Myanmar (Burma) – Let the Journey Begin

Rich in culture, history and natural beauty, Myanmar is quickly emerging as one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in Southeast Asia after decades of sanctions and international isolation.

Thousands of temples are scattered across the countryside in Bagan; you will find leg-rowers and floating gardens in Inle Lake; and the impressive Shwedagon Paya in Yangoon is a site not to be missed. Influenced by the cuisines of neighbouring Thailand, India and China, whilst, at the same time, distinctively unique, we recommend exploring the relatively undiscovered, but yet delicious Burmese cuisine.


Featured tours and flavours of Myanmar (Burma)

Intrepid Travel

Classic Myanmar

Full of rarely seen sights and stories just waiting to be told, ‘Classic Myanmar’ will showcase a country of mythical landscapes, ancient treasures and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. From the glittering spires of the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon and the ancient temples of the fabled 11th century capital of Bagan, to the tranquillity of Inle Lake and the lively atmosphere of Mandalay. Myanmar is a destination that will excite, impress and intrigue you.

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Wendy Wu Tours

From Laos to China

On this epic adventure along the upper reaches of the Mekong River, participants will pass through the beauty of Laos, Thailand, explore the rich and varied culture of Myanmar (Burma), before venturing into the dramatic landscapes of China’s Yunnan province. Highlights include the former Royal City of Luang Prabang; Pak Ou Caves and Nam Ou River to Pak Beng; an opportunity to visit Thailand’s infamous Golden Triangle and travel along the Old Mandalay Road in Burma.

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Wendy Wu Tours

Hidden Treasures of Burma

Often referred to as ‘Southeast Asia’s hidden gem’, Myanmar (Burma) is a destination bursting with magnificent monuments, glittering golden stupas and enigmatic ruins. Just the name invoke images of mysterious wander and raw adventure. This tour allows participants to explore the architecture and colourful markets of Rangoon; a cruise on the idyllic Irrawaddy River; venture through Mandalay, Burma’s colonial capital; the Temples of Bagan; admire the fishing skills of the Intha People on Inle Lake.

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  • The Mekong River boasts the world’s largest inland fishery, accounting for up to 25 percent of the global freshwater catch. –World Wildlife Fund

  • At least 1,100 freshwater species swim the waters of the Mekong River – including the last remaining populations of the Irrawaddy dolphin, giant freshwater stingray, and the Mekong giant catfish.–World Wildlife Fund

  • The Greater Mekong region is home to more than 300 million people from nearly 100 distinct ethnic groups.–World Wildlife Fund

  • The Mekong giant catfish can weigh up to 770 pounds and is the third largest freshwater fish on the planet.–World Wildlife Fund

  • Often called ‘the Asian unicorn’, the enigmatic saola are found only in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam and Laos.–World Wildlife Fund

 

Myanmar at a glance:

Official Name: Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Capital: Naypyidaw – population 1 million (est 2015)
Population: 56.3 million (est 2015)
Area: 676,578 sq km
Language: Burmese. Minority languages. English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Kyat (MMK). Pristine US$ notes increasingly accepted.
Time zone: GMT+7 (Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta)
Dialling code: +95
National Animal: Tiger


Famous sights and popular places:

Yangoon – ‘Garden City of the East’. Lakes, parks and green tropical vegetation
Shwedagon Paya – Arguably the greatest and most impressive Buddhist pagoda in Myanmar and Southeast Asia
Bagan – Thousands of magnificent stupas and pagodas
Inle Lake – Floating villages and impressive fishermen
Mandalay – The cultural heart of Myanmar with arts, dance, music and drama



Reading up on Myanmar (Burma) – books for the backpack

We believe reading up a little bit on the destination before, during or after you travel not only makes you understand the destination better, but it can also enhance the overall travel experience. We also think Burmese food deserves a special mention. Some dishes remind us of the cuisines of neighbouring Thailand, India and China, and some are distinctively unique. Therefore, we have compiled a selection of books and recommended reading you might find useful when planning a trip to mesmerising Myanmar – including books filled with authentic family recipes, travelogues, stories and a fascinating journey into the relatively undiscovered, but yet delicious cuisine of Myanmar.

Mesmerising Myanmar (Burma)

Flavours of Burma

Volunteering and Responsible Travel

For more inspiration, ideas, books, recommended reading, gadgets, gizmos and other travel items that might be useful before you go, bring in your backpack during your travels, or after you get back home, please also visit amazon.co.uk/shop/mekongexp and amazon.com/shop/mekongexp

Quick Ticket Finder – local buses, trains, ferries and flight connections

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