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MYANMAR
Destination | Yangon
Country Code: +95
Currency: Kyat (pronounced “chat”) and US dollar
FROM THE AIRPORT
 Hotel transfers: Higher-end hotels offer a limousine service to and from the airport’s brand-new departure terminal that costs about US$22 one way and takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Taxi: Decrepit taxis wait outside the terminal and charge US$7 one way (few have decent, if any, air-conditioning). For classic Mercedes with chauffeur, contact Mr Tin Soe at (0)95 113567 or email kothet@rediffmail.com
TABLE TALK
Cheap chic: Monsoon Who can resist this bright, yellow-painted all-rounder serving great coffees, delicious ice-cream, satisfying snacks and yummy Asian-style meals? Popular among both expats and Burmese, Monsoon’s laid-back atmosphere is welcoming at any time of the day. Pair a refreshing smoothie with Th ai, Burmese or Indochinese nibbles. 85-87 Theinbyu Road, Botataung Township, tel (0)1 295224
Mid-range magic: L’Opera Italian Restaurant Set in a charming old house close to the lovely Inya Lake, this restaurant dishes up dandy Italian fare. It offers indoor or alfresco tables on which to delight in homemade pastas, gnocchi or pizzas, accompanied by a terrific wine list. Save space for the tiramisu! Open for lunch and supper. 20 Thu Kha Waddy Road, Yankin Township, tel (0)1 566662, www.myanmars.net/lopera
Gourmet: Mandalay Restaurant Aussie Chef Peter Waters has created a truly international menu blending both Burmese influences and his own modern Pacific-Rim style. Dine on the succulent seafood, tender lamb or dip into his curries. Also look out for desserts aplenty and a wine list to note. Enjoy an outstanding fusion meal on the verandah or in the garden amid illuminated parasols, above which classical Burmese dancers perform for your entertainment. 37 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township, tel (0)1 229860
AFTER DARK
Cocktail hour: Sakura Tower Head for the Thiripyitsaya Sky Lounge on the top floor of this centrally located office tower. Settle into canvas director’s chairs in this glass-enclosed lounge from which you can look down and admire the mesmerising temples and city lights below. 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township, tel (0)1 255255
Late night: Le Planteur Just reopened in a delightful new location in a former English colonial home, this long-established bar and Swiss-French restaurant now has a huge tropical garden, which can cater for up to 250 guests and boasts Mick Jagger and Jane Birkin among its clientele. The champagne and wine list features bottles from France, Switzerland, Italy, Australia and even Myanmar. 22 Kabaye Road, Bahan Township, tel (0)1 541997, www.leplanteur.com
HOT SPOTS
Bogyoke Market: Formerly known as Scott Market, this sheltered complex is a shopping institution for both Burmese and visitors alike. With its 1920s clock tower and myriad alleyways and levels, it is packed with food stalls and vendors selling daily wares: velvet slippers, sarongs known locally as longyis (pronounced “lun-jee”) and the yellow thanaka powder that the Burmese ladies smear on their skins to keep off the sun. Closed on Mondays and holidays. www.bogyokemarket.com
INSIDER TIPS
ATMs are not available in Myanmar and credit cards are not readily accepted, so make sure that you have enough cash with you. Keep your valuables like passports, jewellery and money in a secure place at all times and always make use of the hotel safes where available.
BODY & SOUL
La Source: Set in a Dutch colonial-style villa surrounded by a tree-filled garden, this upscale spa is designed to pamper you amidst tropical serenity. Its friendly staff speak good English and use imported beauty products. Open until 7pm. 80A Inya Road, Kamayut Township, tel (0)1 512380/511252
BOUTIQUE BEDS
The Governor’s Residence: Recently restored to its former 19th century glory, this stately teak mansion is now part of the Orient-Express Hotel’s portfolio. Offering long verandahs and lush garden courtyards, revel in its refurbished suites, fusion menus and lovely swimming pool. A tranquil retreat from urban mayhem. 37 Taw Win Road, tel (0)1 229860, www.governorsresidence.com
DAY TRIPPING
Ayerwady Cruise to Thanlyin: Downstream from Yangon is a small pagoda set on an island. The highlight – apart from the beautiful scenery and temples along the banks – is the pagoda’s pool of giant fish that demand constant feeding! Trips can be arranged through reputable travel agents or through your hotel concierge.
IN THE KNOW
While US dollars are accepted widely in most tourist venues and can be easily changed for kyat, any bill that is torn or marked in any way will be rejected – even by a bank! Check that your dollars are pristine before you enter Myanmar and refuse any soiled dollars that may be offered as change.
Compiled by Charlotte Shalgosky
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