Sail Myanmar's Newest Luxury Experience, The Strand Cruise, for Chinese New Year

The promotion also includes celebrations welcoming the Chinese 'Year of the Monkey' on a 4-night voyage aboard the 5-star colonial-style cruiser departing on Monday, February 8, 2016.

The cruise rekindles the 'Golden Age' of travel voyaging from the awe-inspiring plain of temples of Bagan to legendary Mandalay.

With 24-hour butler service in 25 cabin suites with French balconies and two signature Strand Suites with private balcony, The Strand Cruise is an exceptional luxury experience, complete with gourmet restaurant, wine cellar, spa pampering, lounge library, gym and swimming pool.

Exclusive guided tours, afternoon tea, informative lectures, cultural encounters ashore, outdoor BBQs, amusing party games including a Mandarin speaking close-up Magician, elegant cocktail parties and wine-paired gourmet dining are all part of the convivial 'Golden Age' adventure.

On the Chinese New Year cruise, on-board live entertainment includes traditional New Year games, mahjong, treasure hunts and competitions. The celebration cruise culminates in a symphony of firecrackers and exchange of hong bao [traditional red packets], before a banquet featuring traditional Jiaozi to welcome the Year of the Monkey.

The Strand Cruise is embarking on a series of celebratory maiden voyages on its Festive Season launch by The Strand Hotel in Yangon, a distinguished colonial icon once acclaimed "the finest hostelry east of Suez".

With a guest list from royalty and nobility to eminent authors Somerset Maugham and Rudyard Kipling, the hotel now promises an "unrivalled experience" of one of Asia's most captivating waterways aboard the new 61-metre colonial-style cruiser.

The Chinese New Year promotion discounts the four-night cruises to a starting price of US$2,888 (usually from US$3,592). Bookings can be made via Myanmar tour operators or direct by contacting [email protected] or the website www.thestrandcruise.com.

"The new cruiser re-invents the legendary style and unique personality of The Strand Hotel with a contemporary river cruise experience," said Molly McBride, Manager of The Strand Cruise. "What makes a journey along the Ayeyarwaddy River so special is the fascinating landscape through which you glide, from ancient temples to daily life of the communities living at the water's edge. Over Chinese New Year, we're making the experience is even more memorable with celebrations welcoming the Year of the Monkey."

Olivier Trinquand, Vice President The Strand Hotel & Cruise, added: "The Strand name has been associated with luxury hospitality and a pioneering spirit in Myanmar for the past 114 years. Our unsurpassed knowledge of this beautiful country enables us to bring to life the legendary style and unique personality of The Strand Hotel.

"Securing exclusive private moorings and creating uniquely authentic experiences onshore, we visit more off-the-beaten-track villages and landmarks for a more genuine interaction with local communities and cultures."