How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Our Tour Leader worked very hard on our behalf, especially when we arrived at 6.30 in the morning and he took care of us all morning until we could check in, off his own bat. He paid attention to what we had written on our 'wish list' (in my case we went to an orphanage) and was extremely knowledgeable about every aspect of the tour, from history to Buddhism, politics to English literature. I thought he stretched himself on our behalf.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Try not to go at the hottest time of the year!! If you can go before Christmas you might see more green, more growth, and perhaps clearer skies as our sunrises and sunsets were often hidden by a heat haze. Take more photo space than you think you'll need! People have written that before, I endorse it! Try to support locally where you can, like visiting an orphanage or the little Puppet Theatre in Nyaung Shwe; and buy souvenirs from the craft families you visit, not all in a market in Yangon. Anti-bacterial wipes may also help protect you from getting a gyppy tummy. 

Do you have anything else to add?

I am concerned about the political situation in Burma. None of this is evident to the tourist passing through, but when Aung San Suu Kyi advised us to start visiting the country, it was not that their problems be masked by spectacular tours. I think we should bear this in mind, and acquaint ourselves with as much information as we can before we visit.

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Didn't warm to him at first, but towards the end I saw that he was quite exceptional. Very respectful of the group, never flustered, never interfered with the group dynamics, very patient, English spot on, knowledgeable. His name was Myo and if you are guided by him, just give him time to show his real colours - you won't regret having him as a guide.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Change money at the airport....Complimentary water bottles provided at all hotels and also on the bus....Our bus was a 40 seater most of the time....Free wi fi available at some of the hotels we stayed at.....Western toilets available extensively, but not everywhere.....Most start times are between 7.45 am and 8.30 am.....Away from Rangoon, we were paying £2.00 - £3.00 for a meal with fruit juice or canned drink .....Restaurants with plastic chairs are cheaper and the food is always freshly cooked and served piping hot to your table.....Toilet money is 100 – 200 Kyats. Most toilet stops were free....In Bagan use the 1st restaurant immediately outside the Hotel gate – they give you free plate of chips and banana flambe

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Excellent - knowledgeable and forward looking.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Don't visit the winery, the 'tour' guide seemed to know nothing about wine or its making, the tasting was offhand and we were ignored.  You miss nothing by not going.

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Our tour leader, Myo Set, was excellent. He is a warm, kindhearted man with great humor and he did more for us than I would have expected of a tour leader. We were only 10 people in this group and I had the best time ever.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Get your visa sorted in good time ahead of your travel. I come from Norway and I didn't receive the papers in time and had a lot of problems. But lots of people helped me out in Burma, they where so nice and helpful.
Think about helping the locals and not the government while you are there.
February/March is a very hot time in Burma and quite cold in Norway so it was a 50 degrees difference for me. So remember to drink enough fluid and bring flight socks in case your feet swell up as mine did :-)"

Do you have anything else to add?

I would recommend this trip to everyone. It was beautiful, full of impressions, packed with different experiences and a thrill. All I can say is thank you to my group leader and my fellow travelers for making this holiday as good as it was.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Nice man, good organiser, but has the most boring voice in the world which meant that I rarely took anything he said into my head. Should have been a hypnotist !!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Get your visa sorted in good time. Take mint condition dollars. Practise smiling.

Do you have anything else to add?

I filled this in with lots of comments, but you limit what I can say. If you ever want to know you can email me.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Excellent overall. Very well organised given the variety of activities and modes of transport.Having mainly 3 night stays was a big advantage as opposed to moving every night. Our tour leader May was first rate. A really gracious young lady with great command of English and knowledge of her subject, and a great sense of humour. Make sure you hang on to her !

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Read all the instructions carefully re visas, jabs, malaria tablets,currency etc. Light walking trainers are fine.Basic meals for 2 with beer cost about $16 in the more rural areas and about $20 in bigger towns.The food is quite varied but tends to be more akin to Chinese than Indian and there is no unleavened bread. There is a bit of hassling in tourist spots but absolutely nothing like India or N. Africa.

Do you have anything else to add?

Really ace holiday.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

"Very proffesional .
Tried to always let us have an authentic experience ie. people .food customs "

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"February is a great time to visit
When arriving in Yangon very early in the morning ensure you wear something cool, even if you have just travelled from Britain "

Do you have anything else to add?

"Good number of  travelers,Too many people would spoil the experience  .
Many Thanks for a wonderful holiday"

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Our Tour Leader Haymar was the best I have had in many years of holidaying with Explore.  Nothing was too much trouble for her, and the group gelled well because of her.  She gave us a great deal of information on her country, and repeated it as often as she was asked without becoming impatient.  Haymar knew the itinerary well and ensured we were told about good local places to eat which kept the local costs down. She remained cheerful the whole time and really made this an exceptional Explore trip.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

This is a great tour and progresses at a moderate pace with more than one night in all locations except Yangon.  Myanmar has much to offer and at present is largely unspoiled by mass tourism.  This may soon change, so go soon and enjoy a country emerging from decades of isolation where the locals are friendly and pleased to receive visitors. Respect their culture and dress modestly.

Do you have anything else to add?

A truely great holiday in a wonderful country with an exceptional Tour Leader - who could ask for more!

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

I found all the locals very friendly and felt very comfortable in their company. Our tour leader Nyi was an excellent leader in every respect, courteous and caring, knowledgeable and well organised, thoughtful and cheerful, a person I feel who was not just our leader but also our friend.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Just to respect the country, the locals and their traditions and beliefs as we are entering their homeland. And take a book for the Ayerarwady trip.

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Mya Mya was excellent, full of knowledge and great fun to be with.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

It gets cold at the lake and at kalaw so take warm clothing. Apply for your visa in good time. Consider the Thai flight via Bangkok.less than 2hours lay over.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Without a doubt, MyaMya made this holiday for the whole group. Her knowledge was local to the point of knowing where every good toilet stop was to be had, where the best tempura vegetables were served, where to get the best photo opportunities, where to avoid the crowds so you felt you were the only ones there, where to eat in  local restaurants etc etc. Her humour was infectious, her laughter making us all instantly warm to her. Her professionalism was outstanding and we were all impressed at the calm way she dealt with two fairly major medical crises involving members of the group. She is an outstanding asset to the Explore team.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

If going during the winter season WRAP UP WARMLY at Inle lake and Kalaw. It was freezing! Late night and early morning saw temperatures drop to only 8 or 9 degrees and not all of the local restaurants have 4 walls, let alone any heating. I'd taken a hot water bottle and needed it! Also wear flip flops on pagoda days to save a lot of time. There are two currency exchanges at Yangon Airport and the one in the far right corner gives a slightly better rate to the dollar. By eating in local restaurants and not the hotels, we found the costs to be far lower than those given in the dossier. I think if you change about $400 per couple that should be enough.Myanmar rum is MUCH better than Cuban in my opinion, and at about 20p a shot is amazing value! The tin of coke to go with it costs about 60p! A whole bottle of rum is only 1,500 kts, about £1!

Do you have anything else to add?

Go now before it's too late. There are already signs that "tourist tat" is taking over from local handicrafts and whereas, at the moment, there is little hassling from vendors, that will surely change. Also, the "restoration" work being done on the decaying stupas is basically a botched job involving a lot of concrete mix. Sad that the very thing we want to see is being Disneyfied at an alarming rate.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Miu was absolutely brilliant. Well organised, informative, good English, helpful just perfect for the job.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Expect to be pleasantly surprised. Ladies please remember this is a country where shoulders and knees should be covered. So many other points on this site give fair tips so why not read through more reviews....

Do you have anything else to add?

Day 10 Irrawaddy boat to Bagan could be eliminated as it is very boring and with low water we had 12 hours with not a lot to see.The coach drivers and the buses were good and safely driven. The various means of travel were fun.  Burma is a fascinating country but do hurry before it changes beyond recognition. It was cheaper than the trip notes mention.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Mya Mya was bubbly and funny, made every day special. She was extremely organised dealing with two hospitalised passengers, one serious, and at least 4 with noro virus. But still exceeded my expectations with organisation and consideration for every individuals needs. She deserves a prize for being so competent and enthusiastic.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Kalaw can be cold in morning and at night. Take something warm. The walk up hill there is hot and rewards in hill village is wonderful.

Do you have anything else to add?

Boat ride down ayerawaddy river can take up to 12 hours. Take a book as well as looking at views.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Mya Mya was excellent. Burma provided interesting and beautiful sights and Mya Mya made it very organised and great fun.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

It can get cold in Kalaw, take a warm jumper.

Do you have anything else to add?

Tour leader deserves a nomination to win an award. Amazing person and I wish all my explore leaders were this good.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Melvin made a huge effort to get us off the beaten track, he often reversed the program by day so that the places we visited were quiet of our fellow tourists , particularly effective at Bagan. The variety of artisan and Burmese trade he took us to was remarkable.  He knows his country extremely well, and "how things work".  He managed all our baggage and transfers with aplomb, especially after the boat from Mandalay to Bagan.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

If you eat local food, a plate of noodles or rice would come in at between 1500 and 3000 kyip, current exchange in November 830 kyip to the dollar.  The trip notes refer to 3 course meals but we didnt get to see much option for desert and the portions on the mains were good.  Beer is also around 2000 to 3500 for a large bottle of the excellently drinkable Myanmar beer. There is not much option for wine and when there is its hugely expensive.  Im vegetarian, I did not always eat lunch, I spent around 200 US in the 2 weeks , the suggested costs in the trip notes are probably overinflated.

Do you have anything else to add?

"The trip has loads of variety, different landscapes, towns, hills, lakes and methods of transport, boats, horses and carts, walking, bus etc.  The Mount Popa optional was superb.  Just do it. :-)
The Burmese people are gentle and friendly.  The infrastructure was surprisingly good, the toilets were clean, the provision of drinking water in the hotel rooms and in some cases on the bus very welcome too.  Take sandals and girls, dont worry with vest tops and shorts, nearly every day is a Pagoda/ Temple and you will need to cover knees and shoulders.  Take an umbrella, for both rain and sun.  Take your best smile, you will use it all the time."

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

"Theha was very well organised everything ran like clockwork, good English vocabulary, but pronunciation was so poor that we had to continually stop him to ask what a word was. This spoilt the flow of his explanations of where we were and what we were seeing. 

He also only told us about any changes to plans at the last minute which meant on one occasion I missed a side trip organised by one of the group to the Rangoon War Cemetery as our leader said we would go to a jade workshop which I had asked for. He only told us after those going on the side trip had left us that we couldn't do the jade so I missed both trips.

Having said all that he was a lovely person and tried very hard, we understood it was only his second Explore Group,"

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Take pristine unfolded Dollars, take more than you need as you can always change them back if not used. The money changers that the tour leader took us to were better exchange rates than the hotels.

There were Internet connections at all hotels, but very poor connection in Bagan not everyone could access their emails. 

Take slip on sandals as virtually everywhere you visit you have to take shoes off."

Do you have anything else to add?

"This is a great trip and I would advise anyone to go as soon as possible if you are interested. 

I didn't go on the group flight, they had a 7/8 hour stopover in KL. I went with Qatar and had 1 hour in Doha, arriving home the same day.

Be prepared for the street traders, in some places they wont leave you alone, they even came up the temple for the sunset in Bagan which spoilt the atmosphere."

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

A lovely person and a really good organiser but her English needs to improve.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"1) Make sure you change your USD at the airport when you arrive, changing money elsewhere is not always easy
2) Avoid going down the Myinmathi cave, especially if it has been raining it floods & not sure what is in the water!! There is a better cave just outside Kalaw.
3) Take a book or something to do on the boat trip to Bagan, it is long and boring and a waste of a day."

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

The tour leader was excellent both for his knowledge and passion to pass that knowledge on by telling us about his country and culture through to his organisational skills

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Dont expect an emerging country where tourism is new.  One of our group coined the phrase 'conveyor belt tourism' to describe the way we moved around from site to site.  Be sure you like temples!

 

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Shwedaygon Paya is magnificent and the temples of Bagan just awesome. The great feeling that you actually helped the local children at the village school with gifts of books and pens - the headmistress was very thankful and apparently does not allow all groups to visit. I particularly enjoyed teaching a young lad the All Blacks 'Haka' dance and his enjoyment and laughter at this will stay with me for ever.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Please be careful as mass tourism is arriving and as with that the obvious hazards are arriving as well. I was pick pocketed at Indein on Lake Inle-there was a Buddah Festival and many youths were drunk, but my guard was down as I believed the country was so safe.Hard sell vendors are appearing at the major sights(not as bad as Egypt yet- but it will catch up I am sure). The hotel in Mandalay whilst nice is too far out of town. The Thazin Gardens hotel in Bagan is lovely with a swimming pool but bar/restaurant prices are too high - just walk 50 metres out of the hotel to a couple of very good local bar/restaurants

Do you have anything else to add?

Whilst I enjoyed Burma I could not see the 'wow' factor that other explorers experienced- it was like Thailand was 35 years ago! I agree with other comments that the group size is possibly too big- I think 10-12 would be fine, but saying that you do get a lot of free time and opportunity to venture off alone

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Sai was excellent and we saw and learned even more than detailed on the itinerary as he had this catch phrase, "Just one more thing....."

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Take more money than you think you need because of the lack of excange facilities and credit cards. The jewellery on Lake Inle was superb - take dollars with you on the day you plan to go.
The Misan Restaurant near the Thazin Hotel in Bagan is excellent, reasonably priced and serves delicious meals."

Do you have anything else to add?

Must plan a return trip to Burma

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

A young 26 year-old male graduate, extremely keen and eager to tell us about his country in his rather quaint English!  The trouble is, they have had so little contact with spoken English that pronunciation may be a bit haphazard!  However his readiness to accept and learn from helpful comments was highly commendable and even in the short two week tour, there was a noticeable improvement in his overall confidence and his use of spoken English.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Go for it!  In another year or so the country will have changed and the current eagerness to impress tourists may well diminish, so don't wait - go now!

Do you have anything else to add?

Congratulations to those who set up the itinerary, it really was the Highlights of Burma.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Miu was very helpful, his command of English good and his explanations good. He paced the holiday very well and found us good places to eat to give us a wide range of experiences.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Try to avoid the boat trip down the Arrawaddy. It's lengthy and very boring. We certainly would have preferred to fly to Bagan even if it meant extra time at the hotel. at least one could do something at the hotel - the boat trip has nothing to offer at all.

Do you have anything else to add?

"We were very impressed with the standard of hotel accommodation and the welcome we had from everyone. I would also recommend the Etihad flight that we took. It was preferable to have 2 x 6hr +a 1hr flight than the 14 hr flight to KL and the long stopover. It would be good if you give people the choice. "

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Well-organised, helpful, interesting and informative, but she needs to have grammar lessons in English. Her vocabulary was good and she could be understood well, so it's a pity she makes so many mistakes after 17 years of guiding.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"It was very hot and very humid, even in October, so only go between November and February. Wait until there are sufficient hotel rooms in well-kept hotels, even if this means waiting for a couple of years from now.
I have advised friends who are interested in going to Burmna/Myanmar that if they don't like vendor hassle, don't go. I have been to all Southeast Asian countries, China, Japan, Nepal and Sri Lanka and India (several times) and never experienced worse pestering to buy at every important site. It's out of control and should be stoppped. If it isn't in the near future (and I can't see it happending), don't go. "

Do you have anything else to add?

Change of itinerary: the boat trip for 9 hours down the Ayeyawaddy River was very boring. I suggest flying from Mandalay to Bagan (the airfare is less than $100) which would leave an extra day in Bagan. Use this day to go to Mount Popa, which I was really sorry to miss out on.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Aye Khaw was excellent. it was his first explore trip but you wouldn't have guessed it. he was always ready with information and the trip ran like clockwork.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Go as soon as you can. buy things as you see them - they are very cheap and it will make a difference to the people there.
don't be scared by the description of the walk at Kalaw as a trek - it was very gentle (but hot)"

Do you have anything else to add?

the hotels were generally excellent but I didn't like the Green Haven. it was too far out of town and wasn't that comfortable. there was nowhere to sit when the weather was bad.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

"Good, but sometime starting speaking before all the group were assembled.  This due to the large group, 18 far too many."

Do you have anything else to add?

"You really do need to add more variety to the itinery.  I expected to visit a lot of temples/stupas but several everyday means you loose interest, you can only take in so much information.  At times some of the group just stayed on the bus.The days walk was good, why not more days out in the countryside and walking to villages. Your group size has  become too large, this is putting me off and I can see me finding another tour company in teh future.  Everone I speak to agrees."

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Sai was marvellous; well read, humourous and organised

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Buy at the siver smithing workshop. It is the best. Bring and wear flip flops as it makes going in and out of temples quicker. Drink water ++

Do you have anything else to add?

I went to Burma as my dad fought their in the war. It was a moving interesting experience to be where he was 67 years ago.Now 91 years of age he was thrilled to see the photos and remember the good aspects of this lovely country

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

All the above was further enhanced by the outstanding contributions of Haymar our local tour leader - what a fab person! A foodie/shopper/mine of fascinating information who made sure that the particular needs and interests of each group member were met. Her obvious love of her counntry came through but she was also able to take a more humourous view and her jokes kept us chuckling on bus journeys!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Buy when you see what you like - Scott market is not the best place to buy.  Hats and fabrics are best bought round Inle Lake and Kalaw - tailors are excellent but get guidance from the tour leader first; sand paintings are only available in Bagan. although the sellers in Bagan are a bit full on they do provide good value for money and items that are not available elsewhere - grit your teeth and bargain hard!  
The wait at KL airport on the return trip: the advice at KL was that as we had just under 8 hours it was not advisable to go into the city.  The official advice is only to go into KL if the wait is OVER 8 hours.
Myanmar is a wonderful place but get there quick - it will rapidly change as tourism leaves its mark."

Do you have anything else to add?

"There was an issue with accomodation for Haymar who was not always at the same hotel. The joy of Explore is that the hotels may not be the best but are well positioned for 'exploring'.This was not the case and that was frustrating for both the group and for Haymar who was limited in what she could offer as evening activities/meal choices.  Personally I do not think that Explore should support hotels who refuse to accommodate the tour leader( Amazing Bagan Golf Resort). The Green Haven Hotel in Kalaw was much more like the typical Explore type hotel - family run, welcoming,quirky and treated Haymar as part of the group. I am sure similar places could be found in Mandalay and Bagan."

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Our tour leader Myo was full of enthusiasm, well-informed and, best of all, he had a great sense of humour. His efficiency meant we had nothing to worry about and I'll miss his frequent greeting "Mingalaba"!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

If going in the rainy season pack a mac and a brolly. Bring perfect dollar notes. Prepare to see lots of temples! Respect the advice about taking photos and where it's not allowed. Watch out for determined souvenir salesfolk in Mandalay and Bagan.

Do you have anything else to add?

I was a little nervous about going to Burma (Myanmar) but it was a super experience. The hotels were very comfortable indeed and the people are just wonderful. I hope that the political detente continues, but that the consequent foreign interest doesn't destroy what is so special.

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

He was great, lovely sense of humour and so welcoming

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Lovely to go somewhere with no Starbucks or Macdonalds

Do you have anything else to add?

"The group size was to big.  Missing the trip on the Irrawaddy was very disappointing and was a real let down.  

It was a pleasure to come Burma!"

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Excellent and very knowledgeable. "Coco" worked hard to ensure that all went well and that we saw as much as we could. He was very proud of what was happening in his country and talked politics as well as history!

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

"Go now before things change too much.
With all the major powers vying to get a foothold in the country the innocence and charm of the people and the area might be lost for ever.
Don't be afraid of security as it is very safe there."

Do you have anything else to add?

Absolutely fantastic holiday and we wished we could have stayed longer. Would love to have visited the British war graves, for example. Explore continue to provide the type of holiday we love where you get into the heart of the country and meet the people. Even the hotels here were good!

How was your Explore Tour Leader?

Tour leader very knowledgable but at times distant from group and could have been a lot more involved. Only really opened up at end of trip.

What tips would you give to someone else booking this tour?

Go now, before the country changes.

I am writing to say how much I enjoyed my holiday in Burma, it certainly lived up to expectations. It is an amazing place and the fact that I was able to go so soon after the local elections when the people were looking forward to better times was a bonus. George, our tour leader, was very good and extremely knowledgeable about anything Burmese. He made all visits to temples etc. come alive with his stories and was always ready to answer any questions. He always made sure everything went to plan. The drivers of the coaches were excellent always taking care on the bumpy roads. I would also like to thank all the other helpers who were always most helpful in getting us on and off all forms of transport. The accommodation was very good, probably the best of all the tours I have been on and the hotel staff were most helpful. I would like to mention Soe who was training with George, I am sure he will make an excellent tour guide. Perhaps on future tours the day could start earlier before it gets too hot. This is only a suggestion not a complaint. I now look forward to booking my next trip, hopefully to Rajasthan in October.

May I take this opportunity to thank you for a splendid trip to Burma. The tour was well organised and our guide Mi Mi OO professional, knowledgeable and charming.  Her efforts to show us all aspects of the country and it's politics was very much appreciated, and her honesty about recent events gave an exciting and interesting view on current affairs. We were shown the house of the "Honourable Lady" in Rangoon and were able to visit a party Headquarters and buy T-shirts and posters.

My only negative comment would be about the fact that sometimes our guide was not accommodated in the same hotel as the tour. I understand that this is a result of 'penny pinching' from the local tourism handlers and not an Explore policy. I would suggest that Explore ensure that in future the guide is with the tour in future in case of an emergency.  That said the holiday was perfect and despite being quite 'stupafied' with the amount of temples, thrilled to see this magnificent country and it's kind and friendly people.  Your trip notes could also mention that sandals or flip flops are highly recommended given the amount of times one is required to discard footwear on visiting temples. Thanks again and I look forward to travelling with you again.

Each destination on this 2 week trip is indeed a highlight. In Yangon, Walking up the steps to the Shwedagon Pagoda to a burst of noise, colour and smoke is a great introduction. The 90 metre golden stupa dazzles in the sun. If you know your day of birth, I recommend you join in with the locals pouring water over your 'day' Buddha.    At Inle lake we left at 7am to walk to the dock, accompanying many monks in their burgandy robes walking for the daily alms. There is so much life on Inle lake to enjoy from your longboat. From the leg rowers to the weed pullers, the floating market and the vast array of industry and crafts. Floating around the villages you get a real feel of a Venice of Asia.    Just outside Kalaw we enjoyed the walk through the Myinmathi caves, where there are many Buddha images and stupas inside the limestone cave.    The 7 hour bus ride to Mandalay didn't fill us with joy, however we got ourselves caught up in a pagoda festival on the way with many cows, carts and bustling markets.The locals are all waves and smiles and as interested in us as we are of them. Luckily the bus got stuck by a food stall, so we all enjoyed freshly cooked sticky banana rice, samosas and chick pea balls. Could almost have been the Myanmar equivalent of a Maccy D's drive through, only much more enjoyable. Trying and eating your meals where the locals go really adds to the enjoyment. The food is cooked fresh, is tasty and cheap, and always goes well with a big bottle of Myanmar Beer.    Our days in Mandalay were full and varied. Palaces, Teak monastries, the largest book a boat ride, the largest ringing bell, horse and cart and at Mingun the Hsinbyume paya. There are many pagodas on this trip but the late afternoon sun on the white wave terraces of this pagoda make it worth the extra walk from the bell. And finally sunset with the many student monks over Taugngthaman lake teak foot bridge, spanning 1.2 km’s, is a memorable sight.    In Bagan flip flops are very much order of the day, as we go barefoot to climb or walk around the different pagodas. There are thousands of pagodas and the morning view over the plain is spectacular. We visited about 8 of the most interesting pagodas, each one is different so we never tired of them.    Make sure you have a good supply of memory cards because there are so many photo opportunities. Especially life scenes and the local people, who if you ask, enjoy having their photograph taken. However don't be surprised if they want to take yours too!    A very enjoyable trip that should be visited sooner rather than later.

The hardest thing I had to do all fortnight was decide “what were the highlights?” for the feedback questionnaire.  Sunset in Mandalay?  The temples of Bagan?  Boating on Inle Lake?  Each day was really fascinating and action packed, with a great group (half couples and half travelling alone).   My personal highlight though was probably a divine massage in the hotel at Mandalay – came out purring!  This trip is more leisurely than many (8 am start most days) and several days in each hotel except Yangon.  There are pools at Yangon and Bagan and, unless you really feel the cold, you can leave your UK fleece and any other unwanted items at the Yangon hotel for your return.  The temperature is slightly cooler in the hills of Kalaw, but it’s only marginal.  All the hotels are of a good standard and most offer tea making facilities in your room (how Saga is that!) plus free drinking water each day.  Burma is a very conservative country and there’s a lot of temple visiting, so modest clothes are essential.  As it’s also extremely hot, long skirts proved the best option for the women.  Beware your clothing on the ferry up the Irrawaddy – the rattan chairs all have loose nails poking out and several of us ripped our clothes.  Opportunities for speed shopping abound and I certainly wouldn’t leave all my shopping to Scott’s Market at the end, which I found disappointing.  Inle Lake is probably the most overpriced place and I doubt that the  “silver” jewellery was anything other than silver plated – so buyer beware.  You do need to take rather more dollars than you think you might need as there is absolutely NO chance of getting any funds in country.  If you plan on ballooning at Bagan, the price tag is a hefty $300 – payable in cash.  The food was great everywhere and much cheaper than the dossier implied – probably because Mimi, our guide, took us to local eateries.  However, drinks were really pricy – including soft drinks, which are all imported.  We all felt the Shan banquet at Inle was well overpriced and wouldn’t bother again as there are lots of other eateries in town.  The spectacular final meal Mimi arranged in the grounds of a Bagan temple truly does redefine “unforgettable”.    Do take small gifts, particularly any English primers, globes (fascination everywhere with geography), posters detailing the English alphabet etc.  Common cough and cold medicines are also much sought after, as these are too expensive for most Burmese to afford.  Mimi, our guide, was up to the usual Explore standard – knowledgeable, passionate about her country and friendly.  All the logistics worked like clockwork and we only had to turf our luggage out of our rooms on time – no carrying involved at all, which was a relief to some.  Finally, give some thought to the flights – going out on the group flight you are travelling into daylight – which is pretty exhausting.  The return flight features 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur airport – as you arrive at 1630, it’s quite late for going into town, so the choices are either a good book, endless shopping, or forking out a whopping $52 for the airport lounge.  Or you could just settle for a nice g & t and endless chat with your new-found Explore gang.

My postcards home from Burma read ‘I’m cruising down the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay-how exotic is that?!’    The content of this tour had been carefully planned to maximise time in this beautiful country. It was tiring at times, the infrastructure is not great so roads are bumpy and therefore journeys take longer than expected, but we certainly did lots of people watching from the bus and train. We used very varied means of transport-planes, buses, train, longboats, ferries, horse & cart of course lots of walking. Hotels generally were a better standard than I had expected, all immaculately clean and very welcoming. All the breakfasts were fresh prepared and filling. Food overall was reasonably cheap and interesting. As far as I know nobody in the group suffered any tummy upsets or health problems.    The people were overwhelmingly friendly, smiling and happy to talk and interact with us. It was a real joy and privilege to visit a country that is comparatively untouched by tourism. Our local guide Mi-Mi was exceptional, enthusiastic, patient, knowledgeable and a great story teller. She was always smiling and cheerful. She genuinely wanted us to love her country.

This trip had a particular significance for me, having been born in Maymyo (Pwin U Lwin) in 1948 but having returned to the UK whilst still a toddler and remembering nothing of it.  A tour of only 2 weeks has necessarily to be highly selective but I feel that a very good balance was achieved between colonial history, current politics, the grand national places and, by contrast, the humble villages filled with smiling, happy people. We were also very aware of the devout Buddhism which runs through that society, and came face to face with the beauty and grandeur of an architecture completely unlike our own. Now that Aung San Suu Kyi has welcomed tourists, I fear that the "un-touristy" nature of the country may not last. My advice to travellers is not to delay their visit.  The trip was very well run, with not a moment's anxiety or difficulty.

It is now almost a week since I returned from my Explore trip to Burma and I have just about come back down to earth! It was my 41st Explore trip and I have been to some amazing places but nothing compares with Burma. The fact that it has been unreachable for so long probably added to the mystique but the trip was just magical. Everywhere just shimmered in the sunshine with all that gold and the local people were all so delightful, friendly smiling and helpful. It was just stunning

I travelled with your company to Burma over Christmas and felt I had to write to tell you how impressed I was {I think everyone was}
with our guide Myo  Min Zaw.
Burma is great and although I ve travelled all around that part of Asia {independantly} I was still fascinated by  Burma.
He had local difficulties that go with "normal" third world travel,and a sick "crew" {us !}
The level of honesty in all hotels and transport was refreshing  and made it a very relaxing trip as compared to India where you can rarely let your guard down.
How long this will last is anyones guess but if you have Myo in charge and his attention to the little things that can make a trip it will still be good. We had a flight delayed and he was ready with water and sesame cookies which he d learnt hit the spot with some of the female travellers.
Setbacks are easier to deal with when he s constantly "riding shotgun" keeping the bad stuff away.
Great work .I ve let him know but thought I d put it in writing to you.
I ll be using your company again. Quite soon probably.Never thought I d get on with group travel but with you it works.

Have travelled on in excess of 20 Explore trips and this was most certainly one of the best. Undoubtedly much of this was due to the quality of the local guide, Haymar. She ensured that the tour ran  smoothly and to schedule but also made sure that any specific requests were met, such as photography.  The Burmese people are so open and friendly that at first you wonder where is the hidden agenda.  Not one of my requests for local people photos. was refused and on one occasion the locals photographed us!  Trip highlight was almost certainly the two day visit to Bagan where as 'Lonely Planet' says  all European cathedrals are rolled into one area. The gold embellished pagodas are breathtaking - take slip on shoes as you'll have to take socks and shoes off when visiting the many temples. If you wanted to  understand more about Buddhism our guide was only to willing to explain. The day spent visiting settlements on Lake Inle was interesting seeing the local craft industries and the day cruise down the  Irrawaddy was a welcome relaxation. Hotels were excellent and far exceeded expectations. A rapid rise in the number of tourists visiting is planned. Go now for a wonderful experience.  Oh and by the way, forget about the fabled road to Mandalay it's not like that at all. (BUH - 20th November 2011)

A fantastic fortnight in a country full of stunning stupas, marvellous monasteries, wonderful waterways and some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I have met on my travels! While the travel boycott was not observed by all, the tourist trail still feels unspoilt and now is definitely the time to go.  Particular highlights for me (although there were many others) being Inle Lake, so serene and beautiful, and sunsets over Bagan. The comfort rating is accurate and all the hotels are well appointed and very pleasant. The variety of transportation enhanced the holiday and the train was a fun way to see the countryside!    The tour takes in a lot of stupas, temples and monasteries but you won’t get ‘Stupafied’ as they are all different and have unique charms. Food – as a veggie, I took a stash of munchies ‘in case’ and ended up distributing most of them amongst the group on the longer journeys.  I had no difficulties in finding plenty of tasty meals. And now to shopping, you will find plenty of opportunities to buy souvenirs and gifts throughout the trip and I would advise that if you see something you particularly like get it - don’t forget to bargain!  During most of the trip you will see similar goods however we only saw the sand paintings in Bagan.  Do not wait to do your shopping in Scott Market in Rangoon.  We were a little disappointed.  That said if you are after jewellery, this seems to be the place.  It is interesting to see as it is clearly where local people go but you would be better buying traditional clothing and other items earlier in the trip.    I highly recommend this trip! (BUH - 2nd November 2011)