On a luxury holiday in Myanmar, one can easily escape the modern-day hustle and bustle and go completely off-the-beaten-track mingling with remote hill tribes, cruising along the Irrawaddy Dolphins on the mighty river, cycling or trekking through historic monuments and idyllic landscapes, and making a real difference by supporting incredibly genuine ecological and community focused sustainable projects.
Where is Myanmar located?
Surrounded by Bangladesh and India in the northwest, China in the northeast, Laos and Thailand in the east and southeast, and the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal in the south and southwest, Myanmar is the largest of the mainland Southeast Asian countries.
Yangon remains the largest and most popular international airport in the country and is well connected with major international airports including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Mandalay is the second international hub.
What sort of Activities are available in Myanmar?
A tailor-made vacation in Myanmar can cater to a broad range of interests from cultural and architectural explorations to active adventures covering forested mountains and remote islands. Some of our favourite highlights include:
- Walking through Yangon’s ancient quarter exploring its majestic colonial heritage.
- Discovering awe-inspiring temples of Bagan, best viewed from the vantage of a hot air balloon.
- Cycling and trekking in the Shan State, especially around Inle Lake.
- Cruising on the mighty Irrawaddy River exploring ancient capitals and rural communities.
- Snorkelling, diving, kayaking or paddle boarding in the remote Mergui Archipelago renowned for its pristine reefs and caves – one of the finest marine conservation areas in Asia.
- Culinary experiences in local villages or Yangon’s finest restaurants and hotels.
What types of accommodation are available in Myanmar?
Although Myanmar remains far less developed and touristy compared to other Southeast Asian countries, with the change in the country’s political landscape and relaxation of international sanctions, many regional and international hospitality groups have invested in unique and high-quality tourism initiatives, which are rapidly turning Myanmar into a sought-after travel destination for independent travellers.
From luxury river cruises, heritage city hotels, boutique countryside and beach resorts to rustic village homestays and birding lodges, the options are suitably varied for travellers of all ages and interests.
Does Myanmar cater for Family Holidays or families with young children?
Myanmar is one of the most interesting and engaging family holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. It is home to some of the friendliest people we have ever come across as well as a rich cultural and natural diversity that offers ample opportunities for super fun and educational experiences.
The food is great and accommodation options across the main tourist destinations are charming and safe with all the modern amenities. Remoter parts are more suitable for intrepid and adventurous families with adult children, as facilities are more local and basic.
When is the best time to visit Myanmar?
Winter months between November and March, make up the best time to visit the country when the weather is pleasant and dry. Although the climate in mountainous areas can be cold during December, January and early February, the coast and central plains remain very pleasant throughout the season. It is an excellent option for family Christmas holidays.
What key conservation activities is Myanmar best known for?
There are many genuine and impactful “sharp end” community and marine conservation projects available in various parts of the country. Resorts like Wa Ale in Mergui Archipelago are built upon very strong conservation and sustainability ethos and a stay here could be wonderfully educational. One could spend days learning about various conservation initiatives including the preservation of the local “Moken” fishing community, turtle conservation, coral protection as well as sustainable farming and fishing to counter illegal and dangerous fishing and farming practices. Wa Ale is one of the finest eco-tourism projects anywhere in Asia.
For those interested in a more in-depth philanthropic experience, with the help of Khiri Reach – the non-profit arm of our local partner, we can enable our clients to fund and help build a water well in Myanmar’s dry zones. About 17 million people in the country still do not have access to clean water and since the commencement of the Water Well Programme in 2014, Khiri Reach has coordinated the building of more than 25 wells and numerous rainwater collection and storage facilities.
There are various villages in the vicinity of Bagan and Inle Lake that continue to face dire conditions especially during the summer months when natural sources of water dry out. It usually takes more than a month to build one well, but it is possible for volunteers to get involved for a short duration during the process ranging from just a day to multiple days depending on the location of the village.
Other initiatives are focused on star tortoise conservation, reducing plastic waste in Bagan and supporting a local school in Inle Lake and an orphanage in Yangon.