With tourism increasing to more than 5 million travelers a year, Myanmar is the last unchartered tourist destination left in Southeast Asia. Myanmar is still truly authentic, beautiful, but as soon as the tourism and development starts to pickup “affordable” will be out the window. Which is why it is one of our top destinations in 2016 to visit, explore pagodas, cuisine, and culture.  The Burmese are also quickly trying to learn english, so don’t be surprised if a genuinely nice person comes up to you on the street with a, “Hello, whats your name”?

When staying in the city’s capital, there is only place you should stay: Sule Shangri-La, formerly known as the Traders Hotel. The hotel exterior is modern while the interior has the classic Shangri-La luxury mixed with details from Myanmar culture. Double crystal chandeliers adorn the lobby and well as bright peacock murals along the lobby bar. Hand-carved wooden art pieces are showcased throughout the hotel. Many local artists are represented in the hotel, each with their own creative depictions of Burmese stories.

The 484 rooms at the hotel are recently remodeled with modern amenities with a distinctive Asian tradition. Each room comes equipped with a large window that looks out onto the city, river or Shwedagon Pagoda. Flat-screen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, fine linens and marble bathrooms complete the guest experience. Stay in one of the Horizon Rooms and Suites, which are situated on a higher floor, with the best views of the city, Yangon River, and the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. For a little extra, you can upgrade to these rooms and enjoy private check-in/check-out, exclusive access to the Club Lounge with daily beverage and ‘happy hour’, Buffet Breakfast at the lounge while enjoying the 360 panoramic views of the city.

There are multiple dining options that offer international cuisine or more daring traditional Burmese cuisine. Summer Palace is the hotel’s signature Chinese Restaurant, specializing in Cantonese Dim Sum and authentic Chinese dishes. If you’re in for a adventure, try the chicken feet cooked in an aromatic sauce.  Also, don’t forget to order our fresh and creamy Mango Pudding for dessert. Head to the Gallery Bar for their crowd-favorite Happy Hour and be sure to order the “Mandalay Sour”. The hotel’s renovation also included the three other venues – Café Sule for international flavours and Asian favourites; the iconic Peacock Lounge, perfect for listening to the piano with a fresh fruit cocktail, and the Gourmet Shop serving freshly baked goods, snacks and beverages.