Myanmar — known formerly as Burma — is an enigma to most Western travelers. Until very recently this relatively large, politically socialist and profoundly Buddhist country had voluntarily shut itself off from the rest of the world. Then slowly, cautiously, the doors began to open. Because entry was restricted for so long, Myanmar is still largely unspoiled by modern influences and retains much of its Old World charm. Buddhist shrines abound everywhere in this country. You will discover a people who are spiritual, compassionate and soft-spoken living in a land of both abundance and poverty. Through its arts, crafts, history, cuisine, and amazing sights, you’ll come to appreciate much about this beautiful and mysterious land. This is a special opportunity to visit an extraordinary place.
The centerpiece of our journey to Myanmar is a 3-night cruise aboard the Orient-Express ROAD TO MANDALAY. Setting the standard for today's excellence in travel, Orient-Express offers an elegant sophisticated way to explore the most remote areas of Myanmar. This is an indispensable part of our journey.

Day 1 -- BANGKOK - YANGON
Meet at the Bangkok airport early this morning for our flight to Yangon which departs at 8:00am. Take a short flight to Yangon (formerly Rangoon). Upon arrival, transfer to the elegant Strand Hotel. Following lunch at the hotel, tour the colonial-style buildings downtown, the Chinatown area, and the Indian quarter. Stop at Sule Pagoda with its golden chedi, then continue to Botathaung Pagoda, which is said to contain relics of Buddha. Experience sunset at the world-famous Shwedagon Pagoda, the heart of Buddhist Myanmar. The Pagoda is believed to be 2,500 years old, and its massive golden central stupa is surrounded by dozens of intricately decorated buildings and statues. Dinner this evening is at Le Planteur, Yangon’s finest French restaurant.

Day 2 -- YANGON
Our morning begins at Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda with its huge, reclining Buddha. Continue to the newly renovated National Museum to view the Lion’s Throne and stop at Bogyoke Market to browse for Myanmar’s wide range of handicrafts. After a savory Burmese lunch at Green Elephant Restaurant, we visit Yangon’s unique glass factory, where skilled craftsmen create original hand-blown glassware. Dinner and overnight are at the Strand Hotel.

Day 3 -- YANGON - HEHO - INLE LAKE
Transfer to YAngon Airport for a short flight to Heho. Ride to Nyaungshwe on the edge of Inle Lake and board our own local boat to our hotel, the Inle Lake View Resort. Lunch at the hotel. A photographer’s dream, the lake’s calm waters are dotted with floating vegetation and fishing canoes, while scenic high hills provide the perfect backdrop. During an afternoon lake cruise, look for the lake’s unique "leg rowers" —Intha people who row standing up with one leg wrapped around an oar. Visit Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the holiest religious site in southern Shan State, then see traditional Myanmar handicrafts — such as silk weaving on wooden hand looms. We pass endless floating gardens, where fruit and vegetables are grown. A stop at Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery gives us the opportunity to view its famous "jumping cats". Dinner and overnight at Inle Lake View Resort.

Day 4 -- INLE LAKE
This morning, we cruise to at the village of Maing Thauk on the edge of Inle Lake. Walk through the village and continue up the hill to a stupa which affords us fantastic views over the lake and surrounding hills. Lunch today is on the lake at Ann's Place. This afternoon, we travel by boat tour to Indaing at the western end of the lake. En route, we pass through a long channel where we observe farmers cultivating their produce. Again, our dinner and accommodation are at Inle Lake View Resort.

Day 5 -- INLE LAKE - HEHO - MANDALAY - EMBARK Road To Mandalay
After a morning flight from Heho to Mandalay board the Road To Mandalay berthed on the Ayeyarwady River at Shwe Kyet Yet, opposite the beautiful pagoda-studded Sagaing Hills. After lunch on board enjoy a guided tour of the key sights of Mandalay, regarded as the centre of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning. Return to the ship stopping en-route to admire sunset over the river. Enjoy dinner and local entertainment on board in the evening. Overnight on board.

Day 6 -- SAGAING
After breakfast visit Sagaing, the living centre of the Buddhist faith in Burma and famous for its silver and silversmiths, who still work in much the same way as their ancestors did. The ship gets underway mid morning for its journey south. The rest of the day is spent relaxing on board, observing the fascinating local river life from the top deck. In the afternoon, your guide gives a lecture on the Myanmar way of life. Enjoy dinner and local entertainment on board during the evening.