AboutNancy B Expertise One of my all-time favorites. I`ve been there more than 10 times (for at least a month each time), done the tourist loop five times and travelled to several permit-only areas. Aside from the Yangon, Bago, Inle, Kalaw, Mandalay, Pagan, Pyay route, I`ve travelled twice to Sittwe, Mrauk-U and the Chin areas and then down to Ramree Island, Ngapali and Pathein. Been on the wonderful boat from Bhamo to Mandalay and sojourned in the south a bit past Moulmein. Most recently I trekked in the northern Kachin state, camped and stayed with the Rawang tribe, for 2 weeks on the way to Phonekan Razi to see the Himalayas from the east. I`ve taken nearly every mode of transport--trains, planes, buses, boats, bikes, oxcarts, trekking on foot. I can answer logistical questions about airfare, hotels, restaurants, trekking, trains, restricted/open areas and, especially, cultural/religious sites and their significance.
Experience The world is a fascinating place and nothing reveals this more thoroughly than exploring faraway lands. I've got a penchant for the exotic, a friendly face and a true curiousity about the people, art and life.
1. Mrauk U
We will be spending at least 2 and possibly 3 days in Mrauk U. What suggestions would you have for an itinerary in this area?
2. Sagaing
Do you still recommend staying at the Happy Hotel in Sagaing? Have you heard of or stayed at the Sein Pan Myaing Guest House?
We plan to spend 2 days in the Sagaing area. What kind of itinerary would you suggest? (Not interested in going to Mingun - I've already been there)
Answer Hi, Vaughn,
And sorry so late! It was the weekend. Two or three days in Mrauk-U . . .definitely spend one day going to the market and then seeing all the temples. Don't forget farther out treasures like Kotataung. Personally, I would spend my other day going down river to see the Laytoo Chin tribe villages (and possibly stay overnight).
2. Sagaing. Last time I heard (or visited) Happy Hotel was the only official one, with a license to house foreigners. It's fine, if overpriced, and the food's decent (if overpriced). For me the joy of staying in Sagaing instead of Mandalay, overrides the accommodation. If the guesthouse you mentioned is the one I've been to in Sagaing, it's a little "motel" like affair in a straight line with very basic concrete rooms. Very basic. But depending on how fancy you need things, it may be fine. Two days in Sagaing isn't much time. I'd walk or take one of the pedicabs all over town to the various nunneries and monasteries (which are often having ceremonies). I find the town magical, especially at dusk. On another day, I'd take the local boat over to Ava and see the sights there by horsecart. It's delightful.
Have fun,
Nancy B
