Burma, officially known as Myanmar, is a fascinating country in Southeast Asia, rich in history and cultural diversity. A former crossroads of trade routes between India, China, and Southeast Asia, Burma has been influenced by numerous civilizations over the centuries. It was unified under Buddhist kings in the 11th century before becoming a British colony in the 19th century. After gaining independence in 1948, the country experienced periods of conflict and political instability. Today, Burma is gradually opening up to the world, revealing its rich heritage, Buddhist traditions, and stunning landscapes. Burmese culture is deeply spiritual, with golden stupas, ancient temples, and pervasive religious practices.
Myanmar is a country where millennia-old history and spiritual traditions meet, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.
Traditional Gastronomy and Gluten Free Options
Burmese cuisine is a blend of flavors and influences from its neighbors, including China, India, and Thailand. Traditional dishes often consist of rice, fish, vegetables, lentils, and spices. Burmese cuisine is rich in curries and spicy salads, and offers many gluten-free options thanks to the use of naturally gluten-free products.
Here are some Burmese dishes that are naturally gluten-free:
- Mohinga : The Burmese national soup made with fish, rice and plantain banana, naturally gluten-free when prepared without wheat flour.
- Thoke : Burmese salads, such as green tea salad (lahpet thoke), made with fermented tea leaves, vegetables and spices, gluten-free.
- Burmese curry : A meat or fish curry, often accompanied by rice and vegetables, naturally gluten-free.
- Grilled fish : Fresh fish, marinated with herbs and spices, is often grilled and served simply with vegetables.
These Burmese dishes offer an authentic and tasty discovery while respecting a gluten-free diet.
Must-See Attractions in Myanmar
Myanmar is a country rich in historical, cultural, and natural sites. Here are some must-see places to discover:
- Bagan : The Bagan plain, famous for its thousands of temples and pagodas dating from the 11th century, is a unique archaeological site in the world.
- Inle Lake : A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, known for its stilt villages, floating gardens, and traditional one-legged fishermen.
- Yangon : The former capital of Burma, with its impressive Shwedagon Pagoda, one of the most sacred places in the country, covered in gold.
- Mandalay : A historic city with monasteries, Buddhist temples and the iconic U Bein Bridge, the longest teak bridge in the world.
These sites offer a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural richness of Burma, a destination imbued with serenity and beauty.
