Page 19 - Explore Spring Summer 2019

Make sure you are with Machu Picchu or the temples of Mexico in Myanmar’s complicated political situation over
terms of "wow factor"; for a bit of added fun hire
the years has made life difficult for many, but now
modestly dressed when an e-bike in the adjacent city of Bagan - it's an they are free to discuss issues openly you will find
easy ride. We stayed at beautiful Bagan Lodge
visiting temples, with knees in New Bagan which offers glamping-style suites that the local people are very enthusiastic about
engaging with foreigners and telling their stories.
and rooms in resort-like grounds that include
and shoulders covered (a great swimming pools and a gorgeous spa. Arguably the best way to experience Myanmar
sarong is great to carry Mandalay, 180 km north-east of Bagan, is the is on a leisurely cruise down the Ayeyarwady
(Irrawaddy) River. On the luxurious river
around for this). religious heart of Myanmar, with a rich historical ship, Anawrahta, which resembles a British
legacy from its time as the Royal Capital of
the last Burmese King. We found the people of colonial paddle steamer, we glided past life
While in Yangon we enjoyed an excursion on Mandalay super friendly and loved interacting on the river with daily excursions to visit rural
the quirky Elephant Coach, a restored colonial with groups of students on Mandalay Hill who villages, fascinating monasteries and artisan
style tourist bus with a beautiful teak interior were keen to practice their English. In fact, craftspeople.
accommodating just six guests in large comfy wherever we went the people were absolutely On-board offerings also include yoga at sunrise
seating complete with air-con and a lovely host delightful. They are friendly and genuine, even in and delicious cuisine - a highlight was a rooftop
serving very welcome cool drinks. a city of seven million people like Yangon: people
Yangon’s Belmond Governor’s Residence is a in cars wind down their windows and shout barbecue one evening under the stars. Burmese
wonderful 5-star hotel offering shady trees, a out “Mingalabar” ("auspiciousness to you") to cuisine might seem to be somewhere in-between
gorgeous pool, beautiful teak buildings and a welcome you. Indian and Southeast Asian in style, but that is
whir of fans that provide a cool retreat from the denying its unique flavours. Tasty favourites
tropical heat. You must try the tiffin dinner – a Arguably the best way to we tried included delicious pickled tea leaves,
deliciously iconic experience. If you prefer being noodle soups, and a variety of curries that are
in the centre of town, head for the 5-star Strand experience Myanmar is on more subtle than fiery.
Hotel with its colonial history, famed high tea and a leisurely cruise down the One of the best times to travel in Myanmar is from
atmospheric cocktail bar. November to February when the country is free of
The ancient temples strewn across the plains Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) heavy monsoon rains and a little more comfortably
of Bagan, 630 km north-west of Yangon, are River on the luxurious river cool. But whenever you go, take an open mind and
outstanding and are best viewed at sunrise or prepare to fall in love with its beautiful landscapes
sunset. They're a sight that would ably compete ship, Anawrahta. and equally beautiful people.

Ange Pirie of World Journeys shares her insights and tips for travelling in the spectacularly
beautiful and unspoilt nation of Myanmar.

HELLOWORLD TRAVEL : EXPLORE : SPRING/SUMMER EDITION 17