40 Days & Nights (Ghana, Togo, Benin, Rwanda, DRC, UAE, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sri Lanka)
Feb 6, 2017, 2:47 am
#91
Join Date: Feb 2017
Posts: 9
Woke up and skipped breakfast in favor of going to see a different side of Lomé before we had to meet our driver for a ride to Cotonou, Benin. Togo and Benin are commonly best known for their esoteric ties to Voodoo. Our first stop on the agenda was the Fetish Market, but there was one problem. We could not find it anywhere. Resources online are few and often differ in the details they provide. Luckily we were in the vicinity when we stumbled on a Nigerian man happy to take us once he understood what it was we were looking for.
Last edited by Moomba; Feb 6, 2017 at 5:51 am Reason: removed whole of post quote
Feb 6, 2017, 8:14 am
#93
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
It was certainly weird...
Very true! Had the same feeling with Cappadocia in Central Turkey. Thought it was lame based on just the open air museum, until the next morning when I was watching the sunrise from the hot air balloon. Even if it was below freezing.
Very true! Had the same feeling with Cappadocia in Central Turkey. Thought it was lame based on just the open air museum, until the next morning when I was watching the sunrise from the hot air balloon. Even if it was below freezing.
Feb 6, 2017, 1:12 pm
#94
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: PDX
Programs: Free agent!
Posts: 1,427
Feb 6, 2017, 4:18 pm
#96
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
Day 23: [BEY>DOH>RGN]
Our time in Lebanon and traveling in a group was drawing to a close as we did some last laundry and packing in the Airbnb. Before heading to the airport I went to LibanPost to mail a few postcards. Was a strange experience. Beyond just postal services they have you take a number like at the DMV in order to buy souvenirs, files your taxes, or pay for insurance. Very multipurpose.
Just before noon we hailed a taxi to the airport for about $14 and inside cleared security. Security is strange as you have to guess which terminal to first clear, but once you do so, you are back in a communal check in hall. The ticket desk for Qatar was a madhouse, but being in First shaved off quite a bit of time. They were very curious about my evisa for Myanmar and I had to show multiple documents including onward travel. Immigration was quick, but EVERY page of my passport was closely examined. Once in the central terminal I visited the lounge all of us could access even thought the MEA lounge available for QR was a bit better.
Besides the gates BEY is a pleasant airport
We didn’t have too long but I had a few snacks and then made my way to the next security check and eventually the plane. My boarding pass was cross-checked with my passport by three airline employees before I was able to board.
Zaatar and some other snacks
QR flight 425
Beirut, Lebanon (BEY) to Doha, Qatar (DOH)
Depart: 13:53, Arrive: 16:56, Time: 3:04
Boeing 777-300, Seat 3E
Onboard I was very warmly welcomed to a mostly empty First Class cabin and promptly was addressed by name and I knew this would be a wonderful flight, even if just three hours. I was quickly offered a glass of rose and dates, and made myself comfortable. Being Ramadan, they asked certain guests if they would be fasting although most didn’t.
Menu and rose
Date
Quickly after takeoff I decided to have a full meal, which was served just as I would expect. By far this was my best Qatar flight service wise. Knowing I still had a long day ahead of me, I napped as best I could for the last hour. As we approached I couldn’t help but chuckle how details for the Beirut return were listed on the IFE as a destination from DOH. All those visa or mileage runners I suppose.
A glass of Dr. Loosen Blue State Riesling and nuts
Started with the lentil soup
Meeze with hummus, tabbouleh and baba ganoush
Stuffed grouper roll with feta and olives
Cheese plate
Once on the ground, I headed to the lounge, but not before a quick visit of the Doha Teddy. The lounge was rather empty and that made for some awkward encounters in the bathroom with the attendants having too much time on their hands. I don’t need the soap poured for me and the stall door opened. Not to mention how they clean each stall within seconds of each guest leaving. I eventually found a somewhat quiet sleeper chair, but they are all located in the atrium overlooking the open terminal. Hmmm….
Never gets old
Al Mourjan Lounge
Nap area
After some rest I decided to have a meal upstairs where I picked out a few nibbles and ordered from the Al-la carte menu for what would be my last time before they ended that option in the Al Mourjan Lounge. No liquor was available in the lounge due to Ramadan, but that was the last thing I desired. Not knowing what internet would be like in Myanmar, I caught up on a few last emails and paid our Airbnb host for the damage accidently caused to the washer in Beirut.
Palak paneer
QR flight 918
Doha, Qatar (DOH) to Yangon, Myanmar (RGN)
Depart: 20:43, Arrive: 06:34 (+1), Time: 6:22
Boeing 330-200, Seat 3E
Getting sleepy, I stumbled to the gate for the short red eye to Yangon. When I booked this flight I knew it would be a risky connection with only 65 minutes scheduled between landing and departure at the domestic terminal for Inle Lake. Looking over the history of this flight I was confident in Qatar’s on time performance and crossed my fingers as boarding progressed there would be no issue. The flight crew seemed a bit flustered and many guests appeared to be traveling for the first time. The two gentlemen beside me were likes kids in a candy store with all the amenities and PJs they were offered. The back of the plane was rather empty and J was about ¾ full. We took off with no delay and I had a lite meal with the intent on maximizing my sleep. As we approached Yangon, I ordered a smoothie to refresh myself and prepare for the mad dash I would need to make through immigration, customs and into the domestic terminal hoping to check my bag in time.
On an empty flight, I still enjoy the QR 2x2x2 seats
Light meal of prawns
And some tabbouleh
Pre arrival smoothie
Just before noon we hailed a taxi to the airport for about $14 and inside cleared security. Security is strange as you have to guess which terminal to first clear, but once you do so, you are back in a communal check in hall. The ticket desk for Qatar was a madhouse, but being in First shaved off quite a bit of time. They were very curious about my evisa for Myanmar and I had to show multiple documents including onward travel. Immigration was quick, but EVERY page of my passport was closely examined. Once in the central terminal I visited the lounge all of us could access even thought the MEA lounge available for QR was a bit better.
Besides the gates BEY is a pleasant airport
We didn’t have too long but I had a few snacks and then made my way to the next security check and eventually the plane. My boarding pass was cross-checked with my passport by three airline employees before I was able to board.
Zaatar and some other snacks
QR flight 425
Beirut, Lebanon (BEY) to Doha, Qatar (DOH)
Depart: 13:53, Arrive: 16:56, Time: 3:04
Boeing 777-300, Seat 3E
Onboard I was very warmly welcomed to a mostly empty First Class cabin and promptly was addressed by name and I knew this would be a wonderful flight, even if just three hours. I was quickly offered a glass of rose and dates, and made myself comfortable. Being Ramadan, they asked certain guests if they would be fasting although most didn’t.
Menu and rose
Date
Quickly after takeoff I decided to have a full meal, which was served just as I would expect. By far this was my best Qatar flight service wise. Knowing I still had a long day ahead of me, I napped as best I could for the last hour. As we approached I couldn’t help but chuckle how details for the Beirut return were listed on the IFE as a destination from DOH. All those visa or mileage runners I suppose.
A glass of Dr. Loosen Blue State Riesling and nuts
Started with the lentil soup
Meeze with hummus, tabbouleh and baba ganoush
Stuffed grouper roll with feta and olives
Cheese plate
Once on the ground, I headed to the lounge, but not before a quick visit of the Doha Teddy. The lounge was rather empty and that made for some awkward encounters in the bathroom with the attendants having too much time on their hands. I don’t need the soap poured for me and the stall door opened. Not to mention how they clean each stall within seconds of each guest leaving. I eventually found a somewhat quiet sleeper chair, but they are all located in the atrium overlooking the open terminal. Hmmm….
Never gets old
Al Mourjan Lounge
Nap area
After some rest I decided to have a meal upstairs where I picked out a few nibbles and ordered from the Al-la carte menu for what would be my last time before they ended that option in the Al Mourjan Lounge. No liquor was available in the lounge due to Ramadan, but that was the last thing I desired. Not knowing what internet would be like in Myanmar, I caught up on a few last emails and paid our Airbnb host for the damage accidently caused to the washer in Beirut.
Palak paneer
QR flight 918
Doha, Qatar (DOH) to Yangon, Myanmar (RGN)
Depart: 20:43, Arrive: 06:34 (+1), Time: 6:22
Boeing 330-200, Seat 3E
Getting sleepy, I stumbled to the gate for the short red eye to Yangon. When I booked this flight I knew it would be a risky connection with only 65 minutes scheduled between landing and departure at the domestic terminal for Inle Lake. Looking over the history of this flight I was confident in Qatar’s on time performance and crossed my fingers as boarding progressed there would be no issue. The flight crew seemed a bit flustered and many guests appeared to be traveling for the first time. The two gentlemen beside me were likes kids in a candy store with all the amenities and PJs they were offered. The back of the plane was rather empty and J was about ¾ full. We took off with no delay and I had a lite meal with the intent on maximizing my sleep. As we approached Yangon, I ordered a smoothie to refresh myself and prepare for the mad dash I would need to make through immigration, customs and into the domestic terminal hoping to check my bag in time.
On an empty flight, I still enjoy the QR 2x2x2 seats
Light meal of prawns
And some tabbouleh
Pre arrival smoothie
Feb 6, 2017, 4:20 pm
#97
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
Hope to conclude this trip shortly and share my next two completed trips before I head off to run the Pyongyang Marathon this April!
Feb 7, 2017, 6:17 am
#99
Join Date: Apr 2016
Posts: 380
It took me an hour or two, but I just read through the entire report.
Wow! That's all I can say. It made we really want to visit Rwanda and Lebanon.
Looking forward to the rest of report.
BTW, are you going to write something about Nagorno Khabarov. Somewhere else I'd like to visit.
Wow! That's all I can say. It made we really want to visit Rwanda and Lebanon.
Looking forward to the rest of report.
BTW, are you going to write something about Nagorno Khabarov. Somewhere else I'd like to visit.
Feb 7, 2017, 4:45 pm
#101
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
Day 24: Nyaungshwe, Myanmar [RGN>HEH]
Knowing I didn’t have long to get over to the domestic terminal I was awfully nervous, even with our on time arrival so I was sure to be off the plane in a jiffy. The only problem was the first passenger off was a VIP of sorts and was escorted down a hallway that led to nowhere! Everyone seemed to follow the leader and eventually we discovered (when airport staff came running after us and the hall ended) we had gone the wrong way and I quickly made my way to immigration. It was super fast and simple. Still anxious I asked a few places if I was going the right way to the domestic terminal, and after walking outside in the extreme humidity of Yangon, I found my way to one of the more chaotic terminals I had seen in a while. It was swarming with mostly locals but luckily my airline, Air KBZ, had a very short line and I had my bag checked and boarding pass in hand. All in from touchdown to bag check it was just 25 minutes! Now I had to wait 40 more for departure.
Yangon immigration hall
Domestic check in – must defeat the scale boss first
Upstairs lounge/coffee shop
The terminal was little more than a large room with an upstairs that had a primitive bathroom and a tiny coffee stand. The flight display monitors didn’t display my flight, but I was assured I needn’t worry. With only one real “gate” they shout the destination and flight number (not that you can hear/understand) and everyone rushes up to board the bus. Besides having the boarding pass, they give each passenger a sticker with a corresponding color to their specific flight, likely to find foreigners in the crowd who didn’t hear their flight announcement.
Boarding “sticker”
The domestic terminal
(n.b.: I found it funny just a few days before I received an email alerting me to a flight change. Initially worried because of my tight schedule, I was relieved to see they were subbing my ATR 72-500 for an ATR 72-600. If only other airlines were was communicative as Air KBZ.)
K7 flight 200
Yangon, Myanmar (RGN) to Nyaungshwe, Myanmar (HEH)
Depart: 07:37, Arrive: 08:39, Time: 1:02
ATR 72-600, Seat 4D
Once boarding was shouted out, we rode a bus no more than 50 feet to our plan and quickly boarded. Just about half full for today’s hour flight, we were offered newspapers. Once in the air, an adequate, yet mysterious, snack box was offered. A select few passengers were given a hot plated meal.
Boarding
Clean interior
Even a credit card pitch in Myanmar
Not a shabby meal
Upon landing, bags were quick to arrive and I was quickly approached for a ride to Nyaungshwe for a non-negotiable $20. In my rush between terminals I had neglected to pick up Kyat (their currency at about 1350 MMK to the dollar) and when we approached the Inle Lake ‘tourist fee’ collection center, I had to explain I had no local currency and they agreed to accept $10. This pass allows you access to the lake region for a week and was never checked again. Since my driver wanted to be paid following the hour-long drive he gave me a brief tour of the small town on the way to an exchange shop.
Not the cleanest windows
Air KBZ upon arrival
Modern baggage carts
Heho Airport
Local taxis: pickup truck with wooden benches in the bed
Fellow motorists
There are two options when looking for a place to sleep in the region. I opted to stay in town (which is also cheaper) giving me flexibility in where I visited and ate. Others opt to live on a lake side (or on) property but you are trapped when it comes to meals and it is an expensive boat ride to explore the town. I was happy to select the Inle Star Hotel for about $30 a night. It was a nice property that included breakfast, although one common complaint is since it was the nearest hotel to the water, escaping the early morning cacophony of boat motors was unavoidable. For me that wasn’t an issue as I wanted to rise early each morning.
Arrival at the hotel
Comfortable air conditioned accomidations
Bathroom
They even offer a Japan quality gift!
I wasn’t able to check in quite yet, so I ditched my bags and headed out for my first taste of Myanmar hospitality. As I walked through town I discovered a number of monasteries, a lively market, and grabbed a bite for less than two dollars. As I kept walking I purchased a sim card with 1.5GB of data for about $6 and it proved to be valuable as the 3G data was generally more reliable and faster than any wifi network.
Tomato shipping port across the street from the hotel
The tomatoes that are grown on floating fields in the lake are sent to town where they are packed and distributed across the country.
Tomato warehouse
The first of many smiling faces
As I made my way through town I discovered just how friendly the locals were as not a single person refused my request to take their photo.
A warm welcome
Myanmar (Burma)
The first of a week of Pagodas…
And monks…
And smiles…
And certainly don’t want to forget the betel nut spit that paints the ground of Myanmar
Lunch time!
Chicken and fried noodles for 2000 MMK
Walking the market
The produce department
Selling thanaka wood for the traditional cosmetic of Myanmar
The results of thanaka, used by a majority of Burmese
Burmese yield sign
The main street
Roller skating in a longyi
Skater bois
One of the famous Puppet Shows
An array of characters
Not a puppet, but a baby!
Filling up the tank
Relaxing in the van
I eventually made my way back to my hotel to check in and enjoy a few minutes of AC. Refreshed I decided to spend the afternoon on a bike ($1 rental) exploring around the lake. I took a route many suggested online going down the west side of Inle Lake (passing hot springs and a few hilltop viewpoints) before hiring a boat to cross the lake to Mine Thauk. Mine Thauk is one of the larger villages on the lake with a variety of tourist accommodations.
Headed out to the hilly countryside
Common vehicle along the roads, also no muffler!
Local house and transportation
Working the fields
TVs seem uncommon, but everyone hovers around a mobile device to watch their favorite videos
Local kids
Lakeside village before crossing
All aboard…
The mighty teak wood boat
Much like the trucks, these boats are anything but quiet
Approaching the other side
Once across I continued the drive back toward Nyaungshwe, but not before a challenging ride up the hill to Red Mountain Estate. The weather was quickly changing and it looked like an afternoon storm may swoop in, so I had a wine flight for 3000 MMK and pulled back into town as it began to drizzle a bit. I tucked my bike under the awning and imbibed in my first of a few Myanmar beers for the evening. While I ate and drank, the place filled up with locals watching dubs of Hollywood favorites on the one TV over a few beers. Service was pretty poor and eventually I discovered it was easiest just to help myself to the fridge and signal to them each time to mark my bill.
Pulling in to Mine Thauk
Main street
Floating mansion
Working the floating fields
Regular afternoon rain
The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
Vineyard
Red Mountain Estate
Hilltop view of the lake
Wine tasting
Bike and boat route: 19 Miles
Back in town, parked undercover for the rain
The crowds begin to gather for tonight’s Hollywood flicks
I began to lose count somewhere after this one
Or maybe it was this one…
Vermicelli fried rice with chicken; total bill 5500 MMK
Exhausted after an extended day of travel and adventure I rode my bike the last mile home and called it a night. For the record according to the State Department I took a great risk financially with that ride home: “Under the Burmese Motor Vehicle Act of 1964, driving while intoxicated is punishable by either six months in jail, or a 500 kyat (equivalent to USD 50 cents) fine, or both.”
Yangon immigration hall
Domestic check in – must defeat the scale boss first
Upstairs lounge/coffee shop
The terminal was little more than a large room with an upstairs that had a primitive bathroom and a tiny coffee stand. The flight display monitors didn’t display my flight, but I was assured I needn’t worry. With only one real “gate” they shout the destination and flight number (not that you can hear/understand) and everyone rushes up to board the bus. Besides having the boarding pass, they give each passenger a sticker with a corresponding color to their specific flight, likely to find foreigners in the crowd who didn’t hear their flight announcement.
Boarding “sticker”
The domestic terminal
(n.b.: I found it funny just a few days before I received an email alerting me to a flight change. Initially worried because of my tight schedule, I was relieved to see they were subbing my ATR 72-500 for an ATR 72-600. If only other airlines were was communicative as Air KBZ.)
K7 flight 200
Yangon, Myanmar (RGN) to Nyaungshwe, Myanmar (HEH)
Depart: 07:37, Arrive: 08:39, Time: 1:02
ATR 72-600, Seat 4D
Once boarding was shouted out, we rode a bus no more than 50 feet to our plan and quickly boarded. Just about half full for today’s hour flight, we were offered newspapers. Once in the air, an adequate, yet mysterious, snack box was offered. A select few passengers were given a hot plated meal.
Boarding
Clean interior
Even a credit card pitch in Myanmar
Not a shabby meal
Upon landing, bags were quick to arrive and I was quickly approached for a ride to Nyaungshwe for a non-negotiable $20. In my rush between terminals I had neglected to pick up Kyat (their currency at about 1350 MMK to the dollar) and when we approached the Inle Lake ‘tourist fee’ collection center, I had to explain I had no local currency and they agreed to accept $10. This pass allows you access to the lake region for a week and was never checked again. Since my driver wanted to be paid following the hour-long drive he gave me a brief tour of the small town on the way to an exchange shop.
Not the cleanest windows
Air KBZ upon arrival
Modern baggage carts
Heho Airport
Local taxis: pickup truck with wooden benches in the bed
Fellow motorists
There are two options when looking for a place to sleep in the region. I opted to stay in town (which is also cheaper) giving me flexibility in where I visited and ate. Others opt to live on a lake side (or on) property but you are trapped when it comes to meals and it is an expensive boat ride to explore the town. I was happy to select the Inle Star Hotel for about $30 a night. It was a nice property that included breakfast, although one common complaint is since it was the nearest hotel to the water, escaping the early morning cacophony of boat motors was unavoidable. For me that wasn’t an issue as I wanted to rise early each morning.
Arrival at the hotel
Comfortable air conditioned accomidations
Bathroom
They even offer a Japan quality gift!
I wasn’t able to check in quite yet, so I ditched my bags and headed out for my first taste of Myanmar hospitality. As I walked through town I discovered a number of monasteries, a lively market, and grabbed a bite for less than two dollars. As I kept walking I purchased a sim card with 1.5GB of data for about $6 and it proved to be valuable as the 3G data was generally more reliable and faster than any wifi network.
Tomato shipping port across the street from the hotel
The tomatoes that are grown on floating fields in the lake are sent to town where they are packed and distributed across the country.
Tomato warehouse
The first of many smiling faces
As I made my way through town I discovered just how friendly the locals were as not a single person refused my request to take their photo.
A warm welcome
Myanmar (Burma)
The first of a week of Pagodas…
And monks…
And smiles…
And certainly don’t want to forget the betel nut spit that paints the ground of Myanmar
Lunch time!
Chicken and fried noodles for 2000 MMK
Walking the market
The produce department
Selling thanaka wood for the traditional cosmetic of Myanmar
The results of thanaka, used by a majority of Burmese
Burmese yield sign
The main street
Roller skating in a longyi
Skater bois
One of the famous Puppet Shows
An array of characters
Not a puppet, but a baby!
Filling up the tank
Relaxing in the van
I eventually made my way back to my hotel to check in and enjoy a few minutes of AC. Refreshed I decided to spend the afternoon on a bike ($1 rental) exploring around the lake. I took a route many suggested online going down the west side of Inle Lake (passing hot springs and a few hilltop viewpoints) before hiring a boat to cross the lake to Mine Thauk. Mine Thauk is one of the larger villages on the lake with a variety of tourist accommodations.
Headed out to the hilly countryside
Common vehicle along the roads, also no muffler!
Local house and transportation
Working the fields
TVs seem uncommon, but everyone hovers around a mobile device to watch their favorite videos
Local kids
Lakeside village before crossing
All aboard…
The mighty teak wood boat
Much like the trucks, these boats are anything but quiet
Approaching the other side
Once across I continued the drive back toward Nyaungshwe, but not before a challenging ride up the hill to Red Mountain Estate. The weather was quickly changing and it looked like an afternoon storm may swoop in, so I had a wine flight for 3000 MMK and pulled back into town as it began to drizzle a bit. I tucked my bike under the awning and imbibed in my first of a few Myanmar beers for the evening. While I ate and drank, the place filled up with locals watching dubs of Hollywood favorites on the one TV over a few beers. Service was pretty poor and eventually I discovered it was easiest just to help myself to the fridge and signal to them each time to mark my bill.
Pulling in to Mine Thauk
Main street
Floating mansion
Working the floating fields
Regular afternoon rain
The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
Vineyard
Red Mountain Estate
Hilltop view of the lake
Wine tasting
Bike and boat route: 19 Miles
Back in town, parked undercover for the rain
The crowds begin to gather for tonight’s Hollywood flicks
I began to lose count somewhere after this one
Or maybe it was this one…
Vermicelli fried rice with chicken; total bill 5500 MMK
Exhausted after an extended day of travel and adventure I rode my bike the last mile home and called it a night. For the record according to the State Department I took a great risk financially with that ride home: “Under the Burmese Motor Vehicle Act of 1964, driving while intoxicated is punishable by either six months in jail, or a 500 kyat (equivalent to USD 50 cents) fine, or both.”
Feb 7, 2017, 4:49 pm
#102
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
I really enjoyed Bangladesh after not expecting to. I was trying to get my TR done before your trip, but it wasn't in the cards.
It took me an hour or two, but I just read through the entire report.
Wow! That's all I can say. It made we really want to visit Rwanda and Lebanon.
Looking forward to the rest of report.
BTW, are you going to write something about Nagorno Khabarov. Somewhere else I'd like to visit.
Wow! That's all I can say. It made we really want to visit Rwanda and Lebanon.
Looking forward to the rest of report.
BTW, are you going to write something about Nagorno Khabarov. Somewhere else I'd like to visit.
Yes finally! This was the destination I most looked forward to.
Feb 9, 2017, 7:19 pm
#103
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
Day 25: Inle Lake, Myanmar
My day abruptly began with the roar of countless long boats just outside my window. Wanting to maximize my time on the lake, but not wanting to leave the comforts of the AC, I begrudgingly made my way to the rooftop for a nice breakfast with plenty of options from a checklist style menu.
Boats ready for a fresh load of tourists
Daily hotel eggs as I would soon discover
Pancake
Fried rice
After snapping a few photos of the boats I made my way outside where a woman who I had loosely agreed to hire a boat from was waiting. We agreed for 35,000 MMK her nephew and his friend would take me out for the entire day with plenty of stops along the way. Before heading out I picked up two liters of water for 300 MMK. I was offered cold ones for 400 MMK.
The view south from the bridge toward the lake
The first stretch out to the lake is a narrow (presumably man made) canal with towns (both floating and land standing) dotted along the way. In addition to lots of locals going about their daily routine, there was lots of heavy-duty excavation equipment clearing a path and building up land along the edges.
Boat driver
Business traffic
Nearing the open waters
Excavating
Beaver 1
Our first “sight” was the traditional Inle Lake fisherman who upon noticing a tourist poses as a fisherman and then begs for money. He was about as inauthentic as they come and didn’t seem very pleased with my 500 Kyat tip.
Headed out to the open water
Fake fisherman #1
Showcasing his fake catch
Next up we passed the floating gardens where the region’s tomatoes are grown. Further down lake came Phaw Khone (tourist town) where every tourist boat queued up at a Lotus and Silk weaving shop. The prices for the goods on sale were outrageously expensive and after a few minutes I was ready to move on.
Mine Thauk in the distance
Such a beautiful landscape
Real fishermen!
Leg control
Floating garden
With limited land for those living on the lake the rely on bamboo holding their crops above the water
Bailing water
Entering Phaw Khone
Harvesting the lotus
Lotus flower
Weaving some silk and lotus
Still all manual operation
Lots of repetitive actions
Upwards of $40 for some shalls
Well beyond the lake, and only reachable via river, lies Thaung Thut and its serene whitewashed (and golden) stupas. Once we docked I realized I pretty much had the site to myself besides a few locals and two monks maintaining the grounds with their generator killing the atmosphere! It was a bit of a walk up the hill but I enjoyed my time and it gave me a chance to walk on land after the morning on the boat.
Getting out of tourist town
Smoke break
Neighborhood on the lake
Welcoming the only tourist to Thaung Thut
Smoking is an everyday part of life I discovered
Climbing up the hill to Thaung Thut
Between every swing she would check her phone ☺
Thaung Thut
First of many Buddhas
The only other visitor
The monks were understandably power washing
Playing in the dirt
Funny faces
Mid day and having been baking in the sun all morning, it was time for lunch. Not that I had a suggestion, but I was taken to a bit of a touristy floating restaurant where all the other tour “boat” busses had parked. It was much more expensive than any meal I would have all week but I splurged for a 3000 Kyat beer and a plate of fried crispy egg noodle and fish for 4500 Kyat. Sitting and watching ‘city’ life happen was the main draw of this lunch spot located in the center of Nampan floating village. To the locals, being on the water was no different than life in the city. They had shops, streets, street lights, signs, roadblocks, construction crews and even curbs.
Soviet squat
Back on the grid
Lunch time
An expensive beer
And a filling lunch
Stuffed, I called for my boat and took off for some major attractions on the main Inle Lake circuit. First off would be Alodaw Pauk Pagoda. Since I hadn’t seen many pagodas yet, it was fun to watch, but had this been at the end of my stay, it would have been rather unmemorable of a visit.
Approaching Alodaw Pauk Pagoda
Alodaw Pauk
This is when the scorching ground began to get to my bare feet
Where the locals find the budget meals
Should have eaten here, although my stomach may have disagreed
Worshipers
A simple Buddha compared to what I would see in the coming days
Back on the boat we took off for the largest of the Temples (some claim it is the 4th most popular in Myanmar) and explored the grounds of Hpaung Daw U Pagoda. Its noteworthiness comes from its gilded Buddha figurines. Observed on CCTV, worshipers for a small donation purchased gold leaf and apply them to the now unrecognizable relics.
Hpaung Daw U
Only men are allowed to enter the center
The five Buddhas
What they looked like long ago
Applying the gold leaf
On our way out of Hpaung Daw U Pagoda we passed the large Karaweik Boat in its hanger. The boat is most notably used during the festival of Hpaung Daw U (around October). While I wasn’t there for the festival, it seems like quite a gathering of people from all around the country.
Karaweik Boat awaiting October
With one last major attraction remaining we dipped and darted our way though the busy ‘streets’ to Nga Hpe Kyuang, or the Jumping Cat Monastery. A bit of an unkempt facility, it is managed by just four monks who between prayers entertain tourists by training cats to jump through rings. During my visit the monks were occupied with other tasks and the cats seemed rather docile. I had heard (unsure if true) that the cats no longer preform this trick, while their legacy continues to attract and disappoint an audience.
Bored
How the other tourists do it
Nga Hpe Kyuang; not the most beautiful
But still a grand Buddha
No hoop jumping today
They teach them to ‘grab em by the tail’
Wanting to experience a legendary Inle Lake sunset we set off for the middle of the lake to take in the scenery. Two problems. It was still three hours till sunset, and the entire sky was shroud in clouds. Having seen how quickly yesterday’s weather moved in, I was hopeful the sun would poke out, but it wasn’t to be and after relaxing and talking with my two guides for an hour or so I agreed to head back.
Another real fisherman
Waking up the fish
The final drive home
One last fake
But at least he likes Green Day
No sunset today
Heading home
Back in Nyaungshwe around 18:00 the clouds decided to part a bit and made for some nice sun views over the fields. Eventually I decided upon a street-side dinner at Green Bar where I enjoyed tofu curry and a few different beers under a power blackout.
Back on land!
Of course the sun pokes out now
A new beer
Tofu curry for a touristy price of 2500
But 800 Kyat drafts (~$.75)
With another long day in the books, I called it a night around 21:00 and didn’t bother setting an alarm for the next morning knowing the boats would play the role of the rooster.
Boats ready for a fresh load of tourists
Daily hotel eggs as I would soon discover
Pancake
Fried rice
After snapping a few photos of the boats I made my way outside where a woman who I had loosely agreed to hire a boat from was waiting. We agreed for 35,000 MMK her nephew and his friend would take me out for the entire day with plenty of stops along the way. Before heading out I picked up two liters of water for 300 MMK. I was offered cold ones for 400 MMK.
The view south from the bridge toward the lake
The first stretch out to the lake is a narrow (presumably man made) canal with towns (both floating and land standing) dotted along the way. In addition to lots of locals going about their daily routine, there was lots of heavy-duty excavation equipment clearing a path and building up land along the edges.
Boat driver
Business traffic
Nearing the open waters
Excavating
Beaver 1
Our first “sight” was the traditional Inle Lake fisherman who upon noticing a tourist poses as a fisherman and then begs for money. He was about as inauthentic as they come and didn’t seem very pleased with my 500 Kyat tip.
Headed out to the open water
Fake fisherman #1
Showcasing his fake catch
Next up we passed the floating gardens where the region’s tomatoes are grown. Further down lake came Phaw Khone (tourist town) where every tourist boat queued up at a Lotus and Silk weaving shop. The prices for the goods on sale were outrageously expensive and after a few minutes I was ready to move on.
Mine Thauk in the distance
Such a beautiful landscape
Real fishermen!
Leg control
Floating garden
With limited land for those living on the lake the rely on bamboo holding their crops above the water
Bailing water
Entering Phaw Khone
Harvesting the lotus
Lotus flower
Weaving some silk and lotus
Still all manual operation
Lots of repetitive actions
Upwards of $40 for some shalls
Well beyond the lake, and only reachable via river, lies Thaung Thut and its serene whitewashed (and golden) stupas. Once we docked I realized I pretty much had the site to myself besides a few locals and two monks maintaining the grounds with their generator killing the atmosphere! It was a bit of a walk up the hill but I enjoyed my time and it gave me a chance to walk on land after the morning on the boat.
Getting out of tourist town
Smoke break
Neighborhood on the lake
Welcoming the only tourist to Thaung Thut
Smoking is an everyday part of life I discovered
Climbing up the hill to Thaung Thut
Between every swing she would check her phone ☺
Thaung Thut
First of many Buddhas
The only other visitor
The monks were understandably power washing
Playing in the dirt
Funny faces
Mid day and having been baking in the sun all morning, it was time for lunch. Not that I had a suggestion, but I was taken to a bit of a touristy floating restaurant where all the other tour “boat” busses had parked. It was much more expensive than any meal I would have all week but I splurged for a 3000 Kyat beer and a plate of fried crispy egg noodle and fish for 4500 Kyat. Sitting and watching ‘city’ life happen was the main draw of this lunch spot located in the center of Nampan floating village. To the locals, being on the water was no different than life in the city. They had shops, streets, street lights, signs, roadblocks, construction crews and even curbs.
Soviet squat
Back on the grid
Lunch time
An expensive beer
And a filling lunch
Stuffed, I called for my boat and took off for some major attractions on the main Inle Lake circuit. First off would be Alodaw Pauk Pagoda. Since I hadn’t seen many pagodas yet, it was fun to watch, but had this been at the end of my stay, it would have been rather unmemorable of a visit.
Approaching Alodaw Pauk Pagoda
Alodaw Pauk
This is when the scorching ground began to get to my bare feet
Where the locals find the budget meals
Should have eaten here, although my stomach may have disagreed
Worshipers
A simple Buddha compared to what I would see in the coming days
Back on the boat we took off for the largest of the Temples (some claim it is the 4th most popular in Myanmar) and explored the grounds of Hpaung Daw U Pagoda. Its noteworthiness comes from its gilded Buddha figurines. Observed on CCTV, worshipers for a small donation purchased gold leaf and apply them to the now unrecognizable relics.
Hpaung Daw U
Only men are allowed to enter the center
The five Buddhas
What they looked like long ago
Applying the gold leaf
On our way out of Hpaung Daw U Pagoda we passed the large Karaweik Boat in its hanger. The boat is most notably used during the festival of Hpaung Daw U (around October). While I wasn’t there for the festival, it seems like quite a gathering of people from all around the country.
Karaweik Boat awaiting October
With one last major attraction remaining we dipped and darted our way though the busy ‘streets’ to Nga Hpe Kyuang, or the Jumping Cat Monastery. A bit of an unkempt facility, it is managed by just four monks who between prayers entertain tourists by training cats to jump through rings. During my visit the monks were occupied with other tasks and the cats seemed rather docile. I had heard (unsure if true) that the cats no longer preform this trick, while their legacy continues to attract and disappoint an audience.
Bored
How the other tourists do it
Nga Hpe Kyuang; not the most beautiful
But still a grand Buddha
No hoop jumping today
They teach them to ‘grab em by the tail’
Wanting to experience a legendary Inle Lake sunset we set off for the middle of the lake to take in the scenery. Two problems. It was still three hours till sunset, and the entire sky was shroud in clouds. Having seen how quickly yesterday’s weather moved in, I was hopeful the sun would poke out, but it wasn’t to be and after relaxing and talking with my two guides for an hour or so I agreed to head back.
Another real fisherman
Waking up the fish
The final drive home
One last fake
But at least he likes Green Day
No sunset today
Heading home
Back in Nyaungshwe around 18:00 the clouds decided to part a bit and made for some nice sun views over the fields. Eventually I decided upon a street-side dinner at Green Bar where I enjoyed tofu curry and a few different beers under a power blackout.
Back on land!
Of course the sun pokes out now
A new beer
Tofu curry for a touristy price of 2500
But 800 Kyat drafts (~$.75)
With another long day in the books, I called it a night around 21:00 and didn’t bother setting an alarm for the next morning knowing the boats would play the role of the rooster.
Feb 17, 2017, 7:36 pm
#104
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: TPA
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, FM Prem, SPG gold
Posts: 581
Day 26: Mandalay, Myanmar [HEH>NYU>MDL]
Again, I woke up to the roar of boats that would make the largest Sturgis contingent feel inadequate. Breakfast on the rooftop consisted of eggs and a Shan salad (Shan being the name of the easternmost state in Myanmar). For 15K MMK (less than before) I had arranged a ride with my driver to get me back to Heho for my flight to Mandalay via Bagan (Nyaung-U: NYU).
Rolled up pancake
Shan salad and eggs
Leaving the Inle Lake tourist zone
At the airport I quickly checked in and there was some form of a domestic immigration that stamped my boarding pass after a few quick checks. As I waited for the flight in the barebones terminal I followed Game 7 of the NBA Finals. It seemed like a pretty good time to tune in for my first basketball game of the season. Thankfully boarding was quickly called and boarding was just as snappy.
Check in hall
Getting my boarding sticker
Boarding pass and baggage claim tag
Gate area
Now boarding
K7 flight 230
Nyaungshwe, Myanmar (HEH) to Nyaung-U, Myanmar (NYU)
Depart: 09:54, Arrive: 10:26, Time: 0:32
ATR 72-500, Seat 12A
Seating for this flight was Southwest style and with a load of less than 1/3 we where wheels up in a jiffy. Even though our airtime was just 32 minuets we were served a few carbs and a selection of beverages.
Unique livery
Immaculate interior
Breakfast two
In Nyaung-U we spent less than 10 minutes on the ground before carrying on to Mandalay.
K7 flight 231
Nyaung-U, Myanmar (NYU) to Mandalay, Myanmar (MDL)
Depart: 10:39, Arrive: 11:01, Time: 0:22
ATR 72-500, Seat 12A
Even shorter at just 22 minutes, there was no meal, but just a candy basket was offered. The Mandalay airport was a rather nice building with all the facilities you would expect for an international airport in this region. Baggage tags were matched before being released to the taxi mafia.
Candy basket
Awfully modern
The older airport used to be near the city, but almost an hour’s drive required a 12K MMK fare to the city. The roads were way beyond what I expected and the ride was comfortable. At my hotel I was warmly welcomed and offered a cool towel and drink while waiting for them to arrange my check in. The Hotel Yadanarbon was a lovely mid level hotel with cold AC, great service and was located right in the heart of the city, all for about $30 a night. I dropped off my bags and headed right back out to the humidity to refuel.
Welcome!
Beautiful highway
Arriving in town
Hotel Yadanarbon
Hotel welcome
Today’s checkin list…and where everyone booked
Another cold room
Bathroom
I always enjoy a good struggle when it comes to ordering food (or so I tell myself) so I stopped at local’s watering hole where most patrons were enjoying a midday beer and smoke, and not a word of English was spoken. I managed to easily indicate I wanted a beer by pointing, but the food was a bit more of a struggle until I finally conveyed chicken of some sort would do the trick. 3500 MMK and a few beers later I bid farewell to my curious new friends and wandered toward the Golden Palace.
I would soon grow accustomed to roadside food stalls as the norm
The only English in the place!
Good results for charades
Youngster
Reminded me of George Orwell’s ‘Burmese Days’ and the elite’s access to daily ice
Bird vendor
I knew the moat encompassed palace was massive, but as I began to walk the midday sun really began to beat on me. I kept walking and one particular man took an interest in becoming my driver, but my pride kicked in and I pushed on. Tourists are only allowed to enter on the east side. I acquired the 10K MMK Mandalay pass which allows entry to all the sites in the city and hired an awful bike to pedal my way into the core of the island. Most of the grounds are active government offices but it was rather simple to find the only tourist site, Mya Nan San Kyaw Golden Palace.
Walking around the moat
Who needs a wall when you have this
Local relaxing moatside
The punk look is popular with the youth, even with their longyi
Napping in what little shade could be found
Mandalay Hill
Built in the 1850s by King Mindon it served as Royal Palace for the last Burmese Monarchy. Most structures were destroyed by Allied Forces during WWII and it wasn’t until the 1990’s that reconstructions were made. The watch tower provided a nice view overlooking all of the one story structures with multi tiered roofs.
Golden Palace
Main entrance
Spires in the sky
The King’s residence
The grounds
Selfie
Watchtower
View from above
Mandalay Hill in the background
Looking for some shade (not that it actually existed anywhere) I made my way out where another enterprising driver offered his services and I conceded after looking at the state of my bike and how much more ground I needed to cover. For 45K MMK he agreed to take me around the main sites around Mandalay Hill today and the three big sites outside of the city tomorrow. Happy, I returned the bike and stockpiled all of his AC on the way to the next spot.
First up was Atumashi Kyaung (Monastery) and Shwenandaw Kyaung but due to a gathering, they was closed to tourists. My driver offered to swing by first thing in the morning so I wouldn’t miss it, but in the meantime we moved along to the Khutodaw Pagoda. Known as the world’s largest book, 730 golden tablets incased in perfectly arranged white stupas surround the golden pagoda. The writing on the tablets tells the Tapitaka Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism.
Atumashi Kyaung
Private event so closed to the public
Quick view of Shwenandaw Kyaung before being whisked away
Khutodaw Pagoda – The World’s largest book
Each of the 730 stuppas houses a page
Row after row…
With the pagoda in the middle
Umbrella
Inside the pagoda was a very blingy Buddha
Gold
Before beginning the assent up Mandalay Hill I paid Sandamuni Pagoda a visit. Another neatly arranged collection of white stupas with the central golden stupa in the middle made for a nice walk around the grounds, besides the scalding ground when barefoot. It was originally built as a memorial for some royalty assassinated in 1866.
Sandamuni Pagoda
I wonder how much white paint they go through
Nice neat rows
Praying
Old school Buddha with no neon lights
View from the outside
Lastly, at the base of the hill, we quickly poked in to view Kyauk Taw Gyi Phaya. Most every Buddha I saw has a distinctive specialty and this one was no different, being carved from one large block of pale green marble.
Kyauk Taw Gyi Phaya
Another garish interior
Worshipers
Both Sandamuni and Khutodaw were most impressive when viewed from above, so from the base of the hill at the giant lion staircase we took the road up and stopped at certain viewpoints to overlook Mandalay below.
For those brave enough to hike to the top
The road up
Khutodaw Pagoda
Sandamuni Pagoda
The moat surrounding the Golden Palace
Mandalay countryside
The main attraction of the hill is to view sunset and we still had some time to kill so my driver suggested we walk around and observe the monks and locals going about their business in Su Taung Pyae Pagoda. My feet had been really sore while in Beirut and walking barefoot on the hard (and dirty!) floors wasn’t helping and my feet began to throb, but I pushed on until we found a place to settle in for sunset. Only one issue, those pesky clouds again. The people watching was great however, and locals and foreigners interacted while exchanging photos and stories as the evening drew to a close.
Walking the grounds
Atop Mandalay Hill
Tall Buddha
With a bit of color
Meat on a stick
Su Taung Pyae Pagoda
Lion gateway below
About to get busy for ‘sunset’
Half locals, half tourists
Many Burmese wanted to practice their English
Some just wanted to take photos
The Nuns were a popular attraction
Sun splotched monk
Buddhist water drinking
Betel stained teeth
The closest we would get to a sunset
We drove back to my hotel in darkness as motorbikes zoomed by in both directions with no lights. I rested my feet at the hotel and soaked in as much cool air as I could before going back out to find another local dinner. The staff spoke a few basic words of English and I was able to order chicken curry. It consisted of a scant portion of chicken served with an array of sides and rice. At first a server brought by a used bottle of water and some tired looking veggies but his boss smacked him on the head and said something before he returned with an unopened bottle and freshly washed veggies. My stomach thanks you! Satisfied I made my way back to the hotel and slept the night away.
Local dinner
2200 MMK
Rolled up pancake
Shan salad and eggs
Leaving the Inle Lake tourist zone
At the airport I quickly checked in and there was some form of a domestic immigration that stamped my boarding pass after a few quick checks. As I waited for the flight in the barebones terminal I followed Game 7 of the NBA Finals. It seemed like a pretty good time to tune in for my first basketball game of the season. Thankfully boarding was quickly called and boarding was just as snappy.
Check in hall
Getting my boarding sticker
Boarding pass and baggage claim tag
Gate area
Now boarding
K7 flight 230
Nyaungshwe, Myanmar (HEH) to Nyaung-U, Myanmar (NYU)
Depart: 09:54, Arrive: 10:26, Time: 0:32
ATR 72-500, Seat 12A
Seating for this flight was Southwest style and with a load of less than 1/3 we where wheels up in a jiffy. Even though our airtime was just 32 minuets we were served a few carbs and a selection of beverages.
Unique livery
Immaculate interior
Breakfast two
In Nyaung-U we spent less than 10 minutes on the ground before carrying on to Mandalay.
K7 flight 231
Nyaung-U, Myanmar (NYU) to Mandalay, Myanmar (MDL)
Depart: 10:39, Arrive: 11:01, Time: 0:22
ATR 72-500, Seat 12A
Even shorter at just 22 minutes, there was no meal, but just a candy basket was offered. The Mandalay airport was a rather nice building with all the facilities you would expect for an international airport in this region. Baggage tags were matched before being released to the taxi mafia.
Candy basket
Awfully modern
The older airport used to be near the city, but almost an hour’s drive required a 12K MMK fare to the city. The roads were way beyond what I expected and the ride was comfortable. At my hotel I was warmly welcomed and offered a cool towel and drink while waiting for them to arrange my check in. The Hotel Yadanarbon was a lovely mid level hotel with cold AC, great service and was located right in the heart of the city, all for about $30 a night. I dropped off my bags and headed right back out to the humidity to refuel.
Welcome!
Beautiful highway
Arriving in town
Hotel Yadanarbon
Hotel welcome
Today’s checkin list…and where everyone booked
Another cold room
Bathroom
I always enjoy a good struggle when it comes to ordering food (or so I tell myself) so I stopped at local’s watering hole where most patrons were enjoying a midday beer and smoke, and not a word of English was spoken. I managed to easily indicate I wanted a beer by pointing, but the food was a bit more of a struggle until I finally conveyed chicken of some sort would do the trick. 3500 MMK and a few beers later I bid farewell to my curious new friends and wandered toward the Golden Palace.
I would soon grow accustomed to roadside food stalls as the norm
The only English in the place!
Good results for charades
Youngster
Reminded me of George Orwell’s ‘Burmese Days’ and the elite’s access to daily ice
Bird vendor
I knew the moat encompassed palace was massive, but as I began to walk the midday sun really began to beat on me. I kept walking and one particular man took an interest in becoming my driver, but my pride kicked in and I pushed on. Tourists are only allowed to enter on the east side. I acquired the 10K MMK Mandalay pass which allows entry to all the sites in the city and hired an awful bike to pedal my way into the core of the island. Most of the grounds are active government offices but it was rather simple to find the only tourist site, Mya Nan San Kyaw Golden Palace.
Walking around the moat
Who needs a wall when you have this
Local relaxing moatside
The punk look is popular with the youth, even with their longyi
Napping in what little shade could be found
Mandalay Hill
Built in the 1850s by King Mindon it served as Royal Palace for the last Burmese Monarchy. Most structures were destroyed by Allied Forces during WWII and it wasn’t until the 1990’s that reconstructions were made. The watch tower provided a nice view overlooking all of the one story structures with multi tiered roofs.
Golden Palace
Main entrance
Spires in the sky
The King’s residence
The grounds
Selfie
Watchtower
View from above
Mandalay Hill in the background
Looking for some shade (not that it actually existed anywhere) I made my way out where another enterprising driver offered his services and I conceded after looking at the state of my bike and how much more ground I needed to cover. For 45K MMK he agreed to take me around the main sites around Mandalay Hill today and the three big sites outside of the city tomorrow. Happy, I returned the bike and stockpiled all of his AC on the way to the next spot.
First up was Atumashi Kyaung (Monastery) and Shwenandaw Kyaung but due to a gathering, they was closed to tourists. My driver offered to swing by first thing in the morning so I wouldn’t miss it, but in the meantime we moved along to the Khutodaw Pagoda. Known as the world’s largest book, 730 golden tablets incased in perfectly arranged white stupas surround the golden pagoda. The writing on the tablets tells the Tapitaka Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism.
Atumashi Kyaung
Private event so closed to the public
Quick view of Shwenandaw Kyaung before being whisked away
Khutodaw Pagoda – The World’s largest book
Each of the 730 stuppas houses a page
Row after row…
With the pagoda in the middle
Umbrella
Inside the pagoda was a very blingy Buddha
Gold
Before beginning the assent up Mandalay Hill I paid Sandamuni Pagoda a visit. Another neatly arranged collection of white stupas with the central golden stupa in the middle made for a nice walk around the grounds, besides the scalding ground when barefoot. It was originally built as a memorial for some royalty assassinated in 1866.
Sandamuni Pagoda
I wonder how much white paint they go through
Nice neat rows
Praying
Old school Buddha with no neon lights
View from the outside
Lastly, at the base of the hill, we quickly poked in to view Kyauk Taw Gyi Phaya. Most every Buddha I saw has a distinctive specialty and this one was no different, being carved from one large block of pale green marble.
Kyauk Taw Gyi Phaya
Another garish interior
Worshipers
Both Sandamuni and Khutodaw were most impressive when viewed from above, so from the base of the hill at the giant lion staircase we took the road up and stopped at certain viewpoints to overlook Mandalay below.
For those brave enough to hike to the top
The road up
Khutodaw Pagoda
Sandamuni Pagoda
The moat surrounding the Golden Palace
Mandalay countryside
The main attraction of the hill is to view sunset and we still had some time to kill so my driver suggested we walk around and observe the monks and locals going about their business in Su Taung Pyae Pagoda. My feet had been really sore while in Beirut and walking barefoot on the hard (and dirty!) floors wasn’t helping and my feet began to throb, but I pushed on until we found a place to settle in for sunset. Only one issue, those pesky clouds again. The people watching was great however, and locals and foreigners interacted while exchanging photos and stories as the evening drew to a close.
Walking the grounds
Atop Mandalay Hill
Tall Buddha
With a bit of color
Meat on a stick
Su Taung Pyae Pagoda
Lion gateway below
About to get busy for ‘sunset’
Half locals, half tourists
Many Burmese wanted to practice their English
Some just wanted to take photos
The Nuns were a popular attraction
Sun splotched monk
Buddhist water drinking
Betel stained teeth
The closest we would get to a sunset
We drove back to my hotel in darkness as motorbikes zoomed by in both directions with no lights. I rested my feet at the hotel and soaked in as much cool air as I could before going back out to find another local dinner. The staff spoke a few basic words of English and I was able to order chicken curry. It consisted of a scant portion of chicken served with an array of sides and rice. At first a server brought by a used bottle of water and some tired looking veggies but his boss smacked him on the head and said something before he returned with an unopened bottle and freshly washed veggies. My stomach thanks you! Satisfied I made my way back to the hotel and slept the night away.
Local dinner
2200 MMK