Bhutan will enjoy more direct connections to top leisure travel agencies worldwide, more holiday bookings, and enhanced awareness as a destination

(Thimphu, July 2023): Bhutan's Department of Tourism (DoT) has confirmed that Bhutan has been accepted into Virtuoso®'s exclusive portfolio of luxury travel partners, comprising over 20,000 advisors and partners from more than 2,300 of the world's best travel companies.  Bhutan is honoured to become an esteemed preferred partner within Virtuoso's prestigious network of the world's most exceptional hotels, resorts, cruise lines, tour operators, and travel entities. This partnership is likely to drive more bookings to Bhutan and offers more opportunities for travellers to discover the charm and beauty of Bhutan, inviting those travellers seeking unique adventures and meaningful cultural experiences.

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers a captivating and luxurious experience for travellers seeking an enchanting escape. Spanning thousands of square kilometres of breathtaking landscapes and unspoiled beauty, Bhutan is a haven for prestigious and authentic brands and exclusive resorts, providing visitors with an unparalleled experience of indulgence and tranquillity.

While exploring Bhutan's stunning landscape, guests can partake in an array of activities that cater to every desire. From guided treks through pristine forests and valleys, where majestic monasteries perch on cliffsides, to rejuvenating spa retreats that embrace ancient Bhutanese wellness traditions, visitors are pampered with the utmost care and attention.

A pivotal partnership has been forged between Bhutan and Virtuoso, exemplifying a profound commitment to advancing sustainable tourism principles and practices. This collaboration aligns perfectly with Virtuoso's longstanding vision of fostering sustainable tourism and reflects Bhutan's unwavering dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage.

For over a decade, Virtuoso has been at the forefront of promoting sustainability within the travel industry. As an integral part of their mission, they have acknowledged individuals and organizations that have shown exemplary leadership in sustainable tourism through prestigious awards and extensive editorial coverage. These recognitions not only celebrate the efforts of trailblazers but also serve as a source of inspiration for others to follow suit.

"Amidst the soaring Himalayas, pristine valleys, and untouched landscapes, we are forging an alliance between sustainable tourism and our cherished environment in Bhutan.  Collaborating with Virtuoso, we aspire to illuminate the incredible rewards of regenerative travel and extend our authentic hospitality to global wanderers seeking transformative experiences. In the spirit of 'Bhutan Believe,' we invite travellers worldwide to partake in this harmonious journey, where reverence for nature and cultural treasures converge,” said Dorji Dhradhul, Director General of the Department of Tourism.

“Bhutan's commitment to preserving its abundance of natural beauty and profound cultural heritage, while welcoming travellers to experience its wonders, aligns with Virtuoso's belief that travel can serve as a force for good,” said Virtuoso Senior Vice President Sales & Partnerships Cory Hagopian. “With travellers increasingly seeking out destinations with deeper meaning, Bhutan offers a spiritual sanctuary for those fortunate enough to visit.”

For more information, please visit www.bhutan.travel.

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About the Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism of Bhutan is responsible for the development and promotion of sustainable tourism in Bhutan. It works to share the Kingdom's remarkable places, people and experiences with conscious travellers, guided by the principles of high-value, low-volume tourism. 

About Virtuoso

Virtuoso® is the leading global travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisors in 54 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with more than 2,300 of the world's best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Normalized annual sales of (U.S.) $28-$32 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com. 

For media enquiries please contact:

Carissa Nimah, Chief Marketing Officer, Department of Tourism

cnimah@moice.gov.bt