Exploring ancient ruins, natural rivers and modern cities on a scooter
Myanmar is slowly opening up to visitors. From the Burmese Kingdom to British colonial rule, the young nation is finding its own identity. To me, it was the perfect place to get a new Indian Visa. It also was my last Southeast Asian country to visit. In a week, I planned to travel from Mandalay to Yangon by bus. Myanmar surprised me on many levels.
Driving through think jungle, narrow mountain roads and back in time to ancient ruins
Sri Lanka is a tear-shaped island Southeast of India. There is no bridge or ferry connecting the two countries, due to political tension. However, the Indian Consulate in Colombo issues visas, three times longer than the Indian eVisa. What a perfect opportunity. I planned to explore Sri Lanka by car while waiting for my extended Indian visa. This turned out to work like a charm – with some pleasant surprises.
Exploring some of the most spiritual places and people on Earth
The vast Tibetan territory is now part of China. This has not always been the case, as Tibet used to be a kingdom and later a quasi-independent Buddhist nation. Its people are amongst the most spiritual on this planet, treating their mountains and lakes as sacred ground. From books and movies, I’ve had a romantic idea of Tibet. Visiting Lhasa with a friend, brought me back to reality.
Trekking with mixed feelings near the world’s highest mountain peaks
My associations with Nepal were very romantic. I expected lovely mountain villages and endless nature. Since the country has opened its borders, tourists are flooding in. Mountain trekking and adventure trips were commercialised. So, I hiked to one of those popular sights to gaze at an eight-thousander. In Nepal, I found stunning views but no heaven.
