ON A CONTEMPLATIVE JOU NEY A destination as removed from the wider world as Inle Lake demands a resort where detachment is a priority. Where simplicity is the essence of elegance. Where contemplation, not bustle, reigns supreme. At the Sanctum Inle Resort, arches and cloisters reference the monastic life, opening the doors on a more contemplative experience of travel. INLE LAKE floating vegetable garden, fertilized with decaying plant matter. The stilted wooden homes of waterfront villagers. A destination as lost in time as in the vast, unexplored realm of one of the world's most compelling destinations. This is Inle Lake. As the country's second largest lake, pooled at a lofty 800 meters above seal level, Inle is renowned for its waterborne life. Its stilted homes perch precariously above water levels that rise and fall with the seasons. The lake's channels route splinter boats to some of Asia's most fascinating markets, to pagodas of distinctive grandeur, to a remarkable collection of 1,000 ruined stupas at Inthein Village that date back to the 13th Century, and to a very singular house in the middle of the lake where locals are breeding Burmese cats. DINING The Refectory The menu at the Refectory celebrates must-eat standards of the Shan culinary arts, from noodles and soups to fresh garden salads. Indeed, Inle is renowned throughout Myanmar for the quality of its organic fruits and vegetables. The Refectory deepens its exploration of regional fare with mohinga, samosa and a delectable palate of curries from wider Myanmar. The restaurant rounds out its meal-time offerings with a full complement of familiar Western dishes. With a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, the Refectory seats 70 at a breakfast buffet, for lunch and at dinner. The Cloister Bar Part-bar, part-lounge and altogether the place to swill a late-day cocktail, the Cloister Bar serves traditional favorites and a wide selection of Myanmar- from Myanmar, each produced under separate German and French management. A short list of international wines cool in the cellars. The Chapter House Business Center The Chapter House dedicates workspace and Internet connections for those who can't quite detach, who need a live connection elsewhere, or who need time to bear down on work. Leisure travelers can browse an ever-growing library, and choose from a selection of board games. The Workshop Boutique Inle is renowned for a variety of handicrafts, especially silk and lotus weaving. Consider the Workshop a repository of the best that Inle has on offer. The hotel is continually on the lookout for exactly the right keepsake or gift. For travelers who'd rather go direct to the source, the hotel can provide directions to the best of the workshops. For those who'd rather forego the legwork, the best of Inle Lake is on display here. y r a r b i L e c i v r e s y r d n u a L s n e d r a G g n i l c y C e g r e i c n o C Meeting room for 12 persons Travel desk Wireless network