While retaining much of the natural, untouched beauty of its ancient past, Myanmar is a country emerging. A journey on the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady) and Chindwin Rivers provide a glimpse into this distant world and its newfound voice. While Myanmar is slowly developing its infrastructure, river cruise lines have been offering a comfortable way to discover the country.  Witness a traditional Noviciation Ceremony of local monks, experience a local tea shop, explore caves with nearly 500 Buddha chambers carved into the hillside, or enjoy a jungle trek.

During the dry season, October through May, is the best time for a trip to Myanmar. Temperatures will range from 72°F to 100°F. Except for September, which is the least desirable and most rainy, other months are fine for travel, too.

Burmese Days (G. Orwell), Finding George Orwell in Burma (E. Larkin), Letters From Burma (A. San Suu Kyi), The Road to Wanting (W. Law-Yonem), Miss Burma (C. Craig), The River of Lost Footsteps (T. Myint-U), The Long Path to Wisdom (J. Sendker), The Trouser People (A. Marshall), The Glass Palace (A. Ghosh), From the Land of Green Ghosts (P. Khoo Thwe), Under the Dragon: A Journey Through Burma (R.y MacLean).