The Road to Mandalay - Irrawaddy River

Who should go?
The Road to Mandalay is a deluxe river cruiser operated by the renowned Orient-Express group. Different from ocean cruises, The Road to Mandalay offers a relaxing, more cultural environment where travelers can truly experience the beauty of Myanmar and its people. The boat features all the amenities of a modern hotel although, as is typical with boat cabins, space is limited so it is recommended to leave excess baggage behind. The Road to Mandalay is ideal for those who wish to have an elegant, cultural journey along the Irrawaddy River.

When to go?
Burma has three seasons. From September to February the daytime temperature is about 28 degrees C (80 F) with cool evenings. March to May is hot but dry. From June to September it is the rainy season. The area visited by Road To Mandalay is protected from most of the monsoon and is described as the dry zone.

Where is it?
The Road to Mandalay embarks and disembarks at the towns of Bagan and Mandalay on Myanmar's Irrawaddy River. Ports of call may include Bhamo, Katha, Mingun, Mogok, Tigyaung and New Nyein depending on the length of the cruise.

What's not to be missed?
Awake early to watch the sun rise over the Irrawaddy. Walking tours at small villages along the river. Sharing traveler stories with an evening cocktail at the Piano Bar. Visiting the historic towns immortalized by George Orwell in ‘Burmese Days'. Kachin jungle trek in the town of Naba. Tribal dances in the evenings near Mandalay. Sunset over the temples of Bagan.

What's cooking?
Travelers aboard the Road to Mandalay are treated to a variety of gourmet Eastern and Western dishes enjoyed as the boat travels along the picturesque Irrawaddy River. Lunch is served on the Observation Deck and features a themed buffet-style spread of cuisines whereas dinners are served in the Restaurant. The evening menu includes regional cuisines such as Shan, Thai and Indonesian as well as Western dishes and unlike many cruises, travelers aboard the Road to Mandalay choose their own time for dinner. For evening cocktails, guests are invited to gather at the Piano Bar where delicious drinks and pleasant company can be enjoyed while accompanied by the music of a local pianist.