This is Burma and it is unlike any land you know about.
Rudyard Kipling, Letters from the East (1898)
bagan, myanmar
Whether you travel Myanmar by road, air or water, you’ll quickly discover why this country is often called the Golden Land. But recently, Myanmar began their first ever branding campaign and their new tagline is a perfect description:
Let the journey begin.
My ten days in Myanmar was most definitely the beginning of a journey and one that I didn’t want to end. Ten days was only a taste. Yes, we explored the typical tourist route of Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon. Yes, with lots and lots of golden pagodas, stupas, and Buddhas. But what a country. So rich in culture, heritage, traditions and scenery that will take your breath away. The people…more warm, friendly and beautiful than one could’ve ever imagined.
Myanmar, previously known as Burma, was largely closed to the world for decades until a few years ago. It’s like a country coming out of a time capsule. Perhaps there’s a shower without hot water, or a room with little heat, or the electricity flickering off and on, or the internet connection as slow as molasses or none at all. So yes, the infrastructure is still weak, but that also adds to the charm. It’s so untouched and not yet ruined by our western ways. But there’s a feeling in the air that probably won’t last for long.
I’m not a big picture photographer. I love the details, so you won’t see many captures of the most famous Buddhas and temples that Myanmar is known for. You have the internet for that. The details of the people, their culture and their way of life is what drives my photography passion during my travels. And trust me…it was photography heaven during this journey!
Coming soon…the best of Mandalay…
You’re so correct, Robin, the landmarks are what we can get off the internet. That’s exactly what I love about your photographs – The details, the people. XO
I can’t wait to hear the story behind this photograph. The details are incredible and I am trying to determine if this is a village. Love you!!
This is a great picture. Can’t wait to see the rest. Thanks for taking us along on your travels
Yes please, let your journey begin! Am so curious to see more of the people and the “small things”.
You really ARE the master of detail-photography, Robin, which is the ace up your sleeve. We have grown to love this about your images. I can just imagine what you’ll be showing us in the days to come.
Those of us who are big-picture photographers learn from you who show the details. I’m one who tries to do both, as you know, in order to preserve the stories of our Journey…without anyone having to Google for more, unless they want to. On one page I want to see the gist of what we saw, to remember. It’s just another way of show-and-telling, I guess. It could also be because I’m a Gemini? HA!
Beautiful. Can’t wait to see and hear more… XoXo MORE!!!
I’m so waiting for exactly this: seeing Myanmar through your eyes. But even when I’ve seen similar pictures before, this one from the pagodas is a wonderful Robinesque version with the certain something all your pictures have. Love!
Golden and magical … this image lets you know for sure that the people will be warm and welcoming. What a special trip for you!
The details and the way you see them imbue your photos with richness and character, not to mention stirring beauty.
Love your photography philosophy! The story is always in the details. Beautiful capture!