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Rangoon (or Yangon as it is called today) is a curious town, the very modern and ancient combined, with a decaying colonial charm infiltrating its streets. Lying on the banks of the Rangoon River and until recently the Burmese capital, Rangoon is developing a fair rate, despite international trade embargoes and boycotts from many countries. New hotels and commercial buildings nestle - sometimes somewhat uncomfortably - side-by-side with traditional temples, pagodas and monasteries.
Rangoon's shaded streets are often lined with old colonial buildings from the British colonial era, many refelecting a slightly faded glory, some decaying in the tropical air, but an increasing number beautifully and tastefully restored, such as the remarkable Strand Hotel which evokes the carefree atmosphere of the 1920s. Attractions within the city are plentiful, ranging from bustling markets, art and craft shops, antique dealers, temples and monastaries, or side trips to nearby villages specialising in local crafts. Accommodation is plentiful and wide ranging, from five-star luxury resort hotels to modest, family-run guest houses catering to the budget traveller. Dining out is one of the great delights of Burmese travel, and Rangoon is host to a range of local and international restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Night life is mainly limited to the major hotels, although independent bars are starting to appear around town, many catering to the expatriate community in addition to travellers and tourists. To explore Rangoon further, and for details of special deals currently on offer for ElephantGuide.com users, simply select your channel of choice at left and let The Elephant guide you.
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