The Strand Cruises

Travelers selecting The Strand Cruise tend to be a multinational mix of Europeans, North Americans, Australians and Asians. Ages vary, with most more than 50, but the cruise is not recommended for the elderly for whom searing heat may be a health concern. Additionally, children under the age of 4 are not permitted.

A little. During the day the dress code is casual, with resort-style clothing in lightweight cotton being the norm. Shoes are not required onboard during the day. In the evening, the dress code is "elegant casual;" however, most passengers tend to opt for relaxed clothing, except for the night of the Burmese dinner, when many women opt for a Burmese longyi, which is a silk sarong-style skirt, or silk shirts and blouses. Religious sites usually require long pants and covered shoulders, so bring something appropriate.

No. All meals are included in your cruise fare, with house wine available at no extra cost during lunch and dinner, and with house cocktails also served in the evening. All sightseeing excursions, with English-speaking guides, are also included. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi onboard, though it doesn't always work well, as well as access to international daily newspapers on digital tablets.

Extra costs include optional tours, beverages outside of meal times, spa treatments, retail shop purchases, gratuities and laundry.

Anyone traveling to Myanmar (Burma) is doing so to experience the country, and the most popular activities on a The Strand Cruise sailing revolve around touring. Among the highlights are a day tour of Bagan's temples.

Best for: Intrepid travelers keen to discover Myanmar without giving up any creature comforts

Not for: Young families, wheelchair users or anyone for whom searing hot temperatures may cause health problems