Southeast Asia Tour 2015
Inle Lake | Heho | Yangon | Myanmar
05 Dec 2015 | Sat
Day 17 of 46
Leave Inle Lake | Flight – Heho to Yangon
Today was a busy travel day. We got up early, checked out of our hotel, and got on another boat to head back across Inle Lake to Nyaung Shwe Jetty. We then got back in our van with our driver and tour guide and headed back to Heho (Kalaw).
Return to Nyaung Shwe Jetty | Leg-Rowing Fisherman on Inle Lake
Leg-rowing fishermen on Inle Lake have become a symbol of the country and region. These fishermen row their boats with one leg, standing atop the narrow wooden vessels as they maneuver through the shallow waters. They use this technique to catch fish as well as other aquatic species that are native to the lake.
This type of rowing has been used for generations in order to ensure a successful fishing run. It is also believed that it provides stability and balance while navigating through the water, allowing them to reach deep into crevices while avoiding getting stuck in reeds or mud. The unique method is mesmerizing to watch, combining skill and agility with an artful display of strength and grace.
Inle Lake’s leg-rowing fishermen provide an iconic image of Myanmar’s culture that can be seen all over tourist souvenirs, artwork, photographs, and more.
Drive | Inle Lake to Heho Airport
The drive back was very interesting, as the road conditions were very poor (bumpy and rough). We also had a few delays due to road construction. But we had a great driver, and he made it as comfortable as he could.
Flight | Heho Airport to Yangon International Airport
When we arrived, we were so lucky to have our awesome tour guide, as she helped protect us from the aggressive people – looking to take advantage of unfamiliar tourists like ourselves. She went in, got out tickets, and took us directly to the waiting area for our plane.
Arrive to Yangon | Check into Savoy Hotel Yangon
I guess due to being very tired and worn out, I didn’t take any pictures of our arrival at Yangon International Airport and Savoy Hotel, Yangon. These were both return visits to the same place and had been covered in previous posts.
Canceled Activities Planned for Our Last Night
After arriving back in Yangon on our last night in Myanmar, we were scheduled to visit:
- Sule Pagoda
- Colonial buildings, City Hall, and National Museum
- Bogyoke Aung San Market
- Karaweik Royal Barge
…But we were so tired that we decided to stay in and get some rest before our next morning’s flight back to Bangkok, Thailand.