Myanmar, fondly known as the land of pagodas, is an unpolished gem of Southeast Asia, where the 21st century cohabitates with the serenity of the golden past. It's the place where Buddha seems to bookmark every street, blessed with more golden pagodas than you can shake an incense stick at. The Burmese are masters at the slow life, taking a leisure ride in the horse-drawn carriages, with a cheroot cigar in hand. Despite hurdles, it remains an artists' darling, painting a dramatic canvas with 135 ethnic groups, each adding their vibrant color to the cultural palette.