After decades of brutal misrule, “Burma” is undergoing something of a renaissance, and it is becoming a remarkable destination for yacht charter. Dense jungle, exotic wildlife and a spiritual heart run along this coastline, which also happens to be home to some of Asia’s most breathtaking sights. Reaching the region involves a four hour jeep ride through winding jungle roads from Thailand’s resort of Phuket to Ranong, and even this journey feels like an experience in itself.
The highlight for charter guests is the Mergui Archipelago. It consists of eight hundred deserted islands that together form a fourteen thousand square mile yachting paradise. This area is totally undeveloped, challenging in some ways, but most larger yachts are self-sufficient enough to ensure complete comfort for at least a week or two in these isolated parts. The reward is white beaches backed by palm trees and dense jungle, and the possibility of not seeing another soul apart from the occasional fisherman. With only a handful of diving boats allowed access each year, the marine life is pristine. You will have it all to yourself.
Why not take a hot air balloon over the ancient city of Bagan, take an elephant ride through the jungle in search of the elusive tiger, or kayak through shallow lagoons, jungle canopies and mangrove channels.
While visiting, make time for the golden Shwedagon Pagoda, one of Asia’s most impressive Buddhist shrines, and keep an eye out for the very shy Moken Sea Gypsies.