Travel Tips

Strategically located directly in front of the US Embassy. Don't know if the sign is still located there but would like to know if it is should anyone sees it. There were many of these signs located all over Rangoon with different messages that left no argument that SLORC wanted to be in complete control of their population and visitors alike.

Took us awhile to get "permission" to go to Pagan but eventually we did, but not without the usual "tails." We didn't get all that many pictures of the place but did get to the markets and as usual, the locals were friendly and welcoming. I did end up buying a couple of these great locally made umbrellas from this little guy, they are great umbrellas.

I had a Christmas party for some of the local kids at Washington Park compound. Santa was a big Aussie friend of mine and was willing to dress up and play Santa. This is a great photo, can't say that I have seen another picture of Santa riding on an elephant, wish it wouldv'e turned out better. The party was a big hit with the kids, especially when Santa handed out candy I bought in Bangkok for all the kids.

The main river that runs through Rangoon. While we were on the river we could see lots of river life. Some of the river craft was scary just to watch, wondering how long they would stay afloat! Sadly many craft do sink, especially the larger ones and many people die every year.

As usual, I always try to hit the local markets to see whats being sold and to get some fresh food. Fresh food is usually not a problem in asia because it is always brought in daily.

These were huge and delicious. You had to get up early to get them but worth it. This vendor lady saved a bunch for me a couple times a week. They were so thick that I had to slice them into thirds to get them to cook all the way through. Almost as good as a Maine lobster and just as big but a fraction of the price. I love the local markets!

One of the old pictures of the NLD (National League for Democracy)rallies. This was near the Shwedagon Pagoda . In the crowd, there were as many SLORC agents as there were protesters. Hope this wasn't too political, but this was Rangoon until the govt. cracked down with a lot of force. Hundreds were imprisoned, hundreds escaped to Thailand or the jungle, many were killed, all the while the world watched and did very litttle.