Mandalay

Today was a rest day in Mandalay. Julian, Kate and Dougie walked up to the top of Mandalay hill this morning. Having slept badly the night before and woken at 4.00am to wish Flora-Jane a happy 17th birthday I had a lie in.

We headed off up the Irrawaddy this morning to Mingun village, the stupa ruins and the second largest bell in the world (90 tons)

Father crossed the Irrawaddy in 1945 45km north of Mandalay and then headed south to relieve the City. There is very little colonial architecture left, although the British street layout is still very much in evidence.

Tonight we are heading off in Mandalay for a local dinner. I have a surprise for the girls having organised a bottle of champagne for them.

Tomorrow we head for Maymyo to try and find Julian's grandfathers house. Only 80km so a gentle start and gentle motor up there.

Xavier has recovered today so we are all smiles again.