Burma Day 5: Yangon

I don't have a problem having a "me" day. Today's been that kind of day. I woke up in the mid-morning range, and meandered down to the Asian buffet breakfast that the hotel provides. I could get used to these Burmese fried noodles. Good thing they don't make them in Shenyang.

Poolside. The hardest decision I've made today is whether to turn over now or in 10 minutes. It's a hard life when that's your biggest worry. I mean, it could be worse, I suppose. I could find it more difficult to decide whether I want a margarita or a piña colada. But I'm pretty sure I want the margarita with my caprese salad and samosas. The pool waiters must think I'm a glutton because I ordered both of these dishes; I didn't expect to get 8 samosas though. In Shenyang, we only get 2 per order!!

Alas, eventually I must get up from my lounge position. I am meeting R & D at the Shwe Dagon Pagoda in the city center at 5:00pm. This is my last tourist stop before my midnight departure back to Seoul and then Shenyang. We plan to meet at the east gate and then explore the complex together. From what I've heard, it's the biggest attraction in Yangon, so here's for saving the best for last!

-/-

While I was walking to the pagoda, I realized that there is a great deal of diversity in the Burmese population. Although the majority of the people here would call themselves Buddhist Burmese, I have met and seen many Muslims and Indians as well. There are churches and mosques, temples and pagodas everywhere. Freedom to practice and belong to whichever faith one believes in. It's refreshing, especially coming from China. And once again, the Shwe Dagon Pagoda is a living temple, with people coming to present their offerings at one of the many different shrines in the complex. Aside from the tourists, there are young families with children, old couples, Buddhist priests and students, all worshipping side-by-side in this holy place. 

So I definitely saved the most splendor for last! Shwe Dagon did not disappoint. As we walked up the interior steps to the elevated temple, I couldn't stop thinking how amazing the last 5 days have been. Certainly the most exciting trip I've ever been on in my entire life. The people, the sights, the sounds, the tastes, and even the smells have been one surprise after another. Who knew a country like this could hold so many adventures? Burma is a hidden gem and I encourage all of you to visit if you have the chance. I'm already planning my return trip.