Although this tour visits areas not otherwise covered by other Explore trips the highlights for us were still the almost magical atmosphere surrounding the temples of Began and being whisked around the sites of Inlay Lake in long-tailed mud skiffs. I should too mention the beach extension, we particularly sought, which on this trip visited Sunny Paradise Resort at Ngwe Saung. It was idyllic and well worth the interesting five hour drive across the Irrawaddy delta.
How was your Explore Tour Leader?
Nyi Nyi Kyaw had the task of conducting a group of 18 around his country. No mean task. By planning breaks with pre-ordered, set or buffet meals there was very little confusion or time lost which might otherwise occur with a group of this size. I think everyone felt he dealt well with individual issues too. Not only an experienced guide but a man with life experiences to enable him to talk knowledgably of Buddhism and of his country.
What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?
Day temperatures rose well into the 30’s and it was very humid at times, heed warnings as to sunhat, sunscreen etc. However, we did not find the nights or heights as cold as predicted. We used Explore’s local costs chart to estimate spending but returned with a decent sum towards our next trip. We found single dish meals more than adequate and hotels etc. were generous with complimentary water. Drink as much water as you can but still expect a touch of the Traveller’s, most of our group suffered at some time.
Do you have anything else to add?
With Burma/Myanmar being a popular destination we were in the largest group(18) we have ever traveled with and found the dynamics more akin to those of a coach party rather than small group travel. Fortunately some day trips were based on local transport when, divided of necessity, we were less obtrusive and able to relate more to the local community.