"The essential guide to customs & culture"--Cover.

"Customs & culture"--Spine.

Includes bibliographical references, Internet addresses and index.

Title Page; Copyright; About the Author; Contents; Map of Bhutan; Introduction; Key Facts; Chapter 1: Land and People; Geographical Snapshot; Terrain; Climate; Flora and Fauna; People; A Brief History; Bhutan Today; Government and Judiciary; The Economy; Bhutan In the World; Chapter 2: Values and Attitudes; The Buddhist Way of Life; Monarchy and National Identity; Gross National Happiness; The Concept of Interdependency; Tha-Damtsi and Ley-Jumdrey; Driglam-Namzha; Harmony With Nature; Beliefs and Superstitions; Family Values; Attitudes Toward Women.

Sexual Mores; Respect and Humility; Education; Traditional Dress; Attitudes Toward Food; Sharing and Giving; Chapter 3: Religion, Customs, and Traditions; Buddhism; Hinduism; The Bhutanese Calendar; The Festive Year; Chapter 4: Making Friends; Meeting People; Greetings and Other Courtesies; What's In a Name?; Socializing With Work Colleagues; Invitations Home; Manners; Socializing With the Opposite Sex; Meeting With Outsiders; Chapter 5: The Bhutanese at Home; Housing; Families-Roles and Responsibilities; Marriage; Children; School; Employment.

Health Care; Daily Life and Routine; Shopping; Chapter 6: Time out; Eating Out; Bhutanese Food; Drinks; Picnics; What To Wear; Vacations and Public Holidays; Sports and Exercise; Cultural and Social Life; Handicrafts; Chapter 7: Travel, Health, and Safety; General Information; High-Value, Low-Impact Tourism; Traveling to Bhutan; Urban Transportation; City Buses; Private Vehicles; Taxis; Getting Around the Country; Where To Stay; Health and Safety; Natural Hazards; Banned Tobacco Products; Crime; Chapter 8: Business Briefing.

The Business Environment; Business Hours; Status and Hierarchy; Women At Work; Dress Code; Meetings; Presentations; Negotiating; Contracts; Business Entertainment; Gifts; Keeping In Touch; Chapter 9: Communicating; Language; Body Language; Humor; The Media; Mail; Telephone; Internet; Conclusion; Further Reading; Acknowledgments.

"The tiny Kingdom of Bhutan, at the eastern end of the Himalayas, nestles between the giant nation states of China and India. Often called the 'Land of the Thunder Dragon,' it remained secluded until recent times--the first ever 'tourist' set foot in Bhutan in 1974 and was followed by the introduction of television and new technology at the turn of the 21st century. In 2008, Bhutan became the world's youngest democracy, moving from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy in a historic change initiated by the revered and much-loved Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. A sovereign country throughout the ages, Bhutan is now establishing its place on the world stage and demonstrating leadership on climate and environmental issues. It is determined to maintain its Buddhist culture and way of life as it evolves and adapts to political change and economic challenges. Its unique development policy of 'Gross National Happiness,' which measures progress not through material gain but on a happiness scale, is generating global interest. The abundant hospitality of the Bhutanese, the variety of Bhutan's ancient monasteries and colorful festivals, and its near-perfect ecosystem and natural beauty never fail to reward the traveler. Culture Smart! Bhutan will give you a deeper insight into the country's history, values, and customs, as well as practical guidance on how to develop a meaningful rapport with the Bhutanese"--Amazon.com.