Why you should add Myanmar to your hotlist for 2020

Why you should add Myanmar to your hotlist for 2020
Myanmar is opening up to the world with a treasure trove of sights and experiences sure to sate the travel appetite. MiNDFOOD finds out more about its incredible natural beauty, ancient temples and timeless traditions.

With incredible natural beauty, ancient temples and timeless traditions, Myanmar is a true gem, waiting to be uncovered. Take time to learn about its rich history, the culture of its people, its Buddhist religion and the many spectacular destinations and sights in a country that was previously closed off from the world.

A wonderful way to experience some of its charms is to cruise down the Irrawaddy River on board the elegant and award-winning RV Princess Panhwar. The boat will take you down the tranquil waters of the Irrawaddy, starting off in Mandalay and finishing in Magwe over seven unforgettable nights.

River Dreaming

Explore magnificent Mandalay, where you can see sheets of gold leaf being added to a statue of the Mahamuni Buddha, and stroll along the U-Bein Bridge, the world’s oldest and longest teak-wood bridge. This bridge is a photographer’s dream, and one of the Insider Experiences on offer for guests is a sunset boat ride alongside this unusual and classic bridge.

In Pakokku down river from Mandalay, spend your time exploring the many workshops of the town, including cheroots (cigar), longyi (local sarongs) and blankets, while in Yandabo, admire the traditional terracotta pottery.

The incredible temples of Bagan will undoubtedly be a highlight of the cruise. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site features over 2,000 temples, stupas and pagodas, and the hot-air balloon flight as the sun rises will be unforgettable.

After your cruise, extend with a few days in Inle Lake, where most people live in stilted houses and all get about by longboat. The pagodas of Indein are remarkable, as are the markets, the little communities and just the chance to watch the local fishermen do their thing on the calm waters.

Colonial Yangon

Discover the sights of Yangon (formerly Rangoon), with one foot placed in its grand colonial past and the other stepping forward into the future. Spend time reflecting at the absolutely spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda on Singuttara Hill, its golden glow visible from most of the city. The stupa was built 2600 years ago, and here on this sacred site are the relics of four Buddhas.

While in Yangon you might take a trishaw ride to Dala to witness a more traditional way of life as you visit local workshops or set time aside for a visit to the Bogyoke Markets.

Why Travelmarvel?

Travelmarvel offers a 10-day ‘Majestic Myanmar’ itinerary including Yangon and a seven-night river cruise on the RV Princess Pahnwar, with an extension to Inle Lake easily arranged. Guests on board will enjoy the services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local experts ashore, and there will be ample free time for exploring at your leisure. This premium vessel has 36 contemporary and stylish staterooms and suites, with either a balcony or a French balcony, and guests are very well looked after with a 2:1 guest-to-staff ratio. When on board, guests can relax on the sun deck, enjoy the entertainment or just sit and enjoy watching Myanmar pass by.

This tour allows guests to catch a rare glimpse into a world hidden for decades, and cultural gems that will take your breath away. Travelmarvel.com.au/Myanmar2020

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