I’m not sure why they would allow anyone to purchase a flight ticket that had an onward connecting flight. When they knew that I would have to go through Thailand exiting customs, pick up my bag, take it to the departure counter, go through security check and then to Myanmar customs. All within one hour because my flight back to Bangkok was delayed by half an hour. Thankfully the airline agent met me when I got off the plane and had printed out directions, gates and aisles that I would need to get to to reach my next plane. After almost running through the airport from one end to the other, I made it. I was the last to board. For a 1 1/2 hour flight to Yangon.
This Pagoda (same as a Stupa or Chedi) is in the center of the city with traffic circling it. And there are little shops surrounding the base! A little strange for a holy site.
These guys make 7 cents for each bag they carry from the boat. They pick up a bag and a long stick at the boat. When they get to the truck they exchange the long stick for a short smaller stick. At the end of the day or whenever the boat is emptied, they exchange all of the small sticks for money.
Intricate wood carving.
All of the previous photos are from the Sandawshin Kyaik Khauk Pagoda outside of the city.
The Pagoda on this island was built in the 1st Century.
Nuts from a palm tree. They have a jelly like seed inside. Not much flavor but not a bad taste.
This was originally a viewing platform that a king had made so that he could watch boat competitions. There are no more boat competitions so now it is a restaurant. The side view of it is used on Myanmar beer.
One of the entrances to Shwedagon Pagoda. All of the following photos are from this Pagoda.
Shwedagon Pagoda in the center of Yangon. It is being recovered in gold leaf. So it’s not so photogenic at the moment. All of the scaffolding is bamboo which is stronger than steel and lighter. And some of it is covered in bamboo mats to protect the workers from the sun. Originally built in 588 BC, it has been enlarged many times over the years. At the very top there is a large diamond, 76 Carats. Along with 4,351 other diamonds, jewels and gold. The upper portion alone weighs 5 tons.
Reclining Buddha.
Peace child.
Selfie anyone! Not for me, I would rather look at a large tourist with a beard.
Zay. My driver while I have been in Yangon. $40 for 8 hrs and anywhere I wanted to go. And we discussed options. Very helpful and very nice.
I leave today for Bagan in the north of Myanmar.
Peru - The Amazon 