Ayna

This week Saim continues his exploration of the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar as he travels to Bagan – one of Asia’a richest archeological regions. In its “golden years” the area was home to ten thousand temples, but after a thirteenth century Mongol invasion and subsequent natural disasters, most of the buildings were lost. Today roughly three thousand temples have withstood the ravages of time and provide a feel of reverence and history to the landscape. Stroll through the Bagan town market early in the morning before the scorching sun rises to shop for fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, clothing and hand-made goods. Learn about the healing and protective properties of the Tanaka tree and watch as local women grind its bark to produce a facial cream that hydrates and protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Visit the uncrowded and pristine beaches of Ngapali, a town where the sea provides both beauty and a livelihood for those that call it home. Find out what makes Myanmar a jewel waiting to be discovered this week on “Ayna.”