With Hayley Anderson

10th - 24th February 2018(15 days)

· YANGON · NAI PYI TAW · INLE LAKE · MANDALAY · PYIN OO LWIN · BAGAN ·

OVERVIEW Burma is blossoming; its extraordinary culture, natural beauty and famously friendly people are more accessible than ever. Embark on a gentle adventure mixing train journeys with comfortable coach connections, flights and boat trips.

This tour offers a rare chance to discover mystic Burma from its many angles; the bustling modern nation of Myanmar, the deeply spiritual and atmospheric world of Buddhist temples and shrines, the colonial environs of old Burma and wild, dramatic scenery of mountains, lakes, valleys and rivers.

The trains are authentic and full of character, revealing a special experience of life with the locals, while the plane and coach journeys personify a more modern Myanmar. Our unique tour is capped off with numerous serene boat excursions on picturesque lakes and rivers, delicious local food and opulent, resort-style accommodation.

WHY TRAVEL WITH US

• Small groups - less queuing, easier access to attractions, better chance to get to know your fellow travellers.• Unique itineraries with authentic experiences - lovingly crafted tours with a focus on spectacular scenery, heritage and culture via private

charters, VIP access and genuine cultural activities. • Expert local guides - the inside story from the locals.• Gently paced - plenty of time to smell the roses, go shopping, explore, and chill out• Fully escorted tours - experienced, knowledgeable, caring and well-resourced tour leaders who will make sure your adventure is as stress-

free as possible

MEET YOUR TOUR LEADER

Hayley Anderson has had a lot of experience in the travel industry, living and working in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia and Africa, and touring Canada. She has worked for Scenic Tours as a tour director, for nine years taking passengers all around Australia, extensively touring NZ and taking tours to Africa, Indochina and Canada. She is currently working with Bill Peach Journeys (BPJ) as a casual journey director, looking after high-end tours around Australia, New Zealand and overseas.

When she is not on tour with BPJ, Hayley works casually for several companies, taking passengers from visiting cruise ships around Sydney and beyond (including QLD). Hayley has worked with people of all ages and nationalities and understands how important holidays are to her passengers – she is passionate about not only justifying the financial outlay but their high expectations and dreams.

Young Monk, Ananda Temple Fishermen on Inle Lake

Hayley Anderson

Pyin Oo Lwin

Kalaw

Thazi

Mektila

Bagan

Nai Pyi Taw

Inle Lake

Mandalay

Yangon

HOW YOU WILL TRAVEL

The best train trips possible, private luxury coach for off-train travel and many other appealing ways to see the country. Here’s a selection:

HIGHLIGHTS • Soak up the colonial grandeur and golden pagodas of Yangon• Experience the surreal reality of Myanmar’s newly manufactured capital city• Sail on Inle Lake, Burma’s beautiful inland sea and enjoy life in a floating hotel• Climb the ranges on one of Asia’s most scenic railways in your own private carriage• Take a nostalgic trip on the road to Mandalay, the ancient capital of the Kings• Retreat to the cool mountain top Hill Stations and cross one of the world’s most dramatic railway viaducts• Explore ancient Bagan’s thousands of pagodas, temples and Stupa’s and take the unforgettable option to view them

from a hot air balloon

TOUR MAP

Burma Railway - The line to Kalaw Boats on Inle Lake Hot Air Balloons, Bagan

Coach

Train

Boat

Plane

Gokteik Viaduct

Day 1: Sat 10th Feb - Yangon arrivalUpon arrival at Yangon International Airport you will be met and transferred to our hotel to check in.Join Scott and your fellow travellers for a welcome reception and dinner at a local institution, the House Of Memories Restaurant.Overnight at Sule Shangri-La, Yangon (D)

Day 2: Sun 11th Feb- Yangon After a lavish buffet breakfast in the hotel we board our coach for a tour of the city including a visit to the National Museum to see an extensive collection related to the history, culture and civilization of the Burmese people. We pause for lunch at the popular Padonmar Restaurant before continuing our tour of the city with a ride on the new tram to the dock area. Enjoy some free time in the early afternoon, re-grouping at sunset to visit one of the world’s most spectacular monuments, the Shwedagon Pagoda. The largest pagoda in the country, it towers over the city and is considered the most sacred place in the land, as it was built to house the sacred relics- the famous eight hairs of the Buddha. Enjoy an evening at leisure.Overnight at Sule Shangri-La, Yangon (B, L)

Day 3: Mon 12th Feb- YangonThis morning we transfer to Yangon Railway Station for a ride on the circle line. The popular slow-train travels through various Yangon neighbourhoods and the outskirts of the city. Observe the lively and colourful life of the city and the Burmese people as they go about their business. The afternoon is free to go shopping at the huge Bogyoke Aung San Market (formerly known as Scott’s Market) adjacent to the hotel or explore more of the grand old city of Yangon.Overnight at Sule Shangri-La, Yangon (B, L)

Day 4: Tues 13th Feb- Yangon—Nay Pyi TawAfter breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to Yangon airport for the short flight to Nay Pyi Taw, the capital city of Burma. Being the third largest city after Yangon and Mandalay, it’s home to over one million people and boasts one of the shortest histories of any city in the world, having been created from scratch in 2002. It is also one of the world’s fastest growing!Upon arrival we’ll transfer to the hotel before taking a trip around the pristine manufactured city to the Water Fountain Garden, the national museum and Uppatasanti Pagoda, also called the ‘Peace Pagoda’, a massive structure completed in 2009. At the base of the pagoda you’ll be able to see the royal white elephants. We transfer back to our hotel where we have time to enjoy the facilities and settle in for dinner in the hotel’s signature restaurant. Overnight at Lake Garden MGallery Hotel, Nay Pyi Taw (B, D)

Day 5: Wed 14th Feb- Nay Pyi Taw—MeiktilaEnjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before some time at leisure to explore the city. Alternatively, take advantage of the hotel’s extensive spa and wellness centre. The late check-out allows time to have lunch before we depart by coach for the three-hour trip to Meiktila.Set on a charming lake, the bustling city of Meiktila is a popular stop en route to many places beyond. After a short town tour, we check into the hotel and relax by the lake before a delicious dinner at the hotel.Overnight at Floral Breeze Hotel, Meiktila (B, D)

Day 6: Thurs 15th Feb- Meiktila—Thazi—Kalaw—Nyaung Shwe—Inle LakeToday is a full day of travel, utilizing various modes of transportation. Departing from the hotel by coach, we meet the train at Thazi station at 7.00 am and settle into our exclusive carriage attached to the regular train for the ride up the mountain. Take in the sweeping vistas as the train climbs and zigzags up the ranges toward the hill station of Kalaw. This is one of the most scenic lines in the country. The train is rustic and well patronised by the locals heading to and from markets and communities up and down the line. The steady pace allows ample opportunity to take in the countryside and enjoy the parade of life, trackside and on board.We pull into the old British Hill Station of Kalaw and have a short town tour before lunch at the charming Pine Hill Resort. We’ll then travel by coach through the hills to Nyaung Shwe where we connect with our lake boat for our transfer across the wonderful Inle Lake to our floating hotel. This is a place to relax, unwind and enjoy a delicious meal, with the expansive deck and bar overlooking the lake and the setting sun.Overnight: Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle Lake (B, L, D)

Day 7: Fri 16th Feb- Inle LakeAfter a leisurely breakfast, join the excursion by boat on Inle Lake to explore the famous leg-rowing fishermen, typical floating gardens, local methods of fishing, village life and the magnificent scenery. Visit the weaving village of Inn Paw Khon, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, and one of the local markets in the Inle Lake region. Continue by boat to Nga Phe Kyaung Monastery and view the dozens of beautiful Shan Buddha images.Then we continue to Indein, one of the small villages of Inle Lake, located on the western bank. The scenic boat ride continues and the ancient ruined pagodas around the Pa-Oh village at Indein are a visual treat. The boat then transfers us back to the hotel in the mid afternoon for some free time to relax and soak up the sunset over the lake from the hotel’s great vantage point. Overnight: Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle Lake (B, L, D)

(Kids with Train) Typical scene along the line

Mt Popa

Day 8: Sat 17th Feb- Inle Lake—Heho—MandalayEnjoy an early breakfast at the hotel before transferring by boat and coach to Heho Airport for our flight to Mandalay. Mandalay is the second largest city and the last royal capital of Burma. Located 716 kilometres north of Yangon on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River, the city has a population of just one million and is a bustling hub and administrative centre for the region. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel, check in and enjoy some free time to relax. Later in the afternoon enjoy a tour the Mandalay Palace, the last royal city of the Burmese Kings, and visit the fascination gold pounders workshop.A buffet dinner in the sprawling gardens of the hotel is what’s in store for this evening. Overnight at Mandalay Hill Resort, Mandalay (B, D)

Day 9: Sun 18th Feb- Mandalay—Amarapura—MandalayEnjoy a morning tour of the sights of Mandalay, visiting the Mahamuni Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery and Kuthodaw Pagoda, taking time along the way to visit authentic markets and shops.After lunch, board our boat for an upriver cruise on the mighty Irrawaddy River to Mingun, taking in the sublime views of river life and scenery. Explore the ruins of the vast Mingun Paya, an impressive monument the size of a small mountain, before continuing with a visit to the Hsin Byu Me Paya, home to one of the largest bells in the world. Later you can join Scott for an optional dinner at a local restaurant, or choose to spend some time enjoying the many facilities at the hotel, or explore city at leisure. Overnight: Mandalay Hill Resort, Mandalay (B, L)

Day 10: Mon 19th Feb- Mandalay—Pyin Oo LwinOur coach departs in the morning for the two-hour scenic journey by road to Pyin Oo Lwin (formerly known as Maymyo), an atmospheric hill town located at the refreshing altitude of 1070 metres above sea level.Upon arrival at Pyin Oo Lwin, visit the local market and explore colonial era buildings downtown, before lunch in a colonial tea-house. After checking into our resort we’ll visit the spectacular National Kandawgyi Gardens, formerly known as the Botanical Gardens. Described as a dynamic, living monument in Myanmar, the gardens cover 176.8 hectares of hardwoods, bamboos, seasonal flowers, rare animal species and beautiful fountains and lakes.Back at the hotel later on, enjoy some leisure time before settling in for a lavish dinner.Overnight: Hotel Pyin Oo Lwin, Pyin Oo Lwin (B, L, D)

Day 11: Tues 20th Feb- Pyin Oo Lwin—Gokteik—MandalayOur epic adventure by rail and road up the mountain begins after breakfast, with a transfer to the station for the departure of the upcountry train.The serene beauty of the northern Shan State unfolds along the way. One of the great features of this journey is crossing the world-famous Gokteik viaduct. The bridge was built in the British period and was the largest railway trestle in the world when it was opened on the 1st January, 1900. We disembark at Gokteik station and board a special rail-car charter that creeps over the bridge while we hear the intriguing story of its construction, survival and current important use.We coach back to Pyin Oo Lwin with lunch on the way and enjoy an afternoon and evening free in this charming hill station town.Overnight: Hotel Pyin Oo Lwin , Pyin Oo Lwin (B, L)

Horse Cart at Mingun

Temple scene

Tribal girls at Inle Lake

Shwedagon Pagoda

Day 12: Wed 21st Feb- Mandalay—Mingun—Mandalay—BaganAfter breakfast at the hotel and a late checkout we’ll return to Mandalay where we’ll have lunch at a legendary local Chinese restaurant opposite the Palace. Following this we’ll transfer to the airport for a late afternoon flight to Bagan. Once checked into our hotel, relax over a lavish dinner on the hotel’s spacious deck overlooking the expansive gardens and pools. Overnight: Bagan Lodge, Bagan (B, L, D)

Day 13: Thurs 22nd Feb- BaganEnjoy a late start and a gentle journey through the wonders of old Bagan. From the 11th to 13th centuries, when Bagan was the capital of Burma, the rulers constructed thousands of huge stupas and temples, many of which are still standing today on the plain beside the Irrawaddy River. We visit the golden stupa of Shwezigon Pagoda. The Dhammayangyi Temple is famous for its massive structure and Sulamani Temple has the best stucco decoration in Burma. After lunch we’ll visit a traditional lacquerware workshop where we can observe the production of one of Myanmar’s best-known handicrafts. Later in the day, head out to the stunning and breathtaking archaeological site—the Ananda. From here we can soak up an unforgettable sunset over the plains from the upper terrace of one of the temples.Overnight: Bagan Lodge, Bagan (B)

Day 14: Fri 23rd Feb- BaganToday is a free day to soak up the atmosphere of Bagan. Options include a spectacular early morning flight in a hot air balloon (which is highly recommended). You can also visit the sacred and impressive peak of Mt. Popa, an extinct volcano that reaches 1,500 metres tall. The mountain is the spiritual home of the colourful Nat (pre-Buddhist) people. There are also many opportunities for shopping and browsing the markets or simply lounging around the hotel enjoying the facilities and the spa.Join Scott and your fellow travellers for a sunset boat cruise and sumptuous farewell dinner at the Nanda Restaurant, where you can also enjoy a traditional puppet show.Overnight: Bagan Lodge, Bagan (B, L, D)

Day 15: Sat 24th Feb- Bagan—Yangon- DEPARTBreakfast is in the hotel. Morning transfers will be arranged to Nyaung U Airport for your flight to Yangon and beyond.

INCLUSIONS

• 14 nights accommodation in 4-5 star hotels (or best available)• All sightseeing tours and transfer services with private air-

conditioned coach as detailed in the program • Meals as specified in the program

(B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner) • All entrance fees as mentioned in the program • English-speaking locally stationed guide throughout the trip• Train travel as mentioned in the program (upper class seats) • Domestic flights as mentioned in the program• Private local boat and horse cart excursions• Porter fees at the airports and hotels• All tipping• Return airport to hotel transfers

EXCLUSIONS

• International flights to and from Yangon • International airport tax • Visa arrangements for Myanmar (we can facilitate these)• Meals and services not mentioned in itinerary • All other personal expenses such as drinks, phone calls, laundry

services, camera fees where applicable• Travel insurance - required (cover against all cancellation costs, medical

expenses including repatriation in the event of accident or illness) • Early check-in and late check-out at hotels, if not mentioned in

the program

PRICE Per person twin share.................................. $7,495Single supplement ....................................... $1,595

Deposit (per person) .................. $500 at time of bookingFinal payment due by ......................... 1 December 2017

Bagan

Inle Lake

DETAILS SUBJECT TO CHANGEPlease note: we endeavour to have all the details of our tours correct at the time of printing however sometimes outside factors such as movements in foreign exchange rates, the availability of requested hotels or the operation of trains and other services may change. Therefore, items mentioned in the brochure such as quoted prices, hotels and inclusions are subject to change. Please check with us at the time of

booking.

ADDITIONAL TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTSWe can assist you with your international flights, pre- and post-travel including extended stays in Burma, visas, and travel insurance. Call our

office on 1300 733 323 if you would like to discuss options.

TERMS AND CONDITIONSFor more information regarding your ability to participate in this tour such as fitness levels, fees and charges, payment schedules, passport

validity and liabilities see the Terms and Conditions that accompany the booking form and can also be requested at any time.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR MYANMARMyanmar is a developing country; travel there can present some challenges. For example, internet services are few and far between, credit

cards are not always accepted and medical services are not the same standard as you would expect at home.There is no standard method of rating hotels, transport services, guides, etc. across the world. Many countries have differing official and unofficial ways of assessing these services and some do not rate services at all. Railway Adventures and Guidepost Tours use its discretion to

rate services and we rely on the local travel operator and our own inspections to choose the services included in this tour.

TRAINS IN MYANMARRail travel is basic, slow and the track is often bumpy, but for those who understand the limitations in comfort, the journey offers great scenery

and a chance to see the lives of the ordinary people who depend on the railways for cheap travel. Many Myanmar trains are slow, rustic and show up late. A 5-hour train trip can take up to 7 hours. We have made provision for this in the itinerary

and remain flexible with our scheduled train trips.

WHERE YOU WILL STAY

Hand-picked hotels and resorts based on location, customer feedback, value and atmosphere. Here’s a selection;

Sule Shangri-La, Yangon Myanmar Treasure Resort, Inle Lake

Hotel Pyin Oo Lwin, Pyin Oo Lwin Bagan Lodge, Bagan

THE RAILWAY ADVENTURES STORY

Railway Adventures was Launched in 2012 by well-known Australian TV personality and self-declared rail aficionado Scott McGregor. A lifelong passion for travel has taken Scott to scores of countries and his preference for rail has seen him exploring many of the world’s great train journeys, confirming his belief that the most relaxing and engaging way to see a country is by rail. Since 2012 more than 50 tours from Sweden to Sri Lanka, Tasmania to Transylvania, Britain to Burma and Venice to Vietnam have thrilled and delighted over 700 travellers. Scott’s numerous rail-themed TV documentaries, his ongoing involvement in rail heritage and his extensive connections with private train owners around the world guarantee that a Railway Adventures tour is exclusive, entertaining and authentic. New tours are launched regularly, inspired by new trains, new routes and the growing interest in taking a train to some of the world’s most fascinating places.

This tour is operated by Platinum Travel Corp in association with Scott McGregor’s Railway Adventures. ATAS Accreditation No: A10597

Bagan

“Thoroughly rewarding trip. Well constructed itinerary including both railway interest and a diverse variety of heritage sites...a most enjoyable journey.”

- Murray, AUCKLAND, NZ