Apparently it makes little sense to end my Myanmar posts with the Burmese word for hello, it makes more sense to close the series with the memories that will last longer. Not the temples or monasteries, not the rural landscapes or busy cities but having people saying hello every 5 minutes, or even less. Having people genuinely curious about you, mostly without any second intentions to sell whatsoever. Genuinely willing to so show you and share their country with you.
And smiling, always smiling, a smile that warms you inside.
“Mingalaba” is the first word word a foreigner learns, usually the only one, and learns it quickly, by listening repeatedly right from day one and always followed with a big smile. It doesn’t take long for a serious European get in the spirit and announce himself with a cheerful hello (a quite useful technique for street photography).
I enjoyed almost all places I been throughout the years, but I hope to say “Mingalaba!” once again sometime in the future.
Don’t forget to browse the gallery with all Myanmar photos and the other posts of this series.
