BURMA TEAM

WAH WAH: Our operations on the ground in Burma are managed by the wonderful Wah Wah, whose perfect planning and meticulous attention to detail make even the most testing of itineraries run smoothly. An integral cog in the tour design and development Wah Wah is always on hand to let us know when our ideas are too crazy. Based in Yangon, lucky guests may well catch a glimpse of the elusive Wah Wah at the beginning or end of their visit.

 

ALLIE DUNNINGTON: Allie has been a key element in our introduction to Burma and she designed and led the In the Foot Steps of Rudyard Kipling journey for us in November 2011. This fantastic journey was such a hit we have managed to lure her back to her beloved Burma for a repeat visit in 2012. As a hot air balloon pilot Allie has spent Innumerable early mornings floating above the temples at Bagan and as many afternoons exploring them on the ground. As a result Allie has an intricate knowledge of the site. Her enthusiastic and fun loving personality has won her friends all over the country and these friends give an added perspective on life in Burma, it's past and future.

Allie has travelled and worked in Asia since 1986. She has a Master's degree in Asian Studies and speaks various European and Oriental languages. Having lived and worked in Burma, Mongolia, China, Japan and Singapore, Allie has an in-depth understanding of different Asian lifestyles, cultures and mentalities. As a professional tour manager Allie specialises in designing itineraries which offer a refreshing mix of classic highlights with an interesting twist, and routes that offer something different from most other tours - all drawn from personal interest, local contacts and feedback from discerning past guests.

 

FRANKIE (NyiNyi): What can one say about this charming man? The leader of our first tour to the Burma in Oct/Nov 2011, Frankie was the perfect host. He has an in-depth knowledge of all things Burmese, his planning and running of the day-to-day logistics were flawless and he made sure everyone was blissfully happy and well catered for at all times. But what makes Frankie particularly special is his openness, zest for life, keen interest in the world and not least his sense of humour. I cannot imagine spending a dull moment with Frankie. He is a very interesting, intelligent and engaging fellow, an excellent guide and a great companion.

 

PYU PYU: Our regional contact in Bagan, Pyu Pyu ensures all arrangements, and guests, are well taken care of in and around the ancient capital. As well as offering a warm welcome on arrival at Bagan, Pyu Pyu often accompanies guests on the private boat from Bagan to Sale.

 

KHUN THAN TUN LAY: Tun is your friendly local trekking guide for our treks in the hills around Inle Lake in Shan State. Born into the "Pa O" tribe (and so descended from Dragons) Tun is well versed in the different cultures and traditions of the local peoples, the various developmental and environmental projects in the area and speaks excellent English. This with his curiosity and sense of fun make him also a great companion on your trek. Super fit, even on the hottest days trek he still manages to look fresh and smart in the brightly coloured turban and black costume of the Pa O. He sings like an angel and climbs the steepest trails like a hare. Catch him if you can!

 

SI TUN LIN: Si Lin is your guide when trekking to the tribes in the hills around Kyaing Tong (Keng Tung) in eastern Shan State. Born to Shan parents, Si Lin was very ill as an infant and in keeping with local tradition he was offered for adoption in the hope that this would save him. His adopted parents were of the Enn tribe and he spent his first year of life in a remote isolated village before is health improved and he was presented back to his biological parents. His ties to his adoptive parents and the village community continue as does his excellent relationship with other tribes of the region. He is a kind and responsible host and, for the villages, an important connection to the outside world.

 

KYAW: A Danu from the hills of Pindaya, Kyaw co leads our In the Footsteps of Rudyard Kipling journey in November 2011, where his boundless energy, forward planning and attention to detail make him an indispensable asset. He is extremely funny and great fun to be with. His playful personality, quick wit and cheeky sense of humour endear him to locals and guests alike.

 

KYAW WIN: If you are lucky enough to head up to old British seaport of Sittwe you will be greeted by one of the broadest smiles in the country. Our first impressions of Kyaw Win were that he is incredibly friendly and, for a Burmese gentleman, incredibly tall. Kyaw Win is your expert guide at the ancient city of Mrauk U and the Chin villages further up the Laymro river. His knowledge of Rakhine history is as remarkable as his enthusiasm and love for the cultural treasures he reveals.