Magical MYANMAR

From gold-plated temples to luscious desert islands, this south-east Asian paradise mesmerises OK!’s Elise Wilson

- Elise Wilson

Just imagine Asia before the crowds and tourist traps. While visiting Myanmar, I quickly learnt why so many travel websites describe it as unmissable. Through 10 days of sailing, trekking and sashaying around the most stunning shrines in the world, I fell head over heels…

PURE PARADISE

After a good two days of travelling, I was ready to start my ‘barefoot luxury’ adventure in the Mergui Archipelago – a collection of 800 pristine desert islands offthe southern coast of Myanmar.

We boarded a private speedboat from Kawthaung jetty (making me feel like an absolute celebrity on my birthday, no less!). It took about two-and-a-half hours to get to where we were staying at the super-luxe Awei Pila Resort.

If you’ve ever envisioned yourself as Robinson Crusoe on a desert island, this is as close as you get! Just add beachfront air-conditioned yurts, an infinity pool, snorkelling and daily massages.