While the backpackers, honeymooners and day-spa crowds have swarmed to the beaches of Thailand and Bali, Burma’s remote Myeik Archipelago has remained almost frozen in time since the days of the early colonial explorers.

Difficult to reach and well-off the tourist trails, sailing through these islands offers the chance to glimpse back to a time before the internet, phones, convenience stores and even denim existed, and experience the traditional clothing, local foods and martial arts of Burma’s virtually untouched island cultures.

Be surprised by the wealth of pristine coastline, jungled forests and historical sights that span back to the Stone Age, and by the generous locals, who carry smiles that will warm travellers just as much as the ever-present sunshine. Perhaps a little sleepy from their solitude, these are the faces that will no doubt spark a tourist boom in these quiet islands – so get in quick before the crowds arrive.

 

Highlights

  • Sample tasty pad thai in the tourist mecca of Phuket
  • Chill out on white sandy beaches and watch the sun set island-style
  • Sail the 800 islands of the Myeik Archipelago
  • Swim with colourful fish and keep an eye out for giant whale sharks
  • Hang with the ‘sea gypsies’ of Bo Cho Island for a lesson in nomadic tradition
  • Snorkel with turtles near Ba Wei Island
  • Head out on a jungle hike on Kho Yinn Khwa Island