After our long bus journey, we arrived in Pyey and how pleasant is was to see a big bustling town at night. In Kyauk Phyu very few are out at night. AND there were Muslims milling about I can’t tell you how pleased I was to see them. I was taken aback when I saw the destroyed mosque in Kyauk Phyu and was told that the community (who had been there for a long time) had been sent to some god awful camp outside town. How can I engage in discussions about inclusion with folk who colude in that. I’m having very divirging feelings about the place. People have been very kind and hospitable, but I find some aspects of it very unsavoury. I’ve just deleted something I wrote thinking, my god, if the wrong person read it I could be in trouble!!
Anyway, the Pan Ga Bar is a traditional lodging, which means it’s very basic, not too clean by Western standards, but with the most gracious and helpful host in the world. Although Myanmar is very very cheap, accommodation for foreigners is relatively expensive. It can be hard to find places for less than 70 quid night. As a volunteer thats too much for me.
Transport
Markets
Pagodas and Monastries
There are pagodas everywhere and they are wonderful places to visit either early morning or early evening. People are very devout and the monasteries play a huge role in society. Monks are up at 3am then meditate under meditation nets (mossies)for a few hours. Then they go out to collect food which everyone contributes to. Shops, families, businesses. I don’t like to photograph monks as if feels a bit disrespectful. But I see them in lines heading out for donations. Little kid monks as well. The monasteries provide education in their monastic schools. They provide accommodation for orphans and homeless people. They provide medicine for those who can’t afford to pay for it. Essentially they act as the social services. One is expected to make a donation everytime at the Pagoda. It’s also nice to buy an offering. There are the spectacular Pagodas which are covered in gold with beautiful marble paving. There are some really gaudy ones with some Disneyesque plaster casts. There are monumental statues of the Buddha and some beautiful old iron age Stupas in brick. People tend to travel on pilgrimages more than on holidays to famous or important religious sites. They pay indulgences to secure a good future life. Women hope to be reborn as men!! I know it’s a different religious tradition, but I am reminded of the old monastic tradition and church traditions in earlier centuries in Europe. My insight is very superficial though. At college in KP there are prayers and meditation for all students at 6.30pm. I hear them everyday. But my goodness do the monastries like echoey sound systems and loud music. AND bright flashing led lights.
The Irawaddy
I had a lovely time in Pyey and travelled back to KP with a heavy heart. With landmines near and danger going out at night I am going to have to consider my options. Again people were very generous and kind at work today. I know Neil would prefer if I was not in Rakhine. Decisions to be made.
Good to see your blog is up and running super. Chin up. Your made of the right stuff. Get a wee choir going.
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Hi Angie, thanks for sharing your travels with us. It’s not something I know alot about is Myanmar but after reading your words and looking at your photographs I look forward to being educated with your help. We had a visit from Finbar after Christmas along with Alexander and friend!!. Very good of him to call in as it means so much to mum and auntie Eilleen whenever nieces and nephews visit. So whenever you get back to visit Rockcorry you may book in for a week because Eilleen will want to know every detail from the minute you closed the door behind you in Scotland.Nothing but admiration for what you are doing. Do keep us posted on what will be an amazing episode in your life .Travel happy. Stay safe. Cousin Fergal
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Hi Fergal,Thanks so much for writing. I’m delighted you’re reading my wee blog. Life here is indeed very interesting. I think I am beginning to get over the initial culture shock. I don’t know if it’s an inherited trait or not, but I seem to have a very strong constitution and have felt no I’ll effects from the new diet. – Fingers crossed. It’s great to hear that Bernie and Eileen are doing well. What great women they are. Give my best to all the Rockcorry crew.
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Armchair traveler enjoying your journey!Love Christine.
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