A journey through articles to explore Burma in depth

Burma (now called Myanmar) hasn't enjoyed the most stable of political situations for a good number of years now. Armed conflicts, power struggles and a fragile government make certain areas inaccessible, but they don't prevent travellers from enjoying the human, cultural and natural wonders which characterise this country so well.

Which films should you see, which books should you read, which music should you listen to before a trip to Burma (also known as Myanmar)? Here is some advice about some works to plunge yourself into the Burmese culture.

Unless you have studied Burmese culture and its dialects for many years, the presence of a local English speaking guide is essential for getting about in Burma (now Myanmar), interact with local inhabitants and, simply, to avoid any cultural blunders.

Nat Ma Taung, which is also called Mount Victoria, is the highest point of the Chin Hills and also the highest point in Chin State. It is more than 3,000 m high, which makes its one of the highest in south-east Asia.

When you talk about Burma (nowadays also called Myanmar), people immediately think about Buddhist monks, a multitude of pagodas with golden roofs, unequalled cultural riches or luxuriant forests. They usually forget that the country has coasts along a large part of its borders and is a seaside destination that hasn't yet been discovered by mass tourism.

Burma (which is also called Myanmar) is one of the most expensive destinations in south Asia and the prices are changing all the time. The country is still opening up and travellers can sense this in the everyday practicalities.

This article will help you decide on the best way to get around in Myanmar.

Myanmar's cuisine is perhaps less sophisticated than that of its neighbours but it is full of flavour and more consistent. You need to find the place where the locals eat - on the street - to admire the variety of meals made with rice and 5-10 sides. Feasts are savoured tepid in Myanmar so you need to come with a large appetite!

Mandalay and Bagan. Two names which will quickly be written in travel guides as two spiritual and historic destinations in the amazing and welcoming Burma. Two names that you must write on your list of places to visit in this country.

In this article you'll find information about religious practices in Burma.