Bhutan & East India

Bhutan essentially forces tourists to hire a guide and driver. Technically you can explore Paro and Thimphu without one but you MUST fly in to the airport, don't try to get there via car.

Travel Bhutan in the off or shoulder season when the SDF is $100 per day instead of $250.

Rent a Himalayan motorbike and enjoy the pure peace that is the twisting yet safe and clean roads of Dochula Pass.

Try to avoid hiring a guide. They kind of suck and make the experience worse but without one many things become locked off and locals still won't engage with you.