Those who let politics interfere with their travel choices are missing one of the most spectacular jewels in the world; as one of the most politically incorrect places to visit, Myanmar remains well off the tourist path and completely unspoiled by the throngs of tourists who have descended en masse on Thailand & Vietnam. I have always been opposed to economic sanctions, as they do little but impoverish the local people while leaving vile governments in power for longer than might have been possible otherwise. Myanmar's ugly history should not be an obstacle to witnessing its breathtaking beauty in person.
That Myanmar suffers under an oppressive government is never in doubt.
Signs like the one below are found throughout the country.
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Just across the border from Thailand, this solitary border guard looked to be no more than 12 years old.
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One truly pleasant surprise was that the people of Myanmar did not seem to mind being
photographed.
Most seemed flattered when I asked if I could take pictures.
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Kids are the same no matter where in the world you find them.
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Like all of Southeast Asia, Myanmar is devoutly Buddhist.
Beautiful temples are scattered throughout the countryside.
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Traditional folk dancing.
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Quiet street scene in the central part of the country.
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Girls weaving cotton along the roadside.
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One of the most impressive archealogical sites in the world,
the plains of Bagan are spiked with ruins as far as the eye can see.
