There are few places left in the world where we can escape every day, but Myanmar, still referred to by many as Burma, is one of them. An enchanting country that, despite its complex history, continues to delight travellers from all corners of the world, it is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and ethnic groups, who now, after years of conflict, live in relative peace.

Image right: belmond.com 

As Myanmar is now considered a ‘safe’ destination for international travellers, tourism is growing at an impressive rate, and if you have already done neighbouring countries Thailand, India, Laos, and Bangladesh, it could be the perfect choice for your next Southeast Asian Holiday.

There are many options available for intrepid travellers who want to explore Burma, such as independent touring, small group escorted tours and sporting adventures, but if you’d like to explore this magical country in style, one of the best ways to do so is with an epic voyage along the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River on the Belmond Road to Mandalay Cruise.

An intimate experience, limited to just 86 guests in 43 cabins, the Belmond Road to Mandalay River Cruise soothes away the stresses of life as it floats along Burma’s most fabled river on a journey of a lifetime. From your prime position on the observation deck, where cocktails form part of the day, you’ll witness ancient pagodas, charming fishing villages, and the most exquisite sunsets, and if the heat of the day gets too much, you can simply cool off in the pool before taking solace on one of the sumptuously upholstered loungers.

The Belmond Road to Mandalay offers a selection of voyages ranging from one night hops to eight-day adventures. It coordinates beautifully with beach breaks and island explorations in the Mergui archipelago, so why not combine the two and embark on a trip you’ll never forget to the magical, mystical Myanmar.