Page 104 - Experience Thailand and More
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YANGON
End of Strife
Yangon is experiencing a metamorphosis as investment floods the
city and its colonial charm is swept away by new development. While
carefully planned by the British when they rebuilt the city after the second
Anglo-Burmese War and made it their capital in 1885 under the corrupted
name, Rangoon, today, it has difficulty handling the ever more congested
traffic. While, motorcycles are banned, it remains quite noisy with all the
honking horns.
Yangon, which means End of Strife, was established in 1755 at the site
of a settlement known as Dagon by King Alaungpaya, possibly reflecting
his hope after conquering central Myanmar. Not long after, it became an
important port and then, 130 years later, the seat for the British colony and
commerce.
Yangon still captures the imagination of all those who visit. A railway trip
around the city can put much in perspective as can a walk down city lanes
and a visit to one of the many traditional teahouses. There are many historical
and spiritual attractions and, rising above them all, is the resplendent,
awe-inspiring, golden Shwedagon Paya.
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