The three Burmese traditions you will love to experience and photograph

One of our photography tours takes us to the beautiful country of Myanmar (Burma). Astonishingly beautiful scenery, unspoilt locations and the friendliest of people! First-time Western travellers will be in awe of many things but these particular three will catch your eye as soon as you land!

The male longyi

This essential garment that is worn by most men in Burma is, put simply, a cylinder of fabric wrapped and tied around the waist. Although the longyi seems like a unisex item of wardrobe at a first glance, women’s and men’s are quite different. Men’s longyis, also known by the name of paso, are usually in striped or checked patterns and fully reversible (can be worn on either side). There are several ways to tie a longyi and during our trip we got a full demonstration from the staff on the boat journey between Mandalay and Bagan. It is all truly fascinating and a source of much fun when tourists are asked to try themselves!

Thanakha

One thing that you will notice immediately upon your arrival in Myanmar is the face-painting with thanakha. A creamy-gold emulsion made from finely ground bark, this potion, proudly worn on the face by girls, women and some men, has been around for centuries and seems to be the universal panacea for a variety of reasons! It is commonly used as skincare, suncream and make-up altogether. Moreover, it is also said to have anti-fungal properties and can be used as acne treatment plus, if you believe it, it can even help the wearer avoid evil and bad luck! The face designs are varied and while we were traveling the locals were all too happy to demonstrate applications and let you try some!

Leg-rowing fishermen

Possibly some of the most iconic images associated with Myanmar are the leg-rowing fishermen, which we have admired and photographed during our stay around Inle Lake – a key part of our photo tour. An impressive combination of balance, dexterity and skill (yes, they can multitask!), this is quite something to watch – and capture! This age-old technique involves standing at the very end of a tiny boat while manoeuvring it using one leg wrapped around a single oar, at the same time with aptly casting their net into the water to catch the fish! Ok, perhaps you won’t be trying this one, but it makes for great images!

If you’re interested in joining us on our next trip to Myanmar please see below for more information