It is a new year, and for many looking to add a Myanmar getaway to their travel itinerary, we have handpicked these exciting new hotels by The Memories Group. Regardless if you refer to this fascinating destination as Myanmar, or still insist on calling in Burma, you are sure to be swept away by this culturally rich country. Bordered by India and Bangladesh to the west; Thailand and Laos to the east; and China to the north, Myanmar is fortunate to offer its guests over a thousand miles of uninterrupted coastline along the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The Memories Group owns and operates resorts and activities throughout Myanmar, which includes hot air balloon adventures, sailing tours, luxury hotels and rustic boutique lodges; and Hotel Suggati, Awei Metta and Awei Pila have certainly grabbed our attention.

Hotel Suggati

Designed by US architect, Daniel West, this 72-room hotel in Mawlamyaing is only five stories high, but has a lot to offer guests – including a commanding panoramic view over the Thanlwin (Salween) River, conference rooms, fitness center and a restaurant that offers not only Burmese offerings, but also Western cuisine and French pastries.

Awei Pila

When looking for a complete getaway, Awei Pila is an exclusive resort on a tropical island in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago. For guests who appreciate a boutique property with premium amenities, then Awei Pila is ideal – 24 air-conditioned tented villas front a beautiful white-sand beach, complete with open-air restaurant and spa. Only open seasonally from October to May, guests enjoy a two-hour speedboat ride among the 800 islands, atolls and coral reefs to reach Awei Pila.

Awei Metta

This chic new business and leisure hotel in Yangon offers 46 suites that features private balconies and shares the property with the Gary Player designed Pun Hlaing Golf course that hosts the Asian Tour Myanmar Open. Guests will love the level of service at this property, which features a chef who specializes in upscale French cuisine, an elegant lobby lounge and bar, a sophisticated cigar room, conference room, swimming pool, fitness center, spa and tennis courts.

If you are traveling from Canada to Myanmar, please read about obtaining a Myanmar visa for Canadian citizens.