Update from Hennie in Bagan
I am in Bagan. It is amazing.
This morning we went for a short bike ride to visit the various pagodas and temples. They are massive structures all built with red brick and some with steeples covered with gold leaves, many dating from the 11th century.
Went to the market this afternoon to buy a few final souvenirs and then, the group went at 5:30 to the top of a temple to see the sunset. We were not the only ones. Droves of people go there to watch the sun rise and set. It was a lovely thing to see the red sun go under.
We had a final dinner tonight with the 6 man crew. Our flight to Yangon leaves at 7:45 in the morning so I'll have to get up very early.
We will fly over what we have biked, from Bagan to Mandalay. Then, Heho to Yangon. I am in the home stretch!
All land here belongs to the government. People can lease a plot of land for 30 years and even build a house. But, if the government needs the land for something, with only a week's notice, you must pack up and vacate with little compensation. Reflecting, I am thankful to have the freedoms I have!