1. WHERE TO STAY? 💤
Hotel G - No. 5 Alan Pya Pagoda St
A Millennial hotspot with compact and modern rooms, starting from £60 ($74 USD) a night. Hotel G encapsulates modern Asia rather than traditional Bermese culture. If you're looking to escape the craziness of Yangon, you'll find a bustling wine bar and good quality restaurant here. If you fancy a change from the local cuisine, the restaurant at Hotel G offers a nice range of western dishes (which you won't find too often during your trip to Myanmar).
2. WHAT TO DO/ SEE 🗺
Shwedagon Pagoda (Shwedagon Zedi Daw)
Often referred to as 'the Great Dagon Pagoda', this historic Buddhist temple is situated on Singuttara Hill in the center of Yangon and it is a 'must see' at sunset. You'll need to beat the crowds but it's well worth it to see this incredible golden temple burst into light as the sun goes down. As well as a tourist destination, this is UNESCO World Heritage Centre is visited by local worshippers so be sure to dress appropriately.
The market of Yangon
Any visit to an Asian city isn't complete without exploring the local market and it is no different in Yangon. Plan some time to explore Bogyoke Aung San market for an impressive collection of local jewellery. If you want to take a piece of classic Burmese culture home with you, then seek out a Longyi, which is the national costume of Myanmar.
3. WHERE TO EAT? 🍽
999 Shan Noodle House - 130b 34th St
The perfect stop off for a taste of Yangon's cuisine. This 'no frills' noodle house offers incredible value for money with dishes made from homemade ingredients, packed full of flavour. We particularly liked the tea leaf salad and the shan flat noodles.
4. WHERE TO DRINK? ☕
Rangoon Tea House - Ground Floor, 77-79, Pansodan Street, Lower Middle Block
If you need a your coffee and cake fix, head to this modern, yet colonial inspired tea and cake spot in Yangon. They have an extensive list of teas; all of which can be tailored to your taste with either evaporated or condensed milk. If you're searching for something a little stronger than coffee and tear, The Rangoon Tea House also offer a great selection of beers and cocktails in downtown Yangon.
The Penthouse - Parkside One Building, 271, 273, 8th Floor, Bagaya St
Head to this chic, rooftop cocktail bar for illuminated views over the Schwedagon Pagoda by moonlight. Make sure you’re there for happy hour and be sure to order their 'Miss Penthouse' cocktail.
5. WHERE TO TAKE THAT INSTAGRAM WORTHY PHOTO? 📸
Downtown Yangon
If you're about that grungy style on your Instagram, head to the multi-coloured buildings lining the downtown streets of Yangon. With an array of brightly lit stores, bustling street vendors and dilapidated facades, there's instagrammable options galore. You'll get a true feel for Yangon daily life here.
