Myanmar (Barma) – Gavin Thomas (2015)

Myanmar (formerly Burma) is known for its thousands of golden pagodas and statues of giant Buddhas. In recent years, it has rightly become a tourist hit in Southeast Asia and is opening up to the Western world after decades of totalitarian rule, although the shackles of a rigid regime are still evident. In Myanmar, you will find some of the most breathtaking monuments in the world, whether it is the famous Shwedagon Pagoda, the Golden Rock, or the hundreds of ancient temples scattered in the wilderness of the former powerful empire of Bagan. The rich and diverse nature enchants with fertile plains along the Irrawaddy River, impenetrable jungles, and snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas that form the northern border of the country. The southern part of Myanmar dazzles with its coastline, dotted with islands and white sandy beaches that seem to be a reminder of a lost paradise. All of this is complemented by the smiling Burmese, who are among the friendliest Asians. The Myanmar (Burma) guide contains ten chapters. The introductory section introduces you to the country's most remarkable sights and other basic information. This is followed by seven geographical chapters that progress from the former capital Yankoun in the south of the country towards the north, to the hard-to-access areas of the autonomous Kachin State bordering China. The concluding section provides context about...