Myanmar is a melting pot of culture. With 135 distinct ethnic groups officially recognized by the government (and more on top of that), it makes for a very diverse landscape of people. The country borders many popular neighbours; India, Bangladesh, China, Thailand and Laos, and cultural crossovers are visible everywhere.  This is especially apparent in the different foods found throughout the country. While it may not (yet) have all the luxuries and conveniences of its counterparts, what it lacks in infrastructure, it more than makes up for in character. The feeling you get on the ground is akin to what Vietnam and Thailand felt like twenty years ago.In Yangon, you can explore the beautiful Schwedagon Pagoda, over two millennia old, or poke around the famous Scott Market, check out the colonial buildings or chill out and have a beer in Chinatown.  If you‘re up for a truly authentic experience and a bit of roughing it, Mon and Kayin states offer a truly local experience.  See thousands of temples in Bagan. Ply the beautiful waters of Inle Lake, as you navigate between traditional fishermen and the floating tomato gardens. Hand feed some elephants in Kalaw. Take the local train. Or, just sit back, relax and let the experience flow over you.