55 days in Myanmar & Lebanon Itinerary

Closed to Western travelers for most of the 20th century, Myanmar draws an increasing number of visitors with its gilded pagodas and elaborately decorated temples. Visitors looking for sun and sand opt to vacation on Myanmar's many isolated beaches, ideal for escaping the modern world and kicking back with a drink and a book. In the cities, savvy shoppers easily find bargains on high-quality textiles, antiques, traditional tapestries, and precious stones. A well-rounded Myanmar itinerary also includes a few leisurely activities, like drinking tea at a cozy teahouse, enjoying a hearty meal at a family-run eatery, and pausing to contemplate at a centuries-old Buddhist shrine.

With a lengthy coastline along the Mediterranean, Lebanon has attracted its share of foreign invaders, from ancient Phoenicians and Egyptians to the medieval Crusaders and Ottoman Turks. Each of these peoples left an indelible mark on the tiny country's cultural heritage, art, religious traditions, and cuisine. Though it shares a border with troubled Syria, Lebanon remains one of the Arab world's most charming destinations. A tour of Lebanon allows travelers to discover modern seaside resorts, ancient ruins, lush nature reserves, and dynamic cities. Base your Lebanon vacation in Beirut, a cosmopolitan capital known for its cafe culture and European architecture, as well as many museums, parks, and squares.