The city of Yangon, Myanmar's former capital, holds a fine surprise in store. Its classic architecture, embodied in its colonial buildings, is a marvel to behold. You'll walk with your eyes wide open. Yangon is indeed the largest city in Southeast Asia with buildings dating from the colonial era. You'll find streets bustling with life, under the curious gaze of locals not yet quite used to tourists. You can stop for a local tea or coffee (very sweet) at one of the pavement terraces.
If you were to see only one thing in Yangon, make it the dazzling Shwedagon Pagoda. It's breathtaking. This is the national treasure and essential place of worship for every Burmese. You'll see this magnificent stupa, “Shwedagon”, which means “gold” in the local language. Inside, the Buddha's own hairs are said to be carefully preserved. You'll also see a multitude of jewels hanging from the top of the structure — astonishing, when you consider they're worth more than a billion dollars! Visit preferably in the late afternoon, to soak in its mystical atmosphere.
Yangon is also home to the country's most famous market, Bogyoke Aung San Market — the ideal place to buy antiques, gold jewellery and other souvenirs. You can also pick up the traditional local garment, the longyi.
This wonderful corner of the country still has surprises in store: next come its two great artificial lakes, Inya Lake and Kandawgyi Lake. Their shores offer idyllic walking paths, while their fragrant gardens are known for their charm.
