BHUTAN TODAY The New Perspective
โฆ๐ฐ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐
Sonam Deki
In the realm of extraordinary travel adventures, few tales rival that of Ilario Lavarra, the intrepid Italian traveler who has embarked on a six-year odyssey exploring the world astride his trusty two wheels. Bhutan marks his 100th visited country. Recently marking a significant achievement – a century of countries covered – Ilario shared his awe-inspiring journey, filled with challenges, profound realizations, and heartwarming encounters in Bhutan.
Ilario’s journey began with a dream that many deemed impossible: touring the world on a vintage Vespa. “To be honest, I never thought I would be able to cover 100 countries in this Grand Tour on a Vespa from 1968. It’s already difficult on a modern motorbike, imagine on a scooter, a 55-year-old scooter! That’s why, for me, it’s a kind of dream, and hopefully, many more countries are still to come,” he exclaimed, marveling at his own feat.
His journey is not just about racking up miles; it’s a profound philosophy encapsulated in his words: “I am traveling because, as I wrote on my Vespa, I don’t want to have any regrets in my life, in this unique and wonderful gift we have received. I try to enjoy it as much as I can. One life, live it!”
Bhutan, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural heritage, left Ilario utterly enchanted. “Bhutan is like a dream come true, where all the good purposes and deep meanings become tangible in everyday life. What I am enjoying most is the wonderful connection with nature. We are part of it, and in Bhutan, it’s so evident. Without it, human beings cannot be happy or seek real, deep meanings,” he shared, emphasizing the profound impact of Bhutan’s natural beauty on his soul.
However, Ilario’s journey has not been without challenges. Navigating through various countries, including those in conflict zones, he faced obstacles ranging from bureaucratic hurdles to mechanical breakdowns. Recalling his experiences, he revealed, “When you travel solo, you have to face and resolve them alone, far away from your home and comfort zone. Probably, this is the most challenging part of this journey.”
Yet, amidst these challenges, Bhutan stood out as an oasis of peace and happiness. “I noticed no stress, a slow pace of life, no pollution (air or noise), and an incredible amount of green nature all around. I think this is part of the secret of Bhutanese happiness. The world could learn from this wise little country,” Ilario observed, praising the Bhutanese way of life.
Ilario’s wisdom, earned through his extensive travels, serves as a guiding light for aspiring adventurers. His advice is simple yet profound: “Don’t be afraid of other people’s fears. Do whatever makes you feel alive, don’t care about other people’s values or ideas, just respect them, of course, but follow your dreams strongly and deeply.”
As for his future adventures, Ilario remains as open-minded as the road ahead of him. “Mine is a world tour, but honestly, I am just following the flow of it. You cannot have any schedule or route map in such long journeys. I am going to Australia, then America, and when I finish one day, I think I have just the moon to explore! I need a Vespa spaceship!” he exclaimed with an infectious spirit of exploration.
Amidst the vast tapestry of his adventures, one particular incident in Bhutan stands out, leaving a smile on his face. “When I visited the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery, there was a group of faithful people offering 300 bottles of beer to their God. After a few hours when I came down from my visit at the monastery, there was a cow, completely laid down and a bit strange. I asked if it was dying. They just replied to me it was completely drunk! She drank all the beer from the ground! Cheers!”
Ilario’s journey continues, weaving through countries and cultures, reminding the world that dreams are best pursued on two wheels, under the vast open sky.
