Advertisement
Hpa An
Hpa An, Myanmar is how I will remember Southeast Asia. The Southeast Asia of my youth, calm scenic rice fields. Hpa-An is a small stop over town, but its surrounding mountainous backdrop and puddles of lakes are the essences that defies Myanmar. I took a night bus from Bangkok to Mae Sot, a city near the Thai-Burmese border. Here at the bus station to the border, I met George. George is from Germany. I worked up the courage to asked him if he wanted to travel Burma together so we can save some money. George agreed and off we went. Once we crossed the border a Burmese taxi driver offered us his service. We didn't have much choice since he seemed to be the only one that spoke English. He turned out to be a nice guy. My guard was up, but things were different in Burma. Tourist hasn't peaked in Burma yet. The drive from the border town to Hpa-An was long but scenic. Along the way we stopped so he could washed his car. We reached Hpa-An in the afternoon.
Field of
Buddhas
"One of the most inspiring person that I' had the pleasure of meeting on my trip was Steve. Steve is from the U.K., is a doctor and has bicycled thru 6 continent in 6 years. Fucking amazing right? What surprised me most was how Steve carried himself. Very calm, quiet and humble. you wouldn't be able to tell of his amazing feat by just simply looking at him. I wish I had more time to talk with him. It seemed as though everyone I've met has an interesting story to tell..." Journal Entry: 07.06.2014
Standing in the middle of this small lake in Hpa An,
my mind finally at peace after a couple days of turmoil...
My mind is like this lake, so calm.
The bubbles generates vibrations
that will slowly ring out into larger circles,
which eventually dissipate.
New vibrations will appear
and the cycle repeat itself.
There will always be vibrations in this lake,
but it won't last long...
Panoramic view from Kyauk Ka Lap Pagoda.
"One thing that I've realized about Myanmar is how a lot of the monks here have tattoos. Its as though the maroon robe has become a cloak of protection for those on the run. Or it could be a cleansing of the past and opportunity for a new beginning. Its all a matter of perspective..." Journal Entry: 07.08.2014
Local public pool surrounded by small lakes.
There's always time for fun.
Hpa An morning market.
For The Foodies: Umm beer.