Top 5
Avant-garde art and groundbreaking restaurants, framed by stunning golden pagodas… Yangon is quite literally a treasure trove, and one of Asia’s best kept secrets. Belmond’s Kim Westhoff shares her reasons to explore Myanmar’s largest city as soon as you can. By Kim Westhoff
There’s so much to see in Yangon, and a lot to discover without ever leaving the comfort of Belmond Governor’s Residence. Discover enchanting paintings around the hotel grounds, created by local artists. The collection, titled ‘A Sense of Place’, perfectly captures the spirit of the hotel.
Visit Sofaer & Co—where coffee and cocktails combine with a great Asian-fusion menu in an open kitchen setting. It's in downtown Yangon, a quick taxi ride from the hotel. Be sure to walk around the building before or after dinner. The architecture is fabulous and full of history.
The Shwedagon Pagoda is the city’s most iconic sight. There are no words to describe this temple and the beautiful Buddhas inside. Try to go at sunrise, the atmosphere is phenomenal and it’s usually a little less busy. Be sure and bring a wrap too, as legs must be covered to enter.
You cannot miss Chaukhtatgyi Buddha Temple. It houses one of the most revered reclining Buddha images in Myanmar. Currently under restoration, the amount of work that goes into maintaining this stunning figure is astonishing. It’s hard to imagine just how much gold is used on the toes alone.
Sarkies Bar is a tiny gem tucked inside the Strand Hotel. It offers the perfect cafe latte in the morning. As evening descends, you’ll find the best Mandalay Rum Sour you'll ever experience. Go on Friday night when the place is buzzing with both locals and ex-pats, sharing their stories of Myanmar.
Discover old-world enchantment at Belmond Governor's Residence, located in Yangon's leafy embassy district. It's the ultimate place to rest and unwind after a day exploring the colourful sights of the city,
Stretch out beside the fan-shaped swimming pool, or relax with a treatment in the Governor’s Oasis spa. Dusk is the perfect time to enjoy our famous "Mandalay Sour" cocktail, before a dinner served alfresco by candlelight.
So spoil yourself, and look forward to a truly indulgent retreat in Myanmar.
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