Destination Weddings: Marry In Ringha, China

My wedding.

Just kidding! A couple of years ago I shot a travel show called ‘Luxury China’ for Channel News Asia. My co-host Pierre Goh & I spent a month living it up (and working harder than the Chinese), flying the literal length and breadth of the country. Although we were lucky enough to stay at the Banyan Tree in Ringha, which is situated in the Yunnan province (formerly part of Tibet). Now when we think of China, one might usually think of the big cities like Beijing and Shanghai and all their bustle and hustle – Ringha, however, is very much a hidden gem. High up in the mountains and still deeply immersed in Tibetan culture, you’ll feel completely away from China it all.

Being the iconic brand it is, Banyan Tree Ringha actually offers a one of a kind wedding package where couples can tie the knot Tibetan style! Since Pierre and I had signed our souls away in our TV contracts (hehe…), we were asked to conduct a mock wedding as part of our Yunnan episode. I’m not sure if our ‘arranged’ marriage was one made in heaven, but it was definitely an affair to remember :)

How to get married Tibetan style:

First up, Pierre and I both get dressed up in traditional outfits. I am of course, the lady in red and he the knight in blue robe.

Next, I dutifully wait in a Tibetan lodge, while Pierre…

Finally, Pierre enters the room. But it’s not over yet!

Pierre must now bargain with my ‘mum’ (not my real mum, this lady above kindly volunteered). Traditionally, the groom must ‘buy’ his way to sit with the bride at the banquet table.

Pierre sadly used his pocket change to bargain for me. Not a good sign.

After bargaining, Pierre takes his seat next to me while I remain hidden under my ‘veil’.

Me: Surprise! Only me.

Pierre: Bargain price!

Haha, so that’s a simple breakdown of a Tibetan Wedding. If you think this is something you’d like to try (sure beats eloping in Vegas!), then just contact the Banyan Tree Ringha here. The Banyan Tree Tibetan lodges have plush interiors with classic Tibetan furniture and are snug with heaters and central warming – which is important if you’re there during winter! Like I did. Tip: Don’t forget the long johns…

Besides exploring the local village, there is much to do in Ringha! We went on a 4 hour pony ride (poor pony & poor thighs), which was beautiful. The scenery is amazing and as you ride through the mountains you’ll find flocks of sheep or herds of yak (like a local Tibetan cow) passing you by.

Let me tell you that I ate a lot of ‘yak’ while I was there. Yak steak, Yak burger, Yak stir-fry! Yak, yak, yak. It tastes a little bit like beef and I thought it wasn’t too bad. However, if you’re a bit of a fuss-pot, Banyan Tree does have a menu that consists of the standard hotel cuisine.

So did Pierre and I live happily after?

Alas, I just wasn’t his type.

Better luck next time ;)