In this episode, we're off to Myanmar. Also known as Burma, this southeast Asian country offers scenic beauty, cultural riches and deep spirituality. Sadly, it is also a place that has endured the world’s longest running civil war and successive military coups including one in 2021 that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected government. 

Before the latest military take over, British expat Dominic Horner was teaching English in Yangon and writing for local publications as well as filing stories for Lonely Planet and the Independent. He's a passionate advocate for wild swimming and in his love letter, recorded before he left Myanmar in 2021, Dominic shares some of his adventures as he sought out some of the Golden Land's best water holes. Also in this episode we hear from award-winning, Yangon-based blogger Su Wai Phyo; journalist, author and Myanmar expert Jessica Mudditt; and Tony Wheeler, founder of Lonely Planet Publications whose travels in Myanmar span five decades.

01.48 – A Love Letter to Wild Swimming in Myanmar by Dominic Horner.

10.08 – Su Wai Phyo, lifestyle and travel blogger based in Yangon.

19.25 – Jessica Mudditt is a journalist who lived in Myanmar between 2012 and 2016 and is the author of Our Home in Myanmar, Four Years in Yangon.

28.38 – Tony Wheeler, founder, along with his wife Maureen, of Lonely Planet Publications. After selling the company in 2011, they set up the charitable foundation Planet Wheeler which supports various projects in Myanmar.

Episode producer: Simon Richmond

Presenters: Belinda Dixon & Simon Richmond

Sound editing: Doug Murray

Co-producers: Kate Armstrong, Doug Murray & Tasmin Waby

Theme Music Instant by Nettson

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