By: Andrea Ross

Visiting local markets can be one of the highlights of travel and I love searching for that hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Today Andrea 2 and I visited Scott’s Market, locally known as Bogyoke Market, in Yangon. Once there we explored through local and souvenir stores looking for the perfect gift for ourselves or someone at home. After climbing to the second floor of the market we found a wonderful hidden store called Yo Ya May Ethnographic Textile Gallery which was filled with modern and antique textiles and jewelry.

The shop’s friendly proprietor, Daw Khun Shwe, brought out books highlighting different Burmese tribes, introduced us to fabrics and weaves from different groups throughout the country, and let us wander and browse to our hearts content. I love textiles and fabric and hearing the stories of the various ethnic tribes. Ms Shwe, herself, is from the Chin tribe so she showed us the traditional skirts, shirts and jewelry worn by her people.

Andrea 2 and I both found necklaces, not antiques (just about 50 years old), but they are beautiful and unique pieces that cost only $20 each!  It was a lovely surprise and I highly recommend anyone coming to Yangon to visit the Yo Ya May shop to find your hidden treasure!