People of Burma

Burma is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia. About 60 percent of the population is considered ethnic Burmese, but there are also large Indian, Chinese, Shan, Mon, Karen and Rakhine communities in Burma, as well as diverse hill tribes.

Most people I met in Burma were eager to chat with foreigners and even willing to talk politics - though many looked over their shoulders when they did. Far from being camera shy, many people waved and invited me toward them when they saw me taking pictures. One group of university students in Rangoon gave me a tour of the city at no charge. They wouldn't even let me pay for lunch. The people of Burma definitely helped make me feel comfortable while traveling alone there.

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