Memories of Mandalay ✨

After three nights in Chiang Mai, my mind still lingers in Myanmar’s stories. Let me recount Mandalay. The journey began with Myanmar’s old songs blaring from a small ferry, a fitting end to Bagan. But the real spectacle? The bus station. 🚍 I’d seen posts about Mandalay’s aggressive tuktuk drivers, but nothing prepared me for the reality. As the bus pulled in, they swarmed like bees (or flies? No—let’s be kind; they’re just hustling). Determined to avoid the chaos, I stormed off the bus, scowling, and barked, “Don’t follow me!!” When they persisted, I yelled it again. Finally, they backed off. 🚫 I tried booking a Grab, but the driver demanded an extra 5,000 kyat. No thanks. At the exit, a motorcyclist 🏍️ offered help. Safety first, so I opted for his tuktuk buddy 🛺. The driver seemed trustworthy, and after haggling, we settled on a fair price to my hostel. Mandalay felt more “city” than Yangon—neon-wrapped trees, bustling restaurants. Surely the power stays on here? 💡 The bus arrived early, so I reunited with two friends from Yangon and Bagan for dinner at New Yangon, a lively spot with four TVs blaring soccer. ⚽ The next day, I returned with Olga, a Russian traveler I’d met at U Bein Bridge. The star? Gogo (probably the manager), whose flawless English and flamboyant charm (picture delicate hand gestures 🌸) made him the go-to for foreigners. His patience was unmatched—especially when Olga struggled to order. I adored the food and Gogo’s banter. Wish I could go back. The following day, I teamed up with FK (from Bagan) to explore Inwa by tuktuk. First stop: the monk almsgiving. We arrived early, wandered the temple, and glimpsed U Bein Bridge in daylight. 🌉 Honestly? It reminded me of my school’s cafeteria rush—just swap uniforms for robes. The "spectacle" lies in its novelty. With only us two tourists there, we snapped photos freely. 📸 #Myanmar #TravelGuide #BudgetTravel