Things to Do
December is a good time for various activities, with more great weather as the Christmas season approaches. The beaches are back to their best with resorts open, and you can expect plenty of sunshine during this time.
Learn About the History of Yangon Colonial Buildings
Among all Southeast Asian cities, Yangon has the highest number of colonial buildings. In 1852 the British seized Myanmar, and in 1885 made Yangon the capital. Because of this, a great number of grand buildings showed up in the city.
Yangon is much like it was at the end of the 19th century, as it has preserved these old buildings very well.
After the government moved the capital to Naypyidaw in 2005, however, hundreds of colonial buildings were destroyed and replaced by modern high rise buildings. So it is quite a good idea to see the remaining buildings, before any more happen to be destroyed.
There are many landmarks. The City Hall, Secretariat or Minister's Office, Strand Hotel, and High Court Building are all worth a visit. You might feel yourself transposed back into the 19th century.
Take a Tour of Galleries and Book Stores
Art galleries and book stores are always attractive places for people who enjoy history, culture and humanity. Yangon's art scene is flourishing, so you can find various galleries in the city.
Pansodan Gallery, run by a local artist Aung Soe Min, is one of the best. It holds a drinks evening every Tuesday from 8pm, when artists network, and display new art. If your visit coincides, you can just stop by and enjoy it.
Myanm/art is also fairly attractive, representing emerging artists from Myanmar. If you are interested in some older Myanmar art, you may find a lot at the National Museum.
Apart from these, Inwwa Bookstore and Monument Books are two good bookstores offering English-language books. They'll not disappoint any English-literature enthusiasts.
Spend a Nice Christmas in Yangon
You may have experienced many Christmas Days in western countries, but have you ever thought about spending Christmas in Southeast Asia?
On Christmas Day, people gather together in the churches. For example, St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral attracts more than 1,000 people every year.
There are various celebrations attended by priests and believers. Children participate in parish Christmas plays. You can participate in all of this if you are interested.
The price for hotel accommodation at this time almost reaches its peak, but various hotels provide one of the biggest and best meals, and other great celebration events at this time, making it worthwhile.
Inya Lake Hotel: This offers good deals on holiday food for only 15-20 USD. You can admire the beauty of Inya Lake, enjoy a great meal, hop on over to the DJ bar and dance the night away.
MICASA Hotel Apartments: About 35 USD will buy you dinner, entry into a prize draw, and hours of live entertainment. This is a good option for people with kids.
Sedona Hotel: Here it costs around 20-25 USD for great holiday-buffet dining. Entertainment is provided on Christmas Eve, when a band performs from a boat adrift in the pool.
There are many other good hotel options. Just remember to book ahead, and enjoy your special Christmas in Yangon.