Our New Favorite Itinerary: Myanmar

by  Kristen Boatright | May 4, 2016

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is a fascinating new destination, and to really learn about the country's people and their unique culture, there may be no better time. A one-time British colony, the southeast Asian country was closed off to the outside world for decades before opening its borders in 2011. Now, it's a draw for bucket-list travelers, and cruising down the Irrawaddy— or Ayeyarwady — River is an easy way to see the country's sights. In just the last several years, major river cruise lines began offering small-boat cruises on the 1,348-mile river, including AmaWaterways. With 10- and 14-day itineraries, guests on the AmaPura travel from the populous Yangon in the south to Mandalay in the country’s center (or the reverse), visiting many small towns and riverside rural villages along the way. From pottery making and lacquerware production to visits to pagodas, monasteries, and other elaborate religious sites, the peek into local life along the river’s banks is a highlight of the voyage. Locals want the outside world to know that the country is open for business. During our trip, we sat down with both cruise managers and the ship’s captain to discuss the way of life in Myanmar as well as their favorite stops on the itinerary — the ancient city of Bagan with its 2,200 temples was a common answer. Watch our video above for more.

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