The famous Aung San Suu Kyi - the icon of democracy.
RECENT UPDATE:- News had it that Aung San Suu Kyi wins in the recent Myanmar election (April 2012).
I have said earlier this part of the series about “people” is going to be exciting. Continue reading
Myanmar, popularly known as Burma was colonized by Britain in the 19th century. To date, the remnants of British influence can still be seen in some of their dilapidated buildings which a few of them are being refurbished.
Built in 1939, Yangon City Hall represents a mixture of British and Burmese architecture.
Such a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Burma or Myanmar is the same country, previously Burma and now called Myanmar. The name has changed out of political reasons.
What is obvious about Myanmar (for a first time visitor like me) is its contrast. Though they were ruled under military junta and once colonized by British. Their culture remains in tact. For instance, the way they dress. I have not seen any woman who wear short skirts. Everyone is wearing a long skirt up to feet length. Men and women are eating betel nuts, that leaves a colored red in their mouth which stains their teeth. Plus, perhaps they are the only Asians who put tanaka powder on their face. And Burmese are really really hospitable people without a doubt. These are just a few spot on observations about Burmese unique culture.
Colorful Burmese dress that match these beautiful ladies
I was mistaken as a Burmese a few times because I look like one except that I can only speak “Chezu ba” (thank you) and “Mingalar bar” (hello). Someone told me “Chit tey” and I said sorry I’m not Burmese and I just smiled back and left. Later, I asked a local friend and I learned it means “I love you”. Then I said, oh I should have said “Chit tey too” 
).
