CHEF INNOVATIONS NEWS
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| MYANMAR (BURMA) CULTURAL TRIP |
-St. Augustine, philosopher and theologian
Hustle & Bustle
Well now...I am long overdue for sending out photos of an incredible adventure through the country of Myanmar (Burma). Known as "Burma" from English Colonialism, this strong willed country has retaken it's historical name for it's beloved country and many of the major cities that were simplified for the English language.
While controversy continues to surround the governing of this country, I can insure that spending time around the people and immersed in the culture, is a rewarding experience. Additionally, I truly believe that the presence of outside influences can only serve to help - and eventually better - the lives of the people of Myanmar.
This seldom visited South East Asian Country, holds several gems of cultural and historical significance, along with surprisingly interesting gastronomic diversity.
Yangon is a bustling city with many cultural sites to visit. Full of temples, museums and history; it's a good initiation to the country. However, I highly recommend going far beyond the "City", to enjoy the diversity in it's true setting from North to South and East to West. From the plains of Bagan to the mountains of Inle Lake. And of course, from the dusty cities to the beautiful beaches that are yet clean and serene with minimal development and surrounded by indiginous people and culture.
Gastronomy & Farming
The people of the Inle Lake area have learned through the ages how to survive from the resources of the lake itself. Fishing on the lake is an every day occurrence and somewhat of an 'artform' that is inticing to watch. I approached some fishermen to buy their catch, which thrilled them as it meant they did not have to trek for hours to the local market to sell the fish. Then we gave the fish to our boatmen and local villagers for their dinner, which was met with equal joy; as they place great value in the products of the region.
Inle Lake is home to Hydroponic Farming on Steroids. Over time they have developed "Floating Gardens". These are deep fertile solid masses, where marsh, soil and water hyacinths have combined over several years to form these floating islands which are staked to the bottom of the shallow lake using bamboo poles for stability. The industrious villagers inhabiting the region support themselves by cultivating a variety of crops from tomatoes, other fruits, vegetables and flowers. Rice is also a big crop in the region, most commomly from the Northern region of the lake.
Culture & History
Myanmar is very diverse in cultural history. Influenced from many different ethnic groups through history, there are extremes from one area to another. Bordered by China, Thailand, India, Laos and Bangladesh; you may expect that there has been a lot of civil struggle within the country - let alone the battling over invasion from outside sources. The people remain very proud of their heritage. They revere and gush over past kings and buddhism is obvious anywhere and everywhere. The amount of temples in the Bagan area alone is mind-boggling and beautiful!!!
Giving Back
It is a personal goal of mine, to try and do something helpful during my travels. In this case, we purchased school supplies for children and passed them out at a local orphanage in Mandalay and again at a small village in the mountains near Inle Lake.
When traveling, I try to balance my love of Gastronomy with Culture and History; and then attempt to give someting back to the place I am visiting as a way to say "thank you" for the enrichment I receive from the people I encounter.
I hope someone in this mailing has an opportunity to visit Myanmar or another obscure geographical location in the world; and enjoy the education and eye-opening experiences I have the pleasure of enjoying regularly.
Please pass this Newsletter to any associates that may benefit or may be interested in visiting my web-site.
Safe travels and good eating!!!
Bananas for Burma
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Being a daily 'Banana-Consumer', I found pleasure in hanging around this vendor.
Noodles at a Street Side Cafe
Great Noodles & Coffee at this street side Cafe in Yangon (Rangoon).
Rice Noodles "Made in Bagan"
Rice Noodles being produced in a back alley shed off dirt roads. It may not look nice, but sure does taste great!!!
Street Market in Yangon
Many families and small vendors selling Fresh Produce of Outstading Quality.
Beautiful Greens at a Mandalay Market
Fresh Herbs and Greens that enhance Soups, Noodles, Salads and other ethnic dishes.
Temples of Bagan
As far as the eye can see, thousands of Temples dot the landscape of this incredibles area.
Reverence of Buddhism
Temples were erected in honor of Buddha. The condition of some of the Temples is amazing and quite a spectacle, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Girls Orphanage in Mandalay
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A long line awaits us as we prepare to donate school supplies. They are up early morning on their way to walk to class across town.
Painted Faces (Make-Up) is a sign of Beauty
Young girls from the orphanage line up as we hand out books, pencils and art materials.
Tip for the Month:
"We believe that travel is one of the most powerful forces for tolerance, understanding and democracy the world possesses."