Mandalay
Mandalay is Myanmar’s second city, where old meets new in spectacular style. Originally founded at the foot of the Mandalay hills by King Mindon, the stunning pagoda-studded slopes still loom over this city. A casualty of the Second World War, much of this mesmerising city was bombed flat, but it has since benefited from a construction boom.
It is worth making the effort to climb the city's 760ft covered walkway to the top to truly appreciate the sprawl of this mystical place. The trek is especially popular at sunset where you’ll be approached by friendly young monks attempting to practice their language skills!
Bagan
This fairy-tale town is one of Myanmar’s finest offerings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts no fewer than 3,000 pagodas, temples and Buddhas, including the world’s largest reclining Buddha. This is the place to be if you are interested in Myanmar’s religious heritage. Also, be sure to pay a visit to the stunning 170ft Ananda Pahto temple. Thought to have been built in 1090, this shimmering relic is considered to be the largest and most revered of all of Bagan’s temples.
There is an extraordinary timeless quality to Myanmar's Irrawaddy River. In fact, one could imagine that medieval royalty would have felt at home on its banks. If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, then get ready for an unforgettable slice of life in mystical East Asia.