The XtraSuitcase

 

At the beginning of the year, we had the opportunity to travel to Myanmar (Burma).  It was high on both of our "countries to see" list.  I can't even come up with words that accurately describe this country.  We loved it!   We took over 3000 photos in one week.  I will break it into several posts so you can absorb the beauty of this unique country. 

 

 

 

These two Padaung women were at a temple and were
there for the tourists.  They were
probably from the mountain villages between Burma and Thailand where the Kayan people
live.  The Padaung is one of
the eight ethnic Karen communities (in Myanmar, the Karen is known as Kayah).

 

 

 

 

This group is known for their women wearing brass rings around their necks, arms and legs.  They are often called the long-neck women of Myanmar. The
brass coils are first applied when the girls are about five years old, and as she grows older, longer coils are added.  The coils do not really stretch their neck, rather the weight of the brass pushes
down the collar bone and compresses the rib cage, giving the appearance of a
very long neck. 

 

 

 

 

The yellow color on the faces of the Myanmar is called Thanakha.  Only women and children wear it.  It
is used as a sunblock, insect repellent, and make up.  We had read about Thanakha prior to our visit, but thought we would only see it in the countryside.  We were quite surprised when the women checking us in at the passport counter had it on.  We learned that is is still very popular and is worn throughout Myanmar, even in the modern cities.  No other country uses it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

People ask us all the time if we ask permission before we take our photos, 95 % of the time we do.  We just hold up the camera and point.  Rarely do people turn us down, but if they do, we respect them.  In Myanmar, more than a few asked us to take their photos, children and adults.  The man below wanted us to take his.

 

 

 

 

 The Children

They were just precious. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of my favorites… best friends.  

 

 

 

 

This bunny is just too cute!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You would think it was winter from their hats and coats on, but it was just a cool morning (around 68).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The little fashionista

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A country of beautiful people.  If you you are considering visiting Myanamar – go now!  Check back for lots more photos and facts about this stunning country.