Bagan, Myanmar is well known for its beautiful temples and stupas that dot the landscape. The Burmese are a highly religious people. Over 90% of the population are observant Buddhists. Many of these were built in the 12th century, and many are well maintained.

The people in the area are surrounded by these historic structures. Many of the traditional methods continue today. Bullocks and cows are important to everyday life.

Women re very often seen carrying large loads on their heads. As a consequence, we've noticed that most women stand very tall and straight. It is remarkable.

The light "makeup" you see on this young woman's face is common in Burma. Among the children both girls and boys wear this, and as adults it's mostly women. It's also very common for people to be selling many tourist and religious items outside the many temples. This lady is selling prints.

This little girl and the young lady on the right are both selling things outside a temple in Bagan.

This is our hotel in Bagan (left) and Jean relaxing on the right! The rooms were arranged around the central garden courtyard. We did have a few mishaps because of a typhoon that went through and wiped out some roads and the electricity which was why I was able to take some time out and play Sudoku!

It's probably because of the storm that we were able to enjoy several events at the 11th century Shwezigon Pagoda. Here the monks are lined up to receive their food allotment directly from donors.

That evening there was a festival of lights. Each group/village devised their own design and lit their many candles. It was great fun for all. I was fascinated by this little girl (left) who was busy lighting candles while sitting in the middle and almost on top of other flames!

These green ceramic tiles are original. We climbed up many stupas in our travels of Myanmar.

This man on the right is harvesting watermelons. Many of these are imported to China. The temples are surrounded by farmland - which is why these pictures are interspersed.

This young lady is working in a lacquer factory. She etches very intricate designs into the surface of the black lacquer and this is embedded with bright colors.

It is common to see fathers carrying small children in Burma. It's a sad statement that this is uncommon in our society, this is why I've taken a few pictures of these beautiful fathers.