Downtown cruising
The Belmond Road to Mandalay offers contemporary travellers the option of Bagan and Mandalay’s architecture, viewing temples, monasteries and local villages and heritage sites along the Irrawaddy River.
This lavish cruise has set high standards in Myanmar for the past 20 years, with a cosy 43 cabins accommodating up to 82 guests at full capacity. The observation deck houses a bar, Bar & Grill restaurant, pool, and is the vantage point for scenery viewing with its unobstructed 360-degree view. A library sits on the main deck, along with a souvenir boutique and restaurant offering both Western and Asian cuisines. Other facilities include a fitness room, hair and spa salon, along with a medical room should the need arise.
The day’s activities include experiencing Bagan by horse cart, exploring the ancient temple ruins, watching sunrise at the pagoda-dotted Sagaing Hills, and ploughing through the local Nyaung-U market. But should you choose to relax on board, Belmond will keep you occupied with yoga and morning meditation classes, interactive history lessons on Myanmar, and cooking demonstrations by Thai executive chef Bansani Nawisamphan. The daily evening cocktail party isn’t one you should give a miss either.
