Myanmar - Wallowing In Luxury

This is Burma and it will be quite unlike any land you know about.’

                                                                                                                           Rudyard Kipling                                                             

It’s easy enough to read about the history of a place. Day-trips to explore historical sites are within our reach too. However, it’s not every day that one is able to wallow in absolute opulence whilst researching the historical background to such locations.

Stepping into the deluxe realm of an era past, Mom and I entered the exquisite reception area of the Governor’s Residence in Yangon. Situated in the leafy, embassy area of the city, the grand hotel welcomed us into a world of prestige. Of grandeur. Of intrigue and of history. 

The past is embedded in every inch of the splendid teak mansion. Dating back to the 1920s, the richness and elegance of a life bygone is captured throughout the hallways. It ascends the majestic wooden staircases. It lies deep within the black and white tiles covering the floors. There is an aura of authenticity. Of gracious living. Of times when the small pleasures of Life perhaps were recognised more than they are now.

I pictured myself sitting on one of the gorgeous wing-back leather chairs. A chilled gin and tonic in hand. I pictured myself lazing on the rattan chairs beside the fan-shaped pool. The coolness of a recent swim in crystal waters lingering on my skin. I pictured hot balmy evenings sitting under the huge black ceiling fans. Savouring the scrumptious flavoursome curries, amongst other local delicacies on offer. I pictured myself wandering on the soft green grass, hat in hand, admiring the lotus ponds. I pictured myself doing nothing in the shade of the colourful parasols. Those which threw splurges of vibrant colour across the lawns. I then stopped my imagination. And turned those images into reality.

The weekend was spent soaking up every drop of colonial charm. It seemed as though residents tip-toed everywhere, in respect of the glorious residence. Everything and everyone seemed gentle. Refined. With infinite style, the past swathed us in luxury. I remember the handles on the bathroom doors. Each one a piece of artwork in solid brass. A joy to wrap one’s fingers around. They transported me back to times of which I knew nothing. Times I would clearly have relished.

The Victorian-style hotel served as the official home to Governors Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith and Hubert Rance. Of the British Crown Colony of Burma. They surely lived in the utmost of style. It was easy to imagine the entertaining which took place on expansive verandahs. The dark wood providing a sense of coolness. Adding that touch of class. 

The evenings were spent in the company of hundreds of candles. The thick atmosphere infused with riches that South East Asia offers in abundance. Those delicious fragrances of lemongrass and jasmine. The Kipling Bar was bathed in charm. The golden glow from lamps reflected on the dark panels of the interior. Together with the huge comfortable chairs, they engulfed the past. To preserve it. To afford those memories, the best possible respect.

To be continued …

Thank you to my friend Bee for sharing two of her precious memories with me