Burma is undoubtedly one of the most welcoming countries in Asia. With Buddhism as a majority belief, the number of monks and nuns stands out, some 500,000, who roam the streets of cities and towns. As children, they are pushed by their families to these communities, to acquire merits and respect from their friends and family.
Monks, temples, and pagodas, modify the spiritual aura that is observed throughout the country. The millions of stupas ascend from the ground surrounded by gold to recover its most sacred side. The temples, monumental, exorbitant, great, bring the most mystical air to the place. Huge stone constructions, with interiors full of rectangular corridors that close their 4 typical faces, housing Buddhas of different shapes and colors.
In the streets, in the markets, in the squares … the Burmese people are friendly and close. A culture where a man keeps active important work in the care of children in families. Both genres wear longvy, a skirt as a typical outfit, except in the largest cities where the most modern areas are determined to westernize. This garment, in part, unifies the genres, sets aside the differences in search of a more generic and global aesthetic.
Most Burmese people have their faces painted. Either with some simple drawings or brush-style patterns, they are covered with a paste called Thanaka. This mass is created from the bark of the Thanaka tree, mixed with a little water to create a natural barrier against the sun as well as wearing a beautiful make-up.
Myanmar is a mostly rural region, it is characterized by having a great hustle and bustle of locals in any corner. Markets, streets, rivers, temples, monasteries, all are filled with joy and enthusiasm. As in many Southeast Asian countries, the train is marked as the cheapest transportation option for Burmese, as it is quite slow and unpredictable. In his wagons, time stops, and the bustle of the streets, street vendors, laughter, impromptu meals, embarrassed glances at the tourist follow. A place to get lost and discover the goodness it hides.
The sun, as in most Southeast Asian countries, sets the pace for the day. Break the silence at dawn, fixing the vigorous movement of small cities. The sunset, in this case, stays for observation and meditation. It is possibly one of the most incredible places where you can enjoy stunning sunsets. The sun goes out behind temples, bridges or pagodas, creating an aura worthy of a country as mystical as Myanmar.
