September 2017

Myanmar has some 100 distinct ethnic groups. We travelled to the far eastern Shan State to meet with several of the friendly hill tribes. Trekking past the green rice terraces up to the remote villages is a pleasant challenge, only to be rewarded with some of the greatest hospitality on this planet. Base yourself in the peaceful town of Kyaingtong, neatly arranged around Naung Tung Lake, and from here take day trips in all directions! While Myanmar is not considered to be one of the most ethnic and culturally diverse countries in the world, it certainly offers some of the most approachable [MORE...]

The mountains in Shan State in the far east of Myanmar, near the borders with China, Laos, and Thailand, is home to several hill tribes including the Wa, Wa Ann, Palaung (Ta’ang), Akhu, Akha, Lisu, Lahu, Loi, Ann, and the Pa O. Base yourself in the pretty town called Kyaingtong (also referred to as Kengtung or Keng Tung), and from here take day trips in almost all directions. The hikes are challenging but not difficult. Spending time with these hill tribes is such a special experience. While Kyaingtong has much to offer and can easily keep you occupied for a few days, the main reason why [MORE...]