Myanmar

The day after Bryon flew back to America, I flew to Myanmar to visit O.J. It was so nice to leave the piles of snow behind in Japan and venture into a warmer country. It was also great to see O.J.'s new home, meet his friends, and have a very relaxing and fun vacation in Yangon and at the beach. Despite the poverty and instability in the country, everyone was so happy and friendly. I was treated by O.J.'s friends to many visits, meals, outings, and gifts. And O.J. was a great tour guide/translator! Thanks big brother!
Unfortunately, my camera batteries died a few days into the vacation, but here are some pictures that will give you a little taste of our adventure...


A few minutes after arrival from the airport, the first visitor arrived...the first of many to drop by in the following days! This first one was a monk from the monastery down the road. We had lots of fun playing cards, talking, and having photo-shoots (one of his favourite pasttimes!).















Schwedagon Pagoda in Yangon....so much gold, topped with a 76 carat diamond! Also, it's the most popular spot for afternoon naps by anybody and everybody, and for dates.




















Welcome to Ngapali! The beach that is virtually paradise. We were picked up at the airport by this cute little bus, and as you can see by the huge smile on my face, I am very excited to have the 5 miles of bumpy road go by fast, and get into the warm tropical waves.
















The beach just outside our door. It was so peaceful and beautiful.
















Some of the locals heading home after a long day of work...
















Some local fishing boats. One day O.J. and I took a boat similar to this out to another beach where we got to go snorkelling, swimming, and watch some of our Myanmar friends spear fish and bbq them for lunch! Wow! It was amazing.
















And back to Yangon....At the zoo with friends of O.J.'s.
















A sunrise walk along the lake by O.J.'s apartment. This is one of O.J.'s many friends...