If you’re short on time, here’s a Bangkok itinerary for 48 hours in the city covering all the main highlights from temples to markets.
Mandalay: the city of pagodas and friendly locals
Mandalay was the perfect entry point and introduction to Myanmar. It’s much quieter and more laid back than Yangon, despite it being the second biggest city in the country, and the people are extremely welcoming and eager to practice their English with you (as I would soon find it).