Useful information

Unfortunately last September the government’s harsh crackdown on the protesting monks meant that British tour operators had to pull out of the country. However things are almost back to normal and tourists can travel freely to the main sights again.

Everywhere we travelled friendly faces welcomed us and asked that we send our friends and relatives to see their country. Not a problem - I would recommend it to everyone! From the glistening golden pagoda at Shwedagon that turns into a gleaming orange colour as the sun sets to the calm waters of the Irawaddy with its banks of onion beds and sunflowers there is something for all. As we watched the sun set from a temple in Bagan plain we had a panoramic vista with hundreds of pagodas before our eyes. Quite spectacular.

One thing that is not mentioned very often is the high standard of Burmese cuisine. Located between China and India, it is not surprising that the influences of these countries are felt. Traditional Burmese dishes such as Mohinga (rice noodle with fish gravy) and the crispy condiment Balachaung (fried shrimp with chilli and tamarind) are delicious alternatives. Best washed down with a glass of Myanmar beer at the end of a rewarding days travel…