Burma Beckons with Orient-Express

  • February 7, 2012
Burma Beckons with Orient-Express
This growth is only expected to continue with diplomatic relations between Burma and the US improving further still in recent weeks. Much like Cuba, the country still is relatively undiscovered by American visitors, and the Burmese way of life has remained largely untouched by western trends. Without a doubt, the best way to experience Burma is with Orient-Express. For years, Orient-Express has been welcoming travelers into the fascinating country aboard its river cruise Road To Mandalay and at its iconic hotel, The Governor’s Residence.

The Road to Mandalay offers a luxurious yet tasteful introduction to Burma and the local culture, from the onboard staff (73 of the ship’s 75 staff members are Burmese) to refreshing off-the-beaten-track activities and excursions to breathtaking sights. It cruises the Ayeyarwaddy River for three, four, seven, or eleven nights between the pagoda city of Bagan and royal Mandalay with a variety of itineraries. Guests visit areas that regular tourists rarely get to see like Lake Inlè, which is surrounded by more than 200 villages constructed on stilts over the water. As an example of a day’s activities, on the Ayeyarwaddy Adventure, one day involves a visit to a local village, allowing guests to experience authentic Burmese life first hand – from farming and crafts to spirit houses and tea shops. Guests also have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the 2,500 temples of Bagan – a truly amazing experience.

Before and after the journey, travelers can enjoy Orient-Express’ colonial-style mansion, The Governor’s Residence, which dates back to the 1920's and once served as home to the ruler of Burma's southern states. Located in the elegant Embassy Quarter of Yangon, this stately solid teak, two-story mansion features 48 luxury accommodations set in a verdant garden dotted with lotus pools. The newly introduced Blue Taxi Market Tour introduces intrepid travelers to the bustling markets of Yangon and reveals the secrets of traditional Burmese cuisine. The hotel serves as an excellent base for travelers hoping to explore the country's historic capital city and beyond.

Hotel Profile, more photos: The Governor's Residence by Orient-Express