It’s the first overcast day here so it must be time to move on. We’re enjoying our final morning at the beach before flying back to Yangon this afternoon.

For the next two nights we’re staying at The Strand Hotel, which is exciting for the architecture and design buff in me. Built by the Sarkies brothers (responsible for, among other Colonial hotels, the Raffles in Singapore), it has changed hands a number of times over the century plus of its existence, including a period of neglect in the hands of the ruling military in the 1960s and 70s. Thankfully, new ownership and international investment in the early 2000s resulted in what I’ve heard is a remarkable restoration, a perfect blend of period detail and modern amenities. We’ll see later today!

Yesterday we mixed it up a bit and visited the closest fishing village, Jade Taw, in the afternoon instead of the morning. All the tarps of dried fish were already picked up and most of the fishing boats were out to sea on the afternoon run. We did happen upon some boys carrying the biggest ray we’ve ever seen from the shore to the village.

There also appeared to be some kind of event underway, with a stage and chairs set up vendors selling beach balls and snacks, and girls arriving with a little lipstick on. Not speaking a word of Myanmar we have no idea what all the fuss was about, but it was cool to see the village in a festive mood.

And, of course, no beach walk would be complete without admiring at least one beach dog.

Next stop: Yangon!