Saturday 28 November 2015

Tips and Guide on How to Plan a Fun-filled Holiday to Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar



Recently, I got a chance to visit Mergui Island with my family. Though I have been to a number of beautiful destinations worldwide, this was definitely one of my most memorable excursions. Ever since I am back, a lot of my friends have asked me about this place. They bombarded me with a slew of questions like what are the best places at Mergui, how is the food at the island, and how safe is it to plan a family holiday there.
Then I thought why not share my Mergui excursion while it’s fresh in my mind. So here’s what I feel about this captivating archipelago in Myanmar, a quick travel guide on it and some suggestions that can help you prepare better if you plan a vacation there. 

A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Mergui Archipelago enjoys a remote location in Myanmar Andaman Sea, and is usually billed as a nature-lovers paradise. Over 800 pristine and untouched islands here offer everything a nature-loving tourist can wish for. It has a beauty that’s hard to narrate in words, an isolation that can cure any city-infested soul, exciting outdoor activities to uncover many fascinating facets of the nature, and most importantly warm and hospitable people who make your trip all the more gratifying. Since hordes of tourists flock here year-round, modern amenities are mushrooming too, making Mergui a perfect holiday destination for all. 

How to get in There
Myeik Airport is the main gateway to Mergui Archipelago. The airport has good connectivity with Yangon International Airport via daily direct flights by Myanma Airways. The archipelago is accessible by roads as well. But it is not a preferred option as the roads are sleazy. Most of the buses plying to the island from Augn Minlar bus station are in poor condition either. You can also take fast ferries that run daily to/from Kawthoung.

What to see?
With so many activities and attractions, you may end facing the problem of plenty. One of my favorite destinations here is Salon Island. It is simply an oasis of tranquilly and solace. Beaches are pretty calm and beautiful. After having some peaceful time along the shores, we hired a boat and visited the Salonkyan Pagoda, a popular pilgrimage site for Moken people. We were advised to visit the Dawei Peninsula by our travel agent. And now we thank him to introduce us such a magical place. The place has a number of untouched beaches and hence features raw beauty of nature. Nabule Beach, Maung Ma Kan Beach, and Teyzit Beach are a few places you simply cannot afford to miss on at Dawei Peninsula. Myaukni Island is a haven for divers. The place boasts spectacular corals and amazing marine life that draw divers and snorkelers from all over the world. If you love fishing, then Bocho Island is a place to be.

Tips and Suggestions
Myanmar is largely a Buddhist community where people are conscious regarding their traditions. You, as a tourist, are expected to respect their laws and customs. Nudity is forbidden, even at the remote beaches. So avoid it. Refrain from wearing revealing clothes as it’s considered offensive. Burmese kyat is their local currency. Most of the ritzy hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. Although Mergui is a safe travel destination, you must be vigilant at the crowded places.   

Sometime taking services from a local travel agency to manage your city tour Myanmar is good and time saving. The local company can guide you better about the local places that you can enjoy a lot.