Inle Lake

Arriving at the lake we boarded one of the long thin canoe like boats, which carried us down a long river and onto the lake itself. It was a nice change from walking and although there were lots of tourists, there were also lots of locals doing their thing; washing, swimming or just sitting on the river bank.

Our boat was like this except it didn't have comfy seats, which was fine with me.

Gondolier?

 

The engine gave a really cool spray as we sped across the water.

On the lake itself we saw some fisherman doing the famous 1-legged rowing, it looked amazing and the driver of our boat slowed and pulled up quite close so we could get a good view. I noticed however that they didn't seem all that concerned about fishing, and they were in an odd place too - they were right next to Nyaungshwe the biggest town on the lake, it looked like a show for the tourists rather than fisherman going about their daily routine.

classic pose: looking off into the distance as if contemplating deep thoughts...

So we arrived in town and went to the hotel to get our bags - the trekking company sent them from Kalaw so we only had to carry our small bags during the hike. They weren't there yet so we hunted for somewhere to stay, the first few places we asked in were full. I spoke to a Polish couple who told me they were staying in the local monastery. We had a look and it was cheap, clean and spacious,. just to be sure we checked a few more guesthouses and they were full too so we stayed at the monastery. Apparently in high season when the town is full the monastery opens up to take care of the extra tourists. After a cold shower we headed out to get some dinner, I had an avocado salad with tomatoes and lemon juice for less than a dollar,. then we stole some wifi from a hotel and had a couple of beers.

The Monastery.

The next morning we got up early and had some strong coffee, samosas and some other fried food for breakfast, very healthy! We picked up some fruit for lunch; a papaya and a watermelon then rented bikes for the day. We cycled some distance! Stopping at a temple and various villages, the scenery was wonderful it felt like we were riding through Tuscany. We stopped at a vineyard too, and sampled some of their wine - I wasn't that impressed but I've been spoiled after working at Kina Beach in New Zealand. All in all a cracking day, my favourite day of the trip actually. 

The breakfast of semi-finalists.

This poor guy looks exhausted.

Red Mountain Vineyard, good views and average wine.