors that it is always safe to eat from tourist approved hotels and restaurants as there is strict control by authorities concerned. Your guide will tell you these hotels and restaurants. In case, you get an invitation from local people consult your guide before eating or drinking anything.In general, Bhutanese people will ensure that clean and fresh food or drink is served to their visitors. In addition, local food or drinks can at times upset your stomach.

Mr. Tenzing

Samtse -Bhutan