Being the main commercial hub of Myanmar, Yangon is also recently reported to be one of the world's 100 most expensive cities to reside in, ranking in at 70th place.
While the city is known for its colonial architectures due to British colonial rule in the 19th century, Yangon itself is an amalgamation of British, Burmese, Chinese and even Indian influences.
This week, we check out where you can stay, eat and visit while you're in Yangon.
Where to stay
The Strand Yangon is an opulent three-storey colonial boutique hotel that has only 30 suites, catering to travellers looking for a luxurious stay. Built in 1901, The Strand Yangon was once visited by countless royalty and nobility. And now, its dedicated team of butlers guarantees round-the-clock attention for every discerning guest.
The old colonial charm can be felt throughout your stay in The Strand Yangon, with high ceilings and vast spaces, teakwood floorings and hand-crafted wooden bed frames. Near floor to ceiling windows let in natural light in abundance during the day.
We're all about the colonial living while you're in Yangon, so another choice of stay for us is The Governors Residence, a colonial-style mansion that's once a home to the ruler of Burma's southern states.
It's here where you can enjoy every modern pleasure in a rustic atmosphere, with its alfresco dining and all-teak furniture. The Governors Residence is equipped with free broadband Internet for all guests as well.
The Strand Yangon, 92 Strand Road, Yangon, Myanmar, +95 1 243 377, www.ghmhotels.com; The Governor's Residence, 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar, +95 1 229860, www.governorsresidence.com
Where to visit
A must-visit while you're in Yangon, whether you're religious or not, is the famous Shwedagon Pagoda. It sits upon the holy Singuttara Hill, and is visible to the naked eye from miles away. Considered as the most sacred pagoda, Shwedagon Pagoda enshrines the relics of three earlier buddhas as well as other artefacts. The very tip of the 2500-year-old gold shrine is encrusted with a 76-carat diamond.
For something a little different, head up to Kyaiktiyo, or the Golden Rock, perched atop a cliff near Yangon, one of the most sacred sites in Burma. The journey up is quite an experience, but once you've reach the top, you'll know exactly why it's well worth the trip. What's really so special about the rock is how it looks like it's going to crash down the hill at any moment, but it's the view from Golden Rock that really gets you.
Where to eat
If the local cuisine isn't really what you might fancy, try some quality European fare in the heart of Yangon, visit 50th Street Cafe, a bar and restaurant that serves up some of the best Australian beef and fresh seafood produce you can find in the area. If you're looking to chill with a few friends over some beer, there's also a bar where you can do just that. And be rest assured that you'll blend right in with the locals and expats that frequent the place.
For some authentic Asian cuisines, try out Monsoon Restaurant & Bar, where you can find a good mix of recipes from Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and even Laos, all well thought out in the menu. The laid-back atmosphere is a welcoming sight for any tourists or locals alike.
50th Street Cafe, 9/13, 50th Stree, Botahtaung Township, Yangon, +95 1 397060, 50thstreetyangon.com; Monsoon, 85-87, Thinbyu Road (lower block), Botatung, Yangon, Myanmar, +95 1 295224, monsoonmyanmar.com
