Asia Travel || Myanmar

HOTELS RESORTS TRAVEL LEISURE TOURS MYANMAR Myanmar Country and Travel Information Map of Myanmar Nationalities of Myanmar || Historical and Cultural Heritage || Arts and Crafts Highlights on Scenic Beauty || Special events IN GENERAL Myanmar is one of the largest country in South East Asia, stretching over 2,000 km from North to South. It is twice the size of Vietnam, over a quarter larger than Thailand, and Myanmar is bigger than England and France combined. Ethnically diverse, Myanmar is a nation of many races - some 130 ethnic groups make up its population of nearly 45 million. The majority of Myanmar's people are Bamars (from which the British coined the name Burma), but the Shan, Kachin, Kayin, Mon, Rakhine and others are also prominent throughout the country. Myanmar's climate is tropical: during the cool season from late November through February, temperatures are pleasantly mild ranging from 21C to 28 C; the hot season from March to April can see the mercury reach as high as 45 C; and during the months of the rainy season, from May to October short rainstorms are frequent in the late afternoons. The Nationalities of Myanmar Myanmar's ethnically diverse population is a result of three major migrations from Tibet and Central Asia, the cradle of humanity. The people of Myanmar are descendants of three main branches: The Mon-Khmer, the Tibeto-Burman, and the Thai-Chinese. The Kaya, Mon, Wa, La, Palaung, Pale, Yao, Riang, Padaung, Ylnbaw, Zayein, and others originated from the Mon-Khmer group, while the Shan, Kayin and Taungthu, etc., find their roots in the Thai-Chinese community. The Bamar, Chin, Kachin, Lolo, Rahkine, Kadu, Hpon, Maru, Lashi, Rawang, Azi, Nung, Daru, Yaw, Mro, Inthat, Naga, Gauri, Lisu, Lahu, among others, evolved from the Tibeto-Burman group. Historical and Cultural Heritage Kuthodaw Pagoda, in Mandalay, which houses the entire Buddhist scriptures carved onto 729 marble slabs is "The world's largest book". Built by King Mindon, it is indeed a rare and splendid sight. Myanmar's unique historical and cultural heritage dates back over 5,000 years. Evidence confirming the existence of stone age people has been found throughout the country. Early Myanmars were said to be Mons, and the first politically important inhabitants were the Pyu who date back to the early period of the Christian era. It was Bagan, however, which was founded in the 11th century, that gave rise to the dominant culture and civilization in Myanmar's history. Arts and Crafts of Myanmar Myanmar is an enchanting country with a rich history in arts and crafts. Mandalay, the ancient capital and the glory of Myanmar Kings, represents the largest repository of Myanmar arts and crafts. Visitors can observe carvers of ivory, wood and stone, in addition to makers fo gold leaf, silk weavers, silversmiths and bronze-casters, as they ply their respective trades according to the time-honored traditions of their forefathers. The pagodas, religious monuments, and major Buddhist sculptures seen all over Myanmar are authentic examples of the rich tradition of Bagan arts andcrafts and of prior eras of craftmanship so evident throughout Myanmar's history. Highlights on Scenic Beauty Myanmar is blessed with natural scenic beauty making for landscapes that are incredibly picturesque. The country's great lakes, snowcapped mountains and unspoiled beaches are undoubtedly some of the most stunning, idyllic, and mystical places to be found anywhere on earth. Myanmar's physical beauty is enhanced by the spectacular pagodas and temples that can be found all over the country. These venues for contemplation and prayer radiate the obvious spirituality of the people. Special Events Around The Year Myanmar is popularly known as The Land of Festivals because of the countless religious and cultural festivals that take place all ycar round. Some are nation-wide festivities while others are popular solely around the city of Yangon or in the District Areas. JANUARY On January 4th, Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar is celebrated across the country. Countless parades and fairs mark this important day and everyone joins in the festivities. The Myanmar Traditional Equestrian Festival or Myin-Khin-Thabin is a national festival which is held annually in Yangon In ancient times, this festival provided the Myanmar Kings with the opportunity to demonstrate their military might, but today its main purpose is for the perpetuation of Myanmar patriotism. It is a fantastic occasion and tourists are warmly welcomed to participate in the many celebrations. FEBRUARY Traditionally, this is the month of the Harvest Festival when people rejoice in the feast of Htamane. No one should miss this opportunity to sample a delicious Myanmar delicacy consisting of glutinour rice freckle with coconut, sesamum seeds, peanuts, ginger, and oil, which is specially prepared for the feast. The Thingyan festival don't wear your Sunday best! The anniversary of the Union Day falls on February 12. Representatives and cultural troupes of the seven States and seven Divisions of the Union of Myanmar dressed in colourful, traditional costumes gather at venues across the country. Traditional entertainment highlights the beauty of the different ethnic groups found within the Union. MARCH March is the most colorful month of the year as Pagoda Festivals arc in full swing. The Shwedagon Pagoda Festival is held on the day of the full moon of Tabaung and is one of the month s biggest events. During this festival, visitors can get a feel for the spirituality of the people of Myanmar by participating in events at temple fairs or by observing the rituals of the holiday. APRIL Thingyan or the Water Festival is held throughout the country for three days in the month of April. It simultaneously marks the end of the old year and beginning of the new. Young people gather together to sing and dance, and to playfully throw water on each other. Throughout the Thingyan Carnivals decorative floats and water throwing pandals are seen everywhere in both towns and cities alike. If you are not afraid of getting wet, this high spirited festival is one that you won't want to miss! MAY The Kason Festival of watering the Sacred Banyan Tree symbolises the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. It is an important Buddhist holiday and many processions are held at temple grounds throughout the country. JUNE AND JULY The onset of monsoon season makes June and July relatively quiet months in Myanmar. There are, however, various smaller Buddhist festivals to be enjoyed. AUGUST Taungpyone Nat or Spirit Festival is a popular five day festival held in Taungpyone near Mandalay. According to tradition, Nats are spirits that must be appeased or they will wreak havoc in people's lives. The two Nat Brothers honoured during Taungpyone Nat belong to the 37 well-known Myanmar Nats. The story of the two Nat Brothers originated during the rule of King Anawrahta, when it was the duty of every person in the kingdom to contribute a brick and a handful of sand for the construction of a Pagoda. The brothers failed to contribute their share and orders came from the King for them to be mildly punished. Unfortunately, the Nat Brothers were accidentally killed. The King was remorseful and built a big Nat (spirit) shrine by the side of the Pagoda honoring the two brothers. The homage-paying festival is now held annually to appease the spirits as it is believed that the Nat Brothers can fulfill your wishes, protect you from ill-fate and danger, and bring good luck, prosperity and progress. SEPTEMBER The famous Phaung-Daw-Oo Pagoda Festival is held at Inle Lake once a year. The procession of the Inle leg-rowers in full pageantry and ceremonial splendour is a sight not to be missed by anyone visiting Myanmar. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER The opening ceremony of Visit Myanmar Year 1 1996 will be kicked off on a grand scale. The celebration will be a gloriously festive occasion. The Thadingyut or Light Festival, which ends the Buddhist I Lent, is also one of the most prominent festivals of the year. Another celebration of light is the Tazaungdine festival held in November. Pagodas, houses, buildings, parks, and monuments arc all illuminated and there are various kinds of activities for everyone to enjoy. The other important festival outside Yangon is the exotic Elephant Dance held in Kyaukse, a small town not far from Mandalay. A huge elephant figure is made from bamboo and paper Men take their places inside the figure and dance around the town to the accompaniment of Dobat and Drums. The elephant dancers circle three times at the foot of the hill to pay homage to the Shwe Tha Lyaung Pagoda. It is a dance that requires precise rhythm and timing in order for the elephant dancers to maintain unity inside the elephant figure. DECEMBER The traditional Boat Regatta Festival is held at Kandawgyi Lake to remind the younger generations of the glory, sovereignty, patriotism and national spirit of Myanmar. Asia Travel || Myanmar Page || Top

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Muskoka Ontario Canada Summer Resort Vacation Packages - Georgian Bay Conference Accomodations Resorts Ontario Member - Canada's Award Winning Summer Family Resort Search Our Site: Please use the drop down menu above to navigate through our site. Delawana provides a beautiful family waterfront resort setting. Family recreation on Georgian Bay features some of the best fresh water beaches & fishing experiences in North America. Accommodation is available in cottages, chalets, with many cottage-like units built for families. Accommodation with fireplaces are perfect for couples, Or, if you prefer a vacation rental in one of our houses-cottages, we have a variety of 2-4 bedroom options for larger families. Discover Canada, Honey Harbour and Ontario's family vacation resort and let our web site guide you and your family through our lakeside vacation oasis. Remember two children always stay free at the "Del". Specials EARLY BOOKING SAVINGS 2 CHILDREN 15 & UNDER FREE ALL SEASON Reserve and pay in full prior to December 15/05 and receive 15% discount Reserve before February 15/06 with a $200 deposit per person and receive a 5% discount Pay in full by March 15/06 and receive an additional 5% discount 2 children 17 and under free June 25-July 9/06 or Aug 20 to Sept 4/06 **Discounts apply to 5,7 or 9 night bookings only** Heritage Award The Honey Harbour , Port Severn & District Chamber of Commerce awards Delawana with the 2005 Heritage Business Award based on Royal Island and other historic preservations. Best Summer Resort Award The Delawana Inn Resort received the 2005 award as the best summer family resort in Canada. Steeped in Local History Delawana Inn Resort Steeped in Local History In 1896 Midland Ontario resident and entrepreneur Nathan Nickerson identified the Delawana Resort site as the best Georgian Bay location for a hotel. Family Reunions Getting together with family is an Ontario summer tradition. Delawana offers one of the best family reunion summer packages. Don’t take our word for it Delawana Inn earns a new lifetime customer! Nikki Jones' family tradition. Delawana guest has the time of his life!! Delawana Gets Two Thumbs Up. Delawana is Great even for the picky ones. Wanakita Wellness Spa The Wanakita Wellness spa could be the main stop during your two-day Spa and or Golf package mid-week getaway, or weekend away. Frisbee Golf Frisbee Golf (or frolf) is now sweeping the nation by storm. The new Delawana frisbee golf course will take participants all over our Ontario Resort property Golf The Georgian Bay Area Challenging golf, starting with the Delawana Pines Pitch and Putt and iron range, and several nearby championship 18-hole Ontario golf courses. 2006: UN Year of Desertification The Delawana Inn proudly supports the UN in the convention to combat Desertification. Looking For Your Own Cottage Country? Discover Haliburton's Champlain Shores Cottage Country Residence . Deeded Lake Front Ownership. Discover Georgian Bay , Honey Harbour , Beausoleil Island and many other nearby local attractions. Read Delawana Inn Resort's Privacy Policy >> Home | Family Resort Vacations | Resort Accommodations | Resort Recreation | Site Map | About Delawana Inn Resort | Contact Resort Delawana Muskoka Resort and Conference Centre is the ideal Ontario location for conferences, conventions, corporate meetings or retreats, family reunions and family vacations. Located in Honey Harbour on beautiful Georgian Bay, the resort features its own executive pitch and putt golf course, sandy beaches, tennis courts, supervised children's programs, The Wanakita Wellness Spa, heated pool and waterfront vacation activities. The perfect resort for family getaways with on site entertainment, fine dining and many different styles of accommodation. Families will love Delawana too with lots of recreation sports activities and children's programs. Movies under the stars, spa, water ski Georgian Bay, play a round of golf or just relax on one of our sandy beaches - Delawana Resort in Muskoka has it all. Delawana is a Muskoka Ontario resort that promises quality and value. The resort features accommodation only a 90 minute drive from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Muskoka region is known for its wooded wilderness setting amongst thousands of little inlets, waterways and islands. Hikers, mountain bikers and fishing enthusiasts call the 30,000 islands region of Muskoka a lakefront vacation destination oasis. Delawana Family Resort and Conference Centre is located on beautiful Georgian Bay with the convenience of being close to many local attractions such as the Wye Marsh Nature Wildlife Centre and Saint Marie Among the Hurons. The resort property boasts beautiful flower gardens and a picture perfect waterfront setting. Ideal for family vacations and reunions, Delawana has cottage rentals and resort suite rental accommodation situated on manicured grounds, in a traditional Muskoka resort setting. If you are planning an Ontario resort vacation you won't be disappointed with the decor and cleanliness of our traditional resort with all the modern conveniences and activities that you would expect in a resort property. Most of the accommodations have exceptional waterfront views and we have a large dock system that makes for a great location to watch the sunset or to just relax and dangle your feet in the Georgian Bay water. Our sandy beaches are perfect for children's play and are a major attraction during beach parties for sunbathing, dancing and sand castles alike. All of this compliments our full children's program. We also have a beautiful in ground heated pool with comfortable lounges and surrounded by lovely gardens. Our many children's playgrounds are nearby with swings, slides and other popular children's favorites. If you enjoy the waterfront try our peddle boats, water bikes and canoes & kayaks or one of our many guided cruises on Georgian Bay. If you are looking for something a little more relaxing we have our own Executive Pitch and Putt Golf Course as well as a number of full golf course choices nearby. Resort bicycles are available for guests to do bicycle touring around Beausoliel Island of Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Most important you'll appreciate the friendly service at this traditional Muskoka Ontario resort. Our goal is to have you come back to the Delawana every year and so we put great efforts towards making your family vacation experience a memorable one. After all, we've been creating family vacation memories for 109 years now. A Resorts Ontario member, The Delawana Inn Resort is your ideal Muskoka family vacation destination and conference resort.

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NSBA Annual Conference - Hotel/Travel Info General Session Speakers TLN Executive Briefing Fellowship Gathering Danzberger Memorial Lecture Topical Program Tracks Focus on Education Lectures Spotlight Sessions Deeper Look Sessions Board Member Boot Camp Sessions for Board Support Professionals Special Sessions Early Bird Workshops Technology Site Visit CUBE Programming School Law Seminar Rural and Small District Forum Large District Workshop Conference Orientation Executive Job Fair Walk of Excellence Spouse Programming Golf Tournament 5K Run/Walk Administrators' Breakfast Networking Luncheons Human Relations Dinner National Affiliate Center 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) Floor Plan 2006 Online Booth Space Contract 2006 Rules & Regulations (PDF) 2006 Floor Plan 2006 Product Category Listing (PDF) 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) 2006 Exhibitor Prospectus (PDF) 2006 List of Exhibitors (PDF) Exhibitor Benefits Attendee Demographics Exhibitor Services Contact Exhibits Department Sponsorship Opportunities Hotel Info and Reservations Housing for Attendees Housing for Exhibitors Hotel Listing and Map Travel Arrangements Sightseeing Tours Topical Program Tracks Schedule At-a-Glance Register for the Conference Attendee Housing Exhibitor Housing Hotel rates and map Housing FAQs Hotel and travel information: the best choice of accommodations, savings on your trip to Chicago, and how to enjoy this captivating city. Housing: NSBA wants to ensure that the best rooms (see map and rates ) are available for Conference attendees. You must register to attend the Conference before your housing arrangements can be made. Here's how it works: Conference Registration: All registrants receive a confirmation ID# for use in reserving their rooms. The quickest way to receive a confirmation ID# is to register online and provide us with your e-mail address. Hotel reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and must be made through the NSBA Housing Bureau . You must have a confirmation ID# to reserve housing. Reservations made directly through the hotel will not be guaranteed. You may register and reserve housing online, by phone, fax, or mail. But online is definitely the fastest way — and the best way to improve your choice of hotel rooms. Travel to Chicago: Once again, NSBA has named Association Travel Concepts (ATC) as the official travel agency for our 2006 Annual Conference. ATC has negotiated discounts with United, American Airlines, Avis, and Enterprise to bring you fares and rates lower than those available to the public. Chicago is our kind of town — and yours! The host for NSBA's 2006 Annual Conference is one of the most popular convention cities in America. Chicago is also a world-class tourist destination — a great reason to bring your family along with you. Dining and nightlife. Enjoy a deep-dish pizza, invented in Chicago, or a prime steak, perfected in Chicago. Explore the Loop (maybe via the elevated "L" train) and visit famous jazz clubs. You know the movie Chicago? See and hear what inspired it! Museums and more. Discover the Field Museum and Sue, the biggest T. rex ever found. Plus the Museum of Science and Industry. Not just one but two zoos. Museums of classical and modern art. The world's largest indoor aquarium. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright's studio and the Robie House he designed. And the splendid Botanic Gardens. This city really grows on you! Shopping and skyscrapers. Max out your credit cards on the Magnificent Mile, then visit the Navy Pier with its 150-foot Ferris wheel. Speaking of heights, try dining on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building or visiting the Skydeck of the Sears Tower — 110 stories up. The sky's the limit on fun in Chicago! Want more details? Visit the website of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau . We'll also send you information about tours after you register for the Conference. In addition, special NSBA-sponsored tours will be offered. Click here for details. Suggestion: Mark your calendar now and plan to spend a few extra days in Chicago. You deserve it! Home | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Site Map

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France Travel Guide - French Trip Planning, French Culture and Destinations You are here: About > Travel > France for Visitors Travel Go France Essentials New Year's Eve in Paris and France Worst of France 2005 Paris Travel Guide Top French Ski Resorts Best New Year's Eve Champagne Articles & Resources Destinations Trip Planning Transportation Interests & Situations Money, Safety & Issues Things to Do in France Where to Stay in France Staying Connected Blogs Picture Galleries Culture, Language & People Fun, Freebies & Quizes Relocating to France Nudism, Sex & Gay Travel D-Day & Historic Travel Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Sites Selling French Products Before You Buy the Gift of Travel Gifts for the France Fanatic Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the France for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search France for Visitors From Kelby Carr , Your Guide to France for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and smoke. So why are they so thin and fit? Recent news reports have touted the wonders of the so-called French diet. Just what is the secret to the French paradox? During the time I lived in France, I ate whatever I wanted (think chocolate croissants for breakfast, tartes aux fruits rouges at night for dessert). I never dieted, and I never went to the gym. I indulged in wine. Yet I lost a significant amount of weight during that time. My theories why the French diet works are in my article, Lose Weight with the French Diet: Unraveling the Mysteries of Why it Works . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as rioting spread throughout the nation and the grand city of Paris lost its front-runner bid for the Olympics. Here is a recap of the bad headlines of 2005 for France with Worst of France 2005 . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it in the mesmerizing Pyrenees mountains lining the Spanish border or the magestic Alps along the Italian and Swiss borders. France also encompasses no less than five other mountain ranges. The hotel accommodations at some of these resorts range from upscale and luxurious to inviting and cozy. This list of Top Ski Resort Hotels in France features the best places to stay for French ski enthusiasts. Monday December 26, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether it's clubbing in Paris or the sublime midnight grape-picking event in the Midi Pyrenees or an upscale, medieval celebration in a Loire castle. Find out how to plan a New Year's Eve visit to Paris or France , and which events and festivals are planned for the turn of the new year. Even if you can't zip over to Paris to celebrate, you'll also find tips on finding French New Year's Eve parties in your town or even how to plan a France-themed New Year's Eve party at your own house! Bonne fete! Wednesday December 21, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines Looking for a last-minute gift idea? Planning a New Year's Eve get together? If you plan to celebrate with some bubbly, you want to be sure you do it in style. You can get a crappy grocery store sparkling wine, but only vintages from the Champagne region are truly called Champagne. There is also a small village in France that claims it, in fact, invented sparkling wine centuries ago. Here is a list of the Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines for New Year's Eve, wedding toasts, celebrations or just for fun for all price ranges! Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Christmas 2005 Gift Guide for Francophiles, Travelers and Foodies Here is the Christmas 2005 Gift Guide , filled with some of the top gifts for travelers, francophiles and foodies. The guide also includes buying advice for choosing travel guidebooks as gifts, how to create a French gift basket, as well as tips on giving the gift of travel. Whether the recipient on your list loves gourmet food gifts, French wine, home decor items, is planning a honeymoon or simply adores anything trs francais , you can find the perfect gift and buying advice here. Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Most Romantic Paris Hotels Paris is the city of romance, and a tremendously popular destination for couples, lovers and honeymooners. The city is filled with cozy, intimate romantic hotels and accomodations. Be sure you get the best of this snuggle time with this list of Most Romantic Paris Hotels . Thursday December 15, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Budget Paris Hotels Paris is one of the world's most expensive cities, but it's also one of the top tourist attractions. Find out how to conserve your cash for the finer thinks, like a fabulous dinner or incredible shopping, with this list of Top Budget Paris Hotels . It features high-quality cheap places to stay in Paris. Monday December 12, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris If you're going to visit the luscious city of Paris and you have the means, why not do it in true style? Paris has some of the world's finest, most luxurious hotels. This is a city that is well-suited to upscale services. Get a list of the Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris , which includes prestigious names like the famous George V, Ritz Paris and even a bona fide castle outside of the city. Friday December 9, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Hot Deal for Visiting Paris in the Springtime You've just gotta love Paris in the Springtime. But then, so does everyone else, driving up those prices. But the France Tourism Office and Gate 1 Travel are offering a hot bargain, allowing you to get a 6-day Paris spring fling for $499 per person, airfare and hotel included. Find out more on the Paris Tourism Office site. It would make an incredible Christmas gift, but be sure to consult my advice on what to do Before You Buy the Gift of Travel . For more on Paris, be sure to see: Paris Travel Guide Top Paris Travel Guidebooks Free Things to Do in Paris How I 'Do' Paris Wednesday December 7, 2005 | permalink | comments (1) Email to a Friend Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives Advertisement Related Blogs Dispatches from France Blog Paris Blog French Word-a-Day Blog La Coquette Blog Chroniques dune Fraise Nice Blog Rsidence Les Marronniers Provence Blog L'Oiseau Blog Chocolate and Zucchini Blog Forty Days in Paris Blog Most Popular "Naked City" Christmas in Paris Photo Tour Paris Sex District Top Paris Attractions Christmas in France What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Related Topics Europe for Visitors French Language French Cuisine Honeymoons / Romantic Getaways Wine Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Headlines Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether