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Myanmar Photo Essay: Myanmar is Still Traditional
It was past 7:30 AM and I took a snapshot of the fleeting foggy morning of this
old city. The daylight panorama reminded me of the anticipation and adventure
that was about to come out of my body. I was finally at one of the most golden
countries in Asia: Myanmar.
In many
ways, Myanmar is still traditional. If you compare it to other neighboring
countries, Myanmar is probably stuck in the late 1990s era, where everything is
about reform: transformation from old to new. Old yet beautiful structures,
hard-working streets and roads, well respected temples and icons, and
down-to-earth faces and spaces. From cars, to lifestyle, to political system,
Myanmar is slowly (but surely) opening its doors of change. Myanmar shines as a
nation with so much potential.
Everything is kept simple here. Although they have a lot to offer as a country, from their golden pagodas to their immaculate geography, they don’t parade it. They are not show-offs, not because they don’t believe in nationalism or Myanmar pride, but because simplicity is in their very core values. Their history is so rich with colonialism and cultural diversity. This richness taught them to stick to what they know best: living by the “less is more” and “keep it simple” lifestyle. This core value has helped Myanmar endure all changes and progressions. It has reached the point where they’re able to preserve the important stuffs: landmarks, culture, people.
Also, this country is a big work in progress. There are a lot of fixing and educating to do. They are slowly opening up to new doors and this is by far the biggest challenge for them. Coming from a closed knit Myanmar nation, they are finding out new inputs and influences from the rest of the globe (so forgive them if they are still adjusting with these pressures). But despite every transformation, Myanmar is adapting well. All thanks to their strong sense of hope. They work hard and hope that their best efforts would bring good changes. Just like how our friendly taxi driver described it, “Myanmar’s evident improvement gives us hope, that’s why we work hard. That’s why I work harder.”
Traveling and immersing oneself to the Myanmar ways will give one a clearer understanding of simplicity and hope. The anticipation and adventure that you’ll experience in this country is guaranteed to work well with the country’s overall impact.
[MYANMAR TRAVEL] Read the rest of Explore Myanmar Travel Blog Series:
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