Emirate Diving Association takes interest in diving in Burma

“…Nestled between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea and flanked by some of Asia’s most famous destinations, Burma is one of the world’s best-kept secrets. The Republic of the Union of Myanmar, or Burma as it remains better known, was opened up to tourism in 1997. Since then, the Burmese government has worked hard to develop its tourism industry and more and more visitors are arriving to experience the country’s turquoise waters and palm-fringed white sand beaches. With development forging ahead in neighboring Thailand, Laos and pretty much everywhere else on the continent, the natural marine wonders that drew people to some of those better-known destinations are losing their exclusive appeal. In contrast, Burma’s Mergui Archipelago offers over 800 islands sprinkled throughout 12,000 square kilometres of crystalline waters just begging to be discovered. Since Burmese waters were opened up a few boats have begun to appear, yet the islands remain almost entirely uninhabited save for the odd Burmese sea gypsy fishing from his boat among the mangrove glades. The vastness of the area means it is possible to spend weeks here without coming across another human being, with just the kingfishers, wild pigs, monkeys and a whole host of marine life for company…”