Among the beautiful experiences and adventures was my visit to Shan State. It was made possible due to my acquaintance with one of my Thursday buddies CS. Although she was staying with her family in Yangon, but her parents were residing in Kalaw. This part of East Myanmar was indeed beautiful not only because of its low temperature, but also the lush green mountains full of fruits, namely strawberries, leafy vegetables and fresh flowers particularly the sweet fragrant roses.
To add the excitement to the already existing beautiful paradise is the special people aka the Padaung Tribe, in particular the women. They can easily be identified through their long neck - where they wear brass or silver rings so that their neck is about one foot long!
When I asked them about their tradition, I was told that when a Padaung girl attains the age of six, she must put on a brass or silver ring on to her neck. It should not be taken out. Instead, every year a ring is added to the neck, hence the neck become long! It is a symbol of beauty to the Padaung people in Myanmar. To them, the number of the rings on the woman's neck determines 'how beautiful the woman actually is and her social ranking' in her society. They also like to wear bright and striking headgears which were indeed part of their culture, yet very attractive.
On this, I must thank CS for the great opportunity to be able to visit Shan State as well as Ma Toto who was the ever hospitable and knowledgable tour guide :)
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