The tiny Southeast Asian nation of Myanmar might not be the first country that springs to mind when planning a luxury getaway, but for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion, this hidden gem offers a unique experience you’re unlikely to ever forget.
Rich in natural beauty and home to a plethora of mind-blowing sights you’ll want to tick off your bucket list, in 2022, it remains the road less travelled, so if you enjoy visiting destinations that feel authentic and unspoilt, then now is the time to go. Tourism is beginning to develop in Myanmar slowly but surely, and the nation has some big goals when it comes to attracting visitors over the coming years, so it’s only a matter of time before the masses begin to descend.
Awash with charm and beauty, Myanmar offers unique experiences, mouth-watering cuisine and an intriguing culture. Flights are already available through a range of airlines including Air China and Thai Airways from major London airports, just don’t forget to complete the Myanmar visa application before planning your trip.
Here are some of the top reasons to visit sooner, rather than later.
The delicious cuisine
Much like the rest of Southeast Asia, Myanmar’s cuisine is a fusion of flavours and a veritable treat for the senses. With an emphasis on the salty and savoury, dishes are rich and tasty, with rice and noodles featuring heavily – but Myanmar also holds a repertoire of ingredients not found elsewhere, which means that many of its specialities offer taste combinations you won’t have encountered elsewhere.
Take, for example, the tea leaf salad. Made from ‘lephet’, or fermented tea leaves, its sour, slightly bitter flavour combines perfectly with the crunch of shredded cabbage, sliced tomatoes, crunchy deep-fried beans and nuts, elevated even further with chilli and garlic to give it a satisfying kick.
The breath-taking hiking trails
Perhaps one of the biggest draws to Myanmar is its spectacular natural landscapes, and outdoor enthusiasts will delight in its many hiking trails. The route from Kalaw, for example, takes in incredible vistas including the likes of Inle Lake, taking you to places you could never hope to reach by car or any other means of transport. Unless you’re a particularly experienced hiker, it’s wise to pay for a guided trek, which will set you back somewhere in the region of 40,000 kyat.
The buzzing markets
There’s nothing like the hustle and bustle of a local market for those looking to soak up a destination’s culture, and this is particularly true of Southeast Asia. In Myanmar, spending a day or two wandering through one is a must, and you can be certain of coming across some unique finds in its many bazaars. The Jade market, in Mandalay, is one of the best, and here, you’ll find local sellers buying and selling amongst themselves without a tourist in sight. From fresh, local produce to artisan crafts and mouth-watering cuisine, if you’re looking for an authentic experience then this is one of the very best places to find it.
The opulent hotels
Myanmar might be relatively undeveloped for tourism, in comparison to neighbouring countries, but you can still be certain of finding some breath-taking luxury hotels here that will guarantee you a comfortable stay. The five-star Lake Garden Nay Pyi Taw, which belongs to the MGallery Collection, is a prime example, and features a sprawling outdoor swimming pool set amongst lush greenery and a beautiful garden, with lux facilities including tennis courts for guests to enjoy.
If you’re visiting Yangon, be sure to check in at the Lotte Hotel Yangon for plush rooms, delectable cuisine and an all-round memorable experience. Highlights include an outdoor infinity pool, fully equipped fitness centre, garden and business facilities, as well as a cocktail bar and hot tub, all within five kilometres of the iconic, must-visit Shwedagon Pagoda.
