Cheap flights to Burma
Myanmar entered a period of greatness in the early 11th century when King Anawrahta unified the country and created the first Myanmar Empire with its capital in Bagan. The Empire, which lasted until the end of the 13th century, produced a glorious civilization whose monuments still endure. The second Myanmar Empire with its capital in Bago was created in the middle of the 16th century by King Bayinnaung.The third and last Myanmar Empire was founded by King Alaungpaya in 1752 and had a number of capitals, the last being Mandalay. In the later years of the Empire, Myanmar was annexed by the British in three stages, in 1825, 1852, 1885 and became a British colony. Myanmar was occupied by the Japanese during World War II, and in the postwar period the independence movement, which had begun in the early 20th cenury, came to a climax and Myanmar attained independence on 4 January 1948.Neat and respectful dress should be worn in all religious shrines. It is not considered polite to visit religious monuments in shorts, miniskirts or hot pants. Though shoes can be worn in temple compounds, they should be removed before entering the chapel of the principal Buddha image. Indeed, all Buddha images are regarded as sacred, regardless of size, age or position, and should all be shown due respect. Buddhist monks are not allowed to touch or be touched by a woman, or accept anything from a woman's hand.