This Black travel movement is no joke. We’re out here touring the world in record numbers, like never before. One look at social media and you can see us living it up in Miami, wandering the streets of Cartegena, eating strange foods in Bangkok or relaxing in the endless blue waters of Zanzibar–after a while, it starts to feel like you’ve seen it all, that is until you lay eyes on a gem you didn’t even know existed.
Myanmar is a destination that travelers tend to overlook when heading to Asia. It’s surrounded by more popular destinations like Thailand and China, so it’s sort of been a bit of a mystery – until now.
Each day more and more globetrotters, like Liberian native Celia (@findingmutanu), discover the wonders of Myanmar and introduce its beauty to the world. If you’ve been looking to take your travels off the beaten path, Celia’s photo journey along with our exclusive guide will tell you all you need to know about your new favorite getaway. Enjoy!
01
Welcome to Myanmar
Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar is unlike any place you know. Bordered by India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Laos, and China, Myanmar is a nation of multiple ethnic groups, dazzling pagodas and a vibrant culture just waiting to be explored. Though it’s still relatively new on the tourism scene, visitors have found that November through February is the best time to visit weather-wise, and affordability is still the name of the game with $1 USD equaling 1,510.98 Burmese Kyat.
Photo Credit: @findingmutanu
02
Sweet Dreams
Despite still being relatively untapped in the travel world, you can still find a nice range of accommodation options. The Strand Yangon is an urban oasis sheltering you from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the perfect home away from home.
Photo Credit: The Stand Yangon
03
Unique Cuisine
Unlike its more well-known neighbors, Myanmar and its cuisine have been a mystery to travelers for more than 50 years. The tasty fair is a mix of southeast Asian flavors and ingredients–you’re sure to discover new tastes in every bite! Make sure to try popular traditional dishes like Burmese curry, Nangyi thoke (dry noodles) and Nga htamin (fish rice).
Getty Images
04
Pagoda Princess
Food tours, hot air balloon rides, secret waterfalls, and more await you when you arrive in Myanmar. One activity that should definitely be on your list is a visit to Hsinbyume Pagoda an impressive, stark white pagoda in Sagaing Region in Myanmar, on the western bank of the Irrawaddy River.
