shwedagon pagoda

while in rangoon, we visited the magnificent shwedagon pagoda.


its age is unclear -- at least 2,500 years old. some archeologists say that it dates from the 6th century, but according to our tour guide (and many burmese), this is the only pagoda built during the lifetime of the buddha.

covered in pure gold, folks. and large jewels on top. cyclone nargis dislodged many of them + sent them into surrounding neighborhoods. our burmese colleague tells us that the vast majority of the jewels were returned to the monks by the locals.


there are prayer stations around shwedagon for the signs of the zodiac.

(i embrace my position as rat!)

according to legend, if you strike this bell three times, you will be guaranteed a return visit to burma.

yes, please!

sunday sights

on sunday, my pal wendy + i were able to do some adventuring!

kandawgyi lake with shwedagon pagoda in the distance

commerce + karaweik palace

we couldn't visit karaweik palace that day because of a huge wedding

although we could've stayed for the valentine's concert at kandawgyi lake

sponsored by the (admittedly, premium quality) myanmar beer company

opted instead for the national museum. guard dog wouldn't let us take photos.

a photo i found out later i never should have taken

and then, a little relaxation + gringo food at the (colonial) governor's residence

culminating with a visit to the bogyoke aung san (scott) market

the evening took a turn, after i accidentally strayed from blood type-appropriate cuisine + became (temporarily) quite ill . . .