Basics - The Rough Guide to Myanmar - page 74

LUCK BIRDS
Travelling around Myanmar you'll sooner or later notice the cages set up by roadsides and
around towns (particularly outside temples) stuffed full of frantically fluttering and chir-
rupingbirds.These are so-called luckbirds ,the unfortunate victims ofapopular Buddhist
practice whereby birds are captured by local villagers and farmers to be purchased and set
free by those seeking to acquire merit by saving a life. The act of buying and freeing a
cagedbirdmayappearselflessandspirituallyfulfillingbutthepracticeisfarfromhumane.
Many birds die (or are fatally injured) in captivity, while numerous endangered species are
threatened by the luck bird trade - common-or-garden species cost a dollar or so, but this
rises significantly for larger and more exotic captives. Lucky for seller and buyer, perhaps,
but certainly not for the birds themselves.
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SHOPPING
Myanmar isn't quite the shopper's paradise of neighbouring Thailand and India but
hasplentyofaffordabletraditionalsouvenirsandcraftsworthlookingoutfor.Thebest
places to shop are Yangon (Bogyoke Market in particular), Mandalay and Bagan; else-
where, pickings can be thin on the ground.
Bargaining is generally the order of the day except in more upmarket shops or places with
clearly marked prices - although you could always try your luck. Note that the exportofan-
tiques is prohibited, although exactly what constitutes an antique is not entirely clear. If in
doubt, ask the shop you're buying from if they can supply you with an export licence.
Traditional artefacts
Lacquerware is perhaps the most emblematic of all Burmese crafts: lacquerware vessels are
still used in many homes and a lacquered bowl or plate makes a beautiful, if pricey, souvenir.
Lacquerware is available all over the country, although Bagan offers the best selection and
lowest prices, as well as the chance to visit local workshops and see pieces being made.
AnothericonicBurmesecollectibleisthecolourful,beautifullydecorated umbrellas carried
by the country's monks and nuns. Pathein remains the main production centre for traditional
cotton umbrellas, while silk parasols (originally from Bagan and Mandalay) can also be
found here and elsewhere.
Carvings in sandalwood, stone, marble and other materials are also widespread. Buddha
images are ubiquitous, although there are also more unusual statuettes to be found depicting
nats , mythical beasts and other creatures. Mandalay, particularly the area near the Mahamuni
Paya, is a major stone-carving centre.