Unexpected Luxury

Myanmar

By Kate Dannies

Yangon may not be Myanmar’s capital anymore, but the vestiges of urban luxury remain in this ancient city, which should be the jetsetter’s first and last stop on any trip to Myanmar. Relax and soak in the pleasures of the southeast Asian lifestyle at The Governor’s Mansion by Orient-Express, a fabulous colonial style mansion turned plush hotel. Located in Yangon’s most stylish quarter, this property boasts comfortable suites, a spa, and gorgeous grounds complete with swimming pools and gourmet dining. Alternatively, check into the Strand Hotel, one of a suite of luxe cosmopolitan international hotels, promising world-class accommodation and service.

Checked in and refreshed with a swim and spa treatment, it is time to explore Yangon. A thriving commercial metropolis of four million, Yangon boasts the largest number of British colonial-era buildings in Southeast Asia. Architecture buffs will enjoy visiting the fin de siècle structures, which include the Strand Hotel, the former High Court and St. Paul’s English High School. Yangon also boasts plenty of attractions from pagodas to parks. Don’t miss the Shwedagon Pagoda and the Golden Rock and view larger than life buddhas at the ChaukhtatgyiPaya. Pop into the Acacia Tea Salon for an afternoon snack before dinner at local Swiss favourite Le Planteur.

Book a stateroom on the Road to Mandalay by Orient-Express river cruise. From the five star ship you will experience the sights and sounds of Myanmar’s lush tropical interior. Cruises ranging from three to seven nights are available, and guests can elect to visit a variety of sites both above and below Mandalay. While being on a boat, even a luxury one, for 11 days, would test anyone’s patience, we suggest taking advantage of your visit to see as much as possible of this incredible country.

Cruise by pagodas, gorges, explore remote villages and peruse historic market towns, visiting hotspots including Bhamo and Bagan. Elephants, tribal dancing and delicious local food are also on the menu as you cruise along in style. We suggest taking a hot air balloon trip over Bagan to best experience the stunning landscape and breathtaking pagodas.

Make time for other must-see locations including Lake Inle and Ngapali, Myanmar’s stunning seaside resort. Visit monasteries, a former British hill station, local villages and ancient ruins at Lake Inle and take a peaceful boat tour of the area’s floating gardens. Make reservations at Lake Inle Princess Resort in Taunggyi—trust us. Private luxury bungalows with open air showers, fine dining, and the calm and quiet of this distant locale offer the key to real relaxation.

End your visit with a few days of relaxation inNgapali before heading back to Yangon. Check in to the Sandoway Resort, a restive seafront property complete with everything you need to relax in luxury: secluded cottages, spa treatments and the soothing sea right at your feet. Dine at Ngapali Kitchen, a local restaurant offering fresh seafood and southeast Asian specialties.

Back in Yangon, take a few more hours or days in the city, or head straight to the airport. Etihad runs daily flights from Cairo via Abu Dhabi and Bangkok. Layovers can be long, so consider booking stopovers in the UAE or Thailand to make the trip more manageable, and pack in a little extra luxury.