Thoughts on Burma.
With pro-democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi just released from house arrest in Myanmar, I thought this would be the perfect time to write to you about something close to my heart: the people of Burma.
My wife, Patty, and I just returned from a truly amazing journey to Burma (Myanmar). I was so moved by our time there, that I want to share our experiences with you, our fellow travelers.
I have had the great fortune to have visited Burma a number of times over the past decade, and each time I go, I find it an amazing experience. In spite of the military junta still in place, the Burmese themselves are some of the friendliest, warmest people I've ever met. A visit there is like taking a step back in time. As Myanmar is still by and large an undiscovered destination, visitors often find themselves the only non-Burmese in sight.
Yangon (formerly Rangoon), a bustling city with a fascinating history, is filled with wonderful architecture and great restaurants. A modern-art scene thrives here along with a developing entrepreneurial spirit.
On enchanting and peaceful Inle Lake, the only mode of transport is the traditional long-tail boat. A journey here allows visitors to understand how the locals live and to experience the simple yet extraordinary lifestyle first-hand with visits to private homes and places of work.
The Irrawaddy River is the backbone of Burma, and it shouldn't be missed. The best way to see it is aboard the elegant (and newly renovated) Road to Mandalay, an Orient-Express river cruiser. Our stay onboard was a wonderful respite. The food, service and ambience were superb.
Though some might question visiting Burma, our belief at R. Crusoe & Son is that by traveling here, we directly benefit the Burmese people. R. Crusoe has very carefully hand-picked the Myanmar companies with which we do business. They are privately owned, without government partners, and their income flows directly to local employees. In addition, we believe our visits allow the locals we meet to gain, through face-to-face exchanges, a better understanding of the world beyond Burma.
Throughout our time there, Patty and I received repeated requests from those we met: "Don't let the world forget about us and our struggle. Let American travelers know they are welcome with open arms."
David M. Weber
Managing Director