No trip to Myanmar would be complete without a visit to Inle Lake. In fact, if you only visit one place in the sovereign state, it should be this magical area. This lake, sitting 4,000-feet-above sea level, provides a microcosm of all of the delights you wish to experience in Myanmar without the hassle of traveling from village to village.
Although accommodations are plentiful in the surrounding areas, one of the best properties is Villa Inle Resort and Spa, a luxury boutique property featuring 16 secluded residences. The design mimics traditional lakeside structures, built on stilts with high ceilings and spacious open living areas. The interiors use hardwood, indigenous materials and local art to provide a stunning modern décor.
Its 20 acres allows for plenty of room between you and other guests, and it offers separate pavilions for dining and spa services, as well as a cooling infinity pool with chaise lounges. Happy hour starts at 3:30 p.m., which is a perfect treat following a day on the lake. To spend a day on the water, simply speak with the hotel staff who are eager to arrange an experience tailored to you.
Marvel at the fishermen's who use a unique method of one foot rowing to free up the rest of their body for optimum catching leverage with nets. Weave in and out of villages built on the water, visit workshops where the craft traditions are still alive and view monasteries and pagodas along the rivers banks. Afterwards, be sure to book a massage with one of their expert therapists who will sooth those weary, boat-ridden muscles and ready yourself for the pleasures of the table.
When you’re hungry, head over to the resort’s restaurant that provides a mix of western and local dishes. The Burmese delights are prepared with particular finesse. Dishes such as Shan Vermicelli Noodles are mixed with veggies and shrimp in a tamarind sauce and wrapped in a paper-thin egg omelet. This dish is a tour de force. The local stir fry fish with ginger is ethereal, and the restaurant's thin crust, crisp pizzas—with locally-inspired toppings—are surprisingly delicious.
When your trip is over and your boat arrives to whisk you to home, you will most likely leave Villa Inle Resort and Spa with regret, and a promise to return to this magical location.
