Bagan
This month, Sanctuary Ananda docks in Myanmar’s temple town. The ship’s concierge, Phyone Phyone Maw, reveals its secrets to Akash Arora.
Where should I go to stretch my legs?
Yone Nyaung Pin Street, a 10-minute walk from the jetty, is the perfect place to watch locals go about their daily lives: novice monks walking to the monastery, fruit and vegetable vendors, children at play and locals deep in conversation.
Where can I get a decent coffee?
For the best coffee, visit Traditions Cafe, Bar & Souvenirs (corner of Nyaung U-Kyaukpadaung and Anawrahta roads, Nyaung-U; +95 61 60 447).
Where should I go for genuine Burmese food?
Myo Myo Myanmar Rice Food restaurant (Bagan-Nyaung U Road, Nyaung-U) is well regarded among locals. It serves a delicious range of authentic dishes.
What’s a great place for drinks?
HTI Bar & Restaurant (Thiripyitsayar 4 Street, Nyaung-U; +95 9 40263 0869) is the place to go for evening drinks. It has an impressive list of cocktails and lounge-style seating. And there’s an excellent menu of European and Asian fare.
And for shopping?
Myanmar is famous for lacquerware. It’s a craft handed down from generation to generation. See artisans at work at Bagan House (baganhouse. com) then visit the showroom to buy high-quality pieces – they make excellent mementos.