Photographer AJ Heath travelled to the wilds of Bhutan to find out what makes the citizens of Bhutan, the happiest people on Earth

Famous for basing the strength of its economy on the Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product, the country of Bhutan is said to be home to the happiest people on Earth. So photographer AJ Heath decided to find out what puts a smile on their faces.

What makes you happy? "Getting good marks at school." - Kinga, primary school student

What makes you happy? "Being a royal bodyguard and protecting our royal family is a great honour and that makes me feel happy and proud." - Tenzin, royal bodyguard

What makes you happy? "Running in the beautiful Bhutanese landscape." - Yeshi, 14, student

What makes you happy? "Eating CFC Gahah [Bhutanese version of KFC]." - JImme, 20, student

What makes you happy? "Single malt whisky in the evenings." - Thinley, 42, miner

What makes you happy? "Dancing with my crew - Druk Generation." - Sangay, 17, student

What makes you happy? "Happiness comes to me when I see other people smile. And when I'm the reason behind those smiles :-)" - Sonam, 21, studentWhat makes you happy? "Beatboxing makes me happy." - Jigme, 15, student

Suggested Itineraries

Ancient Andalusia

Andalucia Spain Europe

  • Marvel at the Moorish architecture of Granada’s Alhambra

  • Delve into Spanish tapas on a food tour of Seville

  • Enjoy dinner and a live flamenco display at Tablao Flamenco, Cordoba

  • Sample fine wines and watch dancing horses in Jerez

  • Experience the atmospheric ancient cities of Andalusia

When to go:

J F M A M J J A S O N D
ideal length 7 nights

Classic Turkey

Istanbul Turkish Riviera Cappadocia Turkey Middle East & North Africa

  • Explore the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

  • Enjoy a Turkish tea ritual before cruising on the Bosphorus

  • Experience a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia

  • Discover bizarre rock formations and rock-cut churches

  • Relax on the pristine beaches of the Turkish Riviera

When to go:

J F M A M J J A S O N D
ideal length 8 nights

Ultimate Malaysia: Highlands, Heritage & Islands

Penang Langkawi Kuala Lumpur & Central Malaysia Malaysia Singapore Asia

  • Visit local artisans, villages and restaurants in Penang
  • Enjoy beach life and mountain biking on Langkawi
  • Learn about the local tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands
  • Embark on a historic river cruise in Malacca
  • Witness iconic monuments in Singapore

When to go:

J F M A M J J A S O N D
ideal length 14 nights
Destinations Featured in the Article
Taktshang Goemba, Tiger nest monastery, Bhutan

Bhutan

Discover Bhutan’s alluring natural beauty of misty mountains, sweeping plateaus, colourful religion, and incredible culture on a luxury holiday with Lightfoot Travel.

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