Politics Aside:  Why travel there?

Why travel to Myanmar when there has been so much controversy in light of the repressive military regime that has ruled the country since 1988? Many believe that staying away signifies a protest to the junta. However, following the imposition of U.S. sanctions in 2003, tourism dropped sharply. The U.S. State Department now reports that as a result, 40,000 workers in Myanmar's garment industry immediately lost their jobs, and another 60,000 will.

At AdventureWomen, I believe that we, as travelers, carry torches that can illuminate a country. The people of Myanmar deserve our support, both economic and emotional. A growing number of tourists traveling throughout the country can bring hope and light, friendships, and fresh ideas to the general population. It's the people, not the government, who benefit financially from our tourist dollars; the people who work in restaurants, hotels, crafts markets, travel companies, virtually all of which are privately owned.

A visit to Myanmar will put a human face on what is at stake there, and we cannot help but come away with a deeper understanding of the country and its people. Burma, now called Myanmar, and Laos are two of the most exotic and least explored countries of Buddhist Indochina. Here we have a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the Asia of old. Our journey incorporates classic wonders and unique natural phenomena: the magic of Yangon and Mandalay; the ancient ruins of Pagan; the former colonial hill station of remote Kengtung; shimmering golden-spired temples; the floating gardens of Inle Lake; and fascinating tribal peoples of both Laos and Burma.

Take this special opportunity to join AdventureWomen on this incredible adventure!

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

• Enjoy the hospitality of the world’s most friendly people, where Buddhism permeates all strands of cultural, ethical, and secular life.
• Explore the fabled cities of Mandalay, Yangon, Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and the ancient ruins of Bagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Discover the charms of Inle Lake and its “leg rowers” in a magical world of floating villages and gardens, little-touched by the modern world.
• Walk to ethnic and tribal villages to meet and learn about the indigenous hill tribe peoples who live in remote villages of Burma and Laos.
• Combine the bygone era of two of the most exotic and least-explored countries in Southeast Asia, with luxury hotel accommodations and some of the region’s best restaurants.