We've arrived

After a short hop from Bangkok at 4am we have arrived in Myanmar. We were filled with excitement as we descended below the cloud line and saw the expanse of meandering rivers and partially flooded rice patties below. Our excitement only continued as we disembarked for our guesthouse. We drove past many famous sites on our way and plan to spend tomorrow exploring more on foot.

Today we got a taste of Myanmar life walking around the Yangon city center. There was so much to take in and see; It is always exciting the first day. Like Indonesians, Yangon locals will look at you with hesitation and curiosity, but once you smile and say hello their faces light up. I (Jackie) even had a few locals salute me.

Wandering through the streets lined with locals selling goods you notice almost everyone is dressed in a traditional Longyi. A Longyi is a piece of fabric wrapped around ones waste in a sort of skirt-like fashion. The locals sell all sorts of goods; some that appear as though they traveled through time from the past. You also find locals repairing anything from umbrellas to clocks and shoes. After stubbing my toe and tripping multiple times I realized quick you must watch where you step. The sidewalks are an adventure in themselves.

We got a taste of some of the temples here in Yangon when we drove from the airport to our guesthouse and while walking through the city, but did not enter and explore any yet. Tomorrow we plan to visit the Shwedagon Paya among a few other sites around the city.

I have been pleased with my initial impression of Myanmar and look forward to our future adventures. We will try and be in contact as much as we can to let you know we are safe and how we are doing. We plan to be in Yangon for at least one more night and are unsure of our next destination as of now, but will let you know when we decide.

Jackie