Paukan recently announced its sailing schedules for 2010/11, offering shorter exploration cruises along the Irrawaddy River. Our 2-day Cruise Mandalay to Bagan is the perfect itinerary for travelers who wish to experience the charm of the Irrawaddy without embarking on a long, costly journey. The detailed itinerary can be viewed here. For more information please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
As of 1 March 2009, Bagan Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel has changed its name to Bagan Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Resort. The hotel management and staff remain unchanged.
The Thanaka Gallery and Spa is a unique place to learn about the history and use of thanaka in Burmese culture. Thanaka is a yellowish paste commonly applied to the faces of women and children and is derived from the thanaka tree, 300 of which are located in a plantation on the property. The Beauty Salon and Health Care Center provides a special thanaka spa treatment and visitors can also purchase a variety of thanaka souvenirs at $1 each from the One Dollar Shop. For those who wish to have their fortunes told, a fortune teller makes predictions based on traditional Myanmar astrology and palmistry methods. For more information, please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
Come 1 October 2009, the Elephant Coach will also be available in Bagan. A luxurious replica of the 1950s Chevrolet passenger bus, the coach can seat 6 – 8 passengers comfortably (depending on the seat configuration). The teak interior is furbished with rich Shan fabrics and a mini bar. Fully air-conditioned, guide and hostess services are also available onboard. For inquiries and bookings, please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
Situated on the eastern bank of the Irrawaddy River, Pyay (Prome) is an important trading center between Lower and Upper Myanmar. The ancient Pyay capital, Srikhitra (meaning Field of Glory), was once the center of Phyu culture and civilization that flourished for more than a thousand years. It now houses a wealth of important archaeological and historical sites. Not far from Pyay at Hmawza, there is a field museum that displays artifacts collected from the Srikhitra excavations. Pyay is a good stop for travels between Yangon and Bagan. For traveling ideas in Pyay, please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
Pindaya in Shan State is famous for its scenic beauty and antique pagodas. The ancient capital of Bagan is a treasure trove of Myanmar culture. The picturesque Inle Lake is renowned for its natural scenery and traditional uniqueness. Now guests can enjoy the beauty of Pindaya, Inle and Bagan from a bird’s eye view on hot air balloon rides in each of these destinations. These exclusive flights will give guests an unforgettable experience. The Balloon Safaris Inle & Bagan tour is only available in December 2009. View the itinerary here. For more information, please contact myanmar@exotissimo.com.
With its rich cultural and natural heritage, Myanmar makes a great vacation destination for the entire family. In our new Family Holiday in Myanmar, guests can experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Yangon’s downtown as well as the city’s colonial atmosphere through its monuments and museums. In Bagan, the guests can look forward to exploring the ancient temples and learning about the unique craft techniques of the locals. Inle Lake makes a memorable stop as the whole family can admire the tranquil lake views and discover the one-legged rowing techniques of the Intha fishermen. Click here to view the full itinerary. Contact myanmar@exotissimo.com for more information.
Aureum Resort & Spa recently announced its plans to expand its room inventory in its Bagan and Ngwe Saung branches. 42 deluxe units will be added to Aureum Bagan’s existing 72 rooms while Aureum Ngwe Saung will see an addition of 36 deluxe units to its current pool of 62 rooms. Meawhile, a Zen-style Sushi Bar has opened in the Aureum Ngapali. Lovers of Japanese cuisine will delight in the wide selection of sushi, sashimi rolls, saltwater prawn tempura and Japanese grill.
Kanpatlet and Mindat are two small Chin towns that are accessible by car from Bagan. Mt. Victoria or Natmataung, the highest peak in the region, is also close by. The area is great for hiking, trekking and birding. We think it’s a great place for a short soft adventure before or after exploring ancient Bagan.
The Palm Beach Resort – Ngwe Saung will be closed during the Monsoon season from 30th April 2008 to 15th October 2008. In addition, the Sunny Paradise Hotel at Ngwe Saung will be closed from the end of May to September to perform some renovations during the low season.
The Aureum Palace Resort at Ngapali Beach will close from 1st June to 31st September 2008, and the Aureum Resort at Ngwe Saung Beach from 15th June to 31st September. Furthermore, all deluxe rooms of Aureum Palace Hotel at Bagan are currently closed for renovation and will reopen after 31st September 2008.
For more information, please contact Myanmar@exotissimo.com
The fascinating Chin people live on the hills west of the Irawaddy River in northwest Myanmar. Chin State is mountainous and villages are scattered across the many hills. Their hand-woven cotton and silk dresses are intricately designed and dyed, and a trademark of the Chin’s skill at textiles. In the past, even their dresses and beads have been valued as collectibles. Perhaps the most distinct feature of the Chin are their facial tattoos. This tradition is slowly being phased out, though there are many who still honor this practice.