Luxury Holidays To Burma
Burma, also known as Myanmar (the name given to it by its military government), is relatively undiscovered, making it intriguing, mysterious and perfect for those with an appetite for adventure. Landscapes incorporate jungle, snow-topped mountains and rivers and beaches, while its cultural heritage, which spans over two-thousand years, is dominated by the Buddhist faith and testament to that are the country’s magnificent old temples.
The Irrawaddy River (also known as the Ayeyarwady River), is the lifeblood running through Burma and connects many of the best places to visit. Starting in the south, Yangon (also known as Rangoon), is often called the ‘Garden of the East’ for its parks and streets lined with tropical trees. It is also a busy seaport and has many Colonial buildings, alongside the new. Burmese culture is very evident and visitors must see the imposing golden Shwedagon Pagoda and Chaukhtatgyi Reclining Buddha, as well as Bogyoke Aung San Market where traditional handicrafts, including lacquerware and silverwork, can be purchased. For gorgeous sunsets, watch from the Kandawgyi Lakes which are close to the city centre.
Following the river north, you will find the ancient city of Bagan – a World Heritage Site boasting in the region of five-thousand monuments, which the ancient kings of Burma built as a testament to Buddhism. Further north, Mandalay is steeped in royal and spiritual history, epitomised at the Golden Palace Monastery and Mahamuni Pagoda. If you venture to nearby Sagaing Hill you will discover pagodas and stunning views across the river. Meanwhile, Bhamo is where a daily market attracts the Kachin, Shan, Lisu and Palaung people, in their traditional dress, who come to trade. Lake Inlè is also worth visiting and it supports over two-hundred villages, some built on stilts over the water and you can also see the unique 'leg-rowers', who row with one leg.
Burmese people are very friendly and hold many celebrations throughout the year – one of the most important being Thingyan, Myanmar New Year. You may be lucky enough to coincide your visit with one of them but, whenever you visit, do make sure that you try some local food. It’s a simple but delicious blend between Chinese and Indian cooking and features plenty of rice, noodles, curries, fish, vegetables and fruits, while Green Tea is a popular drink.
- This Victorian-style building was first built in 1901
- Luxury Hotel
- Beautiful Burmese music is played daily in the Lobby Lounge
- 32 suites
-
Located In:
Burma
The Strand is a small hotel conveniently located in the heart of Yangon. It captures a sense of the city’s Colonial heritage and opulence, from the marble floors with inlaid teak wood, to the chandeliers and its private collection of antiques ...