Belmond Road to Mandalay

This leisurely river cruise takes you along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin rivers between Mandalay and Bagan, passing temples and villages along the riverbank. You can also choose a cruise focused on mindfulness, with one-to-one coaching and group yoga and meditation sessions designed for relaxing and unwinding in the perfect setting - in this spiritual country, meditation is a way of life.

If you're after a smaller cruise boat, take a look at the Belmond Road to Mandalay's little sister, the beautiful Belmond Orcaella.

The cabins on the Belmond Road to Mandalay combine traditional touches with contemporary elegance, from bespoke furnishings made by local artisans to satellite TVs and iPod docking stations, alongside comfortable double or twin beds, air conditioning and spacious ensuite bathrooms. All cabins have large outward-facing windows to make the most of the river views, and the lavish Governor’s Suite comes with its own butler service.

Start the day with a delicious breakfast buffet, and enjoy themed lunches and gourmet evening meals, featuring local and international specialities, accompanied by hand-picked local beers and vintage wines. At the al fresco restaurant on the observation deck, you can watch the chefs in action at the grill station before dining under the stars, and order pre-dinner aperitifs and after-dinner cocktails at the bar – we recommend the Mandalay Rum Sour, made with locally distilled rum.

Indulge in the spa or simply relax on the spacious observation deck, where you can soak up the sun, unwind with yoga and tai chi, and take a refreshing dip in the pool to cool off.

There is a range of activities on the boat - find out more about Myanmar with topical lectures by local and international experts (there are multilingual guides onboard), join a cooking class and discover how to make traditional Burmese specialities, or learn how to tie a traditional longyi (sarong) or apply Thanaka (a local beauty treatment). Colourful entertainment includes Burmese marionettes and classical dance performances.

During your onshore tours, there are also opportunities to see craftspeople at work in their workshops, and is there is a boutique onboard where you can choose from a range of exquisite handicrafts and jewellery – perfect for a unique souvenir.