Whispers from Burma

Anita always whispers to me when we talk about Burma. "You can never be too careful" she says.

I laugh but she warns me that people can be persecuted for giving us information... and we were, indeed, going in to seek information and document people and lives and needs.

Alas at the last moment the timing clashed with some other events that meant Anita and I could no longer go on our intended mission and it left us with two tickets and no purpose for our Thai/Burma trip!

I struggle without 'purpose' on a holiday so I brought my camera for the first time in a couple years and took the opportunity to rediscover my love of the documentary of new people and places. No real outcome, just shooting for the love of it.

I realise I mostly enjoy being playful with the locals and going places others don't because I have a camera and I'm not afraid to use it.

First stop: Myawaddy, Burma.

We walked across the border, handed over our money and passports and had one day to experience some of Burma.

Within seconds we were grabbed by a friendly, betelnut-stained toothed local who took us to a 'teashop' and around temples and markets in a friendly way. We stood out like the only whiteys in the village and it was confronting and fun. Here is that experience, in photographs...

I'm now burning up with ideas of ways to spend my mid-year holidays, with camera, cheeky-confidence and a wifi connection. It's unreal and I think I know my purpose!

[current mood] Waking up With Roosters & Papaya Salad

Comments

[Sally May Mills]

Just finished having a cuppa with a friend, chatting about his recent trip to Myanmar and looking at some photos with the idea of heading that way myself very soon; then up comes your post with your fabulous shots. Where to next?

[Nat]

Hey Sally,
That is one beaut little coincidence.
I'm all re-inspired to go on the less beaten paths and document 'behind the scenes'. I'll be curious about the capital of Myanmar and other entry points - what it's like there. So keep me informed!
We are in Mae Sot and about to go to Chiang Mai. Then home. Shortest little trip but a good taster regardless!