Be fascinated by the cultural legacy of these Buddhist countries. Burma (Myanmar) is a country of contrasts with dazzling pagodas, colonial-era buildings, shimmering rice fields and saffron robed monks. The trip begins in Angkor, the cultural and spiritual heart of the Khmer civilization. View magnificent temple art, bas-relief and sculpture being overtaken by the jungle at Ta Phrom and a masterpiece of Khmer art, entirely constructed of red sandstone at Banteay Srei. View an unforgettable sunrise over Angkor as the hues change slowly and subtly over the world’s largest religious monument!
Reflect on the unforgettable beauty and tranquility of the golden Shwedagon Pagoda and the bustling Scott Market with reasonably priced native folk art, antiques, silver and tribal textiles. View the magnificent temple ruins and pagodas of Bagan’s Golden Age from the 11th – 13th centuries when a frenzy of building took place. Travel to the natural preserve of Inle Lake with its one-leg rowers, floating gardens and markets filled with colorful tribes.
Fly to Chiang Mai, with cool highland air, unique architecture, moats and temples. Shop for stunning silks, rich celadon, silver, delicate hand-made paper, wooden puppets and beautiful bronzes. Travel by boat along the Kok River, enjoy an elephant safari and walk in nearby tribal villages. Explore the exuberant tropical rainforests before arriving in the northern frontier town of Chiang Rai and to the infamous Golden Triangle. Admire the varied architecture of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, and stand in awe at the grandeur of the Thai Grand Palace
FESTIVALS: Photograph the bullock cart caravans filled with devotees celebrating the month long pagoda festival. Wander around the makeshift town, view local theater and shop for handicrafts.
