Unique and mysterious, Myanmar, also called Burma, presents tourists with an opportunity to step back in time to a place that is slowly revealing itself to the world. It is a wonderful Southeast Asian country that amazes with magnificent scenery, historical places, and welcoming people. Unquestionably, the most popular destination all over the country is Bagan, an area of plains stretched with more than 2000 structures of archeological significance, which are actual temples and pagodas. The sight is breathtaking, whether in the morning or in the evening. A day’s tour of Inle Lake, depicting the leg-rowing fishermen and floating gardens, gives the feel of the old world.

Yangon is Myanmar’s largest city and still retains some colonial structures, busy markets, and, of course, the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda with its incredibly tall golden stupa evident from most corners of the city. In Mandalay, which is the last royal capital, places of interest include such monasteries, and you might have a chance to observe craftsmen at work. Every nature lover will feel the pleasantness of the beaches of Ngapali, the height of the hill station of Kalaw, and the biological wealth of the Myeik Archipelago. Tourists can either hike across the least explored villages in Shan State or explore the Irrawaddy River in a kayak. There’s ethnic diversity in the country, and every group of people has their own cultural practices and beliefs, which makes the area one of the best destinations that has not been invaded by tourists. Myanmar’s food is a delightful mix of neighboring countries’ influences, and the variety, tastes, and textures of the food are incredibly satisfying.

Traveling through Myanmar, it is possible to see the country that is changing, in which classical Burmese architecture—those pagodas—and novels are being constructed. This is perhaps due to the friendly welcome of the people, the mysterious aura of the temples and pagodas, and the rugged natural scenery that leaves you with memorable feelings when you say ‘goodbye’ to this golden land.