Thailand and Vietnam were, once, exotic destinations. Now, it's an almost certain stop for those seeking adventure, a spiritual journey or a gastronomy feast. If you, on the other hand, is still looking for a more under the radar place for your vacations, you'll like to know a jewel hidden in Southeast Asia: Myanmar, or Mianmar, or Burma (the country has changed it's name and there are still doubts concerning the correct spelling).
Although the country is small, poor and far from a democratic government (there isn't the option of a journalists' visa for the international press) it's a safe place to visit. The capital, Yangon, has an international airport and several luxury hotels. In order to get there, most flights depart from Thailand (which makes it a good idea to visit both countries). The 5 stars hotels are in the "asian palace" category and in order to book a room during the high season (between November and March, wintertime, when is cooler and drier) you spend about 200 dollars at most.
During your visit, it's a good idea to get the know the local monasteries (the official religion of the country is Buddhism, although the constructions are far away from the Japanese austerity. The dome on the temples is built with layers of gold, ornamented with diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds). The beaches are also worth a visit, just as beautiful as any other in the Asian shoreline. Shopping must be made on the streets bazaars, where you can find a variety of good quality fabrics. One of the biggest attractions of the country, however, is it's culinary. Because of it's borders with both China and India, the Burmese cuisine is a mix of both and it's said to represent the best of each.
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