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Kawthaung
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Kawthoung is the southernmost trip of Myanmar, 2,000 km from
the country's northernmost point near Putao and 800 km from
Yangon itself. Kawthoung retains the atmosphere of a fishing
village. Kawthoung is a busy fishing post, although most of
the catch is ultimately sold in Ranong where it fetches a
better price. It does a successful trade in raw rubber and
cashew nuts, both of which are cultivated inland. The town
always seems to be noisy, largely due to the constant roar
of motorbikes, which are the main means of transport - both
private and public. To go anywhere, you hop aboard one of
the bikes as a pillion rider. There are few cars, mainly
because of the lack of good roads.
Mwe-Daw or Relic Island, it is home to two hilltop pagodas
said to contain holy relics of the Buddha. Because of this,
the island is visited constantly by a stream of devotees
crossing over on a five-minutes boat ride from the mainland.
Third Mile Pagoda, the main stupa is gilded with an
octagonal base containing eight inches each filled with a
seated Buddha. On the highest level, the Buddha sits on a
lotus flower, protected by the Naga or serpent god, which
curls its head over that of the Buddha.
Andaman Club Resort, which occupies the 700 hectare Thahtay
Kyun, runs a well patronized casino and offers visitors
duty-free shopping with prices that give duty-free shops
elsewhere a run for their money. Located on a hilltop with
panoramic view of Kawthong, the resort is the only sign of
habitation on the rocky island. It has 205 rooms, each with
a view of the sea. Recreational facilities include a
swimming pool, gym, sauna, electronic games room and
library. Its three restaurants overlook Kawthoung and its
harbour.
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