Myanmar Sept 23 - Oct 12 2006

Hi Guys!

I will be flying into Yangoon from BKK on Sept 23 and be back to BKK on Oct 12. During my 20-day back packing in Myanmar, using local buses/pick ups and GHs that accept kyats, I plan to move on the same day upon arrival in Yangoon, to Tuangoo (trekking to Sein-Yay Forest Camp), then to Kalaw (via Pyimana, Meikhtila) to Kalaw ( trekking to tribal village), and after that to Inle Lake where I hope to catch the lake Boat Festival. My itinerary will then take me to Hsipaw (overnight trek to tribal village stay). My return journey to Mandalay will be by train (ordinary coach with locals), and using Mandalay as my base, I plan to visit Sagaing (focus is on twinpoes (an edible insect) catchers, a couple of pottery and lacqureware villages, before heading off the Pakokku (cheerot rollers, weaving) and then over to Bagan. My trip ends with a 17-hour bus ride from Bagan to Yangoon on Oct 10, where on Oct 11 there is the Chinese Floats Festival on Yangoon River.

Anybody going that way is most welcome to give me a shout! Would be nice to meet up. Recommendations/advice are also welcome.

Cheers.

Dana

Hi Dana,

Unfortunately, it looks like I'll just miss you in Myanmar. I'm planning on flying from BKK to Yangon sometime between Oct. 15-18. If you're still in Bangkok around that time, I'd love to grab a cup of coffee or something to hear about your travels. Drop me a pm if so.

Safe travels.

John

Bon voyage, Dana. Would be nice to hear after your return!

I had planned to go back to Myanmar for the festival (end of Buddhist Lent) in early October. I live in Bangkok and due to the uncertainties surrounding the new Bangkok Airport opening at the end of September I am bumping up my trip and going to Myanmar the early part of September instead. Should still be fun, but I'm guessing that I'll be dealing with lots of rain and the weather will still be hot. But that's what I'll see in Bangkok anyway, so I'm used to it. Unlike danalasta, I will have limited time, so I'll be flying between the major cities and taking cars/taxis for several short half-day trips. Looking forward to the trip. I've been to Myanmar twice before and loved it each time.

Hi Guys,

To Hien: Thank you.I have planned my trip such that I will get to see the Inle lake Water Festival; the Dummy Elephant Festival in Kyaukse; and the Chinese Floats Festival in Yangoon.And my treks to the tribal villages...A lot to write about!

To John: There will always be another time to meet up! Will be flying from BKK-KLIA on Oct 12.

To Buzzard: Would be nice to meet up with you for a chat (on your Myanmar experiences?)in BKK! It's the tail end of rainy season, but I am sure there will be rainy days. Hopefully not when I am trekking!

Thanks to you guys! Have fun!

Dana

Hi all!
I am sure each of you guys will have wonderful time in Myanmar.I was there for six months in 2005.I believe Myanmar is a unique country for individual travellers.If you want more insight and comfort,contact a guide named Eugene([email protected]).He was very friendly and helpful.He could get big discounts from most hotels during our up-country vacation.He charged $20 a day and extra $10 for transportation(mostly a taxi).He had very informative blog(www.myanmarguide.blogspot.com).Don`t miss the Inle lake and Bagan.
Beware of fake antiques.

Thanks Sean, I am sure I will enjoy my trip . I am, however, giving Kalaw a skip in favour of a three day trip to Namhsan from Hsipaw. Heard so much of this "untouristed" area that I felt I simply cannot give this place a miss! Namhsan will be the highlight of my 20-day trip.

Cheers.

Dana