Yangon, formerly called Rangoon, used to be the capital of Myanmar (Burma). Although it is no longer the capital, Yangon still remains the trade capital of Myanmar. Yangon is the only port of entry in Myanmar, and because there are many historical places in Yangon, it is worth visiting this former capital a few days before traveling up country.

Yangon was established by King Alaungphaya in 1755. Formerly known as Dagon, a small town at the end of Hlaing River (Yangon River), the town rapidly established itself into a booming port town under Burmese kings. Because of its strategic location, British forces invaded Myanmar (Kingdom of Ava) by amphibious assault through Rangoon, in both first and second Anglo-Burma Wars. After the second Anglo-Burma War, British took control of the lower Burma and established the capital in Rangoon. Since then, Rangoon become the most important City in Myanmar (Burma).

Shwedagon Pagoda is one of the must see places in Yangon, and maybe even in the world. Myanmar (Burmese) people believe Shwedagon to be the original pagoda to be built on earth, although many historians express doubt on the claim. (Archaeologists believe Shwedagon was built somewhere around 6 and 10 century AD by Mons). However, Shwedagon is undoubtedly the most famous pagoda on earth. Built on the highest hill in Yangon and around, the pagoda can be seen from up to 50 miles away. Indeed, it is the most prominent landmark in Yangon. Base of the pagoda is 1420 feet while the height is 326 feet from the base, and is plated with approximately 30 tonnes of gold. History claimed that a number of Burmese kings and queens donated gold equal to their body weight. The umbrella of the pagoda is ornamented with hundreds of jewels. Hundreds of lesser pagodas and stupas surround Shwedagon. There are a few things you should pay attention to, when you pay a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda. The most important thing is to pay proper attention to the dress you wear. You are not allowed to wear any shorts or skirts or any revealing dress. Pagoda for Myanmar (Burmese) people is a sacred place and every one pay proper attention to proper dress code. You should also avoid behavior considered rude by Myanmar people. Such behavior include, but not limited to, shouting, chatting loudly, speaking rude words or swearing, holding or kissing between opposite sexes and pointing your feet towards the pagoda or Buddha image. You must also remove your shoes as well as socks. There is an entrance fees of US$ 5 per foreign visitor.

Just across the Shwedagon Pagoda is Maha Wizaya Stupa. This pagoda was built recently, and does not attract many devotees. However, there is one thing extraordinary about the architecture of this pagoda. There is a hole in the roof through which the sun will shine on top of the Buddha images in the middle of the pagoda. This day is the Myanmar New Year Day.

Myanmar hotels range from budget 3 star hotels to extravagant 5 star hotels. Also, if you're considering the location of the hotel as a factor, some hotels are closer or in the center of downtown Yangon and some are further away. The area around Sule Pagoda is considered the downtown vicinity. Hotels that are closer to the center of the city allows for more convenience of walking around. All hotels include complimentary breakfast, which can be a combination of Western dishes and local Myanmar dishes.

Here is a list of recommended hotels in Yangon, Myanmar:

Trader: located in downtown, 5-star hotel, this is a hotel for businessmen and NGO's.
Central: located in downtown, 3-star hotel, this is a good, clean budget hotel. You can get a quality room for $20 per night.
Park Royal: located in downtown, 5-star hotel, upscale rooms and hotel amenities.
Strand: known for its history since the British colonial times, expensive and overpriced. It's listed as a 5-star, but eecommended to spend your money elsewhere to get your money's worth.
Kandawgyi Palace: located near Kandawgyi lake, 5-star, which is a few miles away from downtown.
Micasa: Apartment like rooms with a kitchen, 5-star hotel, located further away from downtown.
Grand Mee Ya Hta: located in downtown and across from Central, 4-star hotel, every room has a kitchen.
Sedona: located further away from downtown, 4-star hotel
Summit Parkview: located about 5 miles away from down, known for its staff and quality service, 4-star hotel.
Yuzana: located about 5 miles away from downtown, large 3-star hotel.
Inya Lake: located on Inya Lake, 5-star hotel.

I have personally stayed or visited most of the hotels above. Depending on your budget and where you would like to stay, there are a wide variety of selections for hotels in Yangon when you travel to Yangon.