My favorite stop

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Of the six countries we have visited so far, I found Myanmar to be the most fascinating.  

The people are genuine, friendly and content. There is much poverty, but Myanmar's people seemed resigned to that fact. Education is lacking, unemployment is high, healthcare non-existent, but there is serenity and harmony in people's faces. They are devout in their religious beliefs and determined to do good on this Earth. They believe in Nirvana. You can sense their pride in their ancient past and their optimism and hope for a glorious future.

There were 32 in our group, including several children, half a dozen lifelong learners and two dozen students. Our guide, whose "international" name is Martin. spoke good but hesitant English, often apologizing for its limitations. He spoke Burmese and also the dialect from his region. A family man, he was a perfect example of a professional guide: calm, patient, soft-spoken, accommodating and very respectful. He did not hesitate to answer questions -- even personal ones -- and thanked us for coming to Myanmar, not only because he got a job out of it but that the people of Myanmar benefited from our visit, monetarily as well as through personal contact.

This visit was one with a lot of variety, appealing to all of our senses.We visited pagodas, temples, shrines; we visited a school and gave out books and supplies; we had a pony ride; we took a sunset cruise and climbed a magnificent shrine for breathtaking views; we ate a catered dinner under the stars; we saw puppet theater and shopped in local markets. We saw the sun setting and the full moon rising.

Martin arranged for special dishes for us and always explained in detail what we were seeing, smelling, eating and experiencing. White wine is not commonly found so I tried Myanmar beer. It comes in big bottles and is 6 percent alcohol but tastes like a  light beer. I really liked it, it was as good as any beer I have tried. 

Now that this wonderful country has opened itself up to the outside world, I hope it keeps its uniqueness and does not turn into a Vietnam or China.