KIRSTY SIMMONDS, AUSTRALIA, THE GOLDEN LAND, FEB 2017
I just wanted to tell you what an incredible trip we just had on RV Pandaw 2, finishing in Mandalay/Sagaing on the 23rd Feb. I was part of a little group of three, among about 35 in total on Pandaw 2, all of us experiencing Myanmar for the first time. The crew and guides, under the excellent guardianship of Mr Aung Aung Oo were superb, "a class act" as we say here in Australia. Head of Food and Beverage, Stuart will know what a compliment that is.
The team took special care of my sister who is partially sighted and, for that, I am so grateful. Truly outstanding. Her needs were one of the reasons we chose this style of travel for Myanmar; she would never be able to come otherwise. She left feeling she'd had as great an adventure as everybody else. We chose Pandaw because you were recommended by a previous guest, and we'll be recommending you to others who want to visit Myanmar.
I must specifically compliment the crew and guides for their warm professionalism and openness. I watched the crew handle all the questions about life in Myanmar with insight and passion.
Usually a DIY traveller and a trekker, I haven't experienced a structured trip before and was unsure what it would be like. Actually, if I had to describe the trip, I'd say it's a breathtaking 'boat trek' rather than a cruise, to do justice to the lovely blend of stylish comforts, relaxed time on the river and visits to places none of us could experience by any other way, which is why you're Pandaw Expeditions!
A few standouts: the sunrises; the little villages and their amazing people; the food (wow!); and, I doubt anybody will forget the sight of Mr Peter, head barman, in a rowboat delivering cocktails and a huge smile to us all on the lake at Amarapura nor the party on the sandbank the next night.
Myanmar left footprints on our hearts. We'll be back.
Thank you to you all.
Kirsty Simmonds