Belmond Governor’s Residence, Yangon

Location

With grand embassy houses at its neighbours, this colonial estate is set among a verdant garden dotted with lotus pools. It’s ideal for early evening wanders and lazy afternoons spent on a sun lounger. You’ll also be ideally situated for exploring the city, with its central landmarks just 10 minutes’ away. Look even closer and you’ll be treated to Yangon’s jewel – Shwedagaon Pagoda. Gilded first in the 15th century, its 100 metre high stupa is adorned in nearly 30 tons of gold leaf along with countless precious gems. Head further afield to find that even the city’s roundabouts are adorned with golden iconography while its serene lakes host a history all of their own.

Accommodation

Let teak panelling, open verandahs and large, whirring fans transport you back to an epoch of old world grandeur. Myanmar’s southern states were ruled over by the British from these very rooms. Today, hand-carved furniture and silk fabrics make for decadent stays all complemented by views out to the Residence’s stone courtyard or its lotus garden. Oversized terrazzo baths, WiFi and complimentary fruit and bottled water add to the amenities. Throughout, traditional Burmese detailing adds a sense of place to proceedings. For some extra space, book into one of the suites for adjoining seating areas.

Dining

Whether you take your meals in the quaint colonialism of the Mandalay Restaurant or in the tropical gardens, you’ll be treated to a range of local specialities. Perhaps select from the Burmese curry menu or make use of the live grill selection for sumptuous river prawns, butterfish skewers or marinated pork loin sate. And, from sour prawn and fish cake to pennywort and ginger butterbean, there’s a full complement of salads. For those missing a taste of home, there’s a selection of Western specialities including grade eight wagyu steak, seared scallops and duck confit.

Facilities

If you’re in the mood for some evening refreshment, make your way to the Kipling Bar where signature cocktails, international wines and artisan coffees are served while the Mindon Lounge offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, there’s the Governor’s Oasis where a contemporary understanding of traditional, organic ingredients is applied in stimulating spa therapies, including massages, pedicures and wraps. Head out to explore on culinary tours, bicycle excursions and golf trips, or simply relax by the pool.