@bypaul you have done it again, what a terrific post. Great way to grab attention at the beginning with the possibility of malaria (and so glad that was not the case, for your sister's sake!). Really loved the description of Mandalay as a "village spread out over several hundred streets", and I got what you meant through the picture of the back alley. What a trip that the vehicles all have exposed engines, kind of sad about the exhaust but I bet it was fun riding on the roof!

And of course, the icing on top... your incredible photography! The last image of the reflections on temple floor - absolutely stunning. That could be a standalone entry in a photography contest, it is just exquisite. The pagoda and bridge at sunset are close seconds for me. You are going to go far here my friend - keep it up!

Much love - Carl