Myanmar, the country formerly known as Burma, is one of the few truly original travel experiences remaining in this much-traveled world. Decades of social and economic isolation have preserved here many of the traditional features, physical and cultural, which have been lost in other Asian countries. Myanmar is a captivating travel destination - for its diversity of sightseeing, for the wealth of cultural and scenic attractions it can offer and, above all, for the warmth and friendliness of its charming people.

With a land area of 677,000 sq km, Myanmar is the largest country in Southeast Asia. It shares borders with Bangladesh, India, China, Laos and Thailand. Approximately the size of France and Great Britain combined, it stretches over 2,000 km, north to south, and almost 1,000 km from east to west. It has a coastline of over 2,500 km facing over the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. With a population of some 48 million, Myanmar is a union of many different ethnic groups, 135 of them, each with its own language and traditions. The majority, about 68% of the population, are Burmans, with other major groups including, Karens, Chins, Kachins, Shans, Kayins, Kayars, Mons and Rakhines. Over 85% of the people are Buddhist and deeply devout.

Some 75% of the people live in rural areas. The population of Yangon is estimated at around five million, Mandalay at around one million. The main language of Myanmar is Burmese, with many other tribal languages and dialects being spoken in upcountry areas . English is spoken quite widely, especially in cities and by older people.

Early civilization in Myanmar dates back to the 5th century and reached its peak of power and creativity in the 11th - 15th century. The country is blessed by nature with great geophysical diversity, with scenery varying from the vast central agricultural plains, to snow-capped mountains in the far north. The Shan States feature cool and verdant hills, while the long coastline offers endless golden beaches still to be opened up for tourism. From north to south flows the majestic Ayeyarwaddy (Irrawaddy), one of the world's greatest rivers and source of agricultural wealth to millions. Potentially, Myanmar is one of the region's richest economies, with every type of natural resource. Tourism is seen as being one of the greatest opportunities for development, but, for now, the numbers of tourists are few. There will never be a better time to visit.

Much of the country's attraction is in its history and artistic culture. Myanmar lies at the meeting point of two of the world's great civilizations, China and India, but it blends both of these influences with its own very special local characteristics. The people have preserved traditional values, and are deeply devout in their religion, with a close-knit family system and respect for elders still powerfully observed. Myanmar people are fun-loving and festivals form the center of Myanmar social life, with each month having its own festive occasion. Myanmar people are also known for their sense of hospitality and friendliness to visitors.