From Mandalay it is an hour north by road to the hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, used by the British as a refuge from the summer heat and known, in those days, as Maymyo. With its turrets, gables and churches, the town is rich with the memories of the British occupation, and is famous for its immaculate botanical garden. A pony and trap is an ideal way to explore, visiting grand colonial houses and the market, finishing the day with locally produced strawberries and cream.