Myanmar

Myanmar, or Burma, depending on who’s talking, is a land shrouded in mystery. Hidden from the outside world for decades and untouched by western culture, this is a country rich in history, tradition, and unbelievable natural beauty.

The country is just beginning to reopen its doors to tourism, and people are taking the opportunity to explore this amazing slice of Asia. Get in now while you can still experience Myanmar the way it was, before it catches up to the rest of the world and a McDonalds opens up on a street corner in Yangon.

When you arrive in Yangon the first thing to feast your eyes on is the gold-and-gem covered pagoda of Swedagon Paya – one of Buddhism’s most important religious sites. Then head over to Bogyoke Aung San Market for some fabulous shopping and fascinating browsing.

Head for the magical mountain area of Kalaw for some incredible trekking, and the ‘temple town’ of Bagan if you just can get enough of awe-inspiring temples. The serene Inle Lake is the picture of a quiet, peaceful retreat, or for a beach retreat head to the idyllic Ngapali Beach.

Mt Kyaiktiyo is a truly unique sight: a ‘stupa’ (Buddhist shrine) perches atop a gold-leafed boulder, itself perched atop a cliff on the mountain.