Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RICE TERRACES NEAR KENGTUNG
BURMESE CHIC
Want to dip your toes into Burmese culture? Don a longyi, and slap on some
thanaka
.
The
longyi
is a sarong-like lower-body garment worn by men and women across the land;
though both wear essentially the same thing, patterns vary by gender, as does the style of
folding. You may notice certain colour-related traits - green, for example, is strongly asso-
ciated with education and thus de rigueur with students, while those working in the service
industry often opt for sky blue. Many travellers end up buying one and wearing it around -
usually made of cotton, longyis are extremely comfortable in hot weather, and very afford-
able at K2000-6000 each.
Then there's
thanaka
, a bright yellow face paint sported - often in rather spectacular
styles-bymoreorlesseverywomanandchildinthecountry,aswellasafewgents.Made
from ground tree bark, it's usually applied in the morning, the purpose manifold - it's a
sunblock, a perfume, decoration and a skincare product, all in one. Again, it's easy to par-
takeyourself:justhuntitdownfromashopsellingitinpowderform,thenmixwithalittle
water to form a paste - locals love to show you the ropes.
