It has been long said the change is the only
permanence. And it is Change that best describes the story of Myanmar – from
Burma to its current name, from the old flag to the new one, and from Yangon to
Naypyidaw as its capital city.
Even though it has been stripped off its
capital title, Yangon is still the country’s economic and commercial hub. Here,
you can find sacred sites, stunning nature and both traditional and modern
activities. Yangon today is an amalgamation of sacred sites set amongst
stunning natural scenary, and a slew of modern activities by the young of the
country, who have found modern ways to embrace classic tradition. Although like
in most places, the impact of the media and popular culture is evident here,
Yangon capture uniqueness as a nation with pockets of tradition both hidden and
proudly displayed to travellers eager to soak up the culture.
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People praying in the pagoda and the extremely pretty
interior.
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Shwedagon Pagoda, the main tourist attraction. It is no
wonder too, with such beauty.
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Shwedagon Pagoda, also known in English as the
Great Dagon Pagoda or Golden Pagoda, should without a doubt be the first stop
in anyone’s itinerary while in Yangon. The pagoda and stupa are rich in both
history and adornment, with the gold plating and gemstones that have been set
into it.
As a rule of thumb, it would do well to remember
that foot-wear is not allowed into most Asia religious temples or sites. You
should come earlier in the morning, before the sun is high up, so that you can
avoid burning your feet on the heated tiles. You can throw your shoes into a
plastic bag and carry it around inside – convenient if you are planning to exit
from a different entrance than the one you entered from (there are four
entrances). You are also advised to be dressed in something reasonably decent.
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| No need to be turned off at the idea of shopping in a “market” as the stalls and shops inside and all well-organised and clean. |
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| You can find traditional Myanmar outfits here too. Never mind that you are not going to wear them every day, it still make for a good keepsake! |
Enjoy the nature at Ngwe Saung Beach with
its long stretch of clean sand, water and palm trees. It is about a five to six
hours’ drive from Yangon, but the travel will most definitely be worth it for
this scenic beach. There is also an Elephant Camp not too far away, open to
visitors.
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| Spare some time to appreciate and take in the view of the lovely beach. |
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| If you are up for some adventure, hop on an elephant ride from the elephant camp which will bring you hiking through the jungle. |
There are
56 weekly flights operated by Silk Air, Jet Star and Mynmar Airways from Changi
Airport.