HICKMAN FAMILY - Lifetime in Asia
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Joe heads to Myanmar December 2006

IIt was December 2006 when Joe decided to venture into the less-trodden paths of Southeast Asia. Myanmar, then still largely known as Burma and untouched by the modern frenzy, beckoned with its tales of golden pagodas and long-lost kingdoms.

Yangon: City of Golden Spires
Joe's journey began in Yangon, the largest city and former capital. The majestic Shwedagon Pagoda stood as a testament to the country's rich religious heritage. Covered in gold leaf and shimmering under the sun, this 2,500-year-old pagoda took Joe's breath away. The bustling streets surrounding it were dotted with colonial-era buildings, a nod to Myanmar's British colonial past.
Bagan: The Land of a Thousand Temples
No visit to Myanmar is complete without witnessing the archaeological splendor of Bagan. For Joe, a hot air balloon ride at dawn over the vast plains dotted with ancient pagodas and temples was surreal. Each temple told a story, a whisper from the past echoing the grandeur of the ancient Burmese kingdoms.
Inle Lake: A Floating World
One of Joe's most cherished memories was his boat ride on Inle Lake. The unique leg-rowing technique of the Intha fishermen, floating gardens, and stilt houses painted a picture of life unchanged for centuries. The serenity of the lake contrasted with the liveliness of the local markets, where ethnic tribes traded goods, offering a peek into Myanmar's diverse cultural tapestry.

Challenges of the Time:
December 2006 was a time when Myanmar was under military rule, and traveling did come with its challenges. Internet connectivity was sparse, and international calls were expensive. Joe often relied on local teashops for news and interactions. Tourism was still in its nascent stage, and while it meant fewer amenities, it also allowed for a more genuine experience.
The Spirit of the People:
Despite the political situation, what stood out for Joe was the warmth and resilience of the Myanmar people. Whether it was sharing a meal with a local family in Mandalay or learning about the traditions from a monk in a remote monastery, the heartwarming interactions formed the essence of his trip.

Conclusion:
Joe's 2006 voyage to Myanmar was more than just a trip; it was a journey back in time. The country, with its golden landscapes and enduring spirit, left an indelible mark on his traveler's heart.
Picture
www.JosephHickman.com
  • Home
  • Family Photos
    • Hickman Family Photos Dec 2024
    • 2022 December Photo Shoot
    • 2021 Thanksgiving in the Desert
    • 2020 Random Photos in the Year of COVID
    • 2019 Family Singapore
    • 2018 Hickmans in Singapore
    • 2017 Singapore Family Photos
    • Christmas 2016 Family Photos
    • Margot Geraldine Bateman
    • Alexis' Baby Shower
    • Alexis' in Singapore Sept 14
    • Hickman Ancestry
    • The early years...
    • The 70's
    • Joe & Gerri's Wedding 1976
    • The 80's...
    • Christmas 1998
    • Christmas 1999
    • Hickman Holiday Herald 2000
    • Kathy visits Singapore
    • 2001 off to a rough start
    • Christmas 2001
    • Hickman Holiday Herald 2010
    • Hickman Holiday Herald 2011
    • Alexis' Graduations
    • Alexis & Adam Engagement
    • Alexis & Adam's Wedding
    • JR & Cui Engagement
    • JR & Cui Mei's Wedding
  • Moments
    • Fight Cancer
    • Alexis writes about Cancer
    • Aquaria
    • Joe's Ankle Break
    • Taco Bell
    • A trip to India
    • Buying a Singapore home
    • Only in China
    • BMW & Cantalopes
    • The Sofa
    • Alexis' Car
    • Flying on 911
    • Unforgettable gift!
    • A very long trip!
    • Harry & Sylvia go to Hong Kong
    • Things I like
    • You get to travel
    • Pearls of Wisdom
    • Nepal
    • Travel to China & Thailand
  • Travel
    • PanamaCruise
    • 5-Night SE Asia Cruise
    • 24-night Cruise - Singapore-Japan-Singapore
    • Disney Mediterranean Cruise
    • Alaska Cruise
    • Cruise to New Zealand
    • Cruise Life - A new passion
    • Cruise to 'No-Where'
    • Phuket 2019
    • 2019 April - Hong Kong Disneyland
    • Royal Caribbean SE Asia
    • Thanksgiving in the Desert
    • Trip to Fiji and Sydney
    • Yangon, Myanmar 2005
    • Angkor Wat 2013
    • Burma with Alexis
    • New York 2013
    • Gardens by the Bay
    • India 2012
    • Hokkaido, Japan 2012
    • Kathmandu 1999
    • Queenstown New Zealand
    • Alexis & Joe head to Beijing in 2005
    • Vietnam over the years
    • JR & Joe in Borneo
    • Weekend in San Francisco
    • Joe in Myanmar Dec 2006
    • Pine Lake Manor
    • Bangkok, Thailand
    • Trip to Tibet
    • Sydney, Australia 2004
    • Trip to Thailand, Myanmar & China with Kit & Darren
    • 2002 Trip to Kunming & Lijiang
    • 2002 Trip to Ho Chi Minh with Gerri
  • Videos
  • New Page