Top other countries to include on your tour to Burma
If you’re planning on touring Burma, it’s well worth considering visiting a couple of other countries on your travels – especially if you’re hoping to be on the road for several months. Burma is close to some of the world’s most exciting and diverse destinations, with stunning landscapes and cultural treasures. So, where’s best to go?
Well, there are a fair few options, so I’ve done my best to narrow them down to the three places that interest me most. And, before I start telling you about them, I’d just like to add that there are lots of ways you can incorporate these into your itinerary.
For example, if you’ve booked your tour of Burma already and want to throw some more destinations into the mix, you could see what the same travel company has to offer to nearby countries; you could also do this the other way round, if you have a tour of another nation arranged already. It’s worth bearing in mind that a lot of firms don’t provide many multi-country tours of south-east Asian destinations, simply because there’s just so much to take in – rather, they’re broken down into smaller chunks.
Alternatively, if you’re planning to travel independently, it’s worth considering booking a formal tour and sandwiching it between stints of exploring on your own. This is a good idea for a few reasons, like the fact that it gives you some variety and also means you can benefit from some specialist expertise.
Nepal
Why go: For hiking and adventure activities
Located between the Indian plains and the Himalayas, Nepal is an absolute mecca for hikers. Not only is it home to some truly outstanding trekking routes, but it also offers some of the most accessible trails – a combination that cannot fail to attract you if you’re into hiking.
Come here and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to what route to take. The Annapurnas, Himalayas and Everest are all possibilities. It’s not all about hiking, though. In fact, Nepal is equally exciting if you’re keen to try out all kinds of adventure-based activities – you can bungee jump over gorges, for example, or have a white-knuckle rafting experience down the Nepali river.
Thailand
Why go: To experience paradise-like islands, to explore vibrant Bangkok and discover cultural Chiang Mai
Thailand is a massively popular destination among all kinds of tourists for good reason. Personally, I think it’s the sheer variety here, paired with the calibre of its attractions, which lures in countless people year in, year out.
Bangkok, for example, is world-famous for temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, as well as its stunning food. Head northwards to Chiang Mai, meanwhile, and you’ll be ideally placed for hiking in the mountains, meeting hill tribes and visiting more amazing temples.
Head to islands like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi and you can discover about as close to paradise on Earth as it’s possible to get. The beaches here, with their white sand, turquoise waters and stunning marine life, are deservedly ranked among the best in the world.
Malaysia
Why go: To experience the country’s cultural diversity and stunning landscapes
Lastly, I’d recommend combining a trip to Malaysia with your travels to Burma. More specifically, I think Peninsular Malaysia (which is the long strip of land coming out of Asia) is a particularly good choice.
Come here and you can see some of the very best sights of mainland Malaysia. Depending on the tour you pick and route you take, you can discover the Dutch and Portuguese influences in the town of Malacca and enjoy gorgeous beaches in the traditional town of Penang.