The former capital of Yangon, as the main hub for internal transport and one of the two international getaways (with Mandalay) is what you cannot really avoid – and neither should you! Not only remaining Myanmar’s commercial and cultural heart, this fast-changing, ex-colonial center is currently sprouting an exceptionally modern art scene amidst its century-old pagodas. Let’s explore with: Indochina tours and Myanmar
Discover Yangon’s colonial architecture in a walking tour
Yangon, as the ex-capital of colonial Burma, is dotted with magnificent British-era avenues, of which 188 have made their way onto the Heritage List of Yangon City. As a result, the architecture is not only extremely colorful but also incredibly varied.
Discover Yangon’s colonial architecture in a walking tour- source: internet
Even though you are capable of going looking for those buildings on your own (for instance: Lonely Planet suggests a itinerary), joining one of the free walking tours organized by Free Yangon Walks is such a great way to truly engage with the city’s architecture and history and to learn more about the contemporary Burmese culture along the way.
Usually run by an English-speaking expat with a local student, the 2-hour tours are hold every Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 4:00pm. You will definitely know a lot about the customs of Yangonite, including about the inhabitants’ avid love of books and their curious habit of chewing red-staining betel!
And, to help you plan the rest of your stay in the city, your tour leader will also take down your email address and send you a guide of Yangon’s best activities, bars, restaurants, etc. as if a free tour was not enough. Myanmar travel tours
Sample Yangon’s street food
Typical Myanmar soup, Shan noodles and steam buns- source: internet
As you might know, following your taste buds and try the local food is one of the best ways to discover a place – however, sampling Yangon’s street food can be a daunting process though Myanmar has some great culinary specialties, with the sometimes-dubious hygienic standards! Experiencing and you can find out that Burmese food can be not only the way to your heart, but also be a quick way to your sickbed!
Yangon food tour gives you a chance to enjoy all that Yangon has to offer- source: internet
Although the price of a Yangon Food Tour may be a bit steep for budget travelers ($25 for the lunch tour and $30 for the dinner tour), the conversation, the opportunity to discover Yangon’s food markets and food will exceed your expectations. After some touch-and-go experiences, you will realize that it is a safe and fun way to make the most of all that Yangon’s food scene has to offer! Running breakfast, lunch, and dinner tours (or custom combos of those), Yangon Food Tours lets travelers taste from 3 to 5 local delicacies in a range of restaurants and market stalls. One thing to remember: leave some room for the next three, don’t wolf down your first course!
For all food lovers who have budget and time to spare, it is a must to treat themselves to a Yangon Food Tour!
Stroll along the lakes
Like all big cities in Southeast Asia, Yangon is a charmingly messy, bustling and traffic-jammed one. However, the city also has its green oases for those who need a bit of quiet and peace. Grab a book or your (girl/boy) friend and head to one of Yangon’s two large lakes for a stroll or a lie-down on the banks is a good option for some relaxation.
Kandawgyi Lake
Kandawgyi Lake- source: internet
As a bonus, a walk around Kandawgyi Lake, which is the most accessible and the closest to the center provides some really sweet views of Shwedagon Pagoda and the lake’s Royal Barge. It is wise to spend time for a break at one of the restaurants and cafés on the North side of the Lake. Off The Beaten Track, a café belonging to an ex-tour guide (and one of the first independent backpackers in Myanmar), who are willing to help you to plan your onward travels to the more uncharted and remote parts of the country may be a pick for refreshments.
Inya Lake
Inya Lake- source: internet
Catch a bus or a taxi to Inya Lake, which is situated in the upscale suburbs of Yangon and features a very nicely-landscaped bank, for an even bigger lake and a more romantic getaway. Thanks to its location: close to the university, Inya is a popular student hangout, and a staple romantic setting for Myanmar music videos and drama!
Go shopping at Bogyoke Aung San Market
Also known as Scott Market, Bogyoke Aung San Market has become pretty touristy. However, to survey the arts and crafts from all over the country, it still deserves a quick visit for its cutesy cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Why don’t you go for a walk in these the market’s covered alleyways and get a stunning souvenir or two!
See more:
HOW TO CATCH A TAXI IN MANDALAY
TOP 5 ATTRACTIVE TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN MYANMAR
STREET FOOD IN MANDALAY: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT!
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