Vacation Spot: Hello Burma!

 

Officially known as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Burma is state in Southeast Asia bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Thailand and Laos. Its glorious past and remarkable sights made it a popular tourist destination these days. The only problem is that you need to get visa in order to move freely there.

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Not anymore. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong recently visited Myanmar on June 7 and discussed about the possibility of Singaporeans not getting visas to enter the country. The good news is that come December 1, 2016, you no longer need to get visa to visit Burma for up to thirty days. Travellers out there are elated to hear the news.

It is time for Burma. Here is a guide to the best attractions and things to do in Burma:

Bagan Balloons

To have the panoramic view of Bagan, you should never miss the balloon ride. Every morning in the winter months, you will see balloons floating above the template plain in time for the sun rise. If you want this, you can make plans with your hotel. In fact, passengers will be picked up from their hotels and taken into the sight where they will see balloons being inflated. The basket will hold at least four people. The flight lasts about one hour and then land in the field for light breakfast.

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Inle Lake

Now it is time to see the Lake. You should not miss the Inle Lake boat trip. The canoes have motors and it can seat up to 5 people. Do not worry because life jackets are present for your safety. One or two hour’s trip along the Inle Lake is not enough. You have to allot at least four to five hours. Start with Indein market then conclude at Nga Hpe Kyaung monastery.

Shwenandaw Monastery

The Monastery is the last and only surviving structure from the days of the Mandalay Royal Palace. The King Mindon used the place as his personal apartment and eventually died there. His son, worried about his ghost dismantled the place. Though dismantled, some original wood works are still present. The entrance fee is kind of expensive because it also includes a combination of tickets for Mandalay Hill and Royal Palace.

Botataung Pagoda

The pagoda is a famous attraction for its interior that is lined with gold leaf. There, you will see an altar that exhibits Buddha’s hair. The pagoda is a complex of shrine. For instance, there is a shrine for the treasure spirit – Mya Nan New which is called the Lady of the Emerald Palace. Worshippers bring offerings for her.

Shwedagon Pagoda

This is the most important shrine in the country. It features thousand diamonds surrounding the 95 meters stupa. Remember though, when going to shrines or pagodas, never wear shorts or sleeveless because it is a sign of disrespect.

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