Cruising for Englightenment

In many parts of Southeast Asia, the tourist groove has become so well worn that glimpsing authentic Buddhist culture can seem like mission impossible. But since Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) opened its doors to tourism in 1994, there’s still a chance to experience rural life in Asia the way it was forty years ago. Rather than floating through a sea of tourists, the Road to Mandalay cruise (with just fifty-six cabins) sails past thousands of golden pagodas along the Ayerarwady River. Travelers can cultivate both inner and outer beauty during the voyage by visiting the newly expanded onboard spa featuring La Source products.

One of the most popular services is the East Meets West massage, where therapists combine the traditional Burmese technique of relieving tension by focusing on pressure points with longer, Swedish-style strokes to boost circulation.

In the spirit of self-improvement, travelers can find perspective from watching vermilion-clad monks collect their daily alms on the banks, learn more about Burmese history at teatime lectures, and pay homage next to the locals at the famous Shwedagon shrine. Despite the ornate statues and gemstone-encrusted shrines, its smiling people are Myanmar’s greatest treasure. And passengers have the chance to give back through donations helping to open schools and preserve pagodas that date back to the 12th century.

The Road to Mandalay offers three-, four- and seven-night cruises between Bagan and Mandalay. For more information call (800) 524-2420 or visit www.orient-express.com.

—Holly C. Corbett

May/June 2007