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Good news keeps streaming out of Myanmar: April 2012’s elections resulted in a parliamentary seat for Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of the National League for Democracy and the Obama administration is slated to soon appoint a U.S. ambassador (the first since 1990). It’s not just the political shift that has turned the southeast Asian country into this year’s most buzzed about destinations. Plugged-in travelers are discovering the cultural riches of Myanmar, like the temple-strewn fields of Bagan, the ancient capital of Mandalay and the on-the-water gardens of Inle Lake.

This destination report details how to map out an itinerary and what sights, restaurants, shops and experiences not to miss along the way.

Myanmar remains a destination that requires thoughtfulness and some travel savvy; contact our bookings team if you are planning a trip.

Read: Just Back From Myanmar

Read: Dispatch from Bagan

INDAGARE TOP TEN

SLEEP… in the serene atmosphere of Governor’s Residence

EXPERIENCE… Old Bagan’s fields of temples and pagodas

SPLURGE… on a cruise up the Irrawaddy aboard the Road to Mandalay

EAT… authentic Burmese cuisine at Yangon’s Padonmar restaurant

DRINK… a strong, sweet brew at a local teahouse

UNDERSTAND… the country’s history by reading these books before your trip

VISIT… Inle Lake’s floating gardens

SEE… Yangon’s gold Shwedagon Pagoda

SHOP… the handcrafted goods at Helping Hands Loft boutique

KNOW… that Myanmar is an emerging destination and that not everything will go according to plan

Indagare Tip: The best hotels and tour operators will be involved with social projects, like schools, monasteries, orphanages and mobile clinics, so ask what you can bring. Children’s books, crayons, notepads etc. are always welcome, especially in rural areas.