Since the release from house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi in November 2010, small scale tourism to Burma has been welcomed by the elected party, the NLD (National League for Democracy), and the local inhabitants themselves. Visitor numbers are now steadily increasing and at Journeys of Distinction, we feel the time is right to introduce our travellers to this unique destination. The Burmese people are among the gentlest in the world, the temples stunning in their sheer number, elegance and serenity, while the landscapes are diverse and inspiring.
Burma is a wonderful destination with a young tourism industry. While this brings employment, new experiences and educational opportunities into the country, it should be remembered that such an industry along with a developing infrastructure means that visitors can expect to experience variations in service standards, power shortages, flight delays, uneven roads and a cash only society (there are no ATMs and very limited credit card facilities).
Please be aware that it is not possible to visit without some travellers’ funds reaching the hands of the military government. However, we have worked hard to maximise the positive contribution our Burma Encounter tour will make to the country, while ensuring travellers partake in a comfortable, fascinating and enlightening holiday.
Burma Holiday Highlights
• Cruising downstream on the Ayeyarwaddy River from Mandalay to Pagan
• Touring the former hill station of Maymyo and the temples of Pagan by local horse and cart
• Exploring Lake Inle and staying on the shores of the lake itself
• Visiting traditional village workshops and trying the wares at a local vineyard
Where is Burma?
Geographically, Burma is the second largest country (after Indonesian) in south-east Asia. It shares land borders with China, Laos, Thailand, India and Bangladesh. Its considerable coastline stretches from the Andaman Sea to the Bay of Bengal.
Burmese Cuisine
Burma is renowned for its curries. Beautifully flavoured rather than spicy, the dishes are among the mildest in south east Asia. They do tend to be rather oily though although this is easy round as the oil floats to the top and acts as a preservative rather than being meant for eating. The curry is usually just one part of a traditional Burmese meal, and many restaurants will serve the main dish with several sides – such as soup, pickled vegetables, dips and dessert. Spicy salads made with raw or cooked vegetables are also popular. Rice is as ubiquitous as elsewhere in Asia, but the Burmese really love their noodles which made be served thick or thin depending on the dish. Most restaurants serve some vegetarian cuisine and you shouldn’t have too much difficulty as Burmese Buddhists do not eat meat of any kind. It is worth noting that western style fare is very limited and those restaurants and hotels which have ventured to include international cuisine on their menus, do not usually make a great job of it. Experience shows it is best to try the local specialities and save your favourites for your return home.