“I will start from North and go all the way south.”
That was the plan without having a big idea where exactly I should go and was allowed to go. In all the countries I’ve visited in South East Asia, Myanmar remains the most authentic to their origins. Kindness and smiles on golden cheeks are often given to anyone that comes across their eyes.
Since English is till far from being a trade language with locals, drawing allowed me to interact with them and have great moments of fun. The sketching grabs so much their attention that most of the time I had people around me watching the whole process.
Visited Places
Mandalay
Bagan
Hispam
Inle Lake
Hpa-an
Golden Rock
Yangon
Click on the picture to see more photos.
Food
The sweets made my tooth fall! In Bagan, after one meal I had the best tamarind flakes, that apparently is a treat from locals (or maybe is already included on my bill!). Overall the food is spicy! I since can’t really appreciate it, my diet was lots of chicken and rice ..ha ha.
Travel
The transportation is far from being perfectly developed. I couldn’t ask much from a country that is slowly understanding tourism. There are a few areas you still need permission to go, but the most traveled places are ready to receive any backpacker.
Struggle
The communication could be one when you need to search for a specific place or restaurant. People will try to help even if they don’t have any clue where it is.
Transportation takes time because the roads aren’t that good. So yes, it’s great to think on what I have enjoyed and get ready for the new destination.
How much
Accommodation is the most unfair price to pay for all the journey. Prices are quite varied and the more remotely you travel, the more quality drops. Watch out for the bed bugs!
About me
Luís Simões
An adventure travel sketcher, professional illustrator, and digital nomad.
I’ve been in Myanmar too and I totally agree with the transportation. It took me a lot of time to travel but was fun. Keep posting more of this please!
I’ve been in Myanmar too and I totally agree with the transportation. It took me a lot of time to travel but was fun. Keep posting more of this please!