Burma
Evocative. Peaceful. Mythical. Beautiful Burma is unlike anywhere else.
Only recently opened to tourism, Myanmar is the largest country in South East Asia and remains deeply traditional, largely Buddhist, and entirely distinct. Expect horse drawn carts and bicycles, remote beaches and seafood shacks, traditional dress and colourful celebrations.
Experiences
Have a heady immersion into the culture and environments that have been kept in isolation for so long; cruise the ‘Road to Mandalay’ River Irrawaddy by classic riverboat; enjoy VIP access to one of the most important religious sites in Myanmar to meet the head monk; discover the mysterious Mandalay by rickshaw; explore the arid countryside of Bagan, discovering the world-unique panorama of pagodas and temples scattered as far as the eye can see; meet the remarkable Intha community, and learn about their one-legged rowing on flat-bottomed boats; spend time with oozies (elephant trainers) while they wash, feed and ride these magnificent beasts; enjoy a balloon ride over Bagan; explore the temples by bicycle or ox cart; search for spiritual enlightenment during an evening spent in a monastery, with private Buddhist teachings from a respected monk; go island hopping through the Mergui Archipelago, a paradise of uninhabited islands with superb opportunities for diving and snorkelling pristine lagoons and reefs; encounter Moken sea-gypsy communities and learn their ancient aquatic way of life, cruise in their skiffs, fish, and later join in their ritual celebrations.
Where to Stay
Lakeside palaces; wild and romantic hill resorts; private villas; bamboo chalets or understated beachfront guest houses; a specially-converted teak river-boat or a private yacht for cruising the islands.
When to Go
To get out of the heat, stick to the drier months of December to February. Expect rain from May until September during the monsoon season.