The Jewel of Yangon

IT’S A PLACE where the elegance of a long-gone era mingles with the beauty and rich culture of the country now called Myanmar. From the traditional gong that welcomes you to the hotel, to the antique gramophone in the hotel bar—which is named after Kipling. A stay in this most peaceful place is a journey back to a slower time.

You can feel the stress melt away as you enter this colonial-style 1920s mansion. Situated in Yangon’s leafy Embassy District, this was once home to the Kaya States Governor. With its fan-cooled verandas, teak furniture and light-filled, spacious rooms, there’s an air of calm throughout. The evenings announce themselves softly with the fragrance of Myanmar’s exquisite flowers on the breeze. Breathe deeply and inhale the scent of orchids, red torch ginger and the native amherstia nobilis—known here as Queen of the Flowering Trees. Dusk is the perfect time to enjoy our famous "Mandalay Sour" cocktail, before a dinner served alfresco by candlelight.

Breakfast is just as lovely. Along with the local delicacies and fresh juices on offer, you can enjoy the delicate sounds of a harpist playing traditional Burmese music. Regal peacocks strut around the lawns, at home in the lush gardens. Among our other resident guests, we have two geese who enjoy swimming in our lotus ponds, along with turtles and colourful koi fish.

Here you’ll also find our fan-shaped swimming pool. Stretch out on a sunbed with a lemongrass iced tea and a good book. Colourful Shan umbrellas made, from Mulberry Tree paper and painted in traditional designs, provide the shade. Enjoy complimentary home-made ice creams and granitas in exotic flavors such as coconut, mango and jackfruit. And if that all sounds like hard work, you can indulge with five-minute shoulder or foot rubs from our on-hand spa therapists.

For those seeking deep relaxation and indulgence, the Governor’s Oasis spa awaits. Our signature massages, facials, body therapies and pampering manicure and pedicure packages incorporate ancient techniques and organic ingredients. We use all natural, ethical Ila products.

While morning yoga is offered to guests at weekends, Yangon itself is steeped in spirituality. Belmond Governor’s Residence is just ten minutes’ walk from the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda and the People’s Park, among other historic sights. You’re able to take in all the richness and energy of the city, with a uniquely peaceful, private retreat as your base.