Perhaps the least known and visited country in Southeast Asia, Myanmar—previously known as Burma—is also where you will discover some of the region’s most unexpected surprises. You may find yourself wandering among the average Myanmar in the main city of Yangon, wondering what tales these streets would tell could they talk. Then, just a few days later, you are taking in the exotic sights of Mandalay, or exploring the myriad temples and pagodas of Bagan. You will also have the opportunity to begin your journey traveling from Singapore to Bangkok on the Eastern & Oriental Express or choose to extend your stay to explore Angkor Wat.

Itinerary

DAY 1 : Bangkok
Today upon arrival in Bangkok, check into the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel for a 2-night stay.

DAY 2 : Bangkok
This morning, a day of discovery in Bangkok awaits you, including visits to the Emerald Buddha, a tour of the Grand Palace and a long-tail boat ride up the Chao Phraya River.

DAY 3 : Bangkok & Yangon
Fly via Thai Airways from Bangkok to Yangon—the largest city in Myanmar. After you settle into your hotel, take an orientation tour and get to know Yangon. Visit key sights, including the Sule Pagoda, the Karaweik Stone Boat and Shwedagon Pagoda, which contains eight hairs of the Buddha encased in a golden cask. You will stay at the Traders Hotel, a member of the Shangri-La hotel group, for 2 nights.

DAY 4 : Twante
Today you will take a tour to experience village life. Located on the other side of the Yangon River, Twante village has very much retained its original character. Take a local ferry across the river. Once across, your journey to Twante provides a glimpse of life on and along the famous Twante Canal. After a visit to Shwesandaw Pagoda, visit the pottery making area of the village before returning to Yangon.

DAY 5 : Yangon & Road To Mandalay Embarkation
This morning, take a flight to Mandalay to board your ship, the Road To Mandalay, berthed on the Ayeyarwady River. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of the key sights of Mandalay—regarded as the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. Return to Mandalay, stopping en route to admire the sunset over the river.

DAY 6 : Road To Mandalay & Shanlay
After an early breakfast onboard visit Shanlay, a traditional Burmese village, for a walking tour. Here you will have the opportunity to discover the Burmese way of life firsthand—from farming and schools to spirit houses and tea shops.Your ship gets underway midmorning and begins its journey south. The rest of the day is spent relaxing onboard observing the fascinating local river life while your experienced and knowledgeable guide lectures on the Myanmar way of life.

DAY 7 : Road To Mandalay & Bagan
Today the ship arrives at Bagan, where over 2,000 temples and pagodas are scattered over an awe-inspiring plain beside the river. A guided orientation tour introduces you to the most important temples. After lunch, rejoin your guide to visit the inside of some of the more significant pagodas. Or if you choose, hire a bicycle or horse-drawn cart and explore this fascinating area on your own. Later, your guide takes you to watch the sun setting over a field of glowing pagodas by the river—truly a sight to be remembered forever.

DAY 8 : Road To Mandalay & Mount Popa
Embark on a full day excursion to Mount Popa—a national park believed to be the sacred home of powerful “Nats” or spirits. On top of a rocky, rugged cliff is a picturesque complex of monasteries, pagodas and shrines, which can be reached via a winding, covered walkway.This afternoon, stop at the Mount Popa Resort and enjoy lunch among the sites. Return to your ship for an evening of fine food and entertainment.

DAY 9 : Road To Mandalay & Bagan
This morning, join your guide to explore Bagan’s local markets selling wood carvings, fabrics, longis and rattan goods and see Myanmar’s famous lacquerware being made.Set sail for Mandalay and en route enjoy an onboard lecture on the Ayeyarwady River. The ship anchors midriver this evening for a casual cocktail party and dinner—providing a marvelous opportunity to observe the stars.

DAY 10 : Road To Mandalay, Shwe Kyet Yet & Sagaing
Continue sailing up the river until Road To Mandalay arrives at the little Burmese village of Shwe Kyet Yet in the early afternoon. After lunch enjoy an excursion to Sagaing, considered the living center of the Buddhist faith in Burma. This area is also famous for its silversmiths, who still work as their ancestors did.

DAY 11 : Road To Mandalay & Maymyo
Today your ship takes you to Maymyo, a former British hill station set high in the mountains. Soak up the atmosphere with its cool climate, colonial style houses,  colorful market and beautiful botanical gardens. A typical Shan lunch is taken at a colonial house. Return to the ship for a farewell dinner onboard.

DAY 12 : Road To Mandalay
Disembarkation, Mandalay, Yangon and Bangkok After an early breakfast, transfer to Mandalay’s airport for your flight to Yangon. After lunch at a local hotel, fly to Bangkok for an overnight stay at the Shangri-La Hotel.

DAY 13 : Bangkok
Today is free for you to explore the unique beauty of Bangkok. Perhaps visit the Bangkok National Museum to see the largest collection of Thai artifacts or take a walk through the bustling Chinatown district, one of the oldest areas in Bangkok.

DAY 14 : Bangkok
Today, depart Bangkok on your flight back to the U.S.  Extend your journey for 5 nights in Angkor Wat.

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