It feels strange being in a mainly Buddhist country in 33 degree heat for the build up to Christmas. In early December, the first signs begin to appear including Christmas lights and decorations in supermarkets and restaurants.Artificial fir trees, some with golden reindeer appear outside shopping malls. As I am driven along the main road routes in Yangon, more buildings become lit up and more unusual Christmas sights appear like an illuminated Eiffel tower o...

This is an amazing experience,living and working in Myanmar as it takes the first steps in its transition to democracy. I am witnessing things which are so encouraging and bring hope and at the same time, things which are disturbing and bring despair. It is a case of constantly living in a state of yin and yang - and having to navigate myself emotionally through this set of contradictions. Whilst I am here, I have decided to learn more about eastern philosophy ...

I've finally got round to writing some notes about food here in Myanmar. There are three options for me - to cook at home; to eat in a restaurant/cafe; or street food. Cooking at home can be fun especially using the great variety of vegetables available from the markets. I have only a one ring electric cooker and so getting rice and chicken and vegetables to be ready at the same time is a challenge! Street food is available everywhere and on many street corn...

The French have done it again! If ever there was a great example of 'soft political power' this is it. The French Institute puts on fantastic events in Yangon, including music and film festivals and this weekend is the Mingalabar festival. In conjunction with the Yangon authorities, they have created a fun festival series of events culminating in a pop music festival and firework display near Shwedagon pagoda. Intially today it is getting to the venue for th...

Golden Rock pagoda is a great gathering of people from all over Myanmar and beyond. I visited a few months ago in the wet season and now it is a completely different tourist and pilgrim destination. Many people bring blankets and food to stay on overnight, I had hoped to sleep out tonight with the pilgrims but foreigners are not allowed to do so. There are are so many mobile phone cameras and selfie sticks now that the character of the place has changed fore...