Named after Myanmar's famous river, Ayeyarwady is a picturesque spot and the perfect place to begin travelling on the water. The river is the lifeblood of the Burmese people with ferries, rafts, barges and fishing boats all plying their trade.

While enjoying the river's tranquillity, you will see the small teak and bamboo homes along the banks and typical farming activities including the ever impressive ox carts cultivating the fields. Stunning temples rise over the trees and ruins reveal give a gliompse of Myanmar's past.

A trip along the river is the best way to really understand the ways of the Burmese. They are not that bothered who the current military tyrant is, or who is up on corruption charges this week. They just get on with their daily chores and take care of their families.

Over the centuries, Myanmar has grown around the banks of the Ayeyarwady river, making it the ideal point to experience the "real" way of life in this unique country.