Getting Ready for Bhutan

It is late March and it is just 12 weeks until our IASE 18th Biennial Conference in Thimphu, Kingdom of Bhutan. For those of you that are trying to complete the visa requirements, I thought that this information on how to scan documents using your I Phone would be helpful. I found this information helpful in scanning my photo and passport information and then uploading to pdf file which was transferred to Bhutan.

Scanning Documents on iPhone Using the Notes App

1.     Open the Notes app on your iPhone.

2.     Create a new note or select an existing one.

3.     Tap the Camera icon above the keyboard.

4.     Select Scan Documents from the menu.

5.     Position your document within the camera's viewfinder. If in Auto mode, the document will scan automatically. For manual capture, tap the Shutter button or press a Volume button.

6.     Adjust the corners of the scanned document by dragging them to fit the page, then tap Keep Scan.

7.     Tap Save to store the scanned document in the note.

Scanning Documents on iPhone Using the Files App

1.     Open the Files app and navigate to the folder where you want to save the scan.

2.     Tap the More button (three dots) in the upper-right corner.

3.     Select Scan Documents.

4.     Position your document within the camera's viewfinder. If in Auto mode, the document will scan automatically. For manual capture, tap the Shutter button or press a Volume button.

5.     Adjust the corners of the scanned document by dragging them to fit the page, then tap Keep Scan.

6.     Tap Save to store the scanned document as a PDF in the selected folder.

Tips for Better Scans

· Use natural light to reduce shadows and glare.

· Place the document on a contrasting background for better edge detection.

· Keep your iPhone steady to avoid blurry scans.

· Flatten the document to prevent distortion.

Some Travel Information for Bhutan

For those of us who are senior citizens and those of you who live at sea level, this information is important to consider in your planning.

Traveling to 7,000–8,000 ft (2,100–2,400 m) in Bhutan is considered moderate altitude. Most healthy travelers—even seniors—do well, but preparation helps reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and fatigue. June is also monsoon season there, so altitude plus humidity and travel fatigue can make you feel more tired.

Here are the most useful ways to prepare:

1. Build Cardiovascular Fitness

Good aerobic fitness helps your body use oxygen more efficiently.

3–8 weeks before your trip:

• Walk briskly 30–45 minutes most days

• Add light hills or incline treadmill

• Try cycling or swimming if you prefer low-impact exercise

• Practice slow steady breathing during exertion

You don’t need extreme training—just consistent moderate activity.

2. Plan a Gradual Acclimatization

Many visitors first arrive in Paro (~7,300 ft) and travel to Thimphu (~7,700 ft). These elevations are manageable but still require a little adjustment.

Good strategy:

• Take it easy the first 24–48 hours

• Avoid strenuous hikes the first day

• Walk slowly and take frequent breaks

• Sleep well and stay warm

Most travelers adjust within a day or two at this altitude.

3. Hydrate Well

Altitude increases fluid loss.

Tips

• Drink water regularly throughout the day

• Limit alcohol the first 1–2 days

• Avoid excess caffeine initially

A simple rule: clear or pale urine = good hydration.

4. Eat Light, Frequent Meals

Your body uses more energy at altitude.

Choose:

• Carbohydrate-rich foods (rice, noodles, fruit)

• Soups and broths

• Smaller meals rather than heavy ones

Bhutanese food often includes rice, vegetables, and dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew).

5. Consider Talking to Your Doctor

For senior travelers, it’s wise to review travel plans.

Ask about:

• Whether Acetazolamide (Diamox) is appropriate as a preventive

• Any heart or lung considerations

• Vaccinations or travel meds

At 7–8k ft most people do not need medication, but it can be useful if you are sensitive to altitude.

6. Know Early Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Watch for signs of **Acute Mountain Sickness:

• Headache

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Poor sleep

• Dizziness

If symptoms appear:

• Rest

• Hydrate

• Avoid further ascent

• Inform your guide

Descending usually resolves symptoms quickly.

7. Pack Smart for Bhutan in June

June weather in Bhutan is mild but wet.

Bring:

• Light rain jacket

• Good walking shoes

• Sun protection (UV is stronger at altitude)

• Electrolyte packets

• Any regular medications

✅ Good news:7,000–8,000 ft is comparable to places like Santa Fe or Rocky Mountain National Park in the U.S., and most healthy travelers adapt without major issues.

More to conference and travel information will be provided as it becomes available